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Embark on a transformative journey spanning 24 days across five of the world’s most captivating destinations. This carefully crafted expedition will take you through the ancient wonders of Turkey, the timeless treasures of Egypt, the hidden gems of Jordan, the spiritual landmarks of the Holy Land, and the modern marvels of Dubai. Each day brings new discoveries as you traverse landscapes shaped by thousands of years of human history, spiritual significance, and natural beauty.
This meticulously planned expedition includes comprehensive services to ensure your comfort and enrichment throughout:
Your Turkish experience features all airport transfers within the country, domestic flights
connecting Istanbul to Cappadocia and Izmir to Istanbul, and six nights of quality
accommodation distributed across Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Kusadasi, and Istanbul.
Daily breakfasts come standard, with additional lunches and dinners as specified in the
daily program. Expert licensed English-speaking guides will accompany you through
Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes, Konya’s spiritual sites, Pamukkale’s white
terraces, Ephesus’ ancient splendors, and Istanbul’s historic treasures—including the
enchanting Bosphorus dinner cruise with local entertainment. Modern air-conditioned
vehicles provide comfortable transportation throughout, with all entrance fees to
scheduled sites included, along with hotel taxes and service charges.
From the moment you arrive in Egypt, you’ll receive personalized meet-and-assist
service at all airports, with seamless transfers between destinations in air-conditioned
vehicles. Your accommodation includes two nights at a 5-star resort in Hurghada, four
nights aboard a luxury 5-star Nile cruise with full board, and two nights at a 5-star hotel
in Cairo. Professional English-speaking Egyptologists will guide you through the
wonders of Luxor’s East and West Banks, the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo, Aswan’s
highlights, and the iconic Giza Pyramids complex and Egyptian Museum. All entrance
fees to included sites come standard, as do daily breakfasts, all meals during your cruise,
and a memorable Red Sea snorkeling excursion complete with lunch and equipment.
Your Jordanian experience includes visa assistance for eligible nationalities, three nights
of comfortable hotel accommodation with daily breakfast, and private transfers in
modern vehicles throughout your stay. A licensed English-speaking guide will
accompany you to the remarkably preserved Roman city of Jerash, the medieval Ajlun
Castle, the rose-red city of Petra, the mosaic treasures of Madaba, and the historically
significant Mount Nebo, with all entrance fees included.
During your Holy Land exploration, you’ll enjoy two nights of hotel accommodation in
Jerusalem, comprehensive visa assistance and border crossing support, private
transportation throughout your tour, and expert guidance at Jerusalem’s Old City and
Via Dolorosa, Bethlehem’s Church of the Nativity, Jericho, the Dead Sea, Mount of Olives,
and Garden of Gethsemane. All entrance fees and guide services are included to ensure a
seamless spiritual and historical journey.
Your Dubai experience features five nights in a luxury 5-star hotel with daily breakfast,
private airport transfers on arrival and departure, and ample free time for personal
exploration, relaxation, or optional excursions in this dynamic city where tradition meets
futuristic innovation.
Please note that certain elements are not included in your package: international flights
between the five countries (Turkey to Egypt, Egypt to Jordan, Israel to Dubai), Turkey
entry visa (available online for many nationalities), travel insurance (recommended for
your protection), optional activities not specifically mentioned (such as the Hot Air
Balloon ride in Cappadocia, Abu Simbel excursion, Pyramid interior access, or
Tutankhamun’s tomb), meals not listed in the daily program, gratuities for guides,
drivers, hotel staff and cruise crew, personal expenses such as souvenirs and laundry,
and any camera or photography fees where applicable at certain sites.
This journey represents not just a vacation but a life-enriching expedition through some
of humanity’s most significant historical, cultural, and spiritual landmarks—an
experience that will continue to resonate long after you return home.
Your adventure commences as you arrive at Istanbul International Airport, where you'll
connect to your domestic flight bound for the enchanting region of Cappadocia. Upon
landing at Kayseri Airport, a warm welcome awaits you from your local guide who will
accompany you to your hotel nestled among Cappadocia's otherworldly terrain.
As evening falls, savor your first taste of authentic Turkish cuisine with a traditional
dinner at either your hotel or a charming local restaurant. Allow yourself to unwind after
your travels while absorbing the mystical atmosphere of Cappadocia, a landscape
famous for its fairy chimneys, rock-carved dwellings, and ancient underground cities
that seem to belong to another world entirely.
