Category: Mediterranean

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Otherworldly Terrain in Wadi Rum, Jordan

on December 27, 2019

Wadi Rum is located in the Middle-Eastern country of Jordan and has long captivated visitors. Wadi Rum means “Valley of the Moon” and you will understand the name upon arriving to this fascinating area. The landscape of the desert reminds one of the terrain of other planets! That is why this location has been used in many movies including Star Wars, Lawrence of Arabia and The Martian to act as the setting of Mars, alien planets and more.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @kp_sunce using the hashtag #gate1travel. This stunning view was captured in Wadi Rum, Jordan. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Jordan trips here! 

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Morocco’s Dueling Capitals and Cultural Hubs

on October 23, 2019

There is a Moroccan proverb that says, “The tar of my country is better than the honey of others,” revealing the deep pride of its people and their beloved country. All one has to do is note the sweeping history, abiding culture, and dramatic settings to understand this pride fully. Just take a look at the incredible cities of Morocco; Rabat, Fez, Marrakesh, Essaouira and Casablanca, all of which you will visit on your Discovery 15 Day Moroccan Allure tour. Learn how Rabat, Fez and Marrakesh have all been called the capital and what beautiful sites Essaouira and Casablanca have to offer visitors. There is no better way to explore Morocco than with Discovery Small Groups Tours and come to fully understand the Moroccan pride that fills the hearts of its people.

Clashing Capitals:

Rabat

Rabat is an old city, settled as Chellah in 300 BC and renamed Sala Colonia by the Romans in the first century. It was the Almohads who made it a capital in the 12th century and used the area as a royal burial ground. The ruling Sultan ordered the building of the world’s largest minaret, the Hassan Tower, with a grand mosque and madrasa, to show his kingdom’s might. The Sultan died and the tower was capped at just 140 feet (about half the height he intended) where it remains to this day.

The beloved sultan’s death led to the decline of the city and the loss of its capital status. By the 17th century, it had a new reputation as a pirate port. As the base for Barbary pirates who called their territory the Republic of Bou Regreg, Rabat was the launch pad for countless sailing attacks on western traders for nearly 200 years. The days of unruliness ended when France set it up as a protected state in the early 20th century, and Rabat became a port people wanted to visit once again.

From the ruins of Chellah and Sala Colonia to the unfinished Hassan Tower, it’s easy to see why Rabat was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Come and see it for yourself with Discovery Tours.

Fez

Sultan Idriss II, established Fez, Morocco’s first capital, early in the 9th century, directly across the river from the city his father founded. The city takes its name from the word for pickaxe, as Idriss II is said to have used one made of gold and silver to mark the city’s borders. The son’s handiwork soon outgrew his father’s when the new city welcomed 800 Berber families fleeing conflict in Andalusia; they were soon followed by 2,000 displaced Arab families.

Over centuries, the two cities, Idriss II’s and his fathers, merged into one, blooming into an ancient metropolis whose city walls extended for nearly 10 miles. By 1170, it was home to over 200,000 and the largest city on the entire earth. In the present day, visitors enjoy incredible sites including the constantly bustling medina, the “new” city from the 13th century, and the French-influenced Ville Nouvelle.

Here, one experiences an array of Moroccan delights from the colors and textures of ancient madrasas to the artisan district where carpets are made, leather is dyed, and copper craftsmen ply their trade. The world’s oldest continuously operating university, the Islamic Al-Karaouine, is here, coexisting for centuries with the adjacent Mellah, the Jewish Quarter. A special experience allows you to enjoy a meal with a local family which will offer you the best insight of all.

Marrakesh

Even while Fez was still growing, an underdog stole the title of capital. Marrakesh was made an Imperial capital by Berber empires in the 12th century.

With the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains to one side and deserts stretching into the distance on the other, Marrakesh was a natural caravan stop for camel-riding traders. It greeted weary travelers with hundreds of acres of lush greenery and a stand of more than 100,000 palm trees. No wonder the Berbers called it the “land of god.”

