The Middle East

A Testament to Wonder

From the half-built, half-carved landscapes of Petra and Israel’s biblical Sea of Galilee, to Egypt’s Nubian culture and the undulating sand dunes of Dubai, the Middle East is an immense, storied tableau of how mankind came to be. The region might have strong vestiges of ancient beginnings, but its contemporary culture and welcoming people make the Middle East a paragon of hope and life. Get a new perspective on this part of the world and venture further – to the Middle East.

Explore all the places we go in the Middle East

Pyramids:

The pyramids of Egypt are true wonders of the ancient world. First built as tombs for the pharaohs and their queens, it’s believed the pyramids are slanted so the pharaoh could symbolically climb to the sky and live forever. It’s still unknown exactly how the pyramids were made – something you’ll likely contemplate as you stare in awe at these feats of ancient architecture.

Tel Aviv:

Tel Aviv is a thriving, reinvented city nestled along the Mediterranean coast. The metropolis is quite progressive and most visitors enjoy its relaxed and breezy atmosphere. The city is brimming with up-and-coming restaurateurs, white sand beaches, and chic style. Here, you can taste freshly made hummus, see famous Bauhaus architecture, and experience Tel Aviv’s dynamic boardwalk.

Sacred Sites:

The Middle East is the mecca for those looking to embark on a religious pilgrimage. Thought of as the cradle of civilization by many, the Middle East is where the monotheistic faiths of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam began. Here, sacred sites and relics abound – ranging from the Wailing Wall and the Sea of Galilee to Mount Nebo and the Temple Mount.

Wadi Rum:

Nicknamed the Valley of the Moon, this ethereal landscape in southern Jordan is truly otherworldly. This protected desert wilderness sculpted by undulating sienna-hued mountains, narrow canyons and shifting sands. Board a jeep, hop a camel or take a hike and explore its incomparable landscape.

Walk the Walled Old City:

In Jerusalem, the walled Old City is of great symbolic importance for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In spite of its diminutive size, the sacred gates and labyrinth of winding cobblestone streets captivate all those who enter. From the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, to the Western Wall and Dome of the Rock, the hallowed Walled Old City must be seen while in Israel.

Visit a Bedouin Camp:

In Dubai, away from the gleaming glass of this contemporary city is a different world. Rolling dunes stretch out towards the horizon, rippled like water by the warm winds of the desert. Hop aboard a 4x4 vehicles or a camel and experience the golden sands the way the locals do. At nightfall, share a meal with some new friends and listen to rhythmic beat of Berber drums.

Float in the Dead Sea:

Did you know that the Dead Sea is 8.6 times saltier than the ocean? Known in the bible as Sea of the Arabah or Salt Sea, the Dead Sea’s name derives from the high mineral content preventing anything from living in it. Experience the natural buoyancy of the Sea during a tranquil "float" in its healing waters, rich with salt and minerals.

Cruise the Nile River:

Considered one of the longest rivers in the world, cruising the Nile River allows you to take in the iconic, ancient monuments of Egypt in a completely different way. Start in Cairo and venture to Aswan. On the way you’ll see incredible temples, elaborate tombs and a mix of lush and barren landscapes.

"A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions."

-Oliver Wendell Holmes

Expert Advice

Water: Due to consistently high temperatures during the year, and very hot sun even in the winter months, it is necessary to drink a lot of water to stay hydrated and avoid dizziness and disorientation.

Drink tea like a local: To refresh themselves, it’s very common for Middle Eastern people to drink hot black tea. The tea is most often sugared and its flavor is enhanced with fresh mint leaves (sometimes with sage in Bedouin culture). Drinking something hot in a very warm climate ‘tricks’ the body into believing the exterior temperature is cooler –making you sweat to cool down.

Dress: Sturdy, comfortable shoes are essential. Hiking sandals with a protected front are ideal during the day as they protect the foot but allow breathability, which helps the body control temperature. A lot of the archeological sites are DUSTY! A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are also essentials. If traveling November through February, there can be strong rains so make sure to also have a pair of closed-toe shoes.

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