Wake up to the possibility of witnessing Cappadocia from above with an optional hot air
balloon ride at sunrise—a breathtaking experience that offers unparalleled views of this
geological wonderland as the morning light bathes the unique rock formations in golden
hues.
After breakfast, your full-day exploration begins with a visit to Özkonak Underground
City, where early Christians once found refuge from persecution. As you navigate
through the ingeniously designed tunnels, ventilation shafts, and living quarters carved
into soft volcanic rock, you'll gain insight into the remarkable ingenuity of ancient
civilizations.
The journey continues to Uçhisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia, rewarding you
with panoramic vistas that stretch across valleys dotted with fairy chimneys and cave
dwellings. From this natural fortress, you'll proceed to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed
Göreme Open-Air Museum, where rock-cut churches and monasteries house well-
preserved frescoes dating back to the 10th century, depicting vivid scenes from Christian
theology.
Your afternoon unfolds with a visit to Çavuşin Village, a hauntingly beautiful settlement
partially abandoned yet rich with history. The ancient cave houses and rock-carved
dwellings stand as silent witnesses to centuries of human habitation. In Avanos, a town
renowned for its pottery tradition dating back to the Hittite period, you'll enjoy a local
lunch before watching master potters demonstrate their craft in a family-run workshop—
perhaps even trying your hand at creating your own ceramic piece.
The day's journey continues through Love Valley, where nature has sculpted whimsical
rock formations through millennia of erosion. At a traditional carpet weaving center,
you'll witness the meticulous artistry behind Turkey's famous handwoven carpets and
kilims, techniques preserved through generations. Your exploration concludes with visits
to Devrent Valley, playfully known as Imagination Valley for its animal-shaped rock
formations, and the iconic Three Beauties of Ürgüp, a trio of fairy chimneys that have
become symbols of Cappadocia's unique landscape.
After an early breakfast, you'll bid farewell to Cappadocia's enchanting terrain and
journey toward Konya, a city steeped in Islamic heritage and Sufi mysticism. Your first
stop introduces you to the spiritual heart of Konya—the Mevlana Museum and
Mausoleum of Jalaluddin Rumi. The striking green-tiled tomb houses relics of the great
Persian poet, philosopher, and Sufi mystic whose teachings continue to inspire millions
worldwide. As you wander through peaceful courtyards filled with the gentle sounds of
traditional music, you'll feel the contemplative atmosphere that has drawn spiritual
seekers for centuries.
Following a delicious lunch featuring traditional Anatolian cuisine in a warm local
setting, your journey continues southward to Pamukkale. As evening approaches, you'll
arrive at this natural wonder whose name translates to "Cotton Castle"—an apt
description for the cascading white terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters.
After checking into your hotel, unwind with a freshly prepared dinner as you anticipate
tomorrow's exploration of this unique landscape.
The morning reveals Pamukkale in all its glory—a hillside transformed into a series of
petrified waterfalls and terraced pools that appear as if carved from snow but feel warm
and smooth underfoot. Your exploration begins with the ancient city of Hierapolis,
perched atop these white travertine cliffs. Founded as a healing center around its
thermal springs, Hierapolis offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman life through its vast
Necropolis—one of Anatolia's largest ancient cemeteries—along with its impressive
Great Theater that once seated over 12,000 spectators, the Temple of Apollo, Roman
Baths, and the Martyrium of St. Philip.
As you stroll barefoot across Pamukkale's thermal terraces, you'll experience the surreal
sensation of warm, mineral-rich waters flowing over calcium deposits that have created
this natural phenomenon over thousands of years. By mid-morning, you'll depart for
Kusadasi, a charming coastal town on the Aegean Sea known for its scenic marina,
vibrant nightlife, and proximity to ancient Ephesus.
After breakfast and hotel check-out, prepare to step back in time as you explore Ephesus,
one of the world's most remarkably preserved ancient cities. Your guided tour begins at
the Temple of Artemis—once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, though
now represented by a single column standing as a testament to its former grandeur.
