NORTH AFRICA &THE MIDDLE EAST

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST64

JORDAN

ISRAEL

MOROCCO

EGYPT

OMAN

UAE

Rabat

Cairo

Jerusalem

Abu Dhabi Muscat

Amman

Casablanca

Marrakech Alexandria

Aswan

Luxor Dubai

SurNizwa

Salalah

Fes

ATLANTICOCEAN

ARABIANSEA

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

66 MOROCCO 66 In Moroccan Style 67 The Desert to the Sea

68 EGYPT 68 Egyptian Sampler 69 People, Culture & History

70 ISRAEL 70 Culinary Tour of Israel 71 Boutique Israel

72 JORDAN 72 Nabatean Explorer 73 The History & Wildlife of Jordan

74 OMAN 74 Highlights of Oman 75 Omani Explorer

76 UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 76 Snapshot Dubai 76 Snapshot Abu Dhabi

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST 65

MENA HOUSECairo, EgyptWithin a stone’s throw of the pyramids, this exquisite hotel contains original works of art, handcrafted furniture, and beautiful antiques.

LA SULTANAMarrakech, MoroccoLuxurious, authentic, indiviual – La Sultana is just 10 minutes walk from Jemaa el Fna and is the perfect escape from the bustle of Marrakech.

SHANGRI-LA BARR-AL-JISSAHMuscat, OmanAbsolute luxury set on 124 acres of stunning scenery and home to three spectacular hotels. Superb location with Muscat just 15 minutes away!

MARKET HOUSETel Aviv, IsraelBuilt on the ruins of a Byzantine chapel, this sophisticated boutique hotel is located within close proximity to the Jaffa Flea Market and other highlights of Tel Aviv.

SOFITEL WINTER PALACE HOTELLuxor, EgyptA spectacular historic British colonial-era hotel. Set in a stunning location on the banks of the River Nile in Luxor, south of Luxor temple.

AMANJENAMarrakech, MoroccoDate palms and olive trees dot the grounds of Amanjena, a peaceful and luxurious oasis outside the ancient city of Marrakech.

OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO STAY

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST66

MOROCCO

IN MOROCCAN STYLE | 8 DAYSMorocco will captivate you; from the World Heritage Site of Fes with its Medersas, Foundouk, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains through to Marrakech, its souks filling the alleys north of the central square, mile after constricted mile of tiny, closet-sized emporia and the elaborate El Bahia Palace. Staying in delightful boutique hotels or sumptuous riads, lovingly restored, you will be thrilled to visit ‘In Moroccan Style’.

DAY 1 CASABLANCAOn arrival in Casablanca you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

DAY 2 CASABLANCA > MEKNES > VOLUBILIS > FESDepart Casablanca and transfer to Fes. En route visit Meknes, a World Heritage Site famous for its 25 mile long walls. In this Imperial city, you will explore the town including expansive souks and the fascinating historical sites. Also visit the World Heritage Site of Volubilis, the site of the largest and best preserved Roman ruins in Morocco, particularly noted for its superb mosaic floors; it has fabulous views of the Rif Mountain foothills. Continue to Fes, arriving late afternoon.

DAY 3 FESSee the old Medina, Medersa, Bab Boujloud and Souks. Artisan workshops in the medina are as active today as 100 years ago and strongly contribute to the city’s industrial economy. Trades such as metal and leather working, ceramics, silk, tapestries, and sculpting are still practiced in these workshops. Original ramparts still protect the ancient city and its 9,000 passageways and narrow streets.

INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local guides, 7 nights accommodation in luxurious boutique style hotels or riads, transfers by air-conditioned vehicle, sightseeing and entrance fees, 7 breakfasts.DEPARTS: Daily.NOTE: Cooking classes or other optional extras may be arranged in Marrakech at additional cost. Surcharges will apply over peak dates and National Holidays. Single prices on request.

DAY 4 FES > RABATDepart Fes this morning and head for Rabat where you will overnight. This afternoon visit the Mohammed V Mausoleum before an evening at leisure.

DAY 5 RABAT > MARRAKECHDepart Rabat this morning and head towards Marrakech. On arrival check in to your hotel. The evening is at leisure.

DAY 6 MARRAKECHVisit Koutoubia Minaret and Mosque, the Tombs of Saadian, Menara Gardens, Bahia Palace and the Jemaa el Fna Square. The sheer number of shops in the souk is overwhelming, sometimes 100 of them in 100 metres. Every section of the souk has its own specialty, with alleys devoted to everything from spices and ironwork to the ingredients necessary for casting magic spells!