Not everyone agreed with this praise, and the capital returned to Fez, launching a rivalry that, in many ways, continues to this day. From copper-topped Koutoubia Mosque to the 360-room Bahia palace, it’s easy to see how Marrakesh stakes its claim. There is truly something for everyone here, from the serenity of the Jardin Majorelle to the electricity of lively Djemaa el Fna square, the souk of all souks.

Cultural Gems:

Essaouira

Essaouira, formerly Mogador and pronounced “essa-we-rah”, is possibly Morocco’s most picturesque coastal city. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a perfect example of a typical North African fortified town, with its preserved walls, medina and bright blue fishing boats as well as becoming an artist’s paradise in the recent day. Walk along the city’s ramparts just north of Moulay Hassan Square where artists sell their paintings. Continue on to the Skala de la Ville, the fortification built along the cliffs that once defended the city from sea attacks. It now provides visitors with an excellent view of the port and the picture-perfect bright blue boats. Stroll through the medina where artisans and craftsmen have practiced their trades for hundreds of years.

Casablanca

Casablanca is one of Morocco’s most visited cities because of its setting for the classic movie of the same name. This commercial heart of Morocco lies on the coast of the country and set aside the beautiful Corniche seaside. Explore the heart of Casablanca, the Mohammed V Square, the administrative seat of the city built under the French protectorate. Visit the incredible example of Moorish Revival architecture that is the Hassan II Mosque. It is Africa’s second largest mosque and the fifth largest in the world. It also boasts the second tallest minaret in the world at just under 700 feet! Built partly on the sea, the mosque can accommodate 25,000 worshippers inside and 80,000 in its courtyard.

For the last century, Rabat has remained capital, its seaside location making it both a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice. Visitors are always quick to choose their favorite capital of the past and they might even be able to suggest a new contender for the future! No matter which modern capital calls to you most, remember this: the pride of Morocco always endures. See the these cities and so much more for yourself on our 15 Day Moroccan Allure trip with Discovery Tours!

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Camping in the Sahara

on October 21, 2019

Located about 20 miles outside the town of Rissani, Morocco, a truly unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits you in the Sahara Desert. Here you will stay overnight in a tent campground that has accommodations for even the most high-maintenance of travelers. This experience is definitely one for the bucket list! Gaze at the desert and enjoy the ever-changing colors of the sands and sky with Discovery Tours in Morocco.

Arrive at the Bivouac La Belle Etoile hotel where you will settle into a campground. Stand in awe of your surroundings which include shape-shifting sand dunes and stars in the night sky. The bivouac, or tent camp, is located in the Erg Chebbi, a huge expanse of sand dunes, in a town called Merzouga and offers the traveler a night of relaxation and comfort in the midst of the wilds.

Reach the camp after lunch and take some time to watch the dunes rise and fall around you while you enjoy the adventuresome spirit of explorers of old. You have the option to enjoy a short camel ride here that will take you to a magical experience. Enjoy an incredible sunset on the dunes that is accommodated by traditional music under a canopy of stars. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at the camp while acclimating to a wonderous night out in the middle of the desert. After dinner you can choose to enjoy panoramic views of the sand dunes or perhaps sip Moroccan tea on the terrace. Retire to your tent rooms where every level of comfort will be satisfied.

Enjoy comfort that camping rarely excites with accommodations that include layers of traditional Moroccan carpet, comfortable mattresses, complete bedding, a shower, restroom and a private tent. If adventure is in your heart, you will not want to miss out on this experience of sleeping out in the otherworldly land of the Sahara.

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Morocco’s Inspired Cuisine

on October 19, 2019

It is morning in Morocco. As the sun rises over the Sahara and bathes the country in bright desert light, food vendors prepare their shops for another busy day. In remote medieval villages- eggplant, chickpeas, honey, and cuts of lamb are carted in straight from farms. In bustling city medinas, mounds of spices the color of mustard, rose and emerald are artfully shaped into cones. Seaside, the daily catch of shrimp, sea bream, and lobster is hauled to local market stalls. This is Morocco’s fresh bounty, the foundation for one of the world’s most colorful and fascinating cuisines.