Walking along Curetes Street, a marble thoroughfare lined with historical monuments,
you'll discover the architectural masterpiece of the Celsius Library, its façade an iconic
symbol of Roman ingenuity. Nearby stands the Grand Theatre, an amphitheater that
once hosted performances for over 25,000 spectators and continues to serve as a concert
venue today. Throughout Ephesus, you'll encounter remarkably preserved Roman baths
and fountains that speak to the sophisticated urban planning of the ancient world.
Before departing, you'll visit a traditional carpet weaving center where artisans preserve
the ancient Turkish art of carpet making, demonstrating techniques passed down
through generations and revealing the symbolic meanings woven into each intricate
design. As evening approaches, you'll transfer to Izmir Airport for your domestic flight to
Istanbul, where your hotel awaits.
Istanbul greets you with the promise of exploration as you embark on a full-day tour of
this magnificent city where East meets West across the Bosphorus Strait. Your morning
begins at the Hippodrome of Constantinople, once the social and sporting heart of
Byzantine public life. Here, you'll discover monuments that span continents and
centuries: the Obelisk of Theodosius, transported from Egypt's Luxor; the Serpent
Column, brought from the Temple of Apollo in Delphi; and the Column of Constantine, a
timeless tribute to Roman imperial power.
Next, you'll be captivated by the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, commonly known as the Blue
Mosque for its interior adorned with over 20,000 hand-painted blue Iznik tiles. This 17th-
century masterpiece of Ottoman architecture continues to function as an active place of
worship while welcoming visitors to admire its cascading domes and six slender
minarets. Nearby stands the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, a structure that
served as the world's largest cathedral for nearly a millennium before becoming a
mosque. Its massive dome, golden mosaics, and architectural innovations represent a
perfect synthesis of Byzantine and Ottoman artistic traditions.
After time at leisure to perhaps explore the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar or simply relax,
your evening transforms into a magical experience aboard a traditional boat cruising the
Bosphorus Strait. As you enjoy a delicious buffet dinner with unlimited local drinks, live
entertainment unfolds before you—Turkish folk dancing, mesmerizing belly dance
performances, and the spiritual whirling of dervishes. All the while, Istanbul's skyline
provides a glittering backdrop: the Bosphorus Bridge illuminated in vibrant colors,
Ottoman palaces, and European-style mansions lining the shores of this historic
waterway that divides two continents.
After breakfast and hotel check-out, you'll bid farewell to Turkey as you transfer to
Istanbul International Airport for your flight to Hurghada, Egypt's premier Red Sea resort
destination. Upon arrival at Hurghada International Airport, you'll be greeted by our
Egyptian representative who will assist with your luggage and escort you to your luxury
beach resort.
The remainder of the day unfolds at your leisure—perhaps unwinding by the pool with a
refreshing drink, strolling along the pristine beach as gentle waves lap at the shore, or
indulging in the hotel's spa facilities. As the sun sets over the Red Sea, you might choose
to explore the resort's restaurants, sampling delectable Egyptian cuisine while
anticipating the adventures that await in this land of ancient wonders.
Today belongs entirely to you—a day dedicated to relaxation and rejuvenation on
Hurghada's beautiful coastline. The crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea invite you for a
swim among colorful fish darting through coral gardens just offshore. Perhaps you'll
choose to bask under the Egyptian sun by the pool or on the hotel's private beach, book
an optional spa treatment to soothe travel-weary muscles, or try your hand at various
water sports available along the coast.
Hurghada offers the perfect balance of excitement and serenity, with its vibrant marine
life, warm hospitality, and idyllic setting making it an ideal place to recharge before
continuing your journey through Egypt's historical treasures.
After breakfast, adventure calls as you embark on a full-day snorkeling excursion in the
Red Sea, renowned worldwide for its exceptional marine biodiversity and visibility.
Boarding a comfortable boat equipped with snorkeling gear, you'll set sail for multiple
stops at vibrant coral reef sites teeming with life.
As you slip into the warm, azure waters, a kaleidoscope of colors reveals itself beneath
the surface—tropical fish in every hue imaginable dart among intricate coral formations,
while lucky snorkelers might spot graceful sea turtles or playful dolphins. Between
snorkeling sessions, you'll enjoy lunch and refreshing drinks served onboard while
soaking in panoramic views of the coastline. By afternoon, you'll return to your resort
with memories of an underwater paradise and perhaps photographs capturing the day's
aquatic discoveries.
