Event: Bahrain - Manama

Bahrain Souk

When:	Daily; not Fri
Where:	Manama Souk
Costs:	Free
Opening Hours:	Sat-Thu 8am-12.30pm & 3.30pm-7.30pm

Wandering through Manama Souk's myriad of alleyways is a multi-sensory experience. Exotic spices fragrance the air, colourful fabrics blow in the breeze, and singing camels and mosque alarm clocks compete with vendors declaring the best bargains in town.

The central market is the place for fruit and vegetables, herbs, nuts and spices. The gold souk sells Bahrain gold, which is usually 21 carat and carries a hallmark. Goldsmiths can also create pieces to order if you don't see anything you like (but make sure you set a price first). The same goes for the materials part of the souk, where you can bring along a favourite item of clothing, choose your cloth and have a replica made for excellent prices. Textiles available include silk, cotton and wool.

Always bargain in the souk, as it is part of the fun. It is worth finding out from a local what price they would expect to pay so you know what a reasonable exchange will be.