Manama is the capital and largest city of Bahrain, the smallest Arab country in the world. An island just off the east coast of Saudi Arabia in the Persian Gulf, Bahrain enjoys abundant oil wealth, but has made great strides in diversifying its economy and is a regional epicenter for finance and service industries. While officially an Islamic constitutional monarchy, Bahrain is one of the most liberal, tolerant Arab countries. Westerners will find the capital city of Manama to be a cosmopolitan destination with English widely spoken.
Book accommodations in Manama, Bahrain, by calling the Tourism Affairs and Ministry of Information office at 973-211-717 or visit their Web site (see Resources below).
Look to the many hotels located along a strip roughly 8 miles to the south of the high-priced city center hotel cluster. Most offer comfortable, cheap lodging for $40 to $60 per night.
Check with a local agency for apartment and condo rentals. Quite a selection of affordable short-term accommodations are available through this route and several agencies that service this market have Web sites.
Investigate the 'Bab Al Bahrain' (Gate of Bahrain) district in old Manama for a concentration of budget hotels and motels. The district borders the 'Souk,' or grand market which features fine jewelry highlighting the natural pearls for which Bahrain is famous.
Consider booking accommodations in one of the coastal villages on Al Muharraq, the small island on which Manama's airport is located. Al Muharraq is linked to Manama and Bahrain via a causeway and is only a few minutes drive from the attractions of central Manama.
Avoid the brand-name Western chain hotels for cheap accommodations. The locally owned and operated hotels offer rates averaging under $100 per night.
Fly to Bahrain International Airport via Gulf Air, the only airline which services the facility. Arrange to transfer to Gulf Air if originating from a point outside the Persian Gulf. The Airport is but 3 miles from downtown Manama.
Drive to Manama via a causeway which links Bahrain to the mainland of Saudi Arabia.