Your Egyptian journey takes a historical turn as you depart Hurghada after breakfast,
traveling by modern air-conditioned vehicle to Luxor—the world's greatest open-air
museum and once the glorious city of Thebes. Upon arrival, you'll board your home for
the next several days: a luxury 5-star Nile cruise ship combining the timeless experience
of river travel with contemporary comforts.
After settling into your cabin, the afternoon unveils the first of Luxor's archaeological
treasures with a visit to the Karnak Temple Complex—the largest religious complex ever
constructed. Walking among its colossal columns in the Great Hypostyle Hall, massive
obelisks, and sacred lakes, you'll feel dwarfed by structures built to honor the god
Amun-Ra. As daylight begins to fade, you'll continue to Luxor Temple, connected to
Karnak via the Avenue of Sphinxes. This majestic structure, beautifully illuminated as
darkness falls, dates back to 1400 BCE and offers a magical introduction to the wonders
of ancient Egypt.
Returning to your cruise ship, you'll enjoy a delicious dinner as the vessel remains
docked in Luxor for the night, allowing you to absorb the special atmosphere of this
historical city.
Dawn breaks over the Nile as you enjoy breakfast onboard before embarking on a
fascinating exploration of Luxor's West Bank—the ancient necropolis where pharaohs
and nobles prepared for their journey to the afterlife. Your first destination is the Valley
of the Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the burial ground for
pharaohs of the New Kingdom period (1550–1070 BCE).
Descending into multiple tombs, you'll marvel at walls adorned with remarkably
preserved art depicting scenes of the afterlife and magical spells from the Book of the
Dead, their vibrant colors defying the passage of over three millennia. For those
interested, an optional upgrade allows access to the tomb of Tutankhamun, where the
young pharaoh's mummy still rests in its original burial place.
The morning continues at the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, an architectural marvel
carved into the cliffs at Deir el-Bahari. This terraced structure honors Egypt's most
powerful female pharaoh, whose 20-year reign brought prosperity and ambitious
building projects. Before returning to the ship, you'll pause at the Colossi of Memnon—
two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have stood as silent sentinels
in the Theban necropolis since 1350 BCE, witnessing the rise and fall of countless
civilizations.
Back onboard for lunch, you'll spend the afternoon at leisure as the ship begins its
scenic journey southward, passing through the lock at Esna before continuing toward
Edfu. From the comfort of the sun deck or your private balcony, you'll watch rural
Egyptian life unfold along the riverbanks—farmers tending fields using methods
unchanged for centuries, children waving from villages, and palm trees swaying against
the desert backdrop.
Morning finds your cruise ship docking at Edfu, where an unusual form of transportation
awaits—a horse-drawn carriage to carry you through the town to the Temple of Horus.
One of Egypt's best-preserved ancient shrines, this Ptolemaic temple dedicated to the
falcon-headed god features remarkably intact reliefs, towering columns, and detailed
scenes depicting the divine victory of Horus over Seth. The scale and preservation of this
structure provide an unparalleled glimpse into ancient Egyptian religious practices and
architectural prowess.
Returning to the ship, you'll continue sailing southward while enjoying lunch and the
ever-changing panorama of the Nile Valley. By afternoon, you'll reach Kom Ombo, site of
an unusual double temple dedicated to two distinct gods: Haroeris (Horus the Elder) and
Sobek (the crocodile god). The perfectly symmetrical complex features twin sanctuaries,
halls, and entrances honoring these deities. Nearby, the Crocodile Museum displays
mummified crocodiles discovered in the area—physical evidence of the ancient Egyptian
reverence for Sobek.
As evening approaches and you sail toward Aswan, the mood turns festive with an
Egyptian-themed party onboard. Don traditional galabeyas (Egyptian cotton robes),
enjoy music and dancing, and celebrate under the stars as your vessel continues its
journey along the same route traveled by pharaohs thousands of years ago.
Early risers may choose to participate in a highly recommended optional excursion to
Abu Simbel—perhaps the most impressive monument in Egypt after the Great Pyramids.
This journey, either by road or optional flight, takes you 280 kilometers south of Aswan
to witness the massive rock temples commissioned by Ramses II. Carved into a
mountainside and later relocated in their entirety through an extraordinary UNESCO
project to save them from submersion when Lake Nasser was created, these temples
stand as a testament to both ancient and modern engineering marvels. The façade of
the main temple, adorned with four colossal statues of Ramses II, and the smaller
temple dedicated to his favorite wife, Nefertari, leave visitors awestruck by their scale
and artistry.
