Strategically located at the northeastern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, the Jordanian town of Aqaba offers an excellent base from which to explore places of interest in the southern part of the country. It features a fascinating history, wonderful beaches popular for windsurfing and other water sports, and several fantastic scuba diving spots. The Yamanieh coral reef Aqaba Marine Park, among others, allow divers to see strange and brightly coloured fish, turtles, red octopuses and shipwrecks. Some of the top historical attractions include the Islamic-era Aqaba Fort and the adjacent Aqaba Archaeological Museum, which houses artefacts dating back to around 4000 BC. Don’t miss a visit to Wadi Rum, a natural wonder of dramatic sandstone mountains also known as the Valley of the Moon, which feature prehistoric inscriptions and deep chasms, and offer fantastic opportunities for stargazing.