Scattered with the monuments of 5000 years of civilisation, the Middle East is a place where history in all its glory comes alive. Here, cities of noise and colour and the rich smells of spice combine the cosmopolitan with age-old ways of life.
Whether you tour Egypt on its own or dip into Lebanon as well, or pay a visit to Oman, you'll follow in the footsteps of great leaders, feel the romance of traditional tales, and see the legacy of ancient civilisations.
Scenery
Be prepared for a splendid array of ancient monuments, such as Egypt's pyramids, the glorious Roman ruins in Lebanon, the many forts in Oman, and the traces of many other civilisations. The magnificent Nile, open desert sands, varied coastal scenery, rugged mountains and some bustling cities provide an excellent backdrop.
Way of life
Most Egyptians, Lebanese and Omanis are Muslim, though these are also Holy Lands for Christians and Jews. The fast of Ramadan, held for about a month each year, is the most important Islamic festival and involves some restrictions to the serving of alcohol and food throughout many Middle Eastern countries - though not in hotels or on the Nile cruise. Arabic is the official language, but you'll find that English is widely spoken, and the people are renowned for their generous hospitality.
Money and tipping
Traveller's cheques are the best way to carry money - they can usually be changed in hotels and banks, as well as on our Nile cruisers. Tipping is part of the culture here so keep a small supply of cash in low denominations. In restaurants, the standard tip is about 5-10%. US dollars are just as acceptable in Lebanon as the local currency - credit cards are also widely used.
Cuisine
Middle Eastern meals usually involve many small dishes (mezze) served with Arabic bread. Expect to sample delicacies like hummus, baba ghanoush (smoked aubergine dip), grilled seafood, tabouli (mint and parsley salad), felafel (deep-fried chickpea balls), rice pilafs with nuts and fruit, lamb cooked on the spit, and kebabs - with plenty of choice for vegetarians. Don't forget, all meals are included on our Egyptian cruises.
Suitable clothing
Generally, days are hot and dry, though mornings and evenings can be cool. Take light cotton clothing, especially for summer visits, but make sure you have a warm layer too. Good comfortable walking shoes and a hat are essential; and you should also pack a waterproof jacket if you're travelling to Lebanon. Informal outfits are fine, but you'll find conservative styles with sleeves are best for outside the hotel and cruise boat in Egypt, especially when visiting mosques. And in Oman, women will need to cover their hair and wear clothes that completely cover their arms and legs when visiting religious sites.
Shopping
Browsing bustling bazaars and souks is a tour highlight. You'll find gold and silver jewellery, polished brassware, rugs, tapestries and leather goods in Egypt and a selection of local handicrafts in Lebanon, such as kaftans and embroidered fabrics. Silverware's a good purchase in Oman, but for a truly home-grown souvenir, buy frankincense when you're in Salalah. If you're on the hunt for a bargain in Egypt or Oman, take note that haggling is all part of the fun.
Egypt
Egypt has long been at the centre of the explorer's map. Whether it's built by nature or human hands, the country's scenery is unequalled. The Great Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings, and the mosques and markets of Cairo are as impressive as the mighty River Nile and its fertile delta (the lifeblood of the country), the vast desert sands, lush oases, and the lovely beaches of the Mediterranean and Red Sea coasts. Take time, too, to visit the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, to appreciate the history of Alexandria and to remember Egypt's more recent past at the World War II memorial at El Alamein.
Lebanon
Stretched out along the Mediterranean Sea, this petite land has shaken off its turbulent past. Touched by various important civilisations through the centuries, Lebanon is a treasure-trove of architectural relics: the Phoenician port of Beirut; Byblos, one of the world's oldest towns; Baalbek's glorious Roman ruins; the Islamic site of Aanjar; and castles built by European crusaders. You'll find the atmosphere vibrant and forward-looking, especially in the capital of Beirut whose nightlife, shopping and cuisine are easily among the best in the Middle East.
Oman
Oman mixes modern-day life with ancient traditions and its people offer friendliness and warmth. This charming country is one of the oldest civilisations on the Arabian Peninsular, once belonging to the Persian Empire. Birthplace of various myths and legends, Oman is presumed to be home to Sinbad the Sailor and the Queen of Sheba.
The immense and starkly beautiful Arabian desert covers the interior, and mountain ranges line the north and south east coasts. There are more than 500 forts, castles and towers in Oman and its coastline harbours some outstanding beaches.
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