Jerusalem
Jerusalem

Are You Visiting Israel? Here are the Top Sights and Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

Israel is famous as a place of pilgrimage for many; after all, it is where many events in many faiths have occurred through the centuries. Israel definitely has a long and varied history, and its place in the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths has been established since ancient times. But whether you are planning to visit Israel as part of a pilgrimage or you simply want to see the many sights and attractions this amazing country has to offer, here are some of the top places – and their various attractions – you shouldn’t miss.

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Carvings
Carvings of Ancient Egyptian gods at a temple along the Nile near Luxor

Tips for Visiting Egypt

Egypt is a destination that offers a lot for every type of tourist, either those paying for all-inclusive services or those traveling on a budget. You can visit many fascinating places in this beautiful country without wasting money if you plan the details of your journey before you go.

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Sikka Art Fair in Al Fahidi
Sikka Art Fair in Al Fahidi

Unexpected Dubai

There is an unexpected side to Dubai - one that, like an expensive perfume, makes a subtle yet lasting impression. Long after you return home, you remember your trip to Dubai and it’s not the uber modernity or the unnervingly creative architecture that come first to mind. Instead, it’s the small moments and simple things.

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Read more about the article Traveling to Wonderland and Back: Planning Your Trip to Cappadocia
Cappadocia, Turkey

Traveling to Wonderland and Back: Planning Your Trip to Cappadocia

If you are planning a trip to Turkey, or anywhere near Turkey, Cappadocia should definitely be on your list of places to see. Located in the Nevsehir province, this popular tourist destination boasts beautiful geological formations and landscapes, providing the perfect getaway for an adventurous, curious traveler. In addition to breathtaking views, the region of Goreme (smaller town within Nevsehir), also hosts ancient churches, with frescoes dating back to the 9th century. If you have already planned a trip to Istanbul, this could provide you and your traveling companions with a great getaway outside the hustles and bustles of beautiful, but busy Istanbul. I have provided some tips on where to stay in Goreme and how to get there from any major Turkish city.

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Photo Friday: Sinai

The Sinai Peninsula of Egypt is truly a fascinating place. During our time in the area, we spent a few days near Mt. Sinai and a few more relaxing on the coast of the Red Sea. First, our journey took us from Cairo on a fairly long bus ride to the town of Katreen, near the base of Mt. Sinai and St. Katherine's Monastery. We slept at a small Bedouin camp and met some other travelers who had hiked to the top of the mountain the night before, starting at 2:00 in the morning. Supposedly this was the best time to hike in order to avoid the heat and also see the sunset from the top of the mountain.

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Read more about the article Syria: Extreme Friendliness
Baklava in the souq of Aleppo, Syria

Syria: Extreme Friendliness

Because the U.S. Dollar is so strong against the Syrian Pound, we found ourselves much wealthier than our Syrian counterparts. Despite this, the local people treated us as if we were the guests of honor to be looked after and taken care of - and they were not after our money. We were invited into homes for lunch, given free food at restaurants, and taken on free tours of historic sites.

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