15 days in Africa, Asia & Europe Itinerary

The land of pharaohs, pyramids, sphinxes, and papyrus, Egypt needs little by way of introduction. Visitors find more than a textbook readout of ancient history when visiting the country--the power, scale, art, and mysticism of its centuries-old culture bleed out from each landmark attraction and seep into the everyday life. Bustling markets, the slow-flowing Nile, the vast desert, and inspiring archeological sites often sit right alongside palaces of great excess and historical importance. All ensure you have plenty to see and do during your vacation in Egypt. In the wake of the Arab Spring in 2011, travel to certain areas where conflict and terrorism are deemed likely remains inadvisable for foreign visitors.

With a lengthy coastline along the Mediterranean, Lebanon has attracted its share of foreign invaders, from ancient Phoenicians and Egyptians to the medieval Crusaders and Ottoman Turks. Each of these peoples left an indelible mark on the tiny country's cultural heritage, art, religious traditions, and cuisine. Though it shares a border with troubled Syria, Lebanon remains one of the Arab world's most charming destinations. A tour of Lebanon allows travelers to discover modern seaside resorts, ancient ruins, lush nature reserves, and dynamic cities. Base your Lebanon vacation in Beirut, a cosmopolitan capital known for its cafe culture and European architecture, as well as many museums, parks, and squares.

From sandy beaches to stone castles, and from bustling nightclubs to romantic tavernas, Cyprus is the perfect destination for those who seek a complete Mediterranean experience. Many civilizations have left their mark on the island's long and vibrant history, and consequently its customs, cuisine, and architecture. Beyond the divide between the predominantly Greek south and Turkish north, throughout the island you'll recognize Venetian, Genoese, British, and Middle Eastern influences. Of course, the main attraction that draws tourists from all over the world is the sunny coast, dotted with historical cities and fully equipped beaches. There is also a selection of peaceful villages, both inland and by the sea, where those looking for a more secluded holiday can retreat. A visit to the country's capital Nicosia, with its vibrant art and culture scene and numerous sightseeing opportunities, is definitely worth adding to your itinerary wherever you're staying.

For such a small country, Jordan boasts a surprising variety of natural landscapes and urban attractions. A trip to Jordan takes visitors on a journey back to biblical times, when sites like the Dead Sea and the ancient yet astonishingly well-preserved city of Petra seemed to be at the heart of world events. Although covered in rocky deserts, Jordan boasts a good network of roads, which makes sightseeing by car an easy way to discover many of the country's top highlights. Begin your tour of Jordan in Amman, the largest urban center and a major political, cultural, and economic hub of this Middle Eastern kingdom.