Sophisticated, modern and cosmopolitan, Bahrain, a kingdom of 33 islands in the Arabian Gulf, is welcoming an increasing number of international tourists who come to experience the country's fascinating blend of eastern and western cultures. It is one of few middle-Eastern countries where the Government is currently prosperous and stable, and the capital, Manama, on the main island, boasts excellent hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, an intriguing souq (bazaar) and all the other facilities visitors need for a great holiday.

In addition, the beaches are stunning, the weather hot and sunny, English is spoken and understood everywhere, and the kingdom has the remnants of more than 5,000 years of civilization to be explored: its future as a popular holiday destination for westerners, despite a currently high risk of terrorist attacks, seems assured.

Back in the mists of time Bahrain was attached to the Arabian Peninsula. Nature separated it from the mainland, but man has now rejoined it with a 16-mile (25km) long causeway linking it to Saudi Arabia.

During construction of the causeway and a new road network, the islands' archaeological significance came to light with the discovery of thousands of burial mounds dating from the third millennium BC, part of the well-ordered ancient city of Dilmun that existed where a forest of skyscrapers now reaches for the sky.

Throughout its history Bahrain has been prosperous, first on the strength of its good position for trade and fishing, and the abundance and quality of the pearls found in its waters, and more latterly because of its oil resources (Bahrain was the first country in the Gulf to exploit its 'liquid gold'). A visit to Bahrain, whether on business or pleasure, is an interesting, relaxing and rewarding experience.

From the Word Travels destination guide to Bahrain copyright Globe Media 2011