DAY 7 MARRAKECHEnjoy a day at leisure to continue exploring.

DAY 8 MARRAKECH > CASABLANCATransfer by road to Casablanca (3 hours).

MOROCCO

Casablanca

Marrakech

RabatFes

Meknes &Volubilis

2018 Price (per person) Twin4 Star: 1 Jan – 31 Oct from $4,8285 Star: 1 Jan – 31 Oct from $6,255

Spices, Marrakech

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST 67

MOROCCO

THE DESERT TO THE SEA | 10 DAYSExperience the diversity of Morocco as you travel to the bustling souks of Fes through changing landscapes to the edge of the Sahara Desert and stay one night in a luxurious camp. Continue through the High Atlas with its soaring peaks and swooping ravines visiting iconic landscapes and kasbahs en route. Visit colourful Marrakech to wander through the old city breathing in centuries of history before heading to the Portuguese fishing town of Essaouira.

DAY 1 CASABLANCA > RABATOn arrival in Casablanca, you will be met at the airport and transferred to Rabat where you overnight.

DAY 2 RABAT > MEKNES > VOLUBILIS > FESDepart Rabat this morning and travel to Fes, visiting the imperial city of Meknes and the World Heritage Site of Volubilis with its extraordinary mosaic floors. The city is the best preserved archaeological site in Morocco. On your arrival in Fes, enjoy your evening spent at leisure.

DAY 3 FESEnjoy a full day guided sightseeing tour in Fes. Visit the old medina dating from the 9th century, the Medersa or Theological College, Bab Boujloud, the Jewish Quarter, El Attarine and the expansive souks. Don’t miss the colourful spice souk!

DAY 4 FES > ERFOUD > MERZOUGA SANDSSpectacular drive through cedar forests and the Pass of the She-Camel to Erfoud. Continue by 4x4 to Erg Chebbi and the Merzouga Sands to your luxurious camp for overnight. In the desert, you are able to go dune driving or camel riding.

DAY 5 MERZOUGA SANDS > SKOURADrive through spectacular Todra Gorge with soaring rock walls and lush valleys to Skoura where you will overnight.

INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local guides, 8 nights accommodation in luxurious boutique style hotels or riads, 1 night in a luxurious desert camp, transfers by air-conditioned vehicle, sightseeing and entrance fees, 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners.DEPARTS: Daily.NOTE: Cooking classes or other optional extras may be arranged for an additional cost. Single prices on request.

DAY 6 SKOURA > OUARZAZATE > MARRAKECHTravel to Marrakech. This picturesque route features Ait Benhaddou, one of the best-preserved kasbahs in Morocco. Visit the Atlas Film Studios and the magnificent Tizi N’Tichka mountain pass en route to Marrakech.

DAY 7 MARRAKECHVisit El Bahia Palace, souks, Jemaa el Fna Square, and as old as the city itself, Koutoubia Minaret and the Saadian Tombs.

DAY 8 MARRAKECH > ESSAOUIRATransfer to the coast and check into your hotel in the fortified Portuguese fishing town of Essaouira. Afternoon at leisure.

DAY 9 ESSAOUIRAEnjoy a guided walking tour of this fortified town. Since its foundation it has been a major trading seaport, linking Morocco and the Sahara with Europe and the rest of the world. Visit the town walls, medina, Jewish Quarter and Sea Gate.

DAY 10 CASABLANCATransfer by road to Casablanca Airport.

MOROCCO

Casablanca

EssaouiraMarrakech

MerzougaSands

Rabat Fes

Skoura

Erfoud

Meknes &Volubilis

Ouarzazate

2018 Price (per person) Twin4 Star: 1 Jan – 31 Oct from $6,3455 Star: 1 Jan – 31 Oct from $9,185

Bab Boujloud, Fes

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST68

EGYPT

EGYPTIAN SAMPLER | 9 DAYSThe perfect introduction to Egypt, the sampler follows the Nile from the Pyramids, Sphinx and Museum in Cairo to Aswan and Luxor. Join a Nile cruise to visit the remarkable temples of Philae, Kom Ombo, and Edfu, and the Valley of the Kings and Queens. If you wish, add on the massive temples of Ramses II and his wife Nefertari at Abu Simbel.

DAY 1 CAIROYou will be met and transferred to your hotel.

