United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates comprises seven separate emirates, each emitting their own distinct character. The UAE is boot-shaped and situated with Oman to the east and Saudi Arabia to the southwest. Each Emirate was formed as a sovereign kingdom when the British relinquished control in 1971. The United Arab Emirates display a true picture of East meets West. In a land where social characteristics may seem as if they are completely incongruous, there is actually much harmony and calm.

In a region characterized by instability and danger, UAE residents and visitors live in peace. UAE travel continues to grow rapidly. In an ever-changing world where many would never believe that Islam and Western ideals could coexist in such accord, there may be some lack in understanding yet there is always tolerance. Slowly the gap is bridged as each side gains more insight into the other. Though the official language of the United Arab Emirates is Arabic, English is widely spoken throughout the country. During UAE travel visitors will find that most UAE resorts and UAE luxury hotels, along with hotels all over the region, employ numerous English-speaking workers.

Dubai enjoys the majority of UAE tourism. It is the most advanced of all the United Arab Emirates and has the strongest economy. It is the primary destination for UAE vacations, brimming with a multitude of attractions and world class amenities. Most airlines to UAE land at the Dubai International Airport. Currently, the largest airport in the world is under construction in the middle of the Dubai desert. Transportation around Dubai is affordable and uncomplicated. Ferries, taxis, buses and a new subway system create an excellent public transport network making UAE travel convenient.

The United Arab Emirates coastline runs along the Arabian Peninsula. The Arabian Peninsula is also home to coastlines of the Red Sea, the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf. One of the major cities of the Arabian Peninsula is Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi is the second most popular emirate visited during UAE vacations and is the largest, covering more than three quarters of the country. Dubai and Abu Dhabi still hold the most appeal and boast the largest number of things to do in the UAE. Other coastal Emirates include Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah. The most popular city away from the coast is Al Ain, which is surrounded by desert and shares a border with Oman in the east.

Three key elements in UAE tourism include shopping, beach-based UAE vacations, nightlife and sightseeing. The biggest attraction of all in the United Arab Emirates is the construction of the Palm Islands. The Palm Islands are three separate areas called Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali and Palm Deira. There are incredible palm-shaped islands built along the Dubai coastline and anchored into the sea bed. Though still a work in progress, they are expected to feature the most expensive property rentals and sales in the world. The second largest marvel, and modern development in Dubai are the World Islands, a series of islands that create the shape of the world. It’s these types of ambitious ventures that have brought Dubai into the world spotlight and there are plenty more to come.

There are so many exciting UAE tours covering history, recreation, water-sports and more that UAE travel is easily packed with fun adventures, making it a popular sun destination. There are a large number of UAE golf courses to choose from and an impressive selection of luxurious Dubai spas for modern, soothing treatments with a flair of the exotic. Traditional Dhow cruises are a great way to savor a warm afternoon on the water while Dubai beaches appeal to those who like to stay near dry land and soak up the sunshine.

Though many prefer to spend their entire UAE vacations in Dubai, a tour of Persian Gulf is a great way to explore Arabian culture and geography in more depth. Car rentals are affordable and offer plenty of freedom to spend your holiday time however you like. No matter where you decide to holiday in the UAE, you’ll be charmed by the exceptional hospitality of the local emirati and the allure of the surrounding desert landscape.

Syria

Syria is a country full of history boasting an impressive array of archaeological wonders. The range of historical Syria attractions act as a timeline of ancient history documenting evidence of Greek, Roman, Ottoman and Christian crusader occupation.

For those considering Syria travel you would best be advised to visit in the spring (March-May). The weather is warm yet the most comfortable during these months. The rainy season would have ended and the country will be freshly replenished with swollen rivers, blooming flowers and a mild climate. Between June-August the summer heat is oppressive. A Syria trip during this period is not for the faint hearted, especially without good sun block and a hat. The height of winter can also be unpleasant with blanket snow cover at higher altitudes and a lack of any real heating in some hotels. The shoulder periods of spring and autumn (September-November) are best. Travelers to Syria and the rest of the Middle East should be aware that the holy festival of Ramadan takes place during September/October. The final three days of Eid-al-Fitr end in a lively party. Western travelers would be advised to avoid Syria vacations during this holy month or at the very least be aware that sensitivity is required.

