NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
TAILOR-MADE JOURNEYS 2021/2022 Tehran Rabat LEBANON ISRAEL MOROCCO IRAN Alexandria JORDAN Cairo Shiraz
Luxor EGYPT Muscat OMAN
MORE INSPIRATION? These links will take you to our website: > North Africa > Middle East
BEST NICHE WHOLESALER CONTENTS
2 ABOUT US 3 TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL 4-5 OUR FAVOURITE PLACES
6 MOROCCO 6 In Moroccan Style 7 The Desert to the Sea 8 Ancient Cities and the High Atlas 9 Escape to the Desert
10 EGYPT 10 Egyptian Sampler 11 Cruise the Nile
12 ISRAEL 12 Culinary Tour of Israel 13 Boutique Israel
14 JORDAN 14 Nabatean Explorer 15 The History & Wildlife of Jordan
16 LEBANON 16 Discover Lebanon
17 IRAN 17 Discover Ancient Persia
18 OMAN 18 Omani Explorer 19 Highlights of Oman 20 The Natural Beauty of Oman 21 Desert to Coast 21 Musandam Adventure
22 GIVING BACK 23 TERMS & CONDITIONS ABOUT US
Put simply, we plan and deliver journeys so you don’t have to. We, along with our talented team, are all travel aficionados. Putting our many years of personal experience to good use, we craft itineraries to suit you, your interests, your budget. Not only is travel our passion, it is our mission to provide the very best level of service and expert specialist knowledge – never more important than in today’s world. This is no ordinary travel, this is memorable travel with personality, designed to inspire.
ANGELA PIRIE With a background in group travel and product research, Ange is dedicated to ensuring that your journey is personalised and exceeds expectations. Having travelled to many inspiring destinations, Ange’s knowledge of Africa is second- to-none. A few of her highlights have been hot air ballooning over the Serengeti, swimming with dolphins in Zanzibar, and on a recent trip to Myanmar, e-biking around the temples of Bagan.
CHRIS LYONS Chris started his travelling career in the mid 1970’s, spending over a year travelling Central and South America, a part of the world for which he has a real passion, and a region he returns to regularly. Fascinated with history and archaeology, Chris has delighted in exploring historical treasures including Angkor Wat, Machu Picchu, and the Persepolis ruins. Many years of hosting tours means Chris has a real understanding of the needs of every traveller.
BRETT BARCLAY Brett has visited over 100 countries but the bucket list keeps growing! Highlights include being in the Rio Carnival, exploring West Africa, and being immersed in Japanese culture in ryokans (traditional inns). Brett is an avid cruiser, a rail buff, and a huge fan of family travel (as his son can testify!). Latest adventures include Ethiopia, “One of the most fascinating countries I have ever been to”, an expedition cruise to Antarctica, and meeting the mountain gorillas of Uganda.
KATE COULING With a 12-month OE that somehow stretched out to 12 years, Kate has a particular passion for the history, people, and culture of North Africa and the Middle East, even choosing to live in the region long enough to learn Arabic. However, she is equally content getting lost in the alleys of Venice Island, chatting to child monks in Bhutan, or checking in to the Manor Houses of Ireland. If travel is a bug, Kate is delighted to have caught it.
World Journeys is a member of the Travel Agents Association of New Zealand (TAANZ) and participates in the TAANZ Bonding Scheme for the protection of the consumer.
2 TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL
Here we showcase journeys to some of the most fascinating and exotic places on earth. They are our personal suggestions of what to do, what to see and where to stay. We know travellers value flexibility so we generally have no set departure dates, and itineraries are not regimented: journeys can be tailor-made to suit your needs. We offer professional planning and expert knowledge, working with you to create your dream trip. Our backup services take the stress out of travel; if your flight is delayed or transport doesn’t show, we’ll sort out the arrangements.