DAY 2 CAIROA full day of sightseeing to the mighty Pyramids of Giza. See the Sphinx behind the Great Pyramid and after lunch head further into the desert. Visit the ancient capital of Memphis with its huge statue of Ramses II and the Step Pyramid at Sakkara.

DAY 3 CAIRO > ASWANFly to Aswan and transfer to your cruise moored near the town centre. Optional flight to the temples at Abu Simbel. In the afternoon join your English-speaking guide and visit the High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk at the granite quarries and take a motorboat across to Philae Temple.

DAY 4 ASWAN > EDFU > ESNASet sail from Aswan this morning toward the twin temple of Kom Ombo. Visit the temple with its fascinating medicine wall, Nilometre and mummified crocodiles. Continue sailing for Edfu and visit the wonderful temple dedicated to Horus. Overnight near Esna where the ship will pass through a lock.

DAY 5 ESNA > LUXORSail early on to Luxor and visit the Valley of the Kings (entrance to the tomb of Tutankhamun is additional and paid locally). Also visit the Valley of the Queens and hopefully catch a glimpse of the Colossi of Memnon.

INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local guides, 5 nights accommodation, 3 nights on the cruise, transfers by air-conditioned car, flights Cairo > Aswan and Luxor > Cairo, sightseeing and entrance fees, 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners.DEPARTS: Wednesdays.NOTE: Enquire for surcharges over Easter, Christmas, and New Year. Price of flight Aswan > Abu Simbel on request.

DAY 6 LUXORDisembark your cruise this morning and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is spent at leisure to perhaps visit the Karnak or Luxor Temples in the centre of town.

DAY 7 LUXOR > CAIROFly to Cairo and transfer to your hotel. Afternoon at leisure.

DAY 8 CAIROEnjoy a fascinating day today as you visit Cairo Museum with its thousands of artefacts on display. See the treasures from the Tomb of Tutankhamun and if you wish, visit the Mummies Room (entrance fee additional). Continue to the Citadel, visit Old Cairo and colourful Khan el Kahlili Bazaar.

DAY 9 CAIROYou will be transferred to the airport.

Cairo

LuxorEsna

Edfu

Aswan

EGYPT

2018 Price (per person) Twin Single

4 St

ar

6 – 26 Jan $2,995 $4,30027 Jan – 29 Mar $3,990 $5,79030 Mar – 29 Sep $3,450 $4,99530 Sep – 3 Nov $3,850 $5,550

5 St

ar

6 Jan – 22 Mar $4,550 $6,70523 Mar – 30 Mar $4,995 $7,50031 Mar – 27 Apr $4,750 $6,90528 Apr – 27 Sep $3,995 $5,80028 Sep – 3 Nov $4,695 $6,890

Giza

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST 69

EGYPT

PEOPLE, CULTURE & HISTORY | 10 DAYSEgypt is fascinating with a kaleidoscope of cultural influences, ancient and awe-inspiring history, majestic temples and extraordinary tomb complexes all connected with the mighty Nile River. Every visitor to Egypt will leave with lasting impressions of the warmth and generosity of its people, the chaos and colour of its cities and the haunting call to prayer.

DAY 1 CAIRO > ALEXANDRIAYou will be met on arrival and transferred directly to Alexandria, the city named for Alexander the Great.

DAY 2 ALEXANDRIA > EL ALAMEIN > ALEXANDRIAToday travel out to El Alamein with a guide. Visit the Commonwealth cemetery and museum. Return to Alexandria to visit the amphitheatre, catacombs, Pompey’s Pillar and drive by the Alexandria Library.

DAY 3 ALEXANDRIA > CAIRODepart Alexandria this morning and drive to Cairo, arriving early afternoon. Check in to your hotel near the Pyramids.

DAY 4 CAIROA full day of sightseeing takes you to the mighty Pyramids of Giza. See the Sphinx hidden behind the Great Pyramid and after lunch head further into the desert. Visit the ancient capital of Memphis with its huge statue of Ramses II before continuing to the step pyramid at Sakkara.

DAY 5 CAIROEnjoy a fascinating day at the Cairo Museum viewing ancient artefacts. See the treasures from the Tomb of Tutankhamun and if you wish, visit the Mummies Room (entrance fee not included). Continue to the Citadel, visit Old Cairo and colourful Khan el Kahlili Bazaar.

INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local guides, 9 nights accommodation, transfers by air-conditioned car, flights Cairo > Aswan and Luxor > Cairo, sightseeing and entrance fees, 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 1 dinner.DEPARTS: Daily.NOTE: This itinerary can be amended or extended to include the Red Sea and/or a Nile Cruise.