The 20th Century creation of modern day Syria can lay claim to having once encompassed what is now Jordan, Israel and Lebanon. It has also been host to some of the most prominent civilizations in the world such as the Egyptians. Its importance as a port of commerce and a strategic location has ensured that Syria’s Mediterranean coastline has seen centuries of occupation acting as a foot hole in the region for Persian, Greek and Roman empires. Perhaps most notably the Crusader castle towering over the region at Crac des Chevaliers reflects its important position and acts as a top Syria sightseeing destination. The imposing castle was built between 1150-1250 and was designed to protect a route between Turkey and Lebanon. As well as acting as a stronghold, it was also a point from which to dominate the region to help achieve the Crusader objective of retaking Jerusalem from Muslim Arab forces. A Syria sightseeing trip will no doubt inspire interest in this controversial period of medieval history.

Syria travel is packed full of many wonderful Syria attractions including the Church of St Simon and ruins at Qala’at Samaan. The site is famed for an eccentric early Christian who between 423-459 AD spent 36 years living atop a number of tall pillars. A Church now stands marking the famous site and many Christians on pilgrimage come here to pay their respects. Another popular point of interest among Syria vacations is the stunning and spiritually important Umayyad Mosque in Damascus. This magnificent structure set around an old courtyard features golden mosaics and three tall minarets. This important religious symbol is a must for any Syria trip and competes alongside the great mosques of Mecca and Medina in its importance. Of most interest, especially for those history buffs, the Umayyad Mosque houses the resting place of perhaps the most famous Arab leader ever, Saladin. This masterful tactician thwarted Christian attempts to regain control of Jerusalem under the legendary English King, Richard the Lion Heart. A simple red domed Mausoleum built in 1193 houses this most revered figure. The capital city Damascus boats the title as having been one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. A Syria trip will no doubt feature a day or two in Damascus and is a great starting point to exploring the wider country and Islamic culture. For great Syria sightseeing, the Old City quarter of Damascus offers visitors miles of winding alleys, while the splendor of the Azem Palace courtyards and strong aromas of bustling market spice and olive stalls provide yet more entertainment. Downtown Damascus is also packed with busy cafes and French styled architecture, while the city quarter of Al Dar is a great place to pick up on uniquely Syrian food and experience lively jazz bars.

Further Syria attractions can be found at Aleppo where busy streets and bustling local markets allow you to practice your haggling skills. Syria’s second largest city is also packed with museums, tombs, mosques and an impressive citadel that dominates the city. Castles at Ugarit, wooden water wheels at Hama, magnificently preserved Roman ruins in Bosra and the Arab fortress in the oasis city of Palmyra, give Syria vacations a taste of a more traditional time of living. At Ugarit, evidence of an ancient alphabet has also been found.

Syria travel is relatively inexpensive and made all the more easier these days, with two international airports in Damascus and Aleppo. Both are regularly served with connections to Europe, Africa, Asia and the rest of the Middle East. Connections to Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey are well served and often a visit to one of Syria’s neighbors can be incorporated with an organized Syria sightseeing tour.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is the largest country on the Arabian Peninsula, home to around 27 million people and covering 830,000 square miles of land. It borders the countries of Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Yemen, and the United Arab Emirates and also lies on both the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf. Although Saudi Arabia is perhaps best known among westerners for its exportation of oil, the country is rich in history and thrives in the tourism industry. Saudi Arabia vacations are often spent visiting Medina and Mecca, the two holiest cities in Islam. Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, is another attraction that is popular for Saudi Arabia holidays. This bustling city is full of attractions, including Al Musmak Castle, a variety of religious and cultural museums, and Salam Park.