You might start your day with fruits and tart yogurt. Papayas, kiwis and grapefruit are favorite fruits of the country. Local breads include khubz or the spongy baghrir, and can be smothered in amlou, a nutty spread made of almonds and Argan oil. Mint tea is also a staple whether it be morning, noon or night. If coffee is more your speed; cappuccino, espresso, or coffee with milk is on the menu at any cafe.

The allure of Moroccan cuisine lies in its earthy simplicity. The food on your plate is intimately connected to geography and culture that you will witness first-hand. Harira is one example. This universal soup starts with a stock of chickpea, tomato, bean, and pasta. But region-by-region and family-by-family, the resulting dish varies. Salads are a celebration of the fresh vegetables grown as far out as the edge of the Sahara. Salade Marocain is most often served in restaurants – a modest relish of diced tomato, cucumber, and green pepper. An entire salad course, called meze, might be more satisfying, consisting of small dishes of zaalouk (an eggplant dip), baby potatoes, sweet carrots, pureed pumpkin warmed with spice, and tomato relish.

As in so many cultures, dinner is the main meal, except perhaps on Friday, the holy day, when the midday meal takes center stage. It is a social occasion full of cook’s pride and family conversation.

Couscous, Morocco’s national dish dating to the 13th century, is always on the table. Lamb, beef, or chicken – skewered and spiced with a family’s ras el hanout, or secret blend of 10-30 spices – is the main course. The tagine is a mouth-watering casserole or stew with ingredients that can vary. It is actually named for the pot in which it is cooked. Tagine recipes reflect the Moroccan taste for dishes that are at once savory and sweet: beef and prunes; chicken with lemon; lamb with dates. Another sweet and savory option is pastille. This pastry is wrapped around a mixture of shredded chicken or squab, egg, and crushed almonds, then sprinkled with cinnamon or sugar.

Contrary to belief, Morocco is not a dry country, but social propriety with alcohol tends to be strictly followed by locals and visitors. It might also surprise you that Morocco is home to a few well-established wineries. Discovery Tours visits its southernmost vineyard, located on the Atlantic coast a short distance from Essaouira. The French winemaker here has owned the vineyard since 1994, and we think you’ll agree he has mastered the art of producing wine in a hot climate. Grenache, Mourvedre, and Syrah are on the “red” menu; Bourboulenc, Clairette, and Muscat are on the “white.”

But make no mistake: it’s the spices and herbs that really intoxicate in Morocco. Cayenne, saffron, chilies, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, cumin, paprika and pepper. They all add an exciting extravagance to Moroccan cuisine, brightening and enhancing each dish like the rising and setting sun.

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Top 10 Uniquely Moroccan Experiences

on October 16, 2019

Experiences you cannot have anywhere else are what makes a destination truly special. When you come to Morocco with Discovery Tours, an array of surprising delights awaits. Here is our list of can’t miss experiences for when in Morocco:

Discover tree-climbing goats:  The goats navigate the branches of the Argania tree so they can munch on its fruit

Meet the women of an Argan nut oil cooperative: Witness how a product loved around the world is made right where its source is grown

Call the Sahara home: During an overnight tented stay in the shifting sands of the world’s most iconic desert, stay at a bivouac, or tented campground

Ride the horse of the desert: Ride a dromedary camel amongst the sands of the Sahara

Fall under the spell of a Gnawa performance: Music blends with dance, poetry and spirituality in this indigenous African tradition

Witness the most inspiring failure in North Africa: View the unfinished 140-foot tall Hassan Tower in Rabat, which inspired Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque Tower, the 7th largest mosque on earth

Encounter fire-eaters and snake-charmers: Djemaa el Fna Square in Marrakesh is a hugely popular pedestrian area with magicians, ape-handlers, and storytellers

Behold the school that makes Oxford look like a baby: Visit Al-Karaouine, established in 859, the world’s oldest degree-granting university still in operation

Walk onto the set Lawrence of Arabia: Ait Ben Haddou, located in the Ouarzazate Region, is one of the settings used for the iconic David Lean film starring Peter O’Toole

Enjoy a “Berber Foot Bath”: Soak your toes in saltwater warmed and scented with essential oils and seaweed

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Remnants of the Past in Volubilis, Morocco

on September 27, 2019

This UNESCO World Heritage Site city contains some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the country of Morocco. Volubilis is located between the modern cities of Fez and Meknes and was founded in the 3rd century BC during a time when the city was part of ancient Mauretania, of which it was the capital. The city then became an important outpost of the Roman Empire and was graced with several interesting and beautiful buildings. Located near the holy city of Moulay Idriss, this city is full of history and is a must see for visitors to this incredible country.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @sulkies using the hashtag #gate1travel. This picture was taken in Volubilis, Morocco. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Morocco trips here! 