DAY 6 CAIRO > LUXORFly to Luxor this morning and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon visit the huge temple complex of Karnak and the Temple of Luxor in the centre of town.

DAY 7 LUXORVisit the Valley of the Kings (entrance to the tomb of Tutankhamun is additional and paid locally). Visit the Valley of the Queens and hopefully catch a glimpse of the Colossi of Memnon. Afternoon at leisure before joining a local family in their home for a traditional Egyptian dinner.

DAY 8 LUXOR > ASWANDrive to Aswan, visiting Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples en route. Of all temple remains, Edfu is possibly the most completely preserved. The twin temple of Kom Ombo features a fascinating medicine wall, Nilometer, and mummified crocodiles.

DAY 9 ASWANTour to visit the High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk at the granite quarries and take a motorboat across to Philae Temple before concluding in the local market.

DAY 10 ASWAN > CAIROTransfer to the airport for your flight to Cairo.

Cairo

Luxor

EdfuKom OmboAswan

EGYPT

Alexandria

El Alamein

2018 Price (per person) Twin Single

4 St

ar

2 Jan – 30 Apr $4,330 $6,8601 May – 15 Sep $3,840 $6,13816 Sep – 31 Oct $3,995 $6,395

Luxor

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST70

ISRAEL

CULINARY TOUR OF ISRAEL | 7 DAYSIsrael is defined by its rich web of cultures, its eclectic population of Arab Muslims and Arab Christians, Druze, Bedouins, Circassians, Samaritans, and Jews from 70 Diasporas: from East and Western Europe, North Africa, Asia, North and South America. Explore the legacy these cultures, peoples and religions have left in the traditions and particularly the food of the country in our very special Culinary Tour of Israel.

DAY 1 TEL AVIVYou will be met and transferred to your hotel.

DAY 2 TEL AVIV > THE COASTAL PLAINEnjoy a walking tour in the picturesque alleys of old Jaffa (Joppa). You’ll visit a fantastic flea market where an eclectic mix of items and tasty treats await you. Drive to Caesarea, and visit the Roman Theatre and the Crusader Fortress with its unique dry moat. Then to the port city of Haifa to view the magnificent Baha’i gardens from atop Mount Carmel. Continue to Nazareth where you will visit the Church of the Annunciation and the Church of St Joseph. Sample some Kanafeh, an oriental sweet made with melted cheese, a specialty in Nazareth.

DAY 3 COASTAL PLAIN > SEA OF GALILEEVisit Capernaum, an ancient fishing village and see the synagogue and the recent excavations of the House of St. Peter. Continue onto Tabgha and ascend to the top of the Mt. of Beatitudes, where you can relive the Sermon on the Mount. Visit a Galilee winery for a tasting tour of great wine and homemade cheese. This evening, head to a local Galilean family for a wonderful cooking workshop and later enjoy the dinner you helped prepare with the local family.

DAY 4 SEA OF GALILEE > JORDAN VALLEYStop at Gesher for a baking workshop at the historic Gesher Oven. The “Legend of Bread” is a marvellous story about a

INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local guides, 6 nights accommodation in boutique style hotels, transfers, sightseeing, entrance fees, cooking classes and market tastings as shown, 6 breakfasts, and 2 dinners.DEPARTS: Daily.NOTE: Surcharges apply for peak periods and religious festivals.

brick oven that has survived since 1924 and has been lovingly renovated. Today, visitors are able to bake delicious amazing focaccia bread. Visit Belvoir Castle, a crusader fort located on the strategic Jordan River. Continue to Jerusalem.

DAY 5 JERUSALEM OLD CITYStart the tour from atop of the Old City roof tops with a view of the four quarters. Visit Garden of Gethsemane and enter the Old City through one of its famous gates. Explore the restored Jewish Quarter and visit the Cardo, an ancient Roman marketplace where you can still shop today. Stop at the Western Wall, the holiest place to the Jewish People. Continue on to walk the Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa, finishing at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.

DAY 6 JERUSALEM NEW CITYDrive by the Israeli Parliament, The Knesset. Then visit the Israel Museum and see the famous Dead Seas Scrolls at the Shrine of the Book. Head to Machine Yehuda for a tour of the market. If midweek, then head to the Artists’ Colony for a special dinner at Eucalyptus, a unique restaurant near the old city. You will have the chance to enjoy biblical food prepared by the great chef Moshe Basson. If Friday, then enjoy a special dinner with a local family and learn about the importance of food for the holy Sabbath.