Saudi Arabia vacations often start in the capital city of Riyadh, one of the fastest growing cities in the world. Riyadh is a clean city that blends modern styles with old world religion. This contemporary city has an extensive public transportation system as well as trains that connect to other parts of Saudi Arabia. One of the main attractions of Riyadh is the Musmak Castle, an elaborate mud brick fort that was built in the fourteenth century. Visitors should also visit the Al Faisaliyah Center, Saudi Arabia"s first skyscraper which affords stunning views of Riyadh. This architectural masterpiece features a shopping center and is topped with a golden ball that contains a restaurant. If you"re looking for Las Vegas style bars and nightclubs, you won"t find them on Saudi Arabia holidays. Bars, nightclubs, and alcohol are strictly prohibited in the country.

Saudi Arabia considers its religious values to be of utmost importance. When taking Saudi Arabia vacations, visitors must adhere to a number of policies. First, all visitors should avoid wearing shorts and women should choose clothing that isn"t revealing. In some parts of Saudi Arabia, women are expected to wear an "abaya," which is a long dress that covers all parts of the body except for the ankles. It"s also essential that visitors taking Saudi Arabia holidays pack with the heat and sun in mind. Make sure to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen, as temperatures in Saudi Arabia can reach 108 degrees Fahrenheit in July! Shopping is a popular activity in all parts of Saudi Arabia and ranges from upscale malls and luxury boutiques to informal bazaars and markets. The shopping malls in Saudi Arabia are quite large and specialize in luxury goods, such as cosmetics, fragrances, and upscale brands. The Al-Rashid Mall in Riyadh has over 600 shops and 6 department stores. Bargaining is an acceptable practice in Saudi Arabian culture. Many people like to buy gold on their Saudi Arabia vacations because they find they can get lower prices by bargaining and comparison shopping. If you"re looking for lower prices on your souvenirs, head to the bazaars and souks for handcrafted goods such as rugs and blankets. Some of the bazaars in large cities such as Riyadh are open until midnight.

The country doesn"t encourage Saudi Arabia travel for non-Muslims or westerners, therefore it doesn"t issue tourist visas. A person visiting Saudi Arabia must have family residing in the country, have investment or business reasons for visiting the country, or be a Muslim who wishes to make a pilgrimage to Mecca. Student visas are sometimes issued for study abroad or research programs. If you have the opportunity to visit Saudi Arabia, you"ll be greeted by friendly people and a culture that is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition.

Qatar

Qatar, a small but beautiful peninsula jutting into the Persian Gulf, is well known for its rich oil and gas reserves. The country's name stems from Qatara (also called as Zubara), which was an important town port in ancient times. Qatar gained independence from British colonial rule in the mid-1800s, and the nation is now a well-known travel destination popular for its souqs (markets), restaurants, and scenic attractions.

Home to the al-Jazeera news network, the country hosted the 2006 Asian Games, and since then has grown in prominence on the world map. Travelers enjoy spending vacations in Qatar because it offers numerous sight-seeing opportunities. For instance, the Museum of Islamic Arts in Doha is frequented by both history buffs and tourists who come to see the splendor of ancient Islamic artwork. Designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei, the museum displays a massive collection of Islamic art including rare manuscripts, ceramics, and textiles from Iran, India, Turkey, Egypt, and Central Asia. It has an area of 45,000 square miles and is located near Doha Harbor at the southern end of Doha Bay.

Qatar travel itineraries are easily filled with activities and unusual sightseeing opportunities. Historic sites such as the nineteenth-century Doha Fort are must-see attractions. The historic fort was occupied by the Turks in ancient times and was used as a prison cell for war prisoners. Today, the old fort is transformed into a museum displaying several rare artworks, local paintings, wooden door pieces and gypsum carvings to tourists. Located in Al Bida district of Doha, the fort is one of the most popular sites in the country, along with the Qatar National Museum

The months of October through April offer the most comfortable Qatar travel opportunities, as the climate is mild and pleasant, lacking the heat and high humidity of the summer. Thus most tourists visit during the winter months, especially in November and January. However, the summer can be an enjoyable time to visit for those who plan to try the numerous water sports that are available. Travelers will find a wide range of activities including parasailing, waterskiing, and scuba diving around different spots in Qatar. The Old Club Reef in Messaid city is one of the most popular diving spots in the country, offering beautiful sights of wildlife such as barracudas and blue angels. The Inland Sea is also an excellent place to enjoy water sports, and it shelters many types of local fish and small reefs. On adventurous vacations in Qatar, you can also take a dip in Idd Al-Sharqi near Halul Island to enjoy some wreck diving. Halul is a hilly island is located 62 miles northeast of Doha. The Al-Sharqi is an offshore oil field that features a unique metal wreck site, and these wrecks are surrounded by beautiful local fish such as the clown fish and grouper.