Those remaining onboard might enjoy a relaxing morning before an afternoon of free
time in Aswan. As evening falls, you'll have the opportunity to explore Aswan's colorful
souks (markets), where the scents of exotic spices mingle with the vibrant displays of
handmade textiles, Nubian crafts, and traditional jewelry. The markets offer not just
shopping opportunities but a glimpse into contemporary Egyptian culture and
commerce, continuing traditions that have flourished along the Nile for millennia.
Your final day on the Nile cruise begins with breakfast before bidding farewell to the ship
that has been your floating home. Today's exploration of Aswan includes the beautiful
Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Rescued from the rising waters of Lake
Nasser and meticulously reconstructed on Agilkia Island, this temple complex is reached
by boat, adding to its mystical atmosphere. As you wander among its pillars and relief
carvings, you'll learn about the cult of Isis that spread throughout the Greco-Roman
world.
Next, you'll visit the Unfinished Obelisk in the ancient granite quarries of Aswan—a
massive stone that cracked during extraction and was abandoned, still partially attached
to the bedrock. This archaeological site provides fascinating insights into ancient stone-
working techniques and the ambitious scale of Egyptian monuments. Your morning
concludes with a visit to the High Dam of Aswan, a modern engineering achievement
that controls the Nile's annual flooding and created Lake Nasser, one of the world's
largest artificial lakes.
Later in the day, you'll transfer to Aswan Airport for your domestic flight to Cairo. Upon
arrival in Egypt's bustling capital, you'll check into your 5-star hotel in Cairo or Giza,
perhaps catching your first glimpse of the Great Pyramids silhouetted against the
evening sky.
Today stands as one of the pinnacles of your journey—a day dedicated to exploring
humanity's most enduring architectural achievements. After breakfast, you'll head to the
Giza Plateau, where the Great Pyramid of Khufu has stood for over 4,500 years as the
only surviving structure among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Standing
before this monumental tomb, you'll gain perspective on its astonishing scale and the
incredible precision with which it was constructed using only ancient tools and
methods.
Nearby stand the slightly smaller Pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure, completing the
iconic trio that has become synonymous with Egypt itself. For those seeking an
unforgettable experience, an optional camel ride takes you into the desert for a
panoramic view capturing all nine pyramids of the Giza complex against the golden
sands. Your exploration continues at the Great Sphinx—the enigmatic limestone statue
with the body of a lion and head of a pharaoh that has sparked countless theories and
legends throughout history.
The afternoon transports you from monuments to treasures as you visit the Egyptian
Museum in Tahrir Square. Home to the world's largest collection of Pharaonic
antiquities, the museum houses thousands of artifacts spanning Egypt's ancient history.
The undisputed highlight is the collection of treasures from King Tutankhamun's tomb,
including his solid gold funeral mask—an image that has become an icon of ancient
Egyptian art. Optional access to the Royal Mummies Room offers the extraordinary
opportunity to stand face-to-face with the preserved remains of Egypt's most powerful
pharaohs, including Ramses II and Queen Hatshepsut.
After breakfast and hotel check-out, you'll transfer to Cairo International Airport for your
flight to Amman, Jordan's capital and a city where ancient history blends seamlessly
with modern urban life. Upon arrival at Queen Alia International Airport, our local
representative will welcome you, providing assistance with visa processing and customs
formalities.
As you transfer to your hotel in central Amman, you'll catch glimpses of a city built
across seven hills, where gleaming white stone buildings cascade down slopes and
minarets punctuate the skyline. After check-in, the remainder of the day is yours to relax
after travel, perhaps enjoying the hotel's amenities or taking a short stroll to begin
absorbing the atmosphere of this Hashemite Kingdom.
Following breakfast, your Jordanian adventure begins in earnest with a full-day guided
tour of northern Jordan's historic treasures. Your first destination is Jerash, often called
the "Pompeii of the East" for its exceptional preservation. Walking through this ancient
Roman city, you'll tread the same stones as merchants and citizens did nearly two
millennia ago. The colonnaded Cardo Maximus stretches over 600 meters, leading you
past the Oval Plaza, the Nymphaeum, Hadrian's Arch, and remarkably intact temples,
baths, and amphitheaters that speak to the city's former grandeur and prosperity.