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Morocco; Land of Sand and Sea

on September 11, 2019

Souks, kasbahs and ksars, oh my! Morocco is a magnificent country filled with reasons to visit that have long enticed visitors to this fabled country. With Gate 1 in Morocco, visit imperial cities with grand architecture and the High Atlas Mountains that have housed Berber tribes for centuries. Souks, or a market or bazaar, bustle with people looking to shop and walk around. Kasbahs, or the citadels of ancient cities, often protected the leader when the city was under attack. The ksar, or a Berber village or castle, rise from the sands like other worldly lodgings. See all of these unique Moroccan sights and so much more when traveling to Morocco with Gate 1.

Fez, Marrakesh & Rabat; Three Imperial Cities

Of Morocco’s four historic imperial capitals Fez, Marrakesh, Rabat & Meknes, Gate 1 Travel visits three: Fez, Marrakesh and Rabat. Fez, or the “Athens of North Africa” is teaming with sophistication and amazing history. It is also the second largest city in population after Casablanca and was the capital of the country for over 400 years. Visit highlights of this great city including; The University of Al Karaouine, the oldest university in the world; the Al-Attarine Madrasa, an excellent example of Islamic architecture; and the Nejjarine Fountains and Museum, a traditional fountain for caravans. The favorite site for many in Fez is the Fes el Bali medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This marketplace is thought to be one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world, on par with Venice, making it ideal for a stroll. Find brass and leather goods, lush carpets, handmade slippers, and so much more at the medina. Just a short drive from Fez, the magnificent ruins of Volubilis reveal the ancient streets where Romans and Berbers once thrived and traded goods. Explore original preserved mosaics, a Roman Road and the city layout. Follow along the Moroccan countryside and pass by the Holy City of Moulay Idriss for a perfect photo op.

Depart for Marrakesh and enjoy the ever-changing Moroccan landscape with valleys and the Atlas Mountains as a backdrop. Arrive in Marrakesh and visit the Saadian Tombs that date back to the 16th century. This is where the Saadian royalty can be found in their final resting place. Stop by the Koutoubia Minaret and the Bahaia palace on a city tour of marvelous Marrakesh. Next visit the Djemaa El Fna Square that encompasses the culture and personality of this lively city. As evening sets in, this place becomes a thrilling blend of snake charmers, fire eaters, kebab stalls and much more! It is a great place to explore during free time and experience all things Morocco.

Morocco’s capital city, Rabat, has been cited as one of the most exciting travel destinations in the world. A walk through the Oudaya Kasbah and you will understand why. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built by the Almohad Empire in the 12th and 13th centuries and houses a palace, mosque and cobbled lanes. Nearby, the incomplete mosque has the Hassan Tower as its centerpiece. The mosque and its tower were intended to be the largest of their kind in the world when they were begun in 1195. The impressive ruins of the Chellah, Muslim necropolis, stretch even further back in time, to the days of the Phoenicians, Carthaginians and Romans. It is now overgrown elegantly with fruit trees and wild flowers.

Rissani, Sijilmasa and Ouarzazate; Cities from the Sands

The Sahara often comes to mind when dreaming of travel to Morocco. Gate 1 introduces you to this spellbinding region where the regal Atlas Mountains taper off into sand dunes. On the road from Fez to Erfoud, you will witness some of Morocco’s most dramatic landscapes including the montane cedar woods that lead into the Middle Atlas Mountains and the lush Ziz Valley. Depending on your itinerary, you may even stop at a fossil factory to learn more about this unique activity which is famous in this area. Stop in Rissani, a town that balances mountains and desert and was once a busy caravan stop. Stop at the bustling souk here and also visit an 18th century ksar. Next visit the former Berber city of Sijilmasa with its storied trading town history.