No Qatar tourism experience would be complete with at least one outdoor adventure, and these can often be arranged through hotels. Those who love windsurfing and sailing can join the Regatta Sailing Academy at the Sheraton Hotel in Doha, while scuba divers will find any training and equipment they need at the Doha Sub-Aqua Club in the capital city. The wonderful dhow boat ride is also a popular activity around Doha Bay; dhows are traditional Arab fishing vessels available along the Doha corniche to tourists who are interested in cruising along the water. Swimming is also one of the best activities to include on a Qatar travel itinerary, and the al-Wakra beach near Doha is one of the best for swimming, though visitors are advised to wear flip-flops as the waters around the beach are known to have sting rays and stone fish.

While air travel is the best mode of transport to the beautiful peninsula, travelers might face difficulty traveling around the city. There are three modes of public transportation in the country: public buses, limousines, and taxis. Karwa taxis are cheap alternatives to pricey limos. These light-green transport vehicles are operated by the Qatar transport company. However, these taxis are small in number, so it may be better to stick with public buses if you are looking for cheaper alternatives on your budget vacations in Qatar. Buses and taxis are the most affordable options, whereas the limousine service is expensive. However, this alternative is very comfortable, so if you have the extra funds to spend, it may be worth it to see Qatar in style.

Oman

Oman is located on the southeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula in the Middle East. Since the country is situated on the water, there are a number of ports where visitors can enter by cruise ship or other vessel for an Oman vacation. In the past 30 years, the country has gone from a relatively undeveloped nation to one boasting a strong tourism industry and public works; for instance, Muscat is a popular destination for its beaches and the site of a cruise ship port. Filled with a host of destinations and activities, as well as a friendly and hospitable population, holidays in Oman offer visitors an unforgettable experience.

A great majority of the cities in Oman are located along the coast, including Muscat, the capital city. When planning Oman travel, there are a number of considerations to take into account, including travel arrangements and visa requirements. Entry requires an Oman visa, which can be obtained through an application online, through the mail, or at the terminal upon arrival. Travelers should also be aware that there are limitations on which countries’ citizens will be allowed beyond the borders, so be sure to plan ahead. Plane, car, and boat are the three most popular means of entry to this country; the most straightforward method is by flying, since there are no border crossings from other countries and it takes the least amount of time. Muscat is also the largest port in the country, serving international flights and passenger cruise ships daily.

Once inside the country, getting from one place to another can be somewhat of a challenge, as there are no regular services. Most of Oman travel is done by making reservations with tour buses, hiring taxis, or booking a rental car and driving to your desired destinations. Should visitors choose to drive, there are a few rules to be aware of, including general safety tips and a unique law about driving clean cars. Driving through the country can be somewhat hazardous, not only because of reckless drivers, but also natural hazards such as rain, dark nights, and animals which can easily cause accidents. Interestingly, it happens to be illegal to drive a dirty car in Oman, so don’t be surprised if a policeman stops you for this reason.

First impressions are important for many vacationers, and the hotels and accommodations in Oman are well-equipped to make an excellent impression, especially the numerous resorts and luxury hotels. There are budget-friendly lodgings, located mostly in and around Muscat; in the outlying areas, the accommodations become more and more scarce and high-end oriented, but they offer a wonderful place to stay.

Holidays in Oman abound with activities and adventures from coastal expeditions to land excursions. The clear waters along the coast of Oman are famed for excellent visibility, creating the perfect environment for diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. Adventurers will find this to be a fantastic destination for rock climbing, exploring caves, and unique opportunities such as desert safaris and camel races.

