Catch a movie
To be fair, last time we went to the cinema in the summer the air-conditioning was so cold we needed a coat and socks but that’s not going to stop us checking out the VIP options at Cineco Bahrain City Centre.

In VIP 1 you pay BD10 for possibly the most super dooper huge, comfy, reclining cinema seat you’re ever likely to experience (stay awake at the back there). Or in VIP 2 you can curl up with a friend on a two-person sofa for BD10 for two. Both options have a special VIP waiting area and you can enjoy your popcorn via waitress service.

Just one little note from all of us here at Time Out. Turn your phone off!
Call (17 584 444)

Dance on ice
Or, if you’re like us, fumble along hanging onto the sides for dear life till you get a little confidence, push off too fast and land, unceremoniously, on your butt.

The skating rink at Funland Centre on the Corniche is the only ice rink in Bahrain and it’s surprisingly quiet so you can at least enjoy, or otherwise, your humiliation without too many witnesses.

Advertised as disco lights and music, it’s actually a much less snazzy concern than it sounds but it’s certainly good for a couple of hours of chilled out fun. Remember to wear your woolies as this is one place you will definitely stay cool even on the hottest day.

Opening hours 9am-midnight daily, cost per session BD3.
Call (17 292 313)

Discover Islam
With the Holy Month of Ramadan fast approaching, now‘s the ideal time to visit the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, one of the world’s biggest mosques, where non-Muslims can take the opportunity to find out a bit more about the religion.

Built by the late ruler Sheikh Isa, the Al Fateh Mosque can hold up to 7,000 worshippers. Building materials came from across the globe and it has the world’s biggest fibreglass dome.

Open daily, except Fridays and holidays, tours are conducted in a variety of languages including English, French, Filipinno, Russian and others with enthusiastic volunteer guides who provide a great introduction to Islam and the religion’s background and history.

Obviously, this is a religious site so you will need to dress respectfully. Be prepared to leave your shoes at the door and women will need to don abaya and hijab, which are provided.

Public opening 9am-5pm. Entrance free.

Get blinded by science
Check out the island’s newest edutainment facility, Bahrain Science Centre (featured in last month’s Time Out Bahrain) where you’ll find a wealth of cool stuff for kids young and old. It’s all things science in a series of interactive exhibition areas with working body part models, skeletons, tools and much more.

It’s aimed at children but is a great place for the whole family to visit. Head towards Isa Town and you can’t miss it, it’s painted red, orange, green and blue.

Opening hours are 8am-1pm and 3pm-7pm weekdays during term time and from 10am on Thu and Fri. Closed Wed afternoons for maintenance.
Call (17 101 861)

Go Eskimo
Well OK, not exactly, but as the temperatures rise, trust us, the idea of entering the ice igloo at Al Areen Palace Spa will not seem like such a crazy idea.

Aimed at combating cellulite you head inside the pod and rub yourself in ice from head to toe in the sub-zero temperatures.

The treatment is part of the Garden Hammam experience which includes a rain shower, steam room and igloo visit for BD15++.
Call (17 845 000)

Hit the mall
For once we’re not just talking about shopping. The City Walkers programme at Bahrain City Centre offers the chance to get/stay fit for free with a 2km walk around the mall with a personal trainer from Fitness First on hand to motivate, guide and provide useful tips and information.

Walks are on Mon, Wed and Sat from 9am-10am.
Call (17 177 771)

Make a splash
Yep it’s way too hot for most of us to be outside but Wahoo! the waterpark at Bahrain City Centre is the Middle East’s first indoor-outdoor waterpark. It’s the ultimate water fest with a whole range of crazy thrilling rides and attractions including sidewinder, a multi-level rain fortress, wave pool, toddler pool and Lazy River.

There are also a range of facilities including a restaurant and large party rooms and it’s temperature controlled all year round.

Opening hours Sat-Wed 11am-8pm, Thu-Fri 11am-9pm, closed Sunday apart from public holidays. Kids under 3 BD3, up to 1.2m BD6 over 1.2m BD10.

Ladies nights on Wednesdays (5pm-10pm) and wave rider surf school, lessons by appointment.
Call (17 173 000)