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.
Flowing north through Egypt from the Sudanese border to the Mediterranean, the Nile is the country's defining river and a cornerstone of its ancient and modern landscapes. More than simply a natural feature, it forms a scenic travel corridor linking some of Egypt's most significant archaeological sites and cities. Travellers can experience the river on a traditional felucca sailing from Aswan, enjoy a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan, or explore riverside temples and monuments including Karnak, Luxor and Edfu. The contrast between lush agricultural banks and the surrounding desert is particularly striking, while watching daily life unfold along the water offers a glimpse of contemporary Egypt. A journey along the Nile combines ancient history, distinctive landscapes and relaxed river travel.
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.
