Resting on the banks of the River Nile, Cairo is the mythical Egyptian capital that has been inhabited for over 6000 years. The dynamic metropolis is an exciting commingling of historical and contemporary offerings, vibrant streets and diverse neighbourhoods. The numerous heritage sites offer a glimpse into its Islamic and Coptic histories, including the renowned Al-Muiz street, Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque, the Hanging Church, and the Saint Samaan Monastery. The bustling tourist hub of Tahrir Square features the world-renowned Egyptian Museum displaying an array of antiquities, including mummies and King Tutankhamun artefacts. After that immersive foray into the past, pull yourself to the present and experience modern Cairo. Visit the baladi bars of downtown Cairo, shop at the Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, watch the sunset from the impressive Cairo Tower, or be entertained at the stately Cairo Opera House. The city's diverse nightlife options range from the traditional bars and coffee houses of downtown Cairo to the upscale Western clubs and bars of the affluent neighbourhood of Zamalek.
Resting on the east bank of the infamous Nile River in southern Egypt, the city of Luxor is renowned for its many well-preserved monuments, so much so that it has been described as the world’s greatest open-air museum. Luxor is often divided into three different areas; the city of Luxor on the east side of the Nile, the town of Karnak further north and Thebes on the west side of the Nile, across from Luxor. Visitors can look forward to a variety of accommodation and an abundance of exciting activities – Luxor knows how to accommodate tourists as it has been doing since ancient times. Don’t miss the Karnak and Luxor Temples, as well as the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens.
Spread across seven hills, Amman, the capital city of Jordan, is a sprawling modern metropolis. While many travellers to the Middle East overlook Amman in favour of more celebrated destinations such as Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea and Petra; those discerning enough to add Amman to their itinerary will enjoy the treasure trove of hidden surprises this modern capital city has to offer. The city features a bustling maze of busy streets and is divided into two distinct areas. The first is Western Amman, with its lush residential suburbs, elegant restaurants, stylish bars, and state-of-the-art shopping malls. This modern sophistication stands in sharp and intriguing contrast to the laid-back Eastern Amman, boasting a more traditional, earthy side. Spend your days visiting an array of attractions such as Amman's Roman Amphitheatre the fascinating Jordan Museum or the countless luxurious cafes.
Wadi Musa means ‘Valley of Moses’ in Arabic and it is believed it is here that Moses struck water from rock at Ain Nusa (Moses’ Spring). It is a modern town in western Jordan that acts as a gateway to one of the country’s most spellbinding and awe-inspiring archaeological attractions - the ancient city of Petra. Circa 1 BC, a Bedouin tribe called the Nabateans carved a series of vast, elaborate palaces, temples, tombs and shrines into the area’s red-pink sandstone cliffs. The ‘Rose City’s’ decorative façades - complete with stately columns and intricate sculptures - reflect the exceptional engineering and architectural wisdom of the era.
Aptly dubbed 'The Valley of the Moon', this desert area in Southern Jordan, set east of Aqaba, features an other-worldly landscape. Scenes of massive razor-toothed mountains, undulating dunes, and rocks sculpted by the forces of nature into incredible bridges, towering canyons, bulbous domes, and a variety of other impressive formations take centre stage. With very little modern development, Wadi Rum makes for an astonishing, unspoiled destination. While more adventurous travellers can plan an overnight stay in a traditional tented Bedouin camp and can explore the extraordinary topography on horseback, those seeking a bit of luxury can stay in one of the modern villages in the surrounding area and explore the area on a guided four-wheel drive tour. However you choose to do it, Wadi Rum is a major highlight and an essential component of any tour of Jordan.
Set on the northern banks of the Dead Sea in Jordan, the town of Swemeh (or Sweimeh) offers its visitors a holiday paradise of luxury resorts, hotels and spas. Sunbathe on soft sandy beaches, indulge in massages and body treatments, or learn (or take part in) an array of outdoor sports. Activities on offer include hot air ballooning, skydiving, microliter trips, and floating in the salty water. The water’s high level of salt makes floating on one’s back much easier (but watch out- normal swimming is difficult). Attractions nearby include the historic Mount Nebo; the ‘City of Mosaics’; the sacred ‘Lot’s Cave’, and the ‘Baptism Site’ where it is believed Jesus was baptised; the Dead Sea Museum; the wonderful series of hot springs and waterfalls at Hammamat Ma'in; and the Mujib Reserve, home to incredible birdlife and the spectacular Jordan Grand Canyon and waterfall.
As previously described
Located in the Jerusalem District of Israel, Israel is the intriguing capital of both Israel and Palestine. It holds important significance for three major religions (Islam, Christianity, and Judaism) and as a result, offers a multitude of historical attractions to interest both pilgrims and secular tourists. The walled Old City, with its narrow cobble-stoned alleyways, beautiful bell towers, and charming hidden courtyards, is the epicentre of Jerusalem. Despite its small size, the Old City is home to a plethora of ancient sacred sites. These include the Garden of Gethsemane; the Western Wall; and the Dome of the Rock from which Muhammad is said to have ascended to heaven. Step out of the Old City and you will find yourself thrust back into the twenty-first century. All of these historical sites contrast to make Jerusalem a fascinating and inspiring travel destination.
Tiberias is a popular tourist resort located on a steep hillside overlooking Israel’s only freshwater lake, the Sea of Galilee. No pilgrimage would be complete without a visit to this holy city, it’s significant religious sites around the lake, and the charming Old City. Aside from its historical monuments, Tiberias is a wonderful place to spend a relaxing summer holiday with numerous leisure activities and watersports on offer. The new city's downtown area is a vibrant commercial centre complete with a variety of restaurants, pubs, souvenir shops, bustling bazaars and live music venues. Take a horse-drawn carriage around town or rent a bicycle and spend the day exploring the gorgeous beaches and natural springs dotted along the shoreline.
