The region that encompasses North Africa, the Middle East and the Mediterranean is one of the world's most fascinating and turbulent areas. Stretching from the vast sand seas of the Sahara in the south-west to the mountainous, wooded shores of the Caspian and Black Seas in the north, the region has borders within Africa, Asia and Europe. Historically, the Middle East is where the three continents have always met, traded and clashed, resulting in the region's rich history accumulated through five thousand years of civilizations and cultures.
Although it helps, it is not necessary to have a well-developed sense of history to be awed by much of what exists in the region. Beginning in the west, the remarkable, fine sand dunes of the Sahara, the snow covered peaks of the Atlas Mountains, and the teeming bazaars of Marrakesh and Fez combine with an amazing cuisine to make Morocco a great destination to experience an exotic taste of North Africa. Travelling eastward, Tunisia beckons with it's rich Phoenician history, while the amazing pyramids and temples of Egypt speak of one of the world's oldest civilizations waiting to be discovered on a cruise up the Nile.
In the heart of the Middle East sits tiny Israel, where from the dense, winding streets of Jerusalem to the Galilee in the north and the coral gardens of the Red Sea in the south, a wealth of ancient history awaits you at every turn. And right next door in neighbouring Jordan lies the remarkable site of Petra, a place of incredible natural beauty and outstanding architectural achievements that 2,000 years ago formed an important junction for the silk and spice routes that linked China, India and southern Arabia with Egypt, Syria, Greece and Rome.
Following the Mediterranean coast to the north lies one of the region's best destinations in the diverse land of Turkey. With a wealth of historical interest and abundant natural beauty one can begin by discovering the towering minarets and cosmopolitan streets of Istanbul before heading south to see the bizarre fairy chimneys, moon-like landscapes and underground cities of Cappadocia. Combined with some of the world's greatest classical ruins at sites like Ephesus, and a collection of stunning Mediterranean beaches that can be explored by boat or by land, Turkey is a country that never ceases to amaze.
As always, your own personal interests and desires, along with the time and duration of your trip are paramount, and we would be happy to discuss the options with you.