Touring in the Middle East

The Middle East is one of the most complex and fascinating regions on Earth, a melting pot of cultures, races and religions where the remains of fallen empires litter the landscape: Babylonians, Egyptians, Persians, Romans and Ottomans, to name just a few. Christianity, Judaism and Islam all have their roots in the deserts of the Holy Land, and the Middle East has always been a cultural crossroads where Europe, Asia and Africa meet.

Although not strictly part of the Middle East, Egypt is the region’s most established touring destination, with a compelling mix of ancient ruins, dramatic desert scenery and bustling souks. The Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings are simply unmissable, and a cruise along the Nile is a real bucket list experience. So too is a visit to Jordan’s remarkable ‘rose city’ of Petra, carved from the rock by the ancient Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago. But the Middle East is not just about ancient monuments; it’s also a land of magical moments, from camping under the stars with Bedouin tribesmen to snorkelling amongst the kaleidoscopic reefs of the Red Sea.