From Roman splendor, you'll journey to medieval Islamic heritage at Ajloun Castle.
Perched atop a hill with commanding views of the Jordan Valley, this 12th-century
fortress was built by Saladin's generals to protect the region from Crusader incursions.
As you explore its towers, passages, and ramparts, you'll gain insight into medieval
military architecture while enjoying panoramic vistas of the surrounding olive groves
and rolling hills.
The afternoon brings you back to Amman for a panoramic city tour, including visits to
the Amman Citadel with its Temple of Hercules and Umayyad Palace, the remarkably
preserved Roman Theater cut into downtown's hillside, and the vibrant markets where
traditional commerce continues amid the bustle of modern city life. Your drive through
the capital also showcases the contrast between ancient heritage and contemporary
development as you pass through upscale neighborhoods like Abdoun and Shmeisani
with their cafés, boutiques, and modern architecture.
As the day concludes, you'll continue south toward Petra, anticipating tomorrow's
encounter with Jordan's most famous archaeological treasure.
Dawn breaks with the promise of one of travel's most memorable experiences as you
prepare for an early start to explore Petra—the Nabatean city carved into rose-colored
cliffs that has captivated travelers since its rediscovery in 1812. Your journey begins
either on foot or horseback through the Siq, a narrow gorge flanked by towering cliffs
that builds anticipation with every step. The path suddenly opens to reveal El-Khazneh
(The Treasury)—Petra's most elaborate façade whose intricate details carved into the
pink sandstone cliff face seem to glow in the changing light.
Beyond this iconic structure lies an entire city waiting to be discovered: the Street of
Facades with its rows of Nabatean tombs, the impressive Royal Tombs whose grand
designs reflected the status of their occupants, and the 8,000-seat Theater carved
directly from the mountainside. Those with energy and time might choose to climb the
800 steps to Ad-Deir (The Monastery), whose massive façade rewards the ascent with
both its architectural grandeur and sweeping views across the mountains.
After your exploration of Petra, you'll journey to Madaba, known as the "City of Mosaics"
for its Byzantine and Umayyad treasures. The highlight is the Greek Orthodox Church of
St. George, home to the famous 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land—the oldest
known geographic floor mosaic in art history, depicting Jerusalem and other holy sites
with remarkable accuracy.
Your final stop before returning to Amman is Mount Nebo, a place of profound religious
significance as the site where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land before his
death. From this windswept hill, you'll enjoy panoramic views stretching across the
Jordan Valley to Jericho and the Dead Sea, connecting you to biblical narratives that
have shaped world history.
An early morning departure takes you across the border from Jordan into Israel/
Palestine, beginning a day immersed in sites of immense spiritual significance. Your
exploration starts atop the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, offering a panoramic view of
the Old City with its golden Dome of the Rock shimmering in the morning light. Here
you'll visit the Church of Ascension, traditionally marking the spot where Jesus
ascended to heaven; the Church of Pater Noster, commemorating where Jesus taught
the Lord's Prayer; and Dominus Flevit, built where Jesus wept over the future fate of
Jerusalem.
Descending the mount, you'll reach the Garden of Gethsemane, where ancient olive
trees may be descendants of those that witnessed Jesus' arrest. The adjacent Church of
All Nations houses a section of bedrock identified as the place where Jesus prayed
before his arrest. Nearby, you'll visit the traditional tomb of St. Mary, venerated as the
burial place of the mother of Jesus.
Your journey continues to Jericho, recognized as the oldest continuously inhabited city
in the world with settlements dating back 11,000 years. Here you'll view the Mount of
Temptation, where tradition holds that Jesus was tempted by the devil, and the
Sycamore Tree associated with the biblical account of Zacchaeus.
In Bethlehem, you'll enter the Church of the Nativity, one of Christianity's oldest
continuously operating churches, built over the cave revered as Jesus' birthplace.
Beneath the church, you'll visit St. Jerome's Grotto, where this early Christian scholar
translated the Bible into Latin (the Vulgate) in the late 4th century.