STAR RATINGS We consider a variety of criteria in our selection of accommodation, including location, style, ambience, comfort, service, and facilities. Star ratings differ widely around the world, so we have based ours on typical standards, our own personal recommendations, and value for money. 3 Star – simple accommodation with adequate facilities, sometimes the best SPECIAL INTEREST YOUR DOCUMENTS available in the area. JOURNEYS 4 Star – comfortable accommodation To make sure you always know what We offer a range of special interest with good service and facilities. you’re doing and where you’re going travel focusing on wildlife, wellness, while you travel, we provide beautifully 5 Star – deluxe accommodation with cuisine, active holidays, rail, or cruises, prepared travel documents. These top service and excellent facilities. which can be found on our website. documents detail your day-by-day 6 Star – exceptional properties rating itinerary and include everything you amongst the best in the world with HOSTED JOURNEYS need for a hassle-free journey. You stunning outlook, outstanding service, will receive a travel wallet along with Our hosted journeys allow you to unique features, and superb facilities. a World Journeys luggage tag. These enjoy unique and inspiring small group travel documents are a wonderful GROUP JOURNEYS travel to some of the most fascinating memento of your journey. In addition to our tailor-made journeys destinations. These journeys include we offer some group tours which make flights and tipping, and are guaranteed WORLD JOURNEYS APP travel to certain destinations more to go, with a maximum group size Ask us about the World Journeys achievable and allow you to meet of 18 and a World Journeys host to app which gives you access to your people from all over the world! smooth the way. documents on your mobile device.
3 OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO STAY
LA SULTANA LA MAISON ARABE Marrakech, Morocco Marrakech, Morocco Ideally located in the old city just ten minutes walk from Situated in the medina, this legendary hotel features Jemaa El Fna square. Panoramic terraces with amazing traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, creating a refined, views, wonderful food, friendly staff – all a delight. exotic and serene atmosphere throughout.
HEURE BLEUE PALAIS RIAD FES Essaouira, Morocco Fes, Morocco Built into Essaouira’s medina walls, the post-colonial Restored to its original glory, this riad sits in the heart of elegance of this peaceful hideaway oozes comfort and style. the ancient city. Serene, authentic, civilised, the history of the city is reflected at every turn.
MARRIOTT MENA HOUSE OLD WINTER PALACE Cairo, Egypt Luxor, Egypt Overlooking the Great Pyramids, this stunning property The Sofitel Winter Palace is the grand old lady of Luxor. features handcrafted furniture in every room and is Built in 1886 she sits overlooking the Nile and features surrounded by 40 acres of lush garden. rich colonial design alongside the glory of Pharaonic times.
4 NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO STAY
OLD CATARACT HOTEL MARKET HOUSE HOTEL Aswan, Egypt Tel Aviv, Israel Rising grandly from a pink granite shelf at the edge of the Located next to the Jaffa’s historical Clock Tower and the Nubian Desert, the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract is stylish famous flea market, this hotel takes inspiration from the and sophisticated in equal measure. unique and authentic atmosphere of ancient Jaffa.
ARTHUR HOTEL MARRIOT PETRA Jersualem, Israel Petra, Jordan The décor of the Arthur Hotel dates back to the beginning With rooms overlooking the valley, the location of the of the 20th century and will transport you back to a world Marriott Petra cannot be beaten as it sits at the entrance to rich in nostalgia and old world charm. the ancient Nabatean city itself.
AL HUSN ALILA JABAL AKHDAR Muscat, Oman Green Mountains, Oman Shangri-la Al Husn Resort & Spa is surrounded by the Cradled by soaring mountains and dramatic canyons, pristine waters of the Gulf of Oman against a dramatic this luxurious property blends seamlessly into the rugged mountainous backdrop. desert – a welcoming base from which to explore Oman.
NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST 5 MOROCCO
Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca IN MOROCCAN STYLE | 8 DAYS Morocco 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 4 FES > RABAT Depart Fes this morning and head for Rabat where you will overnight. This afternoon visit the Mohammed V Mausoleum before an evening at leisure. Fes Rabat DAY 5 RABAT > MARRAKECH Casablanca M & Depart Rabat this morning and head towards Marrakech. On arrival check in to your hotel. The evening is at leisure. DAY 6 MARRAKECH MOROCCO Visit Koutoubia Minaret and Mosque, the Tombs of Saadian, Marrakech 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 DAY 1 CASABLANCA ironwork to the ingredients necessary for casting magic spells! On arrival in Casablanca you will be met and transferred to DAY 7 MARRAKECH your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Enjoy a day at leisure to continue exploring. DAY 2 CASABLANCA > MEKNES > VOLUBILIS > FES DAY 8 MARRAKECH > CASABLANCA Depart Casablanca and transfer to Fes. En route visit Meknes, Transfer by road to Casablanca (3 hours). 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 INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local Heritage site of Volubilis, the site of the largest and best guides, 7 nights’ accommodation in luxurious boutique style preserved Roman ruins in Morocco, particularly noted for its hotels or riads, transfers by air-conditioned vehicle, sightseeing superb mosaic floors; it has fabulous views of the Rif Mountain and entrance fees and 7 breakfasts. foothills. Continue to Fes, arriving late afternoon. DEPARTS: Daily. DAY 3 FES NOTE: Cooking classes or other optional extras may be See the old Medina, Medersa, Bab Boujloud and souks. Artisan arranged in Marrakech at additional cost. Surcharges will apply workshops in the medina are as active today as 100 years ago over peak dates and National Holidays. and strongly contribute to the city’s industrial economy. Trades such as metal and leather working, ceramics, silk, tapestries, 2021 Price (per person) Twin and sculpting are still practiced in these workshops. Original 4 Star: 1 Jan – 31 Oct from $5,845 ramparts still protect the ancient city and its 9,000 passageways and narrow streets. 5 Star: 1 Jan – 31 Oct from $7,850
6 NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST MOROCCO
Marrakech THE DESERT TO THE SEA | 10 DAYS Experience 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 6 SKOURA > OUARZAZATE > MARRAKECH Rabat Fes Travel to Marrakech. This picturesque route features Ait Casablanca M & Benhaddou, one of the best-preserved kasbahs in Morocco. Visit the Atlas Film Studios and the magnificent Tizi N’Tichka MOROCCO mountain pass en route to Marrakech. DAY 7 MARRAKECH Marrakech Essaouira Erfoud Visit El Bahia Palace, souks, Jemaa el Fna Square, and as old M as the city itself, Koutoubia Minaret and the Saadian Tombs. O Skoura S DAY 8 MARRAKECH > ESSAOUIRA Transfer to the coast and check into your hotel in the fortified DAY 1 CASABLANCA > RABAT Portuguese fishing town of Essaouira. Afternoon at leisure. On arrival in Casablanca, you will be met at the airport and DAY 9 ESSAOUIRA transferred to Rabat where you overnight. Enjoy a guided walking tour of this fortified town. Since its DAY 2 RABAT > MEKNES > VOLUBILIS > FES foundation it has been a major trading seaport, linking Morocco Depart Rabat this morning and travel to Fes, visiting the and the Sahara with Europe and the rest of the world. Visit the imperial city of Meknes and the World Heritage site of town walls, medina, Jewish Quarter and Sea Gate. Volubilis with its extraordinary mosaic floors. The city is the DAY 10 CASABLANCA best preserved archaeological site in Morocco. On your arrival Transfer by road to Casablanca airport. in Fes, enjoy your evening spent at leisure. DAY 3 FES INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local Enjoy a full day guided sightseeing tour in Fes. Visit the old th guides, 8 nights’ accommodation in luxurious boutique style medina dating from the 9 century, the Medersa or Theological hotels or riads, 1 night in a luxurious desert camp, transfers College, Bab Boujloud, the Jewish Quarter, El Attarine and the by air-conditioned vehicle, sightseeing and entrance fees, 9 expansive souks. Don’t miss the colourful spice souk! breakfasts, 1 lunch and 2 dinners. DAY 4 FES > ERFOUD > MERZOUGA SANDS DEPARTS: Daily. Spectacular drive through cedar forests and the Pass of the NOTE: Cooking classes or other optional extras may be She-Camel to Erfoud. Continue by 4x4 to Erg Chebbi and the arranged for an additional cost. Merzouga Sands to your luxurious camp for overnight. In the desert, you are able to go dune driving or camel riding. 2021 Price (per person) Twin DAY 5 MERZOUGA SANDS > SKOURA 4 Star: 1 Jan – 31 Oct from $8,375 Drive through spectacular Todra Gorge with soaring rock walls and lush valleys to Skoura where you will overnight. 5 Star: 1 Jan – 31 Oct from $12,125
NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST 7 MOROCCO
Fes ANCIENT CITIES AND THE HIGH ATLAS | 10 DAYS Explore the treasures of ancient Marrakech and Fes, travel through magnificent mountain passes to the High Atlas, stay overnight in the desert in a luxurious tent and explore the charming village of Chefchaouen on this in depth journey.