Continue your journey and view some of the world’s most dramatic canyons that cut through the Middle Atlas Mountains. Visit the Todra Palmeraie Gorge that towers to 800 feet and then to the Dades Canyons before continuing on to the road of one thousand Kasbahs to Ouarzazate.

The medieval desert village of Ouarzazate, or “without noise” in Berber, is so well preserved that it has become the perfect movie location when an ancient town is needed. Ouarzazate is home to a 12th-century Taourirt village that is still inhabited today that you will visit. Nearby is Ait Benhaddou that is comprised of six kasbahs and fifty ksars. It has also had its fair share of film crews scouring its streets for the perfect shot. While here, take note of the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site before you and how it has inspired many film makers. Some of the movies and TV shows shot here include Game of Thrones, the Mummy, Gladiator, Babel and Prince of Persia.

Casablanca, Agadir & Essaouira; Morocco’s Coastal Gems

Speaking of film sets, Casablanca is one of Morocco’s most visited cities because of its setting for the classic movie of the same name. This commercial heart of Morocco lies on the coast of the country and set aside the beautiful Corniche seaside. Visit the incredible example of Moorish Revival architecture that is the Hassan II Mosque. It is Africa’s second largest mosque and the fifth largest in the world. It also boasts the second tallest minaret in the world at just under 700 feet! Built partly on the sea, the mosque can accommodate 25,000 worshippers inside and 80,000 in its courtyard.

Further south, the resort town of Agadir is at the foothills of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. View the beaches of this former fishing village as well as the hilltop ruins of the old kasbah, a beautiful site.

Essaouira, formerly Mogador, is possibly Morocco’s most picturesque coastal city. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a perfect example of a typical North African fortified town, with its preserved walls, medina and bright blue fishing boats. Walk along the city’s ramparts just north of Moulay Hassan Square where artists sell their paintings. Continue on to the Skala de la Ville, the fortification built along the cliffs that once defended the city from sea attacks. It now provides visitors with an excellent view of the port and the picture-perfect bright blue boats. Stroll through the medina where artisans and craftsmen have practiced their trades for hundreds of years.

Quality and value go hand in hand in Gate 1 Travel’s Morocco. Enjoy restaurants that introduce you to a newly refined take on Moroccan cuisine, and some of the country’s finest hotels. What’s more, our Tour Managers are among the most experienced and insightful around, with a boundless national pride that you’ll find contagious. Simply put, there is no other way to experience Morocco to its fullest than with Gate 1 Travel!

To reserve your Morocco trip today, just follow this link!

Please Note: Sightseeing varies per itinerary.

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Taking in Luxor, Egypt from Above

on September 6, 2019

Welcome to the ancient city of Thebes, or modern day Luxor. This city was the capital during the times of the Pharaohs, 16-11 BC, when they were at the very height of their power. The city is full of incredible temples and tombs that you have to see to believe including; The Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Colossi of Memnon and many more! Join us in Egypt and enjoy all that Luxor has to offer.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @jetsetmar using the hashtag #gate1travel. This picture was taken in Luxor, Egypt. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Egypt trips here! 

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Egypt: Luxury on the Nile

on August 12, 2019

See the pages of history books come to life in this mythical country in the Middle East. Hieroglyphics, mummies, tombs and the Great Sphinx become a reality when visiting Egypt and you will see them all and much more with Gate 1 Travel. This country has skyrocketed into popularity recently and there is no better time to visit this country than now. Your itinerary consists of the best experiences of Egypt including the Pyramids of Giza, Cairo, Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Aswan and more. Join us as we navigate the Nile and land of the pharaohs.

Experience a luxurious Nile River cruise on the MS Esplanade. This ship has 5-star accommodations and includes a pool, bar, spa, laundry, boutique, restaurant and much more. Cabins include an LED TV with satellite channels, safe, individually controlled air conditioning and internet connection. You will be whisked away from place to place all while admiring the spectacular scenery of the Nile Valley passing by. Imagine visiting some of the oldest temples in the world by day such as Kom Ombo, Edfu and Luxor, and returning to your luxurious ship at night to eat, rest and relax. It is a true dream vacation.