DAY 7 JERUSALEM > TEL AVIVTransfer to airport.

Sea of GalileeHaifa

Nazareth Jordan Valley

Tel Aviv

ISRAEL

Jerusalem

2018 Price (per person) Twin4 Star: 1 Jan – 28 Sep from $7,195

Old Jerusalem

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST 71

ISRAEL

BOUTIQUE ISRAEL | 8 DAYSDiscover the diverse nature of this tiny nation as you walk through time. Explore the maze of Old Jaffa, wander the ancient streets of Beit She’an and Jerusalem, ponder the origins of Christianity in Bethlehem, gaze out over Jericho and float in the Dead Sea. This comprehensive itinerary will give you a wonderful insight into the past, present, and future of Israel.

DAY 1 TEL AVIVYou will be met and transferred to your hotel.

DAY 2 TEL AVIV > COASTAL PLAINStart your day with a short walking tour in the picturesque alleys of the old, fortified town of Jaffa (Joppa). Drive northwards along the coast to the archaeological ruins of Caesarea, built by Herod the Great. Continue to the Baha’i Centre of Haifa and see the beautiful Baha’i gardens before visiting Nazareth.

DAY 3 TIBERIAS (SEA OF GALILEE)Visit Capernaum to see the synagogue where Jesus preached and the recent excavations of the House of St. Peter. Continue onto Tabgha, traditionally accepted to be the place where Jesus multiplied five loaves and two fish. Ascend to the top of the Mount of Beatitudes, where you can relive the Sermon on the Mount. Ascend the Golan Heights and see the whole of Northern Israel from atop the Hula Valley.

DAY 4 COASTAL PLAIN > JERUSALEMSee the ancient city of Beit She’an, once named Scythopolis under Hellenistic and Roman occupation. Continue to Beit Alpha, the fortress of Belvoir, and a view over Jericho.

INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local guides, 7 nights accommodation, transfers by air-conditioned minibus, sightseeing and entrance fees, 7 breakfasts.DEPARTS: Daily.NOTE: Cooking classes or other optional extras may be arranged for an additional cost. Single prices are available on request.

DAY 5 JERUSALEM OLD CITYEnjoy a tour of the highlights of Old Jerusalem. Get a panoramic view of the city from Mount of Olives, visit the Garden of Gethsemane, and enter the Old City through one of its famous gates. Explore the restored Jewish Quarter, stopping at the Western Wall, and continue into the Christian Quarter, following the Stations of the Cross to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Visit Mt. Zion to see the Room of the Last Supper and the Tomb of King David.

DAY 6 JERUSALEM NEW CITY & BETHLEHEMStart the day with a visit to see the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum, the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, and Ein Karem where John the Baptist was born. Depart for Bethlehem to see the Shepherd’s Fields, Manger Square, and the Church of the Nativity.

DAY 7 MASADA & DEAD SEAAscend the mighty fortress of Masada – a palace built by Herod the Great and the last stronghold of the Jewish Zealots in their war against the Romans. Explore the unique ruins and the Synagogue. Experience a ‘float’ in the salty waters of the mineral-rich Dead Sea (weather permitting).

DAY 8 JERUSALEM > TEL AVIVTransfer to the airport.

TiberiasHaifa

Nazareth

Beit She’an & Beit Alpha

Tel Aviv

Bethlehem

Masada

Jerusalem

ISRAEL

2018 Price (per person) Twin4 Star: 1 Jan – 28 Sep from $6,9505 Star: 1 Jan – 28 Sep from $8,495

Church of the Twelve Apostles, Capernaum

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST72

JORDAN

NABATEAN EXPLORER | 7 DAYSStep back in time by joining the Nabatean Explorer in the Kingdom of Jordan. Starting in the sprawling city of Amman built over 19 hills, travel to the ancient city of Jerash boasting 6,500 years of human habitation and one of the best preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. Set deep inside a narrow desert gorge, Petra is an architectural and historical marvel with hundreds of buildings, temples, archways and a 3,000 seat theatre. Also visit eerie Wadi Rum and the maze of stone-vaulted halls and passageways of Kerak.

DAY 1 AMMANYou will be met and transferred to your city centre hotel.

DAY 2 AMMANMeet your guide this morning for an orientation tour of the city including a view of the hilltop fortress and the impressive Roman amphitheatre.

DAY 3 AMMAN > JERASH > DEAD SEAJerash is the best-preserved Roman city of the Decapolis. View the Oval Plaza, Temple of Zeus, South Theatre, Colonnaded Street and Market Place before continuing to the Dead Sea.