Tangier DAY 7 FES Join your guide to visit the Old Medina or Fes el Bali, Madrasas, Chefchaoen Foundouk, palaces, residences, mosques and fountains. Also visit the new city, Bab Boujloud, the strikingly beautiful entry Fes point into the old city, Place Nejjarine, the Jewish Quarter and Casablanca Ibn Danan Synagogue.
MOROCCO DAY 8 FES Enjoy a tasting tour in Fes today with a Fes food expert. Marrakech T Try traditional Moroccan street food, investigate traditional Merzouga cooking methods by visiting a furnatchi where the water for H A M the communal bath house ‘hammam’ is also heated, and a 400-year-old ‘furan’ or communal oven and bakery. DAY 1 MARRAKECH DAY 9 FES > CHEFCHAOUEN Transfer to your hotel for dinner. Visit Meknes, known as the Moroccan Versailles, and DAY 2 MARRAKECH Volubilis. This World Heritage Site is home to the largest Join your guide for a tour of Marrakech. Visit El-Bahia Palace, and best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco. Continue to the Koranic School Medersa Ben Youssef, Koutoubia Minaret, Chefchaouen for overnight. Saadian Tombs and the famous souk. DAY 10 CHEFCHAOUEN DAY 3 HIGH ATLAS Meet with your guide this morning and visit Rass El Ma, Depart the city on a day trip to the High Atlas Mountains. located on the top hill and enjoy a walk through the famous This afternoon, take in the beautiful landscape and fresh air square in the medina (Kasbah). during a half day trek around Asni. Enjoy lunch at award- DAY 11 CHEFCHAOUEN > TANGIER winning Kasbah Tamadot before returning to Marrakech. PORT OR CASABLANCA DAY 4 MARRAKECH > AIT BENHADDOU Transfer to Tangier Port or Casablanca Airport where Drive through the magnificent Tizi N’Tichka mountain arrangements conclude. pass to Ait Benhaddou, a small town with one of the best- preserved Kasbahs in Morocco. Visit the Atlas Film Studios and overnight in a riad. DAY 5 AIT BENHADDOU > MERZOUGA SANDS INCLUDES: Independent tailor-made journey with 10 nights’ Travel to the oasis town of Tinghir by crossing the J’bel Sahro accommodation in 4 star hotels, camps and riads, transportation Range and visit the spectacular Todra Gorge. Transfer to a by air conditioned vehicle, English-speaking guide, entrance 4WD in Erfoud and journey to your desert camp on the fringe fees, tasting tour and camel ride. of the Sahara. Enjoy a short camel ride to witness the sunset DEPARTS: Daily. over the dunes. NOTE: Prices for solo travellers are available on request. DAY 6 MERZOUGA SANDS > FES Drive north to Errachadia, overlooking the valley of Ziz, across 2021 Price (per person) Twin the Pass of the She-Camel and through the cedar forests of the Middle Atlas to Fes. 4 Star: 1 Jan - 31 Oct $9,995
8 NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST MOROCCO
Ouarzazate ESCAPE TO THE DESERT | 6 DAYS Opulent palaces, grand mosques, chaotic and colourful souks and teeming streets give way to the dramatic landscapes and on to the calm, peace and tranquillity of the desert in this special itinerary which gives you the best of both worlds as you ‘ Escape to the Desert’.