Cairo: Your Gateway to the Secrets of Egypt

Welcome to a city that is a true mix of ancient and modern, in the capital of the country: Cairo. While in Cairo, perhaps explore independently or join the optional half day Egyptian Museum and Citadel tour. The museum contains the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts and has more than 120,000 items on display! Some of the most famous items include actual mummies of Ancient Egyptian royalty and King Tutankhamun artifacts, including his infamous death mask. Continue to the Saladin Citadel of Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage site and medieval Islamic fort. The site is located near the city’s center and is famous for its fresh breeze and grand views of the city.

Visit the most famous attraction in the country and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the entire world; the Pyramids of Giza. Giza is located on the west bank of the Nile River and you’ll be surprised by how close the complex is to the city, in fact it is basically surrounded by it. The Great Pyramid is the oldest and biggest of the three pyramids in the complex and was built for the pharaoh Khufu. The other two smaller pyramids are called Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure. The Great pyramid is part of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and they are the oldest and only surviving site on the list. After exploring the immense pyramids, continue onto the Sphinx that guards the Giza plateau. This half-lion, half-human is constructed out of a single-piece of limestone and sits in a reclining position. Enjoy some of the most beautiful and magnificent sites of Egypt here and take it all in because there is nothing else on Earth quite like it!

Luxor: Ancient Thebes In Real Life

The ancient Egyptian city of Thebes, current day Luxor, was once the capital when pharaohs ruled the land in the 16th -11th century BCE. You will be brought to Luxor via your deluxe river cruise ship and you are free to either explore at your own pace or join the optional tours to Valley of the Kings, burial site of pharaohs from around 1539-1075 BCE, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, with its unique 3 terrace designed, and the Colossi of Memnon, the two large stone statues of king Amenhotep III guarding the whole site. Included tours bring you to see the East bank of Luxor, which include the magnificent Temples of Karnak, including the Great Temple of Amon, an ancient temple dedicated to the king of the gods. Also visit Hypostyle Hall, 134 massive sandstone columns and Luxor Temple, the site of an ancient temple dating back to 1400 BCE. Also see the avenue of the Spinxes, a row of Sphinx statues connecting Luxor and Karnak temples.You are sure to see all that Luxor has to offer when you book your Egypt tour with Gate 1 Travel.

Nile River Cruise: Ultra-Sophistication from Aswan to Luxor

Your deluxe cruise takes you on the 5-star MS Esplanade river boat. The Esplanade will take you to can’t miss locations along the Nile including the cities of Luxor, Karnak, Edfu, Aswan, the towns of Komombo and Edfu and so much more. Optional tours while on board include a tour of Abu Simbel by bus, the ancient sites of Luxor including Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon and a Felucca sail boat ride. Your cruise will be truly unforgettable with exploration of these fascinating sites while at port and sailing effortlessly down the Nile while you relax and enjoy your ship and onboard amenities on your luxurious ship.

Edfu & Kom Ombo: History Alive

Visit the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in the entire country in Edfu. This temple was dedicated to the Egyptian god Horus, the falcon-headed god, who you can see depicted around the temple. There are many well-preserved statues and hieroglyphics here so pay attention to the intricate details of the temple. The site was built more recently than others you’ll visit, around 237 BCE, and took 180 years to build. The temple itself was buried in sand, rubble and part of Edfu village and was excavated in the 19th century. This site is truly marvelous and highlights the prosperity the country enjoyed in the time period it was built.

Next up, enjoy the town of Kom Ombo, that itself is simply an agricultural town located on the east bank of the river in the south. The town is most famous for the Temple of Kom Ombo, an unusual looking double-sided temple dedicated to the worship of both Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god. The temple was built this way in order to separate the two gods’ places of worship, because they were known to be brothers yet enemies but worshipped in the same temple. For this reason, the complex has two entrances, two courts and so on. Picture yourself here in the days of the pharaohs and visiting this place to worship the gods!

