Middle East the land cradled in the waters of the Mediterranean Sea nestled in the Western part of Asia. Middle East Asia opens up to four distinctive cultures that is Iranian, Turkish, Israeli and Arab. Some iconic cities comprise of Jeddah, Ras Al Kheimah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Tel Aviv and Baghdad. The story teller in you resurfaces as you tip toe around the monumental landmarks. The region is known for its historic ruins, shopping in the souks and its arid desert landscape. When planning a holiday to the Middle East make sure to visit the Citadel of Jordan, City of David in Jerusalem, the Quasr Amra one of the best preserved desert castles in Jordan, and the skyline of Abu Dhabi is dotted with the domes of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque which welcomes non-Muslims also. The Middle East includes all this and a lot more a sneak peek into some of the idealistic places that this area has to offer.
Place to visit
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai in the UAE is most visited due to its modernity, richness and high security. For those looking for a modern Dubai experience don’t miss out on the world’s tallest structure; Burj Khalifa which stands 828 metres and 160 floors tall. The dancing Dubai Fountain will knock your socks off in their nightly show, which can accessed through the Dubai Mall; just in case you have some shopping to do first. For the history buff; Dubai Museum is a great place to start where modern technology meets history in an underground fort that shows the fascinating transition from village to modern empire that the Emirate is today. The Markets or Souks as they are called are worth a visit and can be found on both sides of the Dubai Creek. Abu Dhabi and Ras al Khaimah are other must visit cities of the UAE.
Jordan
Despite its close proximity to places with recent war; Jordan’s security is first class. Make sure to visit Petra, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World where the breathtaking ruins will have you in awe. Float in the Dead Sea, dive in the warm waters at Aqaba or relax in the natural hot springs underneath a waterfall. To make you feel even more at ease in this wonderful country; most people in Jordan speak English. Don’t be afraid; be enthralled.
Oman
Up until recently Oman has been virtually unknown in the tourist world. In recent years however Oman has invested heavily in tourism and it shows. An absolute must is watching the hundreds of green sea turtles come up to nest on one of Oman’s beaches (the best time for this is September to November). The Historic village of Nizwa is home to one of Oman’s mightiest forts and here you will find plenty of Souks selling everything you desire. A visit to Oman would not be complete without a cruise through Khor Ash Sham; a 16km inlet where you are treated to remote hamlets along the shoreline and pods of dolphins throughout. Explore the towering mountain range, sleep in the dessert and enjoy the remote country of Oman.
Qatar
Scheduled to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup; Qatar is slowly but surely becoming noticeable as a tourist destination. Surrounded by the sea and being a safe Middle Eastern Country to visit makes this country a must visit on your list. For a western approach on water sports make sure to try kite-surfing, or take a page from the locals and jet-ski right next to the beaches. Visit the Museum of Islamic Art, the cultural village of Katara and Souq Waqif; the traditional marketplace of Qatar. Don’t miss the chance to watch the traditional sport of the sheiks, known to us as camel racing. Head over to Qatar’s popular camel racetrack where this expensive sport continues even today.
Cyprus
Home to more than two million visitors a year, Cyprus is known as a relatively safe place to travel; and therefore puts this island on the list. Couple those facts with the sizzling sun, spectacular coastlines and top quality mountain treks and you have your next vacation destination. We suggest going out of your “comfort zone” and exploring this island rather than sticking to the popular tourist towns such as Pafos and Agia Napa. The north coast boasts some of the best golden beaches around as well as ruins of medieval castles that will bring forth the fairytale daydream in all of us. A bathing suit, a pair of hiking boots and some sunscreen will go a long way in helping you explore this beautiful land.