DAY 5 OUARZAZATE > M’HAMID > ERG CHEGAGA Casablanca Drive through the Draa Valley, via Agdz and Zagora to M’hamid, the last Draa palm grove on the very edge of the desert. En route visit Tramgroute and its famous Moorish MOROCCO Koranic and theological college dating from the 11th century. Marrakech Overnight in an exclusive camp with music, dancing and a A candle lit dinner. Ouarzazate DAY 6 ERG CHEGAGA > M’HAMID > ZEGORA > MARRAKECH M’hamid/ Drive to Zegora for a flight over the magnificent snow-capped Erg Chegaga Atlas mountains to Marrakech.
DAY 1 CASABLANCA > MARRAKECH On arrival transfer to Marrakech.
DAY 2 MARRAKECH Join your guide for a tour of Marrakech. Visit El-Bahia Palace, the Koranic School Medersa Ben Youssef, Koutoubia Minaret, Saadian Tombs and the famous souk, filling the alleys north of the central square. Also visit the Jardins Marjorelle created by Yves St Laurent. INCLUDES: Independent tailor-made journey with 5 nights’ accommodation in 4 and 5 star hotels, riads and luxury camp, DAY 3 MARRAKECH > AGAFAY Transportation by air conditioned vehicle, English speaking Travel by 4WD to the desert of Agafay, around 30 kms from guide, entrance fees and flight Zagora – Marrakech. the city. This arid extension spreads over hundreds of hectares DEPARTS: of lunar landscapes where you can try a number of adventure Daily. activities before returning to Marrakech in the afternoon. 2021 Price (per person) Twin DAY 4 MARRAKECH > OUARZAZATE 4 Star from $5,995 Cross the Atlas through the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass to Ouarzazate for overnight. 5 Star from $7,495
NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST 9 EGYPT
Valley of the Kings, Luxor EGYPTIAN SAMPLER | 9 DAYS The 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 5 ESNA > LUXOR Sail early on to Luxor and visit the Valley of the Kings (entrance to the tomb of Tutankhamun is additional and paid locally). Cairo Also visit the Valley of the Queens and hopefully catch a glimpse of the Colossi of Memnon. DAY 6 LUXOR Disembark 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. Luxor EGYPT Esna DAY 7 LUXOR > CAIRO E O Fly to Cairo and transfer to your hotel. Afternoon at leisure. Aswan DAY 8 CAIRO Enjoy a fascinating day today as you visit Cairo Museum with its thousands of artefacts on display. See the treasures from the DAY 1 CAIRO Tomb of Tutankhamun and if you wish, visit the Mummies You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Room (entrance fee additional). Continue to the Citadel, visit Old Cairo and colourful Khan el Kahlili Bazaar. DAY 2 CAIRO A full day of sightseeing to the mighty Pyramids of Giza. See the DAY 9 CAIRO Sphinx behind the Great Pyramid and after lunch head further You will be transferred to the airport. into the desert. Visit the ancient capital of Memphis with its huge statue of Ramses II and the Step Pyramid at Sakkara. INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local DAY 3 CAIRO > ASWAN guides, 5 nights’ accommodation, 3 nights on the cruise, Fly to Aswan and transfer to your cruise moored near the town transfers by air-conditioned car, flights Cairo > Aswan and centre. Optional flight to the temples at Abu Simbel. In the Luxor > Cairo, sightseeing and entrance fees, 8 breakfasts, 4 afternoon join your English-speaking guide and visit the High lunches and 3 dinners. Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk at the granite quarries and take DEPARTS: Wednesdays. a motorboat across to Philae Temple. NOTE: Enquire for surcharges over Easter, Christmas, and New DAY 4 ASWAN > EDFU > ESNA Year. Price of flight Aswan > Abu Simbel on request. Set sail from Aswan this morning toward the twin temple of Kom Ombo. Visit the temple with its fascinating medicine 2021 Price (per person) Twin Single wall, Nilometre and mummified crocodiles. Continue sailing 4 Star: 6 Jan – 20 Nov from $4,430 $6,995 for Edfu and visit the wonderful temple dedicated to Horus. Overnight near Esna where the ship will pass through a lock. 5 Star: 6 Jan – 30 Sep from $4,520 $8,925
10 NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST EGYPT
MS Darakum CRUISE THE NILE | 15 DAYS The River Nile between Cairo and Luxor has reopened allowing exciting cruise itineraries between the capital and Upper Egypt once again. Explore some of the least visited and most important sites including Tel el Amarna, site of the ‘heretic pharaoh’ Akhenaten’s city, the beautifully preserved Temples at Dendara and the Temple of Seti I at Abydos. DAY 9 EL BALYANA > ABYDOS > NAGA HAMMADI Cairo Sail to El Balyana and visit Abydos Temple, the holy city of Beni Suef Osiris God of the Dead and the New Kingdom temple of Seti Minya l. Sail to Naga Hammadi for overnight. T A Asyut DAY 10 QENA > LUXOR S A D Sail to Qena and visit Dendara, one of the best preserved Luxor EGYPT E temples in Egypt. Sailing to Luxor enjoy cooking lessons on E board. O Aswan DAY 11 LUXOR Visit the West Bank today for Valley of the Kings and the DAY 1 CAIRO Temple of Hatshepsut. Overnight in Luxor. Check into the MS Darakum, dinner and overnight on board. DAY 12 LUXOR > EDFU DAY 2 CAIRO Visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak, sail to Esna and pass Visit Coptic Cairo including the Hanging Church, Coptic the lock. Overnight in Edfu. museum and a Jewish synagogue. In the afternoon visit the Egyptian Museum. Overnight on board. DAY 13 EDFU > KOM OMBO > ASWAN In Edfu visit the well-preserved temple of Horus. Sail to Kom DAY 3 CAIRO Ombo to see the unique twin temple of Sobek and Horus. Sail Visit the iconic pyramids and sphinx at Giza, ancient Memphis to Aswan for overnight. and the Step Pyramid of Sakkara. Captain’s cocktail party on board this evening. DAY 14 ASWAN Visit the High Dam and Temple of Isis on Philae Island, then DAY 4 CAIRO > BENI SUEF the Nubian Museum. Enjoy your last night on board with a Enjoy the beauty of the Nile whilst sailing from Cairo to Beni Nubian Show. Suef. This evening enjoy dinner and wine tasting on board. DAY 15 ASWAN DAY 5 MINYA Transfer to the airport to depart. A full day’s sailing to Minya.
DAY 6 MINYA INCLUDES: Cruise with shared on board English speaking Visit Tuna El Gebel, the necropolis of Khmun, and Ashmunein local guide, transfers by air conditioned coach, 14 nights’ for the open-air museum, temple of Thoth and sanctuary of accommodation on board, sightseeing and entrance fees, 14 Amun. See the rock-tombs of Beni Hassan. breakfasts, 14 lunches and 14 dinners. DAY 7 MINYA > TEL EL AMARNA > ASYUT DEPARTS: Please contact World Journeys for specific dates. Sail to Tel El Amarna, once the city of Akhenaten, known for NOTE: Cruise also operates in reverse, please contact World his ‘one god’ religion. Sail to Asyut. View the Prince Tawdrous Journeys for details. Monastery from the boat. Galabeya Party this evening.
