The city of Manama is a vibrant capital steeped in culture and ambiance. It is one of the great trading empires of the ancient world, that dates back to the third millennium BC but also embraces modern entertainment and lifestyle.

The latest international films can be enjoyed in the modern cinema complexes as well as museums, historical sites and fascinating art galleries. Bahrain hosts the Spring of Culture, an event that brings a wealth of international artists and superstars. Bahrain Bay, Al Areen and City Centre Mall host more leisure and entertainment, including the largest indoor water park in the Middle East, which is opening in July.

Visit the great historical sites such as Qalat Arad, a remarkable fort dating back to the fifteenth century and the Bahrain National Museum with its unmissable archaeological artefacts, capturing 6000 years of Bahrain's history.

There are many outdoor activities to be enjoyed by the whole family such as taking a cruise on a dhow, dolphin watching and many different water sports. Bahrain is a mecca for swimming, scuba diving or speed-boating and jet-skiing for a life in the fast lane. There are also designated areas for children and picnics within many of the parks.

Any new comers will find it rather easy to integrate due to the network of organisations and events to establish friendships and have fun.

Bahrain boasts some delicious 5-star cuisine, which can be enjoyed in hotels and restaurants around the country. If the firm favourites of rice, lamb and mezze, which include hummus, chopped salads and other appetisers is not to your liking, then you can enjoy a feast of freshly caught prawns and lobster. There are numerous delicacies such as Baba ghanoush, which comprises of smoked aubergine, pureed garlic, yoghurt and sesame paste which is a must, if you want the authentic taste of the Middle East. The fabulously fruity lemon and mint juices are irresistible in the hot summers. The national drinks include Arak, a grape spirit flavoured with aniseed and Gahwa, coffee with cardamom flavouring. A service charge is normally added onto restaurant and hotel bills, otherwise 10% in appropriate.

Alcoholic drinks are widely available to non-Muslim adults who are over the age of 18, in most of the capital's top-end restaurants and hotel bars. Consuming alcoholic drinks outside of these establishments is strictly prohibited.

There is great night life in Manama, the Adliya district boasts some of the city's top restaurants, most of which can be found in the Bahrain Hotel and Restaurant Guide. There are a wide range of fashionable night clubs, mostly attached to hotels, there is even the odd Salsa club. They offer a mix of R&B, hip hop and house music, so there is something for everyone.

There is some lovely jewellery available featuring the main local speciality of pearls, used in finely wrought gold. To enjoy some late night shopping just hit the streets behind Bab al-Bahrain and see the locals bartering in clothes, textiles and gold souks.