Aswan: An Engineering Marvel

Aswan is an ancient frontier city made famous by the High Dam of Aswan, an engineering miracle from the 1960s that brought the Nile’s devastating floods to an end. Arrive by motorboat to the island location of Philae Temple. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis, the mother of Horus and the wife of Osiris. Afterward, stop at a local perfume shop, which are famous in Aswan. Here you will learn about the creation of the perfumes and hear more about the healing effects of certain oils. Perhaps explore the local Aswan market (souk) where you can find almost anything, from souvenirs to clothing to spices and much more. If you have free time, satisfy your thirst with a local Egyptian drink such as mint or hibiscus tea at a local café.

Abu Simbel: A Site Completely Relocated

Abu Simbel is an optional tour with your itinerary. You will get there by bus because it is around 170 miles outside of Aswan. This unforgettable sight may just become the highlight of your trip. This easily recognizable site was actually saved from the waters of the Aswan High Dam and had to be completely reconstructed in its present location. It is as close to the original as possible with even the temples facing the exact same direction. The site is comprised of two temples: the Great Temple and the Small Temple, both created during the time of Ramses II for him and his wife Queen Nefertari. Step outside of the temples and admire the majestic seated statues of Ramses II. Proceed to the Temple of Hathor to view the murals with images of the goddess Hathor and Queen Nefertari.

Uncover the countless wonders of Ancient Egypt and the Nile River with Gate 1 Travel on a deluxe cruise ship. When you do, you’ll close each remarkable day in luxury accommodations, delight in local cuisine, and gain in-depth insight from local guides who call this destination home. Join us!

Please Note: Sightseeing varies per itinerary.

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Dubai and Oman: Cultural Gems with Immense Wealth

on June 19, 2019

Today we are bringing you to two of the most popular cities in the world for tourism: Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and a country, bigger than the United Arab Emirates but largely unknown to tourists: Oman. Sit back and enjoy as we take you on a tour through some of the most sought after travel locations of the present. Experience tradition, culture and immense riches while you enjoy your escorted tour through the Middle East with Discovery Tours.

In Dubai, you will tour and navigate the city that is world-famous for futuristic architecture and opulent buildings, hotels and skyscrapers. Dubai brilliantly shows off its mix of old and new to travelers. Visitors will see traditional houses and minarets against a backdrop of shiny glass high rises, talk about a collision of past and present! You will observe sites that you have only heard about including Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm Island and Dubai Creek. Abu Dhabi is a short ride down the coast of the Persian Gulf and offers a look into the capital of the United Arab Emirates. In Abu Dhabi you will visit the Falcon Hospital, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Emirates Palace and Louvre Abu Dhabi all while Gate 1 takes you effortlessly from location to location.

Oman welcomes you with open arms into a culturally rich country brimming with incredible experiences. Visit places including Jabreen Castle, Wahiba Sands Desert Camp and Ancient Muscat, the capital of Oman.

What UAE and Oman lack in similarities they make up for in sites to see and scenes to marvel at. Futuristic landscapes, intricate mosques and ever-changing sand dunes in the desert all await you in the Middle East with Gate 1 Travel. Just pack up your suitcase and come along with us. We will take care of all the details.

Dubai, the 5-Star City:
If you love opulence, luxury and hyper-modernity, look no further than Dubai, United Arab Emirates. One of the most futuristic cities in the world, you have truly never seen another city like Dubai. Incredible glass facades, sky-high hotels and immaculate beaches with blue waters all await you here. This city was once a tiny fishing village and Bedouin port until oil production shot this city into the stratospheres of wealth. If you would have come to visit Dubai just 100 years ago, you would have found yourself in a very different place.

Entering the old city is easy as journeying from one end of the Dubai Creek to the other. The old city includes the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort, a realistic replica of a desert fort, and the souks, where you will explore the narrow lanes and tiny shops for excellent finds. The souks are the perfect place to look for souvenirs as well as a fun place to explore during free time. The new city includes the Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, Burj Khalifa, the tallest skyscraper in the world with 160 habitable stories, the Dubai Fountain, with its delightful dancing waters with lights and music and a stop at the Burj Al Arab, the sail-shaped hotel that is a famous landmark of Dubai and boasts an astounding “7-star” rating. Take in the epitome of luxury and decadence that is Dubai and enjoy all of the entertainment it has to offer because there is no shortage of excitement in this bustling city.