DAY 4 DEAD SEA > PETRAEnjoy a soak in the intense blue water of the Dead Sea, heavy with salt and oily with minerals. Then drive to Petra via Mt Nebo, Madaba with its church and mosaic map of the Holy Land, and the crusader castle of Kerak.

DAY 5 PETRATravel on foot or on horseback through the ‘Siq’ to theTreasury. Then to the Street of Facades, the Theatre, Royal

INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local guides, 6 nights accommodation in your selected category, transfers by air-conditioned car and driver, 4x4 at Wadi Rum, sightseeing and entrance fees, 6 breakfasts.DEPARTS: Daily.

Tombs, Colonnaded Street, Byzantine church, the Temple, Monumental Arch and Qasr el-Bint Faroun.

DAY 6 PETRA > WADI RUM > PETRATravel to the wild moonscape of Wadi Rum and transfer to a 4x4 to explore the region. Return to Petra for overnight.

DAY 7 PETRA > AMMANTransfer to Amman to connect with your afternoon flight.

AmmanDead Sea

Petra

Jerash

Madaba

Wadi Rum

JORDAN

2018 Price (per person) Twin Single4 Star: 1 Jan – 30 Sep $1,480 $2,5085 Star: 1 Jan – 30 Sep $2,130 $3,795

Jerash

Dead Sea

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST 73

JORDAN

THE HISTORY & WILDLIFE OF JORDAN | 9 DAYSThe Dana Biosphere Reserve is Jordan’s hidden gem. This beautiful nature reserve covers the Rummana Mountain, part of a chain from the Jordan Rift Valley. The park features not only sandstone cliffs, wooded highlands and ancient ruins but a wonderfully diverse range of flora and fauna. Combine this with the wonders of Jerash and Petra along with the incomparable Dead Sea for a memorable journey of Jordan’s history and wildlife.

DAY 1 AMMANYou will be met and transferred to your hotel.

DAY 2 JERASHMorning orientation tour of Amman before visiting Jerash. Jerash is the best-preserved Roman city of the Decapolis. View the Oval Plaza, Temple of Zeus, South Theatre, Colonnaded Street and Market Place. Continue to the castle of Qal’at al-Rabad at Aljoun before returning to your hotel.

DAY 3 AMMAN > DESERT CASTLES > AMMANToday visit the desert castles, scattered through the desert east of Amman. These isolated trading complexes were once a thriving group of caravan stations, secluded baths and hunting lodges.

DAY 4 AMMAN > PETRADrive to Petra today travelling through Madaba with its extraordinary mosaic map of the Holy Land, Mt Nebo to look out over the Dead Sea and the Promised Land as well as the Crusader Castle of Kerak.

DAY 5 PETRATravel on foot or on horseback through the ‘Siq’ to the Treasury. Then to the Street of Façades, the Theatre, Royal

INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local guides, 8 nights accommodation (best available in both Wadi Rum and Dana), transfers by air-conditioned car and driver, 4x4 drive at Wadi Rum, sightseeing and entrance fees, 8 breakfasts.DEPARTS: Daily.NOTE: Surcharges may apply over peak periods.

Tombs, Colonnaded Street, Byzantine church, the Temple, Monumental Arch and Qasr el-Bint Faroun.

DAY 6 AL-BEIDA > WADI RUMVisit Al-Beida or ‘Little Petra’ with its maze of caves before continuing to Wadi Rum. A vast, silent place, timeless and starkly beautiful. Wadi Rum is one of the most stunning desert landscapes in the world approximately 120kms from Petra. Join a 4x4 for a drive through the landscape and camp overnight in comfortable tents.

DAY 7 WADI RUM > DANA BIOSPHERE RESERVEDepart early for the Dana Biosphere Reserve. Enjoy some of the 600 species of plants, 37 species of mammals and 190 species of birds to be found in the park. After a short visit to the ruins of Feinan and Dana Village continue to your simple accommodation for overnight.

DAY 8 DANA BIOSPHERE RESERVE > AMMANReturn this morning for a walk through the beautiful Dana Biosphere Reserve, then drive to Amman.