DAY 8 ASYUT > SOHAG 2021 Price (per person) Twin Single A leisurely sailing to Sohag, with all meals on board. Black and White Party night. 4 Star: 25 Feb – 4 Nov from $9,420 $14,128
NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST 11 ISRAEL
Carmel Market, Tel Aviv CULINARY TOUR OF ISRAEL | 7 DAYS Israel 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, and North and South America. Explore the legacy these cultures, peoples and religions have left in the traditions and particularly the food of the country on our very special Culinary Tour of Israel.
brick oven that has survived since 1924 and has been lovingly Sea of Galilee renovated. Today, visitors are able to bake delicious amazing H focaccia bread. Visit Belvoir Castle, a crusader fort located on
N the strategic Jordan River. Continue to Jerusalem. DAY 5 JERUSALEM OLD CITY ISRAEL Start the tour from atop of the Old City roof tops with a view of the four quarters. Visit Garden of Gethsemane and enter Tel Aviv 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 Jerusalem Wall, the holiest place to the Jewish people. Continue on to walk the Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa, finishing DAY 1 TEL AVIV at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. You will be met and transferred to your hotel. DAY 6 JERUSALEM NEW CITY DAY 2 TEL AVIV > THE COASTAL PLAIN Drive by the Israeli Parliament, The Knesset. Then visit the Israel Museum and see the famous Dead Seas Scrolls at the Enjoy a walking tour in the picturesque alleys of old Jaffa Shrine of the Book. Head to Machine Yehuda for a tour of the (Joppa). You’ll visit a fantastic flea market where an eclectic mix market. If midweek, head to the Artists’ Colony for a special of items and tasty treats await you. Drive to Caesarea and visit dinner at Eucalyptus, a unique restaurant near the old city. the Roman Theatre and the Crusader Fortress with its unique You will have the chance to enjoy biblical food prepared by the dry moat. Then to the port city of Haifa to view the magnificent great chef Moshe Basson. If Friday, enjoy a special dinner with Baha’i gardens from atop Mount Carmel. Continue to Nazareth a local family and learn about the importance of food for the where you will visit the Church of the Annunciation and the holy Sabbath. Church of St Joseph. Sample some Kanafeh, an oriental sweet made with melted cheese, and a specialty in Nazareth. DAY 7 JERUSALEM > TEL AVIV DAY 3 THE COASTAL PLAIN > SEA OF GALILEE Transfer to the airport. Visit Capernaum, an ancient fishing village, and see the synagogue and the recent excavations of the House of St. INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local Peter. Continue onto Tabgha and ascend to the top of the guides, 6 nights’ accommodation in boutique style hotels, Mt. of Beatitudes, where you can relive the Sermon on the transfers, sightseeing, entrance fees, cooking classes and market Mount. Visit a Galilee winery for a tasting tour of great wine tastings as shown, 6 breakfasts and 2 dinners. and homemade cheese. This evening, head to a local Galilean DEPARTS: Daily. family for a wonderful cooking workshop and later enjoy the NOTE: dinner you helped prepare with the local family. Surcharges apply for peak periods and religious festivals.
DAY 4 SEA OF GALILEE > JORDAN VALLEY 2021 Price (per person) Twin Stop at Gesher for a baking workshop at the historic Gesher Oven. The “Legend of Bread” is a marvellous story about a 4 Star: 1 Jan – 28 Sep from $9,995
12 NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST ISRAEL
Dome of the Rock Mosque, Jerusalem BOUTIQUE ISRAEL | 8 DAYS Discover 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 5 JERUSALEM OLD CITY Enjoy a tour of the highlights of Old Jerusalem. Get a H Tiberias panoramic view of the city from Mount of Olives, visit the N Garden of Gethsemane, and enter the Old City through one of S & its famous gates. Explore the restored Jewish Quarter, stopping A at the Western Wall, and continue into the Christian Quarter, ISRAEL following the Stations of the Cross to the Church of the Holy
Tel Aviv Sepulcher. Visit Mt. Zion to see the Room of the Last Supper and the Tomb of King David.