Oman travel is filled with grand adventures, fine accommodations, and plenty of history, making for wonderful memories and unforgettable experiences. Holidays in Oman can include time only in the city of Muscat or can be spent exploring the whole country, including the two enclaves separated from the main portion by the United Arab Emirates, but wherever you go, you're sure to find a wonderful destination filled with equally wonderful people.

Jordan

Jordan vacations are unusual and unforgettable. Teeming with Middle Eastern culture, relics of bygone civilizations and breathtaking rugged scenery, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a land of inspiration.

The Kingdom of Jordan has long captivated visitors inspiring religion and faith among Christians and Muslims alike. Jordan is full of biblical references, which fuels spiritual Jordan vacations. This remarkable heritage is recorded in the Islamic Qur’an. It is generally believed that the region, which now makes up modern day Jordan, was part of the blessed neighborhood. In the Jordan Valley, significant holy sites reflect the development of Islam and contain the tombs of Prophet Mohammad’s companions. For Christians, the Book of Genesis also mentions the Jordan River Valley that is believed to be the location of the Garden of Eden.

Other religious sites include Mount Nebo where Moses was buried. Visitors can view a spectacular panoramic scene from the mountaintop, just as Moses did, taking in the Jordan River Valley, the Dead Sea and Jerusalem. A place called Bethany Beyond the Jordan contains the site of what is believed to be the earliest example of a Christian church to have been found anywhere in the world. The site is also referred to by Roman and Medieval texts as where John the Baptist lived, preached and baptized Jesus.

A beautiful and contrasting country, Jordan vacations present a range of attractions from traditional handicraft markets, to modern art galleries and the historic crusader castles of Karak, Shobak and Ajloun. There are also plenty of opportunities for sports like rock climbing, abseiling, hiking and scuba diving.

Jordan tourism boasts some distinctly inspirational sights. The majestic Wadi Rum is a stretch of high rocky desert walls where herds of gazelles and Oryx sweep the canyon floor. Visitors to this magnificent reserve are encouraged to “hear the silence” of this peaceful landmark. Also known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum has famous patronage among many high profile figures including T E Lawrence who described the landscape as “vast, echoing and god like”. For an unforgettable experience, visitors can soar over the wadi in a hot air balloon.

A major Jordan tourism destination is the Dead Sea coast. Washed up along the rocks of the shoreline are huge salt crystals, which look at first glance like snow. Lavish 5 star hotel resorts and spas line the coast offering modern facilities, exotic cuisine and complete luxury from which to branch out and explore the fascinating landscape. A world-renowned place to rejuvenate body and soul with a mud bath, the high salt content of the seawater allows you a literally buoyant experience.

Definitely the most popular Jordan tourism attraction and often referred to as the eighth wonder of the ancient world is the “lost city” of Petra. Carved into a sheer rock face the underground city is accessed through a narrow gorge or Siq before reaching the Al-Khazneh (treasury). Built in the 1st Century, this exquisite architectural gem houses a tomb of a Nabataean King. The site even featured in a 1989 Hollywood film, Indiana Jones and the last Crusade starring Harrison Ford and Sean Connery. Jordan tours to Petra by night offer a uniquely magical experience as 2000 burning candles lead visitors through the underground rooms to the treasury.

From the southern City of Aqaba at the northern tip of the Red Sea, on a clear day you can see Israel, Saudi Arabia and Egypt! Here you can experience excellent snorkeling and scuba diving of teeming coral reefs or simply view the magical underwater life from a glass bottom boat.

At the sprawling mountain city of Amman, Neolithic remains sit alongside an archaeological site known as the citadel, which contains Byzantine relics such as the Temple of Hercules and an Umayyad Empire era palace. Lying at the foot of the citadel is a 6000 seat Roman theatre that is still used for cultural performances.

Boasting a number of desert castles with fine examples of early Islamic architecture, the Kingdom of Jordan can be proud to have such magnificent structures chronicling the regions illustrious past. Many of these Islamic complexes can be visited by Jordan tours within one or two days from Amman. Certainly Jordan tours will stop at Qusair Amra. This is an astonishingly well-preserved castle and UNESCO World Heritage Site full of lively frescoes.

The ancient city of Jerash has seen more than 6,500 years of human occupation and as such contains an exceptional list of Roman era attractions. Once a bustling Roman provincial town, the ruins here have been painstakingly excavated and restored. At this major Jordan tourism attraction visitors can walk around a complete Roman town with paved streets, hilltop temples, theatres, public plazas and baths. Standing among the ancient stone structures, the experience allows tourists a fascinating insight into the glory of the Byzantine era.

Perhaps more than most other Arab countries, the people of Jordan are regarded as particularly warm and friendly. Women enjoy the considerable freedom of education and high appointments within business and politics. While local tradition and customs continue to play a large part of everyday life, tourists are particularly welcome and certain western liberties accepted. In short, Jordan vacations offer an accessible and comfortable introduction to the first time visitor to the fascinating region of the Middle East. Exceptionally hot through June to September the best time to visit is spring and autumn.

Israel

Israel is underpinned by a strong ethnic heritage, rich history, and modern cosmopolitan cities, but it's also full of passionate people, ancient religious sites, booming nightlife and busy markets. Geographically diverse and packed with biblical relics there is no escaping the Culture of Israel.

In the north, Haifa, Israel’s third largest city is set amongst a breathtaking panorama of the medieval fortress of Acre, the Carmel Mountain and the snow capped peak of Mount Hermon. Haifa is the gateway to northern Israel and cool mountain breezes, sunny beaches and deep forest trails. Heavy mixes of ethnic groups make it a vibrant and bustling place to visit. The Mount Carmel national park has many observation points and hiking trails affording magnificent views for a scenic picnic. Haifa bristles with museums including the Hecht Museum which showcases rare archaeological finds. A local Druze village provides a lesson in the traditional culture of Israel.

From Haifa tourists should not miss the sandstone walls and fortresses of the UNESCO world heritage city of Acre. Packed with ancient Ottoman and Crusader history, Acre is fascinating. There are Turkish baths, Christian monasteries, Islamic mosques and halls built by the Knights Templar. There are also inviting beaches and a busy fishing port. The city celebrates its strong cultural heritage with a number of annual festivals. Walking along the city walls at sunset, picking up a bargain in busy open air markets or exploring ancient alleyways, Acre charms many tourists.

Visitors to Galilee are confronted by contrasting sceneries of mountains, valleys and a shimmering Mediterranean Sea. Galilee is an accessible destination from which to visit major attractions all over Israel. An increasingly popular place for Eco Israel tours, the Galilee Mountains are famed for the birthplace of the Kabala and attract spiritual Israel tourism to the area.

The southern city of Eilat meanwhile offers fantastic scuba diving and is a great choice for a water sport enthused Israel vacation. The year round warm crystal clear waters are a haven for marine life. Teeming coral reefs and long hot summer days sustain many species of fish, providing world class diving at around 20 dive sites. The summer months see a boom in Israel tourism as Israelis flock to the city.

With a swath of Mediterranean Sea coastline, an Israel vacation will inevitably centre on a beach. Boasting some exceptionally sunny weather, Israel travel is a favorite among beach lovers the world over. There is definitely a beach scene around coastal towns as scores of young Israelis come to soak up the sun by day and groove to techno music by night. Most beach enclaves have a real hippy vibe. Eilat boasts some particularly good sand. The popular and bustling central Papaya beach attracts partying teenagers. Nikki Beach meanwhile lures young and professional crowds to beach side VIP bars to sip fashionable cocktails.

Tel Aviv is also a city with a number of lively beaches. While Gordon beach is the busiest courtesy of its central location, Nine beach has a distinct sub culture scene luring many an aspiring surfer to its breaks. Seemingly made up of bars, clubs, restaurants and 24 hour cafes Tel Aviv is a mega hub of nightlife activity. The hip neighborhoods of Florentin and Yad Haruzim and the city port present the best night spots for both trendy locals and tourists alike.