Abu Dhabi, the City of Old and New:
Located about an hours drive along the coast from Dubai, is the slightly more conservative and traditional city of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. Dubai may be the more popular of the cities for tourists but Abu Dhabi is more politically significant and traditional. Dubai may be one of the most famous cities in the world but Abu Dhabi has plenty of things to see and is also ultra-modern. Abu Dhabi has a similar history to Dubai in that it became rich and developed within the last several decades because of oil discovery and is now unrecognizable from its former self.

Take a journey to the Falcon Hospital where you will visit with these intelligent birds and learn about the nurture and rescue efforts for the species. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in the country and one of the largest places of worship in the entire world, housing up to 40,000 people! The mosque is stark white and looks beautiful during the day in the glow of the sun or when it is all lit up at night so charge up your camera no matter what time you stop by. Take in the art world at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the first universal museum of the Arab world and enjoy a photo-stop at the Emirates Palace hotel, a very expensive, 5-star hotel that glows perfectly in the night.

Make your way to the ethereal “Garden City” of Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, located near the Omani border. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes several oasis areas, including Al Ain Oasis and Al Jimi Oasis, and archaeological forts, including Al Jahill Fort and Al Qattara Fort. The several water sources in the area mean there is much biodiversity to be found. There are also plenty of green public spaces for visitors and locals to appreciate.

Oman, Culturally Rich Oasis:
It may not be the first country on your bucket list or even one you know much about but Oman is a true “can’t miss” oasis. Referring to Oman as an oasis has two different meanings. The landscape of Oman contains a majority of desert with incredible cities popping up along the way, making these areas much like mini-oases in the middle of the dry, arid terrain. It also refers to the political oasis that Oman has become. Some of Oman’s neighbors have negative reputations in the US due to acts of violence and terrorism but the country has remained largely unaffected. Oman welcomes tourists to its country happily and with friendly faces and beautiful settings. Gate 1 Travel will navigate you around this land and take you to the must see cities and spots in this alluring country.

Jabreen:
This Omani landmark is located in the northeast part of the country and is located on your route. The Jabreen Castle was built in the 1600s as an homage to the grand European palaces of the time. The castle was constructed by the same man who expelled the Portuguese from the area in 1650, Imam Bel’arab bin Sultan Al Yarubi. Colorful paintings, impressive ceilings and intricate carvings all decorate this dreamy building. Continue on to Balha, most famous for its ancient fort with towers of unbaked bricks. This UNSECO Heritage Site is located at the foot of the Jebel Akhdar highlands and is adjacent to the Friday Mosque with decoratively sculpted prayer niche.

Wahiba Sands Desert Camp:
The wilderness of the Middle East welcomes you into its ever-changing landscape in the deserts of Oman. You will stay overnight here and in the midst of the desert sands. Your hotel is comfortable and has every accommodation you could need while you sit back and relax. Perhaps decide on watching the sunset under the stars and view the rise and fall of the red and white seas of sand that can rise and fall to over 650 feet. A perfect way to end the day.

Muscat:
The capital of Oman and one of the oldest cities in the Middle East is located about a 2 hours drive from the Wahiba Sands. This historic capital sits on the Gulf of Oman and is surrounded by the neighboring desert and mountains. Muscat will capture your heart from the beginning with its incredible views, beautiful waters and pristine sites. This city is also extremely safe and clean so you can enjoy an evening stroll without worry. With both Arab and Islam influences, Muscat has a unique culture that is reflected in the friendly and helpful nature of its residents. Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the most ornate and decorated mosques in the world. Journey to the Muttrah Quarter, a section of the city that evokes a medieval charm. Here you will find winding streets and ancient buildings while sandalwood scents fill the air around the souks.

Explore one of the most popular areas in travel today with Gate 1. We will take care of all the details and you will enjoy an unforgettable trip to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman. Explore Dubai & Oman and live the experiences that you have could have only imagined on this memorable tour through the Arabian Peninsula.

Please Note: Sightseeing varies per itinerary.

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