• Bahrain

Bahrain is a group of 33 Gulf Islands situated off the East coast of Saudi Arabia. With a total area of 700 or so square km, Bahrain Island is the largest in the group. At just 50km by 16km, Bahrain packs a lot into its small area. Bahrain is one of the major financial and commercial areas in the Middle East. Located centrally among the Persian Gulf countries, it has a hot, humid, arid climate and temperatures average up to 40¢ªC from May-October. It is an extremely wealthy country where English, although not the official language, (Arabic is), is widely spoken due to its ease in commercial and financial business. The capital of Bahrain, also called Bahrain, is the chief port of the group of islands. Al Manamah (sometimes referred to as Manama) is the largest city of the group and one of the main commercial centres. There are oil refineries here, as well as museums and a U.S Navy base. The terrain is flat and sandy with a few low hills on the main island of Bahrain and on many of the other islands in the Bahrain group. The four main islands are linked to each other by a series of causeways. These allow the transfer of people, goods and services from one island to another without the need for sea transport, although other forms of transport are available to tourists and locals. The islands were ruled by Persia in the 4th century, so have a rich, long history and cultural influence. Bahrain's location, near Saudi Arabia, means that the islands are a holiday destination for visitors from Saudi. This access to Bahrain has been improved by a 16-mile causeway which links Saudi Arabia to Bahrain Island, thus ensuring a steady influx of visitors to this thriving commercial and financial centre.

Drive on the right-hand side of the road; you should therefore be extra vigilant when pulling out from petrol stations, etc, on the left side of the road. You should also take care when overtaking, leaving more space between you and the vehicle in front so you can see further down the road ahead. Travel by road in Bahrain is generally safe and comfortable - highways and major roads in the north of the country are four- to six-lanes wide and well maintained. Roads in villages can be narrow and winding. Speed limits range from 100km/h on the highways to 50km/h in built-up areas, but always follow the speed signs. Although these limits should be adhered to, it is not uncommon for local drivers to exceed them on a regular basis. A car flashing its lights is usually asking you to let it pass. Roundabouts in Bahrain operate as they do in the UK, with vehicles on the circle having priority. Carry your driving licence and passport at all times. Do NOT drink and drive - driving under the influence in Bahrain is a serious crime, with heavy monetary penalties or even imprisonment.