Jerusalem DAY 6 JERUSALEM NEW CITY & BETHLEHEM Start the day with a visit to see the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum, the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, and Ein M 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 SEA DAY 1 TEL AVIV Ascend the mighty fortress of Masada – a palace built by You will be met and transferred to your hotel. Herod the Great and the last stronghold of the Jewish Zealots DAY 2 TEL AVIV > COASTAL PLAIN in their war against the Romans. Explore the unique ruins and the Synagogue. Experience a ‘float’ in the salty waters of the Start your day with a short walking tour in the picturesque alleys mineral-rich Dead Sea (weather permitting). of the old, fortified town of Jaffa (Joppa). Drive northwards along the coast to the archaeological ruins of Caesarea, built DAY 8 JERUSALEM > TEL AVIV by Herod the Great. Continue to the Baha’i Centre of Haifa Transfer to the airport. and see the beautiful Baha’i gardens before visiting Nazareth. DAY 3 TIBERIAS (SEA OF GALILEE) INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local Visit Capernaum to see the synagogue where Jesus preached guides, 7 nights’ accommodation, transfers by air-conditioned and the recent excavations of the House of St. Peter. Continue minibus, sightseeing and entrance fees and 7 breakfasts. to Tabgha, traditionally accepted to be the place where Jesus DEPARTS: Daily. multiplied five loaves and two fish. Ascend to the top of the Mt. NOTE: Cooking classes or other optional extras may be of Beatitudes, where you can relive the Sermon on the Mount. arranged for an additional cost. Single prices are available on Ascend the Golan Heights and see the whole of Northern Israel request. from atop the Hula Valley. DAY 4 COASTAL PLAIN > JERUSALEM 2021 Price (per person) Twin See the ancient city of Beit She’an, once named Scythopolis 4 Star: 1 Jan – 28 Sep from $9,999 under Hellenistic and Roman occupation. Continue to Beit Alpha, the fortress of Belvoir, and a view over Jericho. 5 Star: 1 Jan – 28 Sep from $12,645
NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST 13 JORDAN
Petra, Jordan NABATEAN EXPLORER | 7 DAYS Step 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.
Tombs, Colonnaded Street, Byzantine church, the Temple, Monumental Arch and Qasr el-Bint Faroun. DAY 6 PETRA > WADI RUM > PETRA Dead Sea Amman Travel to the wild moonscape of Wadi Rum and transfer to a M 4x4 to explore the region. Return to Petra for overnight. DAY 7 PETRA > AMMAN Transfer to Amman to connect with your afternoon flight. JORDAN Petra INCLUDES: Tailor-made journey with English speaking local guides, 6 nights’ accommodation in your selected category, R transfers by air-conditioned car and driver, 4x4 at Wadi Rum, sightseeing and entrance fees and 6 breakfasts. DEPARTS: Daily. DAY 1 AMMAN You will be met and transferred to your city centre hotel. DAY 2 AMMAN Meet 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 SEA Jerash 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 > PETRA Enjoy a soak in the intense blue water of the Dead Sea, heavy with salt and oily with minerals. Then drive to Petra via Mt Citadel, Amman Nebo, Madaba with its church and mosaic map of the Holy Land, and the crusader castle of Kerak. 2021 Price (per person) Twin Single DAY 5 PETRA 4 Star: 1 Jan – 30 Sep $2,030 $3,495 Travel on foot or on horseback through the ‘Siq’ to the Treasury. Then to the Street of Facades, the Theatre, Royal 5 Star: 1 Jan – 30 Sep $2,820 $5,175
14 NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST JORDAN
Camels, Wadi Rum THE HISTORY & WILDLIFE OF JORDAN | 9 DAYS The 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.
Tombs, Colonnaded Street, Byzantine church, the Temple, Monumental Arch and Qasr el-Bint Faroun. Amman D C DAY 6 AL-BEIDA > WADI RUM M Visit 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 D JORDAN a 4x4 for a drive through the landscape and camp overnight in Petra comfortable tents. DAY 7 WADI RUM > DANA BIOSPHERE RESERVE