THE MIDDLE EAST
The Middle East region, encompassing the Arabian Peninsula, the Levant, Turkey, Egypt, Iran, and Iraq, is home to a wealth of opulent resorts, retreats, hotels and residences, as well as some of the most hospitable and welcoming people on the planet. Each country brings it’s own culture of sensual exoticism, delighting the senses with spectacular sights, smells, sounds and tastes.
In the cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, mosques jostle with skyscrapers on the wide horizon. At the coast, bustling harbours play host to luxury yachts, where crystal clear waters lap onto endless sandy beaches. For those seeking desert wilderness and a bedouin bed under immaculate night skies, a hike to ancient ruins offers a chance for an unforgettable adventure. Pyramids, ruined tombs and the scent of precious oils fill the narrow streets of Cairo’s antique heart, and the thrill of haggling for spices, textiles, and hand-made treasures is ever present wherever you travel in this arid land of mystery and conflict.
ABU DHABI
Abu Dhabi is fast becoming the new ‘place to be’ in the Middle East. The largest city and the federal capital of the seven kingdoms that make up the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi’s varied coastline of beaches, and islands lead to vast deserts and modern cityscapes.
You’ll see stunning architecture, and cultural landmarks such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Some of the most luxurious hotels and resorts in the world are to be found here, and, naturally, it attracts many of the top sporting events, such as Formula One and championship golf.
Image Credit: One&Only
DUBAI
Glamourous Dubai has become the ‘go to’ destination for families and couples, for celebration holidays or stop-over stays. With all year round sunshine and frequent flights from the UK, its a unique and fascinating cocktail of 'east-meets-west' and ‘old-meets-new' where warm inviting Arabian Gulf waters and a majestic desert tempt you to stay and enjoy the abundance of excellent hotels and resorts.
There are countless different opportunities to experience Dubai, from 4x4 drives or camel riding in the desert, to moonlit cruises along the Creek and even skiing and tobogganing in the Snowdome! There are activities to suit every taste and, of course, the souks and salubrious air-conditioned shopping malls offer hours of retail therapy in comfort.
JORDAN
A peace-loving land of mesmerising beauty and contrast, desert landscapes, lush mountain valleys, Jordan is one of the most diverse and interesting countries in the Middle East. A journey down the famed King’s Highway transports you to another world.
Take a dawn trek to admire the spectacular rose tinted Treasury at Petra, one of the most breathtaking sights in the whole of the Middle East. At Jerash wander around the Roman ruins; enjoy the biblical view of the Sea of Galilee from the Arbel national Park; float like a cork in the salty, healing waters of the Dead Sea or snorkel amongst the corals of the Gulf of Aqaba.
OMAN
Oman has a rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty and a fascinating five thousand year-old civilisation. Along the vast coastline are a string of luxurious hotels offering relaxation for those who wish to slow down, and boat trips or other activities for those who wish to do more.
Muscat is the capital city, laid back and relaxed, with a friendly atmosphere and a wealth of interesting sites to explore. Experience a taste of middle eastern romance and adventure and head to the interior of the country for a chance to stay in a Bedouin style camp in the Wahiba Sands. Desert activities also include camel safari, thrilling 4x4 ‘dune bashing’, stargazing, quad biking, sand boarding and trekking.
SAUDI ARABIA
As this ancient kingdom of mystery opens its arms to welcome travellers from around the globe, Saudi now offers an inspiring array of adventures and landscapes for all – from the ancient rock tombs of AlUla and the majestic desert of Hail, to the cosmopolitan city of Jeddah and the modern metropolis of Riyadh. As with anywhere in the world, local behaviours and traditions should always be respected, but Saudi's centuries-old customs are beginning to evolve to fit the contemporary world we live in today, so women visitors no longer have to wear an abaya, unmarried couples can now share hotel rooms, and the land of magical fairytales is waiting to be explored.
NORTH AFRICA -
EGYPT & MOROCCO
EGYPT
Few ancient civilisations enchant and enthral the visitor more than that of Egypt, where you will find iconic pyramids and Pharaonic monuments set amongst natural desert landscapes. Perched at the edge of Cairo’s bustling metropolis the great Pyramid of Giza, and the famous sphinx offer a spectacular early morning destination to be enjoyed on camelback. Cool off at the coast and dive amidst brilliant corals and exotic fish in the clear waters of the Red Sea, or immerse yourself in the everyday hustle of the modern city in the colourful bazaars and souks.
MOROCCO
Although only less than a four hour flight from the UK, the great Imperial cities of Fes, Meknes and Marrakech will take you into an exotic world of extremes.
The city of Marrakech, known as a long weekend destination all year round, offers authentic accommodation in traditional Riad’s or colonial 5 star hotels, and on the outskirts of the city the new luxury resort hotels appeal to travellers seeking a more indulgent peaceful oasis, so there’s something to appeal to all.
During the day the maze-like souk is a shopper’s paradise with bargains to be haggled for among the leather and silver merchants. At night the great central square of Jemaa el-Fna explodes into a whirl of basket sellers, drumming dancers, snake charmers, fruit stalls, meats grilling on charcoal in a spectacle that leaves your senses bombarded in the best way possible.
The beautiful Atlas Mountains, home of the nomadic Berbers, are within easy access of Marrakech and make an excellent day trip or a tranquil stay, while the beaches near to the port town of Essaouria offer relaxation shielded from the wild Atlantic coast by a natural bay.
With short flights from the UK, both countries are great options for sunshine and a taste of eastern mystery.