This Middle Eastern destination offers high-speed F1 thrills and desert calm
Condensation drips from my margarita, collecting at its base in a slowly growing puddle. The sun disappeared hours ago, but Bahrain's evening air is thick and sticky, carrying with it the day's residual heat. We're dining poolside at Movenpick Hotel Bahrain, soaking in the lingering warmth, and admiring our prime view. Though the teal of the marshy Dohat Arad Lagoon isn't visible beyond the pool deck at night, it's the view of the giant outdoor LED screen we've come for. On it, the opening credits of the Formula 1 roll as practice session two gets underway. F1 has raced in the tiny Gulf nation for 21 years, Bahrain being the first of any Middle Eastern country to welcome the international sport to its shores. Race weekend in April is a big deal here, and the annual event holds a special place in Bahrainis' hearts.
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