ESCAPE BLOG

Getting there is only part of the equation; making sure you don’t piss off the locals is where the excitement begins.

Why Europeans should venture out into the real Middle East

Forget the heady cosmopolitan vibes of your trendy European cities and head for the gritty excitement of the Middle East.

I love the exotic, intimidating and slightly weird Arab states; UAE for example takes some getting used to.  First, the miles and miles of desert sands are amazing – there’s nothing to compare in Europe. Ok, so there’s conflict in parts – so what? Don’t let that put you off, head for Cairo and see the amazing pyramids. Or visit Saudi Arabia for a teetotal trip and experience different cultures and lifestyles.

Try Dubai for some of the most opulent and luxurious hotels you’ll have ever seen; the Burj Al Arab is classed as ‘super luxury’ accommodation (being the only 7-star hotel in the world) and an iconic statement for new Dubai. But to sample the real Middle East, take a pilgrimage to the biblical and historic Israel and Jordan. See the Mount of Temptation and the legendary Garden of Gethsemane or head for Turkey where you can see the remains of a 1st century church!

Drill down into the proper Arab civilisation and browse the many wonderful, chaotic and aromatic souq’s. These traditional markets show the colourful side of Arabia and are the best way to experience the hustle and bustle of everyday life here. Soak up the culture and admire the local crafts before enjoying an authentic Arabic meal.

Where else in the world can you see the beautiful Arabian horses in their natural habitat? Known for their superior intelligence, free spirit and refined gait, Qatar is home to the finest Arabian horses in the world – the best and most pampered and owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa al-Thani. Many well-respected equestrian events are held here.

Five of the Seven Wonders of the World are in the Middle East – two in Turkey, two in Egypt and one in Iraq. Ignore the hype and see them for yourself.

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