Sitting aside the Dead Sea, an Israel vacation can be a healthy and relaxing one. The Dead Sea is famous for its rich mineral content and remains a world renowned place to rejuvenate body and soul with a mud bath and spa treatment. The Dead Sea resorts are a major hub for Israel tourism. There are a number of hotels and guest houses organized around beaches and bathing areas providing convenient access to the waters. Local Israel tours offering jeep and bicycle tours complement the many art and cultural activities also on offer.

Jerusalem is a must for any visitor. The capital of Israel and sacred to three religions, it has been fought over for centuries. Muslims, Jews and Christians intermingle in the bustling markets as prayer calls ring out over the city. A hub for Israel tours, the western wall still remains of what was once the temple of Solomon. Many of Jewish faith come here to pray. Israel tours to the golden topped Dome of the Rock situated on Temple Mount which dominates the view of Jerusalem provides a fine example of Islamic architecture.

Bahrain

Bahrain, a small island kingdom in the Persian Gulf, is famous for its oil and pearls, and it's also a shopping Mecca for the budget traveler. While the markets of neighboring gulf countries attract the elite, local souks in this archipelago are a paradise for the cosmopolitan middle class. These souks, or commercial areas, house imported luxury products that can be within many budgets, provided you're up for a little bargaining. Travelers can also purchase traditional items including authentic red clay pottery, weaving products, traditional clothes, and baskets. The Bani Jamra and A'ali village are excellent places to buy traditional local items. The Bani Jamra, a village situated in the north west of the island country, is popular for its fabric weaving, and the local weavers sell intricately woven fabric to travelers at an affordable price. The A'ali village in Bahrain is famous for its red-clay pottery. The ancient process of creating Bahraini pottery work is still followed by the local potters in the village.

For those who are looking for a more expensive Bahrain travel souvenir, it's worth visiting the boutiques in the Osama Bin Zaid Road in Manama. It houses some of the best designer outfits, accessories and jewelry. Travelers looking for the best in high-end luxury goods should head straight towards the Moda Mall, which is located in the first floor of the 787-foot Bahrain World Trade Towers in the capital city, while those interested in gold will enjoy wandering through the glittering Gold City in central Manama. Travelers can purchase some of the finest gold bangles and accessories from a variety of gold shops in Central Manama's Gold City.

Besides shopping, there are numerous things to do during vacations in Bahrain. Water sports in the gulf's warm waters are especially popular, and tourists often spend time surfing, scuba diving, and sailing. There are plenty of hotels, and there is also an international 18-hole grass golf course, which is located twenty minutes away from the capital city of Manama. Known as the Royal Golf Club, this par-72 championship course resembles an exotic oasis in the desert plains and features numerous date palms and artificial lakes.

A trip to the nearby Hawar Islands can also be an excellent option for Bahrain holidays. Situated in the Gulf of Bahrain, these islands are home to many endangered wildlife species, including the beautiful flamingos and dolphins frolicking in the calm gulf seas. In 2002, the Hawar Islands were recognized as a World Heritage Site because of its unique habitat for endangered species. Travelers can access this group of sixteen islands by taking a 45-minute boat ride from Bahrain.

An archipelago of more than 30 islands, Bahrain was the first country in the Arabian Gulf to discover "black gold," and it has remained famous for its oil. On October 16, 1931, an oil well was found near the Jebel Dukhan hill, and today there's an oil museum located close to the site. A trip to the oil museum is an excellent way to learn about local history during vacations in Bahrain. The museum exhibits underground rock samples and old drilling equipment, as well as detailed information about companies that helped in the exploration of the oil well. The oil museum attracts thousands of tourists who are keen to know about the history of oil in the Middle East.

Non-Muslims and Westerners are welcome to spend their vacations in Bahrain, and its more Western-friendly tourism industry may feel more comfortable than what is found in other Middle Eastern countries, due to the kingdom's not applying Islamic law to visitors. Compared with other gulf countries, this island kingdom's laws are liberal about social behavior such as drinking alcohol. It is always wise to be respectful, however, and keep in mind that both consuming alcohol in public, and drinking and driving, are illegal and may bring fines or even jail time.