DAY 9 AMMANTransfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Petra

Wadi Rum

JORDAN

MadabaAmman

Jerash

Desert Castles

Dana

Camels, Petra

2018 Price (per person) Twin Single4 Star: 1 Jan – 30 Sep $1,750 $2,7605 Star: 1 Jan – 30 Sep $2,252 $3,845

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST74

OMAN

HIGHLIGHTS OF OMAN | 7 DAYSWith one of the oldest civilisations on the Persian Peninsula and the alleged home of Sinbad the sailor, Oman is also blessed with beautiful beaches, fascinating scenery, and friendly hospitable people to welcome you. We have a range of itineraries from the Musandam Peninsula in the north to Salalah in the south, each showcasing the highlights of this hidden treasure. Discover the highlights of Oman!

DAY 1 MUSCATYou will be met and transferred to your hotel. Later in the afternoon you will be met at the hotel for a ‘Muscat by Night’ tour. You drive along the Corniche, passing the port of Muscat, continue on the road through the coastal mountains to Qurum and on to the Grand Mosque. The tour ends at Kargeen restaurant, where you will enjoy an Arabian-themed dinner.

DAY 2 MUSCATVisit the Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the Middle East, followed by the Natural History Museum. Drive along the picturesque Corniche with a photo stop at Al Alam Palace, the residence of his Majesty Sultan Qaboose. The palace is flanked by the 16th century portuguese forts, Mirani and Jalali. Stroll through Muttrah Souq and then return to the hotel. This evening, transfer to Bait Al Zubair Museum followed by a sunset cruise along the Muscat coastline on a Traditional Omani Dhow (only on Mon, Thu, Fri & Sat).

DAY 3 MUSCAT > SURThe road south leads through scenic countryside and rugged mountains to the Wadi Dhaiqa Dam. Stop at the Bimmah Sinkhole and continue to the white sandy beach at Fins. Visit Wadi Tiwi, an oasis known for its lemon and date plantations. This evening, visit the turtle sanctuary at Ras Al Jinz.

INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local guides, transfers by air-conditioned car, 6 nights accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees, 6 breakfasts and 2 dinners.DEPARTS: Daily.

DAY 4 SUR > WAHIBA SANDSAfter a short tour of Sur, renowned in former times for its shipyard, continue to Wadi Bani Khalid, an oasis in the middle of the barren and dry mountains. Drive into the Wahiba Sands, a vast mass of undulating red and white seas of sand. After some exciting sand dune driving with your experienced driver, you may choose to take a camel ride or do some sand skiing before visiting the home of a Bedouin family in the desert. Enjoy a barbecue dinner with Omani music and a dance show.

DAY 5 WAHIBA SANDS > NIZWA > AL HAMRADrive to Nizwa, Oman’s cultural capital and home to a fascinating souq and Nizwa Fort. Visit Jabreen Castle and Al Hamra, one of the oldest villages in Oman. Drive up to Jabel Shams, which translates to Mountain of the Sun, to experience the untamed and rugged countryside, often hailed as the Sultanate’s own version of the Grand Canyon.

DAY 6 AL HAMRA > MUSCATAfter breakfast, visit the hidden and remote village of Misfat Al Abryeen. Embark on a heritage walk through the many plantations in the village to learn about the Falaj system. Drive back to Muscat.

DAY 7 MUSCATYou will be transferred to the airport.

OMAN

Sur

WahibaSands

Nizwa

Muscat

Al Hamra

Wadi Tiwi

2018 Price (per person) Twin Single

4 St

ar

1 Jan – 30 Apr $3,450 $5,7501 May – 30 Sep $3,330 $5,5501 Oct – 23 Dec $3,530 $5,930

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST 75

OMAN

OMANI EXPLORER | 10 DAYSFrom north to south, Oman has a diverse and exotic culture, extraordinary landscapes, wonderful handicrafts, a colourful history and surprising wildlife. Start with Muttrah Souq in Muscat and travel to the traditional mud houses of Al Hamra and Misfah dating back 400 years. Visit undulating seas of sand at Wahiba Sands, forts, castles, clear fresh water wadis perfect for a refreshing dip, to the land of Frankincense in Salalah.

DAY 1 MUSCATYou will be met and transferred to your hotel.

DAY 2 MUSCATMeet your guide for a city tour this morning. Muscat has a character quite different from neighbouring capitals. There are few high-rise blocks, and even functional buildings must reflect tradition with a dome or an arabesque window. Visit the Grand Mosque, Natural History Museum, Quantab, a pristine and beautiful beach, Bait al Zubair Museum and Muttrah Souq.

DAY 3 MUSCAT > NIZWAVisit 17th century Jabrin Castle with its magnificent plasterwork, carved doors and painted wooden beams. Continue to Bahla, famous for its pottery.