The day concludes with a unique natural experience at the Dead Sea—the lowest point
on Earth at 422 meters below sea level. Here you'll have the opportunity to float
effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters, whose extraordinary salt concentration makes
sinking impossible. The therapeutic mud and minerals have attracted visitors since
ancient times, and you may choose to purchase some of these natural products before
returning to Jerusalem for the night.
Today immerses you in the spiritual heart of Jerusalem with a full-day walking tour
within the ancient walls of the Old City. Entering through St. Stephen's Gate (also known
as Lion's Gate), you'll follow a path laden with religious significance for billions of people
worldwide.
Your first stops include the Church of the Condemnation and the Church of Flagellation,
both marking sites associated with Jesus' trial and suffering. From here, you'll walk the
Via Dolorosa (Way of Sorrows), following the traditional path Jesus took carrying his
cross. The route winds through narrow stone streets filled with the scents of spices and
sounds of merchants, passing the Stations of the Cross before culminating at the Church
of the Holy Sepulchre—a complex housing both Golgotha (Calvary), where Jesus was
crucified, and the tomb where he was buried and, according to Christian belief,
resurrected.
The afternoon takes you to Mount Zion, where you'll visit St. Mark's Convent, believed by
some traditions to be the site of both the Last Supper and Pentecost. Nearby stands the
Dormition Abbey, marking where the Virgin Mary is said to have fallen into eternal sleep,
and the Tomb of King David, venerated by Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike.
Your day concludes in Ein Karem, a picturesque hill town on Jerusalem's outskirts
traditionally identified as the birthplace of John the Baptist. The peaceful atmosphere of
this artists' colony, with its stone houses and garden cafés, offers a contemplative end to
a day filled with profound historical and spiritual encounters.
After breakfast and hotel check-out, you'll transfer to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv for
your flight to Dubai—a city that represents the pinnacle of modern urban development
while honoring its Arabian heritage. Upon arrival at Dubai International Airport, you'll
experience VIP meet and assist service, smoothing your entry into the United Arab
Emirates.
A private transfer delivers you to your 5-star hotel in the heart of the city, where
contemporary luxury awaits. As you settle in, you might catch your first glimpse of
Dubai's iconic skyline dominated by the needle-like Burj Khalifa—currently the world's
tallest building—and other architectural marvels that have transformed this former
fishing village into a global metropolis in just a few decades.
The final chapter of your journey offers three full days to experience Dubai at your own
pace—a welcome opportunity to tailor your activities to personal interests after the
structured touring of previous weeks. Your luxurious hotel serves as the perfect base for
exploration, with daily breakfast providing energy for adventures in this dynamic city.
For those seeking desert experiences, an optional safari offers thrilling dune bashing in
4x4 vehicles, camel rides across golden sands, and an evening BBQ dinner accompanied
by belly dancing under the stars. Urban explorers might choose to ascend the Burj
Khalifa to its observation decks on the 124th or 148th floors, offering breathtaking
panoramic views of the city, desert, and Persian Gulf beyond.
Water lovers can book a yacht cruise around Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah—the
artificial island shaped like a palm tree—perhaps timed to catch a magical sunset over
the Arabian Gulf. Those interested in cultural contrasts might explore Old Dubai, where
the Gold and Spice Souks offer sensory immersion in traditional commerce amid the
scent of exotic fragrances and the glitter of jewelry shops.
For family fun or cooling off from the desert heat, Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark
presents a day of slides and marine encounters, while shopaholics will find paradise in
Dubai Mall—one of the world's largest shopping centers with over 1,200 stores, an
aquarium, and ice skating rink—or Mall of the Emirates, famous for its indoor ski resort.
Each evening brings new dining possibilities, from international celebrity chef
restaurants to authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, perhaps enjoyed while watching the
famous Dubai Fountain show—a choreographed water display set against the backdrop
of the illuminated Burj Khalifa.
As your 24-day adventure draws to a close, enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel before
free time to perhaps purchase last-minute souvenirs or simply relax before your
scheduled transfer to Dubai International Airport for your departure flight.
Looking back on your journey, you'll carry memories that span continents and millennia
—from the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia to the ancient pyramids of Giza, from floating in
the Dead Sea to walking in the footsteps of history in Jerusalem, and from the rose-red
city of Petra to the futuristic skyline of Dubai. This wasn't merely a holiday but a
transformative experience connecting you to the world's most significant historical,
cultural, and spiritual landmarks.
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