Bahrain travel is most popular during the months of November through March, when the sweltering heat subsides and the cool climate greets travelers. If you have trouble with hot weather, it might be best to avoid visiting between May and September, as the high temperatures and hot sun might hamper your trips to the marketplaces and other areas of interest. Air travel is typically the easiest option to reach the country. The Bahrain International Airport is located outside the capital city in Muharraq and offers flights via Dubai and other destinations. Once in the country, the best Bahrain travel options are taxis, buses, and rental cars. Buses are by far the cheapest option, but however you choose to get around, you're sure to find this archipelago to be an intriguing destination and a fascinating introduction to the Middle East.

Lebanon

Lebanon possesses exception scenery, such as its Mediterranean coastline and snow-capped mountains. With traditions steeped in ancient history and the emergence of a new generation of fun loving people, Lebanon is kicking off its civil war shackles and carving out a future as a vibrant and fashionable Middle East travel destination.

Stretching east towards Syria, the rugged mountains of the Bekaa Valley beg to be explored. Known as the “breadbasket” or “granary” of the Roman Empire, the region still continues to operate as the main agricultural province of Lebanon. The warm climate and fertile soil, make the Bekaa Valley the centre of wine production in Lebanon, housing some of the countries best vineyards . Because of the importance of the Bekaa Valley as a place of provision, some of the largest Roman temples ever constructed were located here. Today, well preserved shrines built in honor of the gods Jupiter and Venus combine perfectly with a visit to the vineyards to offer a major Lebanon tourism attraction.

With Middle East travel to the temperate Mediterranean climate, Lebanon’s golden beaches are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. From the coastal cities of Saida and Jbail visitors are greeted with excellent opportunities for snorkeling amongst Phoenician ruins while at Khalde you can scuba dive a wreckage of a World War II submarine. Meanwhile, the nearby Mount Lebanon Range in Chouf, offers some great hiking and camping. In the winter, the Chouf region turns into a major Lebanon tourism spot with blanket snow cover falling across high mountain peaks resulting in some excellent ski slopes. The ski resorts here are world class and Lebanon is one of the few Middle East travel destinations where you can actually ski. The ski season runs from December to April.

In the heart of Mount Lebanon country lays the Qadisha Valley. Dubbed the “Holy Valley”, the region housed some of the most important early Christian settlements in the world. Cut into steep rock faces, chapels, grottoes and monasteries dot the landscape. Many display lively frescoes dating from the 12th and 13th Centuries. Symbolic of Lebanon country, the valley contains the famous ancient Cedars of Lebanon. Proving popular Lebanon tourism activities, hiking, climbing and caving keep the more energetic tourists busy in some of Northern Lebanon’s fine National Parks.

Centre of an ancient Islamic trade post connecting Damascus to the Mediterranean Sea, the ruins of Aanjar are notable for its Umayyad Dynasty arcades and stone arches. Further to be found in the south of Lebanon, packed with Lebanon culture, Sour (Tyre) has seen just about every famous conqueror in ancient history. As such the archaeological and cultural legacy is astounding. Relics of the largest Roman hippodrome in the world and extensive city ruins and monuments nod to the presence of Alexander the Great, Crusaders and Phoenician Kings.

Touched by ancient civilizations and fashionable culture, Lebanon embraces the new while retaining a strong sense of tradition. Nowhere else reflects this heritage better than trendy Beirut. Showcasing the best of modern day Lebanon culture, visitors will find a progressive attitude. The cities gastronomic delights, cafe culture, bars and nightclubs in Archrafiye pulsate to youthful exuberance. As a centre of Lebanon culture, theatre, galleries, museums, chic shopping malls and top range dining mean you’re spoilt for choice in Beirut. Taking a sunset stroll along the coastline looking out to Pigeon Rocks jutting from the calm Mediterranean water, Beirut leaves you feeling like you’ve discovered a new version of Lebanon.