DAY 4 NIZWA > JEBEL SHAMS > NIZWAVisit Nizwa Fort with its massive Circular Cannon Tower, the traditional souk, the traditional mud houses of Al Hamra and Misfah before driving to Oman’s ‘Grand Canyon’, Jebel Shams.

DAY 5 NIZWA > WAHIBA SANDSVisit Wahiba Sands, a vast sea of red and white sand with an ever changing pattern of dunes. Enjoy exciting dune driving and watch the sun set over the desert.

INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local guides, 9 nights accommodation (best available in some areas), transfers by private vehicle, sightseeing and entrance fees, 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner.

DEPARTS: Daily.

NOTE: Flight Muscat > Salalah is not included, enquire for details. Roads may be rough and travellers with any health conditions should check suitability prior to booking. Blackout dates may apply and peak season surcharges will apply.

DAY 6 WAHIBA SANDS > SURVisit the oasis of Wadi Bani Khalid with its clear blue water for a refreshing swim. Continue to Sur known for its dhow shipyard in former times. Also visit the turtle sanctuary of Ras al Jinz where green turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.

DAY 7 SUR > MUSCAT > SALALAHTake the fascinating coastal road to Muscat via the Bibi Miriam Mausoleum, the lemon and date plantations of Wadi Tiwi and Fins Beach. Evening flight to Salalah (not included).

DAY 8 SALALAHVisit Al Balid with its museum and ancient harbour. Stop for photographs at Shanfari Mosque and the Sultan’s Palace. Walk through Haffah Souq famous for frankincense and handcrafts.

DAY 9 SALALAHIn the Dhofar region, visit the historical Taqa Fort, Bin Ali’s tomb, impressive blowholes at Mughsail Beach and the Tomb of the Prophet Ayub (Job).

DAY 10 SALALAHYou will be transferred to the airport.

Sur

Wahiba Sands

Salalah

OMAN

Nizwa

MuscatJebel Shams

2018 Price (per person) Twin4 Star: 1 Jan – 30 Sep $4,1505 Star: 1 Jan – 30 Sep $4,850

Pottery, Jabrin Castle

NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST76

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

SNAPSHOT DUBAI | 3 DAYS

SNAPSHOT ABU DHABI | 4 DAYS

From extravagant shopping malls to white sand beaches, from traditional wooden dhow plying the waterways to gold and spice souks, every traveller can find what they are looking for in Dubai.

The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is a glistening city that contrasts white-domed mosques, bustling souks and luxury malls with rugged desert, mountainous landscapes and immaculate beaches.

DAY 1 DUBAIArrive in Dubai and transfer to your hotel in the old city.

DAY 2 DUBAIJoin other English-speaking visitors and visit Bastakiya, Jumeirah Mosque, Al Fahidi Fort, and the Gold Souq. End the day with a Sand Safari and BBQ dinner with belly dancing (not available during Ramadan).

DAY 3 DUBAITransfer to the airport.

DAY 1 ABU DHABIYou will be met and transferred to your hotel.

DAY 2 ABU DHABIA half day city tour including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Mina Zayed Port markets and the Heritage Village. See the iconic Emirates Palace (outside view only). Continue exploring the city at your own pace or return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

DAY 3 ABU DHABIEnjoy today at leisure. Perhaps choose to visit Ferrari World, the world’s largest indoor theme park, take a dhow cruise on the sparkling Arabian Sea or a thrilling 4x4 drive across the desert.

DAY 4 ABU DHABIYou will be transferred to the airport.

INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey, 2 nights accommodation, transfers by air-conditioned vehicle, shared sightseeing and entrance fees, 2 breakfasts and 1 dinner.DEPARTS: Daily.NOTE: Surcharges will apply over peak periods and religious festivals, enquire for pricing on your specific travel dates. A Dubai Tourism fee is payable directly to your hotel.

INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey, 3 nights accommodation, transfers by air-conditioned vehicle, sightseeing and entrance fees, 3 breakfasts.DEPARTS: Daily.NOTE: Surcharges will apply over peak periods and religious festivals. Prices are based on low season, enquire for pricing on your specific travel dates or for more details.

2018 Price (per person) Twin Single4 Star: 1 Jan – 30 Sep from $776 $1,1375 Star: 1 Jan – 30 Sep from $966 $1,516

2018 Price (per person) Twin Single4 Star: 1 Jan – 30 Sep from $530 $9855 Star: 1 Jan – 30 Sep from $625 $1,170

Burj Khalifa

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque