Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

Middle East is a grand epic, a cradle of civilisations and a beautiful, complicated land that's home to some of the planet's most hospitable people.

Welcome to United Arab Emirates. For most people, the U A E means just one place: Dubai, the sci-fi-esque city of iconic skyscrapers, palm-shaped islands, city-sized malls, indoor ski slopes & palatial beach resorts. But beyond the glitter awaits a diverse mosaic of 6 more emirates, each with its own character & allure.

Arrive in the dynamic & vibrant Emirates of Dubai, an stirring alchemy of profound traditions & ambitious futuristic vision wrapped into starkly evocative desert splendour.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? - Dubai International Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be met by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in and provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next few days.

 If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel.

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the day is at leisure to relax or independent exploration or optional activities (We shall be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements). 

Located at the cross-roads of Asia, Europe & Africa, Dubai is well positioned to attract tourists looking for somewhere new & different, a destination combining the traditions of the east with the comforts of the west.

Glimpse of the Future | Shopping Haven | Nocturnal Action |Cultural Dynamism

It is hard not to admire the ‘happening’ Emirate of Dubai, for its indefatigable verve, gutsy ambition & ability to dream up & realise projects that elsewhere would never get off the drawing board. This is a superlative craving society that showcases the world's tallest building, an island shaped like a palm tree, a huge indoor ski paradise, the world's fastest roller coaster & starchitect designed & art museums of international stature. Sci-fi concepts such as flying taxis, a lightning-fast Hyperloop train & an army of Robocops are all reflections of a mindset that fearlessly embraces the future.

Ever since you first set foot in this tiny powerhouse Emirate, it will fascinate you with its energy, optimism & openness towards people from all over the world. For a die-hard foodie, the staggering variety of authentic global fare is exhilarating & even the shopping here is actually a joy instead of a chore. Dubai is a place that is constantly in flux & it is exciting to see it grow & mature as a city and as a society. Wait to see what the future holds.

With many more grand projects in the pipeline for World Expo 2021 (October onwards, please check out our Packages), it is clear that Dubai is a city firmly in charge of writing its own narrative. Famous sights like the Burj Dubai, the world's only 6* hotel, the massive Palms island mini-city & so much more - it is an exciting city and worth a stopover.

Dubai is a city that provides a new setting at every turn, richly mixing together the old & the new; it is without a doubt the leading tourist destination in the Middle East. Dubai is a city of ages that rises out of the desert and crowns the gulf coast with its presence.  Sunshine, shopping, seaside, sports and safety – 5 of the key ingredients that have earned Dubai a growing reputation as one of the world's most attractive & rapidly developing leisure destinations. Long established as the trading & commercial hub of the Middle East, the Emirate combines the excitement of a bustling commercial centre with the wide open spaces of a luxurious resort

While the UAE these days appears to be little more than a stage for Dubai to strut its increasingly crazy stuff, there is far more to this fabulous little federation than Disneyesque dioramas. The UAE is a contradictory destination, an Islamic state where the DJs’ turntables stop spinning just before the muezzins’ morning call to prayer can be heard & where a traditional Bedouin lifestyle & customs continue alongside a very Western version of rampant consumerism. While many visitors marvel at the fantastic (in the true sense of the word) hotel & real estate projects, the real wonder is how the savvy sheikhs manage to harmonise such disparate & seemingly opposing forces.

Both business travelers & tourists find that Dubai offers the highest standards of comfort & luxury. As befits a dynamic & prosperous business centre, Dubai's ultramodern hotels offer every luxury. Yet the comforts of the 21^st century co-exist comfortably with the Emirate's rich Arab-Islamic culture. An intriguing land that combines old-world souks & modern shopping malls, rolling sand dunes & championship grass golf courses, remote Bedouin villages & an array of five-star hotels, Dubai defies easy definition.

Famous for its soaring skyline rising from the desert, it is a relatively new, world-class city, which is growing quickly. Famous sights like the Burj Dubai, the world's only 6* hotel & the massive Palms mini-city, and its indoor ski hills - it is an exciting city & worth a stopover.

After dark, Dubai sometimes seems like a city filled with lotus eaters, forever on the lookout for a good time. Its shape-shifting party spectrum caters for just about every taste, budget and age group. From flashy dance temples, sleek rooftop terraces & sizzling beach clubs to fancy cocktail caverns, shisha lounges & concerts under the stars, Dubai delivers hot-stepping odysseys. Most of the nightlife centres on the fancy hotels, but there is no shortage of more wholesome diversions either, including community theatre, live-music venues & the world-class Dubai Opera.

Morning, meet the Tour-guide in the in the Lobby at 09:00 am & proceed on an exciting 4 hour sightseeing tour of the city.

You will visit a selection of carefully-chosen highlights of the city, from the remarkable buildings featuring some of the most stunning architecture to be found anywhere.

To experience the amalgamation of modern & ancient look, our route takes us to the highest buildings in the Middle East. Pass by the palaces belonging to the ruling family of Dubai.

After a short photo break at the magnificent Dubai Creek, proceed to the oldest part of the city - Al Bastakiya where fascinating old Wind Towered Houses of wealthy merchants are still to be seen. Visit the Dubai Museum with its records of the city's past with all its developing stages, located in Al Fahidi Fort reminiscent of Dubai's illustrious past which has existed for almost 2 centuries, defending the settlers of early days.

Move through material market on the way to Abras Terminal where you will board & enjoy a ride in an “Abra” - a traditional boat as local water taxi - which will take you across the Creek to the Spice Souk & Gold Souk - the most famous landmark of Dubai.

Walk through the bustling alleys of these souks being amazed by mystical aromas of numerous spices and the breath-taking amount of dazzling jewelry varying from traditional to the latest designs at amazingly affordable prices displayed by almost 350 shops.

Then on the way to one of the most luxurious hotel in the world Burj Al Arab, Pass through Dubai’s most tony area through an avenue lined with majestic palaces of the ruling family of Dubai. You will briefly stop for a photo shoot next to Jumeirah Mosque, an architectural landmark of Dubai.

Tour ends at a specific vantage point in the city & you will be transferred back to the hotel (you can stay back & return to the hotel on your own, if you so desire).

Balance of the afternoon at leisure relax or to explore on your own (we will be happy to offer suggestions based on the available time).  

Evening, at 06.00 pm you will be met by the Journeys Rep / Driver & transferred to the Dubai Creek where you would enjoy an unforgettable evening cruising along the Dubai Creek on board an Arabic traditional Dhow boat. As you go inside, you will be ushered to your table by a friendly staff. The 2 hour Dhow cruise will take you on a trip across the water, providing you a glimpse of the spectacular Dubai Marina area, Jumeirah Beach area, the water promenade of the Dubai Marina Yacht Club, the Dubai Marina Mall, elegant 5* hotels in the vicinity, an  amazing skyline & other impressive architecture.

Start enjoying a sumptuous array of a wide selection of cuisine served buffet style, including continental & oriental dishes. Soft drinks and mineral water are included.

Gently glide past illuminated souks, banks & palaces along the Creek as you enjoy a performance from a chanteuse rendering songs that will surely capture your taste, and of course the most awaited and popular dance performance of Tanoura Dancers that will enliven your mood. The Dhow Cruise is an experience you surely won’t forget!

Transfer back to the hotel by 10.00 pm.

Early morning, Check-out & depart for the other equally famous sheikhdom of Abu Dhabi, the capital of United Arab Emirates, known as the Arabian Jewel.

Abu Dhabi is the capital and second most populous city in the United Arab Emirates, after Dubai. It is also the seat of government of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, which is ruled by Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan - the current ruling Emir of the UAE. Abu Dhabi lies on a T-shaped island jutting into the Persian Gulf from the central western coast.

Year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, spectacular sand dunes & pulsating cosmopolitan lifestyle await every guest in Abu Dhabi. Such idyllic setting cuddles this emirate known around the world for its massive oil reserves & majestic mosques with towering minarets. These, combined with the distinct Arabic hospitality & mystique - and world-class infrastructure - make Abu Dhabi an excellent destination both for the experienced and novice traveller.

Abu Dhabi city bursts with dazzling business-cum-leisure facilities ranging from state-of-the-art convention centre, luxurious hotels, spas, designer golf courses, theatres & now, some of the world’s most famous Museums particularly Guggenheim & Louvre. The palace-like shopping malls & indigenous souqs in Abu Dhabi make for a great shopping expedition, offering the best handicraft from local Bedouins to the best of Paris’ or Milan’s high street fashion brands, sans the ubiquitous sales tax. Gastronomic treats further abound from cool & sophisticated cafes, clubs & restaurants. For the fitness conscious, jogging & cycling (or even roller blading) are a welcome treat especially during the cooler months in the city’s charming corniche or beachfront, merely minutes away from the bustling city centre.

Cultural sites abound in Abu Dhabi, whose name implies “Father of the Gazelle” most likely due to the large number of gazelles and oryx that once flocked the emirate’s arid deserts. These heritage sites provide holiday makers with a glimpse of this Emirate’s storied past - reaching as far back as 5000 BC - and an understanding of its people’s culture, values & aspirations.

On the way you will pass through Jebel Ali free zone of Dubai. Once you reach the border of Abu Dhabi you will be astonished by the eye-catching plantations all along the wayside.

Reach the hotel.

Reach the hotel, meet the Tour-guide at 09.00 am & proceed for a 4 hour sightseeing tour.

*as the Check-in time is 02.00 pm, you will immediately proceed for the sightseeing tour & Check-in after the tour.  

You will visit a selection of carefully-chosen highlights of the UAE's lovely capital; from the remarkable buildings featuring some of the most stunning architecture to be found anywhere, to glimpses into the past. Enter a world where Islamic designs & elements feature modern architecture, blending the new with ancient traditions of the East & the West, in this city where the glorious greens of its gardens vie with the blues of the sea & sky.

Commence your Tour with a visit to the world’s 3^rd biggest Mosque - Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with its immense dimensions & utmost spirituality. It can accommodate up to 42000 worshipers at the same time and holds 2 world records, (the world’s biggest Chandelier & world’s largest single piece Carpet’ designed by Iranian artist). A sacred Islamic worshipping place where even, the non-Muslims are permitted to visit, so they can learn more about the Arabs most dominant Religion, Rituals, and the Arabic-Islamic Art and ornamentation.

Next stop would be the Women’s Handicraft Centre, where you will admire the skill and dexterity of local ladies making traditional 'tali' handicrafts. Proceed to Abu Dhabi’s oldest building, Al Husn Palace built in the 18^th century.

The Tour continues through Al Bateen District, past the Palace area, where you can see the majestic residential palaces of the sheikhs in Abu Dhabi, including the ‘Presidential Palace’. You will then have a brief photo-stop at the world’s most luxurious Hotel, Emirates Palace.

Enjoy a magnificent view of the city by driving along the magnificent Abu Dhabi Corniche and make a photo-stop at the Breakwater that stretches out into the sea, giving you a splendid view of the city skyline.

Lots of ‘eating’ options here so you might want to stop here for lunch (not included – direct payment).

Visit the Heritage Village which houses a small Museum depicting the traditional daily activities and where you will get a chance to journey in the past to explore the life before oil was discovered in Abu Dhabi and the middle - east in general. Visit the Dhow yard where traditional boats are built the same way they have been for hundreds of years.

The last stop is mainly for photos at the famous Ferrari World, the world’s biggest indoor theme-park, with more than 22 rides and simulators, where you can enjoy watching the world’s fastest Roller-Coaster sliding down with a speed of more than 240 km/hour.

Come back to the hotel & Check-in.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Morning, depart for the Garden city of Al Ain - one of the oldest settlements in the region.

Reach the hotel.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Fed by natural springs & set amid date-palm plantations, Al Ain was once a vital pit-stop on the caravan route between Oman & the Gulf and is the birthplace of the United Arab Emirates' founding father, Sheikh Zayed, late ruler & President of the U.A.E.

The freeways connecting Al-Ain, Abu Dhabi & Dubai form a geographic triangle in the country, each city being roughly 130 kilometres from the other two.

It is a stunningly green city with an incredible number of public parks, tree-lined avenues with decorative roundabouts, numerous green houses and the main agricultural center of the Emirates, thus garnering it the nickname 'Garden City'.

This sprawling city state, radiating out from the green heart of its central oasis, is a laid-back place. Unlike Abu Dhabi, Dubai & Sharjah, Al Ain lacks ultramodern skyscrapers & as a result, feels more culturally authentic. There are strict height controls on new buildings, to no more than 7 floors & according to one author, an oasis around Al-Ain & Al-Hasa in Saudi Arabia are the most important in the Arabian Peninsula. Al-Ain may also be the site of the oldest mosque in the country, in the premises of the Sheikh Khalifa Mosque.

It is also a University town & the fact that it is home to the UAE's highest proportion of Emirati nationals (clocking in at a whopping 30%) also helps.

The area witnessed events relevant to the history of Islam during the Rashidun, Umayyad & Abbasid eras, similar to Dibba & Ras Al-Khaimah. It was where Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the United Arab Emirates, spent much of his life, at least since 1927, before becoming the Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in 1966. Though it is often held that he was born in Abu Dhabi, some hold the view that he was born in Al-Ain.

Visitors flock to its smattering of UNESCO World Heritage sites, Museums & the Zoo. A highlight is the drive up the mountain road snaking to the top of Jebel Hafeet, treating you to sweeping views of the arid splendour that is the Empty Quarter along the way.

Proceed for a sightseeing tour to see the landmarks on your own (as there is no requirement for a Tour-guide here, you would be exploring independently but you will have the vehicle at your disposal).

First stop should be Sheik Zayed Palace Museum, where you can see artifacts from a famous nearby excavation site dating back 3000 BC, ancient Arabic manuscripts and royal treasures of H.H. Sheikh Zayed.

Then visit the picturesque Al Jahili Fort, one of the UAE’s most historic buildings. It was erected in 1891 to defend the city & protect precious palm groves. An Al Ain landmark, the Fort has been carefully restored & now houses a permanent exhibition of the work of British adventurer Sir Wilfred.

Proceed to the quaint & largest Camel Market, where you have a good opportunity to observe these extraordinary "ships of desert" up close and see & hear traders discussing the price & merits of their animals. In the livestock section, watch locals arrive in pickups laden with goats & sheep, ready to do some hard bargaining. There are some excellent photo opportunities, but be careful where you point your lens and always ask permission first.

Finally, drive to Al Hili Archaeological Park outside Al Ain city. You can explore the Al Hili tombs, that were used for collective burials over centuries and their funerary goods give valuable evidence of life in the oasis.

Return to the hotel & Check-in.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions).

Morning, depart for Fujairah.

Reach the hotel in Fujairah City& Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions).

Fujairah known for its beaches, is one of the 7 Emirates that make up the U A E & the only Emirate with a coastline solely on the Gulf of Oman & none on the Persian Gulf.

Fujairah, dominated by the Sharqiyin tribe, sits at the mouth of the important trade route, the Wadi Ham (which is guarded by the Sharqiyin Fort at Bithnah), through the Hajar Mountains through much of the Emirate & the Persian Gulf Coast.

Archaeological finds in Fujairah point to a history of human occupation & trading links stretching back at least 4,000 years, with Wadi Suq (2,000 to 1,300 BCE) burials located at Bithnah & the Qidfa' Oasis. A 3^rd millennium BCE Tower was used to construct the Portuguese Fort at Bidiyah.

Fujairah is also rich in late Islamic fortresses, as well as being home to the oldest mosque in use in the U A E, Al Badiyah Mosque, which was built in 1446 of mud & bricks. The Mosque has 4 domes (unlike the other similar mosques which have between 7 & 12) & lacks a minaret. Its design is similar to other Mosques found in Yemen, eastern Oman & Qatar.

In the south, the city of Fujairah is home to the massive Sheikh Zayed Mosque, with its towering white minarets & overlooking the city is Fujairah Fort, a reconstructed 17^th century Fortress featuring round & square towers.

Fujairah City is the main business & commercial centre for the Emirate, with tall office buildings (e.g., Fujairah Tower) lining its busy main Hamad Bin Abdulla Road. It is a muddle of worn strip-malls & semi-flashier glass & steel running down to the sea while the northern waterfront is hemmed in by vast fields of circular oil-storage containers.

The city's location provides direct access to the Indian Ocean for the United Arab Emirates, avoiding use of the Persian Gulf, which requires access via the Strait of Hormuz.

There are a number of shopping malls, including the large City Centre Fujairah mall, opened in 2012. Markets include the Central Market, Fabric Souk & a Fish & Vegetable Market.

Morning, Check-out & depart for a full day excursion of the UAE East Coast & Fujairah.

The East Coast of the U A E is a small section lying in between two regions of Oman, the Musandam Peninsula &d the region surrounding Muscat. Towns in this strip are Dibba, Khor Fakkan with its access to Shark Island, Kalba & Fujairah.

Drive on very picturesque road through desert landscape of deep wadis (canyons) & huge rocks via Oasis Al Daid to Masafi, a town at the base of the Hajar Mountains, straddling the border of the Fujairah & Ras Al Khaimah emirates, famous for its bustling daily Friday Market (Friday is a misnomer for this everyday affair) that offers carpets, ceramics, household goods, knick-knacks & local produce from a strip of nearly identical stalls. The colourful market makes a nice photo-op.

Masafi is famous for its mineral springs whose water is sold throughout the country. Surrounded by palm trees, the restored Masafi Fort features an underground waterway system.

Drive on  through the rugged Mountains & climbs down to the azure waters of the gulf of Oman until you reach the wonderful, picturesque old fishing town of Dibba Al Fujairah in the midst of green fields, nestled snugly between orange-tinged, rugged mountains & the sea. 

Dibba town is a geopolitical oddity straddling not only two different Emirates but also across the border into Oman's Musandam Peninsula. .

Dibba is reputed for its relics & historical sites dating back to the 7^th millennium B.C. Archaeological finds have revealed that the area was inhabited by man since the Stone Age in 3^rd millennium B.C.

At its southern end, Dibba Al Fujairah has a resort-speckled coastline that meanders into a slightly shabby town centre inland.

Sharjah-owned Dibba Al Hisn, squeezed in the middle, is shipshape & orderly thanks to major government investment in recent years.

Directly across the border, Oman's Dibba Al Baya is a ragtag collection of buildings running parallel to a gorgeous sweep of beach with a bijou fishing port plonked in the middle. This dusty Omani outpost is a launching-pad for exploring the Musandam's stark mountain scenery or taking to the water to admire it all while chilling out aboard a dhow.

From here, drive on to see Al Bidyah Mosque dating back to 1446 AD, was the oldest in U A E. It was built along with the two watch towers overlooking the Mosque at the ancient historical Al Bidyah village on the hillside between the Gulf & the Hajar Mountains. The Mosque also known as the "Ottoman Mosque" continues to host daily prayers for the village & is a tourist attraction.

In September 2018, the ruins of another 1000 year-old Mosque dating back to the Islamic Golden Age were discovered near Al Ain in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

The engineering features are a major accomplishment for the period of construction. The Mosque consists of a Prayer Hall with a prayer niche or Mihrab, pulpit, arches & openings. A central pillar divides the internal space in to 4 squares of similar dimensions. The pillar supports all 4 domes that can be seen from the exterior. The internal decoration of the mosque combines stone carvings, openings for ventilation & light with special cube-shaped spaces carved into the thick walls where copies of the Holy Quran & other books are stored.

Now, it is time to leave Fujeirah. Cross the border into Sharjah to visit Khor Fakkan located on the east coast of the UAE midway between Dibba Al Hisn & Fujairah along the Gulf of Oman.

The name Khor Fakkan translates to ‘Creek of the Two Jaws’ reflecting its setting in a splendid bay flanked on either side by two headlands.

Khor Fakkan is not without its charms, especially along its well-maintained Corniche, which runs the full length of the waterfront. Situated north of the town centre is a long stretch of sandy beach backed by a promenade that runs alongside the Khor Fakkan Bay against the backdrop of the dramatic Hajar Mountains & is a pleasant place to wander. The Beach has a thriving coral reef, which is a testament to the government's conservation efforts. (If time permits, you may try indulge in Snorkeling & Diving | extra charge – not included)

15 kilometres inland from Khor Fakkan, there is Wadi Wurrayah, a biodiverse mountain area, which features an all year round pool with a seasonal waterfall. Popular with the locals, it is accessible by 4 wheel drive vehicle only.

The Portuguese were amongst the first Europeans to arrive on the Arabian Peninsula. After Vasco de Gamma's successful circumnavigation of the Cape of Good Hope, the Portuguese arrived in the Arabian Gulf in 1498.

Persians seized Khor Fakkan in 1622 but were ejected in 1623 by Ruy Freire de Andrade, Portuguese commander of Forts in Muscat. Shortly after, the Portuguese were displaced by Arab forces under Nasir ibn Murshid, Imam of Oman. Archaeological sites include ancient graves & a ruined Portuguese fort.

The city, though, is dominated by its super-busy ever expanding container terminal & deep-sea port. At times, an entire armada of ships can be seen on the horizon, queuing to dock, unload or refuel.

The German submarine U-533 sank about 25 miles off the coast on 16 October 1943 during World War II. Divers found the wreck at a depth of 108 metres in 2009.

After spending time on the Beach, continue driving to Sharjah.

Arrive by evening & Check-in at the hotel.

Balance of the evening is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions).

"Smile you're in Sharjah!"  A common slogan used around the city to describe the family friendly atmosphere of the city.

Sharjah is the 3^rd largest & also the 3^rd most populous city in the United Arab Emirates, forming part of the Dubai-Sharjah-Ajman metropolitan area.

While Dubai is all about flashy tall buildings & shop-till-you-drop malls, Sharjah takes a more subtle approach, forgoing glitz to concentrate on culture & history.

Sharjah is known as the cultural & literature hub of the U A E & the city is rooted in its Arabic & Islamic heritage with many Ummayyad & Abbasid styled public buildings (all designed by the present Shaikh himself - a qualified architect), offering a glimpse of Arabic & Islamic environment in an otherwise largely westernized country.

In contrast to Abu Dhabi & Dubai, Sharjah offers visitors a vastly larger view into Arabic & Islamic Art, Literature & Architecture as well as Libraries, Islamic Museums & Cultural Centers.

Some travellers are put off by its conservative reputation (the Emirate is 'dry'; no alcohol is available anywhere), but if you can handle a day or two without a beer, Sharjah is home to some of the best Museums & Art galleries in the country: the restored Sharjah Heritage Area & the mind-bogglingly vast history of the Mleiha Archaeological Site.

Sharjah is doing more than the other Emirates to preserve its heritage & consequently UNESCO declared it Cultural Capital of the Arab World in 1998, a recognition reaffirmed in 2014, when it became Capital of Islamic Culture.

Sharjah is very closely connected to Dubai through the Dubai-Sharjah-Ajman metropolitan area, with commuter traffic creating ‘serious’ rush hour traffic jams.

Once you have penetrated the traffic-clogged outskirts of town, the historic old town is easy to navigate on foot. You will need several hours to explore the heritage & arts areas, the Souqs & excellent Museums

The city has many green parks, apartment complexes & a very large community multi-ethnic community of Arabs & about 100 + other nationalities making the city an effective cultural meeting pot.

One caveat: Sharjah takes its decency laws very seriously, so do dress modestly. That means no exposed knees, backs or bellies - & that goes for both men & women. It is also the only Emirate that is 'dry' (no alcohol is available anywhere).

Morning, Check-out, meet the Tour-guide at 08.00 am & proceed for a 4 hour sightseeing tour of the city.

Sharjah city is definitely worth a visit: all tours start at the marvellously (& aptly) named Cultural Roundabout, where mock-Renaissance buildings housing various Museums encircle the, yes, roundabout.

Drive by the cultural square, a key highlight of the many tourist places in Sharjah.

The Cultural Square features a 14 metre high pedestal with a sculpture of the Holy Quran. Designed by Spanish sculptor Marinas Rubias, it is the centerpiece of the Roundabout in the Square, representing the spiritual heart of the city. The Sculpture is encircled by a number of stately buildings illustrating typical Islamic architecture. These buildings are of prominence in UAE history, particularly the Ruler’s Office & the Ahmad Bin Hanbal Mosque. There is also the Cultural Palace, a venue for concerts & events.

First stop will be Natural History & Botanical Museum & Arabian Wildlife Centre, deep in the desert.

Travel back in time to the dawn of early species. Among all the places to visit in Sharjah, this Centre located in Sharjah Desert Park, spread over 1 km² offering the most comprehensive information on species & ecosystems in the Arabian Peninsula.

The Natural History Museum has displays of fossils, meteorites, taxi-dermic displays of rare animals & desert ecosystems. The Museum provides people of all ages with an opportunity to learn about the flora & fauna of the Arabian Desert & has 5 main exhibition halls: A Journey through Sharjah, Man & the Environment, A Journey through Time, The Living Desert & The Living Sea.

Take an incredible journey through time at this interactive, high tech Museum. Different halls show the region’s natural history, with displays of desert & marine ecosystems. Go back in time to encounter dinosaur models, erupting volcanoes, prehistoric fossils & meteorites from outer space.

The Islamic Botanical Garden also has nearly 100 different species of native plants, making it one of the most florally diverse parks in Sharjah.

The Arabian Wildlife Centre showcases the rich diversity of fauna in the Arabian Peninsula as well as teaching about species which have become, and are becoming, extinct.  It contains more than 100 species of animals, and is divided into a reptile & insect house, aviary, nocturnal houses, viewing area and a section for large predators & monkeys. It also features a breeding centre for endangered animals & a petting zoo in the children’s area

Return to the city & stop at Corniche Al Buhaira for a walk along the waterfront.

The Sharjah Heritage district is near the Corniche between Burj Avenue & Al-Maraija Road. Many historic buildings have been reconstructed with traditional materials & the most interesting sites are Al Hisn Fort, Literature Square with House of Poetry, Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Sharjah Heritage Museum & Souq al-Arsa.  Pertinent to note that most sites in the Heritage Area have opening times set aside solely for women. Separate time for males.

Move on to the 80,000sqm Souk al-Markazi (Central Market), popularly known as the Blue Souk (because of the blue tiles on the outside walls) - the main shopping hub & one of the most impressive landmarks of Sharjah.

The 2 floor building has been designed by the British architects Michael Lyle & Partners, based on the ideas & guidance of the Ruler of Sharjah, HH Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi & was completed in 1978. The architecture captures the character of a traditional bazaar on a grand scale. Located on the shore of the Khalid Lagoon, it is most beautiful at sunset, seen across the water.

The Central Souk consists of two large buildings, interconnected by bridges, with exuberant vaults & a unique skyline of 20 wind-towers. An interesting, if slightly chaotic, shopping centre hosting around 600 shops in 2 wings.  

There are more than 600 shops, selling gold, jewelry, gems, perfumes, souvenirs & gifts, as well as electronics, clothes, cosmetics, household & other goods. The ground floor shops tend to stock gold & expensive designer clothes, with the upper level containing shops stocking carpets & curios from as far afield as Afghanistan & Tibet. Haggling over prices in the upper-level shops will frequently attract massive discounts..

The Sharjah tour finishes & you leave the Emirate & drive on to Dubai.

Check-in at the hotel & freshen up.

Later in the afternoon at 03.30 pm, depart for an exciting 6 hour experience in the desert.

You will be picked up for an interesting journey with several photo-stops during an exciting drive over the Sand Dunes, during the Desert Safari experience.

You reach the Desert after about an hour of driving.

The desert adventure begins with a 20 minute adrenaline-pumping speed- ride, cascading over steep golden sand dunes in a 4 X 4 vehicles, dune bashing, going up & down  seeing the sand sweeping around your vehicle driven by a highly skilled driver provoking many shrieks & excited laughter. (Guests can also opt for one of two optional upgrades - 20 minute quad bike or dune buggy ride - not included, extra payment)

The drive continues across the desert to the tented Bedouin campsite in the middle of the desert, where you will have the opportunity to do something adventurous. You can enjoy a thumping 20 minute Camel ride. You will get a chance to witness a memorable sight - the true Arabian sunset in the desert with its glory & magic. You may even visit a Camel Farm if there is one not too far away from Campsite.

And now the finale.

As you enter the richly decorated Arabic tents (majlis), you would be accorded a traditional welcome with Arabic tea, coffee & dates. The Tents with Persian rugs & traditional accessories are set up to create a typical Bedouin camp under the stars. Relax sitting on the plush carpeted floor, while the traditional oven is lit in preparation of the dinner. Ladies can try out the traditional Arabic costumes & get a henna tattoo on hands or feet & click pictures with the falcon.

After working up an appetite, enjoy a sumptuous 3 Course Barbecue Buffet Dinner prepared on open fires, includes a variety of veg. & non-veg options including appetizers, main-course, grilled seafood & something sweet too, accompanied with a variety of salad & soft drinks.

Enjoy a flavored shisha (the famous Arabic water pipe) & drinking traditional Arabic coffee while you watch a captivating belly dancer gyrating around the campfire by starlight. The tempo of the Tannoura music increases as a she starts gyrating to the rhythm of the band.

Watch the sun setting on the desert, a truly magnificent sight. What better way to experience a true Arabian night than this? The desert safari provides plenty of great photo opportunities, so keep your camera ready.

Drive back to the hotel by around 10.00 pm.

Alas, like all good things, the wonderful experience comes to an end. Time to say good-bye to the enchanting Emirates & go home. But, we sure hope that you may want to discover a bit more of this modern wonder, which was entirely a bleak desert 50 years back, on your next visit.

But your journey continues. And now, you will fly next door to enjoy a 7,000 year old civilisation, the locale for original Christian legacy & mentioned countless times in the Bible.    

Check-out of the hotel by 12:00 noon (if the departure time is later in the evening, we will request the hotel to allow the usage of the hotel facilities & to leave the luggage at the Bell Desk). 

In time, you will be met by a Journeys Rep, who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to Dubai International Airport for your onward flight to Beirut. 

Arrive in vibrant Beirut - the capital & largest city of Lebanon was once the self-proclaimed "Paris of the Middle East", kind of where East-meets-West in the Middle East.

Middle East is a grand epic, a cradle of civilisations and a beautiful, complicated land that's home to some of the planet's most hospitable people.

Welcome to mystical Lebanon the diminutive Mediterranean nation, a fascinating nexus point of many civilizations, whose traces may still be seen today, & the West; of Christianity & Islam; of tradition & modernity. Prepare to fall in love.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? - Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the hotel. He / she will provide assistance during Check-in & will discuss the program for the next couple of days & offer tips in case you want to explore independently during your leisure time.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel.

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the day is at leisure to relax or independent exploration or optional activities (We shall be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements). 

Beirut is the perfect destination for seasoned travellers: here, East and West intertwine in intricate ways, creating a city so magnetic that few are able to resist its powerful draw. Much has changed over the latter half of the 20^th century - Beirut rising to become glitterati central in the 60s but falling from grace during the bloody Civil War – but the city is alive and kicking, enticing travellers with superb gastronomy, the Middle East's most vibrant nightlife & a close proximity to the ancient towns of Byblos & Baalbek.

Fast-paced, fashion-conscious & overwhelmingly friendly, it is not a relaxing city to spend time in – it is too crowded, polluted & chaotic for that - but its energy, soul, diversity & intoxicating atmosphere make it a vital, addictive city.

Beirut was seen as the "European gateway to the Middle East" & vice versa & was often called the "Paris of the Middle East".

The city is on a relatively small headland jutting into the east Mediterranean. Due to Lebanon's small size, the capital has always held the status as the only true cosmopolitan city in the country & ever since Independence, has been the commercial, financial & tourist hub of the Middle East. It was a top destination among wealthy Arabs & European tourists, due to Beirut's unique geography, climate, diverse culture & freedom.

Since the end of the war in 1989, Beirut has undertaken an aggressive rebuilding policy & has been working hard to regain its status as the cultural & intellectual center in the Middle East which it has lost to Cairo as well as a center for commerce, fashion & media which is now dominated by Dubai,

Beirut has survived a rough history, falling under the occupation of one empire after another. Originally named Berut - "The Wells" by the Phoenicians, Beirut's history goes back more than 5000 - 7000 years. Excavations in the downtown area have unearthed layers of Phoenician, Hellenistic, Roman, Arab & Ottoman civilizations. Following World War II, Lebanon gained its independence from France & Beirut became its capital in 1943.

Most areas of Beirut have a friendly atmosphere & Beirutis have a reputation for being very polite, friendly, sociable & outgoing. The locals are used to the sight of foreigners & many of them are happy to get to know you & even to show you around the city. Many Beirutis (as well as other Lebanese) speak French & / or English, to varying degrees, along with Arabic.

It still has an outdoor cafe culture & the city offers some of the best night life in the whole region. Going out at night is a smart affair, so dress fashionably to fit in, although this does not mean dressing up in a suit; you will find many men in sporty t-shirts, dark jeans & smart running shoes at even the trendiest nightclubs. Many live concerts are held throughout the year with international musicians & DJ's & Beirut has hosted some of the world’s biggest names in Dance music.

European architecture can be found everywhere & each district has its own sights & places to visit. A couple of excellent museums are the key sights, but exploring the character of the different districts, strolling the waterfront & diving into the city's wonderful restaurant & nightlife scene are major attractions.

As Lebanon is so small & day trips easy, some travellers stay here for their entire visit. Visit the national heritage sites around Lebanon; every city in the country has at least some form of ancient or historic site.

Once you leave Beirut, visit any of the other cities in Lebanon. Depending on the season visiting, you can go skiing in one the six mountain resorts, or go to the beaches in Tyr or one of the beach resorts in Jounieh.

Lebanon is famous for its food & in spite of the increasing influence of Western & other cuisine, there is an appreciation of farm work & Lebanese cultural food heritage. Lebanese cuisine is a mix of Arab, Turkish & Mediterranean influences, and enjoys a worldwide reputation for its richness & variety as well as its Mediterranean health factor. Lebanon is a great country to eat vegan since many dishes, especially those part of Mezze, are traditionally made without animal ingredients. Not to speak about the delicious fresh fruit & veg. Some of the sweets are also vegan, depending on the confectioner.

Lebanon is well known for being a vacation destination for the people of the Persian Gulf, many of whom wear the traditional hijab. However, many Lebanese are rather liberal in comparison to the people of Lebanon's neighboring countries - short skirts, high heels & bikinis are a regular sight.

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 08.00 am & embark on 4 hour ‘walking’ sightseeing of the city.

Beirut is a hub of culture & history. The city has survived the ravages of time & war, but there is still much See ‘some’ of the city’s top attractions while discovering how Beirut was built on a rocky headland and its rise & fall over the centuries.

Start at the Corniche, the wide seaside promenade in Avenue des Français which was built during the period of the French Mandate of Syria & Lebanon. Lined with palm trees whose trunks are pockmarked with bullet holes from the Lebanese Civil War, the Waterfront has views of the Mediterranean & the summits of Mount Lebanon to the east. The Corniche is a popular destination for walkers, joggers & bikers. Push cart vendors offer various local snacks & drinks.

South of the Corniche is the historical Raouche, a residential & commercial neighborhood known for its upscale apartment buildings, numerous restaurants & cliff-side cafes that line Avenue de Paris.

Off the coast of Raouche, there are 2 huge 60 meter high natural rock formations called the Pigeons' Rock which stand like gigantic sentinels. These impressive limestone outcrops were formed after a very big earthquake that hit the area in the 13^th century. Raouche also is claimed to be the remains of a sea monster the Greek hero Perseus killed to save Andromeda. Perseus used Medusa’s head on the monster to turn it into stone.

A prime selfie territory & a Beirut landmark, it is considered a Lebanese natural treasure. This is a very romantic spot, especially during sunset. A couple of cliff-top restaurants & cafes here where you can sit with a shisha or beer & enjoy panoramic views of the Bay & famous Pigeon’s Rock.

Next stop on your ‘walking’ tour will be the National Museum of Beirut, the principal museum of archaeology in Lebanon where you can begin to understand the civilisations that have shaped Lebanon (from outside only. Entry not included). 

The Museum is located at the end of the Green Line that demarcated the city during the civil war (& for those 15 years the museum was closed & its facade suffering serious damage throughout the conflict). 

The collection begun after World War I & the Museum was officially opened in 1942. The collections total about 100,000 objects, most of which are antiquities & medieval finds from excavations undertaken by the Directorate General of Antiquities. About 1300 artifacts are exhibited, ranging in date from prehistoric times to the medieval Mamluk period. During the 1975 Lebanese Civil War, the Museum stood on the front line that separated the warring factions.

The Museum's Egyptian Revival building & its collection suffered extensive damage in the war, but most of the artifacts were saved by last-minute pre-emptive measures. Today, after a major renovation, the National Museum has regained its former position, especially as a leading collector for ancient Phoenician objects.

The displays include sarcophagi from the Phoenician period to ornate mosaics from the Roman city of Baalbek.  A short video is played every hour exactly, illustrating the history of the Museum, especially the damage during the civil war, measures undertaken to protect the antiquities & the later restoration procedure with original video footage from that era.

Moving further down the Green Line, walk through the city center Nejmeh Square where you will see one of the largest reconstruction projects in the world, to  an important landmark in Lebanese history, the Martyrs’ Square - a popular spot for protest & civil gathering in Downtown, dedicated to those who were executed during Ottoman rule.

First constructed in 1931, the monument has remained relevant due to the repeated political assassinations during Lebanon’s recent rocky political history. Originally, it was an open space beyond the Ottoman city’s walls & was named ‘Sahat Al Burj’ - or ‘Tower Square’ - because it was marked by ‘Burj Al Kashef’. Under the French mandate however, it became a modernized meeting place with kiosks, a tramway & souks

From colonialism to Civil War & occupation, the Square was used as a point that divided the city into East & West Beirut to indicate opposing sects. Subsequently, the spot was completely destroyed as buildings & statues fell to ruin under the rain of bullets & bombings. Beirut has experienced a lot of strife for its size & Martyrs’ Square is one of the most iconic illustrations.

In 1930, a sculpture of a Muslim & Christian woman holding hands over a coffin adorned the Square. It was designed by local artist Youssef Hoyek as a testament to the locals coming together at a time of strife. The initial statue was changed in 1956 & the current stone’s monument designed by Italian artist, Marino Mazzacurati was inaugurated in 1960.

See the Mohammad Al Amin Mosque, which resembles the Blue Mosque in Istanbul & with its 65 metres tall minarets, it is a very useful navigation tool!

Walking in the Downtown district, see the huge reconstruction project-taking place to create a new commercial & residential district of the 21^st century.  Much of the city has been rebuilt since the war ended but there are plenty of reminders of the 15 year civil war that Lebanon lived through. Pass the bullet-ridden Holiday Inn which still stands, with talks of demolishing the building or preserving it still taking place.

This Project has actually discovered that the capital is standing on the site of a very ancient settlement going back at least 5,000 years. Recent excavations have uncovered important archaeological sites from Canaanite, Phoenician & Persian, Roman, Byzantine, Omayyad, Abbassid, Crusader, Mamluke & Ottoman eras.

The ‘walking’ tour concludes & you return to the hotel or continue exploring on your own.

Afternoon is at leisure.

Early evening around 05.00 pm, get ready for an exciting 4 hour ‘culinary’ experience with a Lebanese family home.

Delve into the world-famous Lebanese cuisine & eat more than your fair share of tabbouleh, hummus, falafel & Mujaddara. Lebanese food is appreciated all over the world, but nowhere is it better than in Lebanon itself.

Head to Aramoun, a suburb outside Beirut where Amal’s traditionally classic home, surrounded by gardens & other lovely residential homes, is located,

Amal is a civil engineer, wife & mother of 2 daughters, currently attending university. Amal learned most of her cooking skills when she started helping her talented mother in the kitchen at an early age. Amal says she was fortunate to learn the secrets of traditional Lebanese cooking from her mother who had family recipes passed down from her mother, Amal’s grandmother. Amal loves to cook & share traditional Lebanese dishes with friends & family. And she loves introducing Lebanon & the indomitable Lebanese cuisine to foreigners. Guests may get to meet Amal’s cosmopolitan family & have a truly multi-generational Lebanese experience discussing diverse subjects from food & history to politics. Everyone speaks English & French.

Your cooking lesson takes place in Amal’s traditional home with stone walls, fireplace, arcades, large windows overlooking orange groves & a lovely terrace with views of the capital.

 (If you are interested in learning to make a ‘specific’ dish, she will be happy to oblige although it will extend the cooking time).

After Amal greets you with a warm smile & a refreshing drink, she will introduce you to the history of Lebanese cuisine. She is a skillful cook who has a flair for teaching as she puts together a dish.

Proceed to the kitchen where you will help Amal & her mother in preparing 3 - 4 dishes. In keeping with Mediterranean food culture, Amal loves incorporating generous amounts of olive oil & lemon juice in her dishes.

If the weather permits (not during the rainy season), Amal will take you to the extensive garden in the back to pick vegetables & fruits before your cooking class begins. Her parents grow all the fruits & vegetables they serve to family & guests. They also make their own vinegar from the grapes

During the hour long interactive class in the kitchen, you will also learn to cook an authentic Lebanese appetizer, salad & dessert created from family recipes using traditional Lebanese cooking techniques & fresh ingredients. Condiments like garlic, tahini, lemon juice & labna, along with salt & pepper are liberally used.

You can help Amal put the meat & vegetables through the grinder or keep busy making the stuffing for the kibbee.

Your menu might include dishes such as chickpeas in a lemon, olive oil & garlic sauce, tabouli (bulghur wheat, vegetable & parsley salad), kibbi (minced meat with herbs & nuts) and mtabal (grilled eggplant mashed with tahini). There will be freshly picked & squeezed pomegranate juice & plates of pickled vegetables.

And finally, it is time to ‘reap what you sow’ (eating what you just cooked). Get to know each other a bit as you sit down to savour the sumptuous & authentically Lebanese meal, that you just helped prepare, washed down with a couple of glasses of arak The dining table is usually covered with appetizers, salads, main dishes, fresh & pickled vegetables, olives & bread.

After the main meal, you will move to the family room to have coffee, tea, fresh fruits & the iconic Maakaroun cookies (a dessert of deep fried semolina fingers soaked in rose water & sugar syrup).

Time to say good-bye to your new friends.

Reach the hotel by 10.00 pm.

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 07.00 am & embark on a full day 10 hour excursion to see the jewel in Lebanon's ancient crown - the city of Baalbek located east of the Litani River in Beqaa Valley,

Rich & fascinating, the plain of the Bekaa Valley was the inevitable pathway between North Syria & Palestine frequented by both caravans & invaders.

The Bekaa Valley, known in ancient times as “the breadbasket” or “granary” of the Roman Empire, is still the country's main agricultural region. Located on a high plateau between the country's two mountain ranges, the river-fed Bekaa supports the production of tomatoes, potatoes, wheat, olives & grapes, even despite summers that are hot & dry.

Today, the plains of Bekaa are considered as the widest agricultural area in Lebanon, scattered with farms, villages, fields & vines which form a multicolored carpet. The roads are often cut by tractors and grazing sheep & goats on the roadside. Always keep a camera handy because amazing sights await you all the way round.

The Bekaa is renowned for its numerous archaeological sites including the great temples of Baalbek. Perhaps, because of the region's agricultural importance in feeding the inhabitants of the Roman Empire, some of the largest Roman temples ever constructed were erected at this site. The construction lasted over 200 years. Bekaa's major attractions are the ruins at Baalbek & Byblos with their well-preserved temples honoring Jupiter & Venus, among many. Though you will see Hezbollah’s yellow flag fluttering around Baalbek, you will find the locals (a mixture of Christians & Shiites) are a very welcoming lot.

But people also visit the area for its famous delicious restaurants. In fact, if you appreciate the Lebanese cuisine, you will quickly realize that the dishes of the Bekaa differ from those of Beirut, notably the frog’s paws & grilled birds which are very popular in the area.

Though less agriculturally productive than in centuries past because of a combination of deforestation & poor crop planning, Bekaa's plentiful Vineyards have gained an international reputation for their wines.

Step back to the time of 15 BC, when Baalbek was a significant cultural center.

Known as the Heliopolis or ‘Sun City’ during the ancient Greek & Roman times, Baalbek’s incredible ruins comprise the most impressive ancient site on a hill in the Bekaa valley in modern day Lebanon & are arguably the best preserved in the Middle East. The Temples here, built on an extravagant scale, have enjoyed a stellar reputation throughout the centuries yet still manage to maintain the appealing air of an undiscovered wonder because of their semi-rural setting.

Baalbek temple is known to the world as a monumental 2 thousand-year old temple to Jupiter that sits atop 3 thousand ton stone blocks. But is there more to this ancient shrine that meets the eye? What if it has a completely unexpected origin?

The construction of the expansive temples was begun by the Phoenicians between 3 & 4 thousand years ago. The Greeks then added to it, followed by the Romans & much later the Arabs. Local legend has it that the temple was originally built by people “from the East”.

As early as 9000 BC, Temple in Baalbek was a place for worship & became a cornerstone of ancient civilizations. As significant holy grounds, Baalbek was a center for Mesopotamian, Roman, Christian & Islamic worship as each group introduced their own heritage to this sacred monument.

Up until 150 BC, the site was a temple dedicated to the Phoenician Astarte & Baal. It is not hard to imagine that the wreaths & sacrifices carried out for Astarte the goddess of fertility & war were then shifted to Venus during the Roman colonization.

Subsequently, the temples were brought into the Christian era with Constantine the Great’s influence on the Roman Empire. That is up until 637 AD when Islamic rule led to the use of the site as a reinforced fortress & a Mosque was added.

The Temple ruins stand tall as an archaeological wonder with towering monuments & impressive columns. Subsequently, the Temple was brought into the Christian era with Constantine the Great’s influence on the Roman Empire. That is up until 637 AD when Islamic rule led to the use of the site as a reinforced fortress & a Mosque was added.

The decline of these ruins began when the Temple passed to the Ottoman Empire when it was abandoned & left in ruins. In addition, earthquakes, storms & natural forces continued to tear the site apart until 1898. That year marked a visit from the German Emperor Wilhelm II, who pioneered the attempt of restoring Baalbek & preserving it.

In terms of architecture, the greatest temples at the UNESCO Heritage listed site are the Temples of Jupiter, Bacchus & Venus. The sheer magnitude of these have created something of a puzzle for archaeologists as they continuously theorize as to how rocks of this grandeur could have been carved & assembled. For example, the Temple of Jupiter is surrounded by 54 columns which stand at nearly 23 meters high & are considered some of the largest in the world. The Temple of Bacchus stands out from the rest as it is so well preserved & is adorned with beautiful carvings that date back to the Roman Empire.

Today, the ruins of Baalbek still stand as one of Lebanon’s most prized historical treasures. The place is always alive with music festivals & folklore-related activities. Tourists & locals alike flock for the chance of seeing the picturesque sunset behind those ancient columns. Walking through this sacred site, one can’t help but picture all the different peoples who have worshiped here at the alter of their Gods.

Spend a couple of hours exploring this ancient wonder.

Walk through the town to one of the world's finest remaining examples of Roman architecture. Entering through the forecourt into the remains of the Hexagonal court you can begin to imagine the city at its peak. The Temple of Bacchus is without doubt the highlight of the site with its ornately decorated stonework, niches & columns surrounding an ancient theatre.

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the vicinity before leaving for Lebanon’s oldest Winery - Chateau Ksara.

Bekaa Valley has evolved into a major wine-making region, with more than 30 Vineyards scattered along its wide, fertile expanses. It has been famous, over the centuries, for being the agricultural heart of the Middle East.

Vineyards were commercially exploited here by the sea-faring ancestors of the modern Lebanese, the Canaanites who introduced viticulture to Greece, Egypt & Italy.

The Greeks named them ‘Phoenicians’ after the purple dye (‘phoinikeia’) they made from seashells. Famed for being able to revive their cities rapidly after destruction, the Phoenicians inspired the legend of the Phoenix.

A ‘biblical land’ because Jesus performed his first miracle in the village of Cana near the southern port of Tyre, turning water into wine, Lebanon was also where the mighty Roman Empire chose the Bekaa Valley to build the Temple of Bacchus (God of wine) in Baalbeck, The region’s wines are mentioned many times in the Bible (as in Hosea 14:7),

Chateau Ksara has an interesting origin.

In 1857, Jesuit monks inherited & began farming a 25 hectare plot of land. Resident priest Father Kirn recognized the potential of Ksara’s terroir & convinced the other priests that it should be used to grow grapes for viticulture.  It was Kirn & his fellow Monks who applied their agricultural knowledge & set out to produce Lebanon’s “first dry wine,” & with that, lay the foundation of Lebanon’s modern wine industry.

A grotto dating back to the Roman era was unearthed. Until then, good cellars had been hard to come by. When it became apparent that the caves were ideal for keeping wine at the correct temperature, the priests celebrated their good fortune. Chateau Ksara’s 2 kilometers of caves have played a central role in the success of the Winery as they maintain a constant temperature & hygrometry throughout the year, providing the ideal conditions for the ageing of wines.

In 1973, the Vatican encouraged its Monasteries & missions around the world to sell off any commercial assets. By then, Chateau Ksara was producing 1.5 million bottles annually. But the Monks’ success was now deemed to be at odds with their religious merit & subsequently, Chateau Ksara was sold to a consortium of local businessmen.

In 1991, Chateau Ksara planted noble grapes, namely Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay & Merlot. No one – at least the local farmers - believed these grapes would survive in Bekaa’s relatively untested terroir, unaware that they would in fact grow & thrive to their fullest potential.

The Winery celebrated its 150^th anniversary in 2007 just as it begun a significant expansion program. To mark the occasion, the Estate created & released its most refined bottle of wine to date: Le Souverain.

From its founding in 1857, Chateau Ksara Estate lives & grows through the core values of Tradition, Nobility & Modernity, as the country’s oldest winery & continues their unique, centuries-old practice of winemaking. They also implement the modern innovative processes & continue leading the winemaking in Lebanon for generations to come.

The Middle East’s first Observatory was established at Ksara so that the monks could record rainfall & seismic activity. The building, which was to become a strategic Bekaa landmark in times of both peace & war & to have a wine named in its honour - the Blanc de L’Observatoire.

Chateau Ksara brands are the most popular in Lebanon & also a favourite among the large Lebanese diaspora all over the world. Producing approximately 3 million bottles annually, it exports to more than 42 countries, including North America.

You will be welcomed by the staff & accorded a tour in a toy train of the Vineyards before walking inside the historic 2 km long Roman caves, where their rare & finest vintages are stored. You can partake in a wine tasting session, an experience full of history, tradition & passion.

Visit the Winery shop & discover their acclaimed & highly rated current releases & exclusive offerings, from rare collectibles to extensive collection of wines & spirits.

The visit concludes & you drive back to Beirut.

Balance of the day at leisure for independent explorations or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestion and make arrangements). 

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 07.00 am & embark on another full day 10 hour excursion to discover more of the ancient heritage located east of the Litani River in Beqaa Valley in South of Lebanon.

First stop will be Byblos, a vital commercial port & culture center.

A visit to Byblos is a chance to walk through the annals of Lebanese history & experience first-hand the diverse cultures that have made this area a mosaic of civilizations. Byblos is not simply a picturesque seaside town, but has a history that has been closely tied to the Mediterranean for millennia.

“Byblos” is Greek for papyrus. The Bible was named for Byblos as it was known as “the papyrus book.”

Possibly one of the most iconic cities in Lebanon, UNESCO World Heritage listed Byblos dubbed one of the world’s oldest, continuously inhabited cities dating as far back as 8000 - 7000 BC, is a favourite among locals & tourists alike. Located on a sandstone cliff on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, it was the first city built by the Phoenicians.

A wealthy colony, the pretty fishing port with an ancient harbour, Byblos plied its trade from the sea through fishing, shipping & trade. Many Egyptian artifacts have been found around Byblos, so historians believe Byblos maintained a healthy trade relationship with Egypt.

Because Byblos was the chief harbour for the export of cedar & other valuable wood to Egypt, it soon became a great trading centre. Egyptian monuments & inscriptions found on the site attest to close relations with the Nile River valley throughout the second half of the 2^nd millennium. During Egypt’s 12^th dynasty (1938 - 1756 BC), Byblos again became an Egyptian dependency & the chief goddess of the city, Baalat (“The Mistress”), with her well-known temple at Byblos, was worshiped in Egypt. After the collapse of the Egyptian New Kingdom in the 11^th century BC, Byblos became the foremost city of Phoenicia.

The origin of our contemporary alphabet was discovered in Byblos with the most ancient Phoenician inscription carved on the sarcophagus of Ahiram. Archaeologists have also found artifacts dating to 1200 BC, which show the existence of earliest known inscriptions using the 22 character alphabet used by the Phoenicians at the time.

Experts have discovered evidence of the first currency in Byblos around 332 BC, assumed to have been brought over with the arrival of Alexander the Great. Between the 4^th & 13^th centuries, Byblos bounced between Christianity & Muslim rule during the various crusades. From early 1500’s until 1918, Byblos was part of the Ottoman Empire. From 1920 until 1943 Byblos was under French Mandate & finally in 1943, Lebanon - & Byblos - achieved independence.

Modern archaeological excavations have revealed that Byblos was occupied at least by the Neolithic Period & that during the 4^th millennium BC an extensive settlement developed there. The ruins today consist of the Crusader fortifications & gates; a Roman colonnade & small theatre; Phoenician ramparts, three major temples, a necropolis & remains of Neolithic dwellings.

The ruins of many successive civilizations are found at Byblos, one of the oldest Phoenician cities. Inhabited since Neolithic times, it has been closely linked to the legends & history of the Mediterranean region for thousands of years. The evolution of the town is evident in the structures that are scattered around the site, dating from the different periods, including the medieval town intra-muros & antique dwellings.

Byblos is a testimony to a history of uninterrupted construction from the first settlement by a community of fishermen dating back 8000 years, through the first town buildings, the monumental temples of the Bronze Age, to the Persian fortifications, the Roman road, Byzantine churches, the Crusader citadel & the Medieval & Ottoman town with souqs, khans, mosque, houses.

Known locally as Jbeil, is a progressive city that embraces its cultural history. Tourism is now one of the major industries for this ancient port & Byblos is re-emerging as a premiere Mediterranean destination.

Easily accessible on an enjoyable day trip from Beirut, with good accommodation & eating options & a lively party scene in an atmospheric archaeological site, Byblos makes a likeably hedonistic & very popular place that packs out in summer. Although Byblos is beautiful all year round but the best time to visit is during Byblos International Festival which takes place on a beautiful stage rebuilt every year above the water especially for this occasion with spectacular scenery overlooking the castle and the old town

Walk to the 12^th century Castle built by the Crusaders, a monument that is part of the city’s rich history. A palimpsest of cultures, the Castle was built using remnants of Roman structures & was previously surrounded by a moat. The Castle is flanked by numerous Roman, Egyptian & Phoenician structures, as well as the city’s port.

The visit to the site begins by turning toward the left, to the east of the Crusades Castle. From the Roman pathway, columns appear. The main gate that dates to the 3^rd millennium B.C. brings into view a large skylight between two ancient stone walls.

Explore this archaeological site & take in panoramic views over the ruins & surrounding coastline from the top of the Castle's keep. The visit to the site begins by turning toward the left, to the east of the Crusader Castle. From the Roman pathway, columns appear. The main gate that dates to the 3^rd millennium B.C. brings into view a large skylight between two ancient stone walls.

The Castle is the main attraction here but there are ruins in various stages of decay dating as far back as the Bronze Age & the site is an excellent example of the many reigns of power that have ruled this area over the millennium.

Move to Saint John-Marc Cathedral, originally built as a Baptist church in 1115 AD by the Crusaders, the Cathedral is dedicated to the patron Saint of Byblos, Saint John-Mark, who is believed to be the first to support Christianity in the city. The church’s Roman-style arches, authenticity & towering structures make it a perfect spiritual experience among onlookers.

Another place worth visiting, if time permits, is the unique Byblos Wax Museum. The scenes depicted in the Museum take you from the Phoenician times, up until modern times. From Adonis to Gebran Kahlil Gebran, the Museum tries to encompass the city’s history in a very small place. Most locals have probably walked through its narrow halls on a school trip to the Phoenician city & many have been in awe of how well-maintained it is.

Walking through the old souks is an essential part of the Byblos experience. The cobblestone streets & old structures are reminiscent of the city’s past inhabitants, from the Egyptians to the Phoenicians.  Stroll through time surrounded by nature & well-maintained arches, full of picturesque cafes, small local shops & an amazing atmosphere with a lively party scene.

An inescapable activity, walking by the Byblos Harbour is a serene experience. What was once a hub for Phoenician trade & cultural exchange is now a quiet centre for local fishermen & tourists looking for a taste of Lebanon’s side of the Mediterranean. Be sure to stroll along the water to walk the same steps that many people have walked before you.

It is not enough to simply walk by the sea - experiencing the local cuisine while admiring the water is an essential part of the Byblos experience.

After enjoying lunch, depart for Batroun, also one of the oldest cities in the world.

A major tourist destination in North Lebanon, Batroun was a busy port in ancient times, founded by the Phoenician king Ithobaal I. Batroun was levelled by an earthquake and mudslides in AD 551 & many historians believe that the town's large natural harbour was formed at this time. Historians believe that the Greek name of the town originates from the Phoenician word, bater, which means to cut & it refers to the maritime wall that the Phoenicians built in the sea to protect them from tidal waves.

It may lack sprawling medieval souqs & handsome ancient ruins, but this small town has a semi-somnolent & highly atmospheric old neighbourhood near the water that rewards leisurely exploration.

One of Batroun's medieval archaeological sites is the Crusader citadel of Mousaylaha which is constructed on an isolated massive rock with steep sides protruding in the middle of a plain surrounded by mountains.

Under Ottoman rule, Batroun was the centre of a caza in the mutessariflik of Lebanon & the seat of a Maronite diocese, suffragan to the Maronite patriarchate. Since 1999 it has been the seat of the Maronite eparchy.  The majority of the town's residents are Christian & there are many historic churches to visit in the old town's narrow cobbled streets. It boasts historic Roman Catholic & Greek Orthodox churches.

The town is also a major beach resort with a vibrant nightlife that includes pubs & nightclubs. Citrus groves surround Batroun & the town has been famous (from the early 20^th century) for its fresh lemonade sold at the cafes & restaurants on its main street.

Biking along the Batroun coastline is also a major activity namely in late summer days. In 2009, the Batroun International Festival was born, held in July or August in the old harbor area & hosts leading local & international artists.

The majority of the town's residents are Christian & there are many historic churches to visit in the old town's narrow cobbled streets.

There's a notable Down Under connection; lots of Batroun emigrants settled there & there are plenty of Aussie accents to be heard on the streets here as the next generation visits their roots.

Spend an hour walking around the quaint town. Choose a quiet spot for a strong coffee in the old Ottoman souks.

Final stop will the famous Colonel Brewery in the city & discover the making of the Lebanese beer.

Based on the classic Czech technology, the Micro-brewery produces high quality craft beer, on a green platform and the brewing process uses only natural ingredients without any preservatives with a special Colonel Twists.

But how did it all start? Beer has long been one of Batroun's favorite drinks & that culture nurtured the Founder’s own passion for beer & motivated him finally to take up home brewing.  But home brewing was not widespread in Lebanon & that made the process hard to learn in the beginning. However, after pursuing rigorous research, attending several workshops in the UK, and touring different breweries and beer festivals in Europe, Jamil finally learned the craft & became proficient at it.

After a tour & a beer tasting, drive back to Beirut.

Reach the hotel by evening.

Balance of the day at leisure for independent explorations or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestion and make arrangements). 

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 07.00 am & embark on a full day 10 hour excursion discover more of the ancient heritage in South of Lebanon.

First stop will be Sidon, a vital commercial & administrative center in ancient times & modern. 

Lebanon is mentioned in the Bible 75 times because of the vast contribution of its people to their contemporaries & Sidon is mentioned countless times.

The people known to history as the Phoenicians originated in the Eastern Mediterranean region of the Levant  (a narrow tract of land along the coast of  today’s Syria, Lebanon & northern Israel) in the 2^nd millennium BCE (although there are signs of settlement since the Neolithic period). 

They were famed for their commercial & maritime prowess and are recognised as having established harbours, trading posts & settlements throughout the Mediterranean basin. The Phoenicians founded the coastal city-states of Byblos, Sidon, Arwad & Tyre (ancient Canaan). All were fiercely independent, rival cities & unlike the neighboring inland states, the Phoenicians represented a confederation of maritime traders rather than a defined country.

Sidon, known locally as Sayda or Saida, is the 3^rd largest city in Lebanon. The Bible describes Sidon in several passages: It received its name from the "first-born" of Canaan, the grandson of Noah (Genesis 10:15, 19). The Tribe of Zebulun has a frontier on Sidon. (Gen. 49:13). It was the first home of the Phoenicians on the coast of Canaan & from its extensive commercial relations became a "great" city. (Joshua 11:8; 19:28).  It was the mother city of Tyre 40 kilometres away.

Along with the city of Tyre, Sidon was the most powerful city-state of ancient Phoenicia & first manufactured the purple dye that was so rare & expensive that the color purple became synonymous with royalty.

Set amid thick citrus & banana groves, the rich & flourishing Phoenician port city had tight trade links to ancient Egypt & was also a globally renowned glass-making industry.

Like other Phoenician city-states, Sidon suffered from a succession of conquerors. During the Byzantine period, when the great earthquake of AD 551 destroyed most of the cities of Phoenice, Beirut's School of Law took refuge in Sidon.

Although often under Tyre's control, or forced to pay tribute to the Assyrians, Sidon recovered its status as a trading centre, only to be destroyed in 675 BC by the Assyrian king Esarhaddon. The city was eventually conquered by the Arabs & then by the Ottoman Turks. Later, it became the capital of the Persian satrapy.

Traces of Saida’s rich history can still be found all over town, with many ancient remnants. The history is very much part of everyday life. While this means that options for accommodation and eating out are fairly limited, it does offer a stronger sense of DIY exploration than some of Lebanon’s busier destinations.

Sidon is best known for its fresh fruit & its sweets (the local speciality is a crumbly cookie called senioura).

The modern form of Lebanese desserts have been influenced by Ottoman cuisine and share many similarities with other neighbouring countries. Some sweets may be more preferred regionally than then others.

There is Muhallebi, a milk pudding made with rice, milk & sugar. Like many other Lebanese desserts, it is sweetened with atar syrup & served with a garnish of assorted nuts. Barazeh, also popular in Syria are cookies with a light & crumbly texture; one size is decorated with sesame seeds & the other with pistachio. Ma'amoul are crumbly cookies filled with pistachio, walnuts or dates & Lebanese Christians serve ma'amoul with atar syrup for Easter. Sfouf is a popular cake made with semolina flour, tumeric. sweet anise infused with almonds & is a necessary inclusion during birthdays, family reunions & religious holidays

Semolina is used in the preparation of several Lebanese desserts like the pistachio-filled cookie Karabij (or aleppo cookies), flavored with mahlab & cinnamon served with natef, a topping similar to meringue. Mafroukeh is a semolina dough layered with caramel & butter, soaked in atar & served with clotted cream & assorted nuts. It can also be used to make cakes like nammoura.

Originating during the Ottoman period, Turkish Delight, also called lokum is a sweet confection made from simple ingredients of starch & sugar is now enjoyed in many countries around the world & is especially popular in the region & is traditionally served during holidays.

Pastry shops in Tripoli offer Baklava - a layered pastry filled with nuts & steeped in attar syrup (orange or rose water & sugar) along with other local specialty pastries like halawet el jibn, filled with sweetened cheese & topped with atar, pistachios, clotted cream (ashta) & rose jam.

Lebanese ice cream is popular with its Asian flavors, including amar al-din made from dried apricot paste.

Before commencing the sightseeing, you will visit a Sweet Workshop to see they are made manually, using the ancient traditional methods passed down from generations.

You will have the opportunity for a Tasting.

Then, walk around the ancient Old town that is still standing with its alleys & its Souks (markets) which have maintained their Middle Age features. Its ancient history is obscure not only for lack of archeological excavations, but also for the extensive plundering of its antiquities & ancient monuments at the end of the 19^th & beginning of the 20^th century.

Explore a unique Museum that you won’t find in too many other cities worldwide.

The thematic Soap Museum here tells the story of Soap in the Middle East. This Museum has a beautiful collection of fully restored old vaulted pieces. It allows you to discover the different stages in the production of handmade soap made from olive oil, as well as the diversity of its forms & properties.

Visitors can thus understand the techniques for cooking, drying, cutting & calibrating handmade soap. Display cases show the various utensils & objects used in the Hammams.

You can see a short 10 minute film, subtitled in French & English, featuring some Lebanese artisans who explain their way of working & their desire to transmit their know-how & their love of this craft to subsequent generations.

You may also see Saida’s magnificent Debbane Palace, one of the few remaining examples of Ottoman architecture in the city.

Debbane Palace was built by Ali Hammoud in 1721 AD as a home for the Hammouds, a family of Ottoman courtiers of Maghreb origin. Today their descendants remain prominent figures in the town. Later, it was purchased by another wealthy merchant Youssef Debbane & the family lived there for generations.

In 1978 the Debbane family was forced to leave their home with the advent of the Lebanese Civil War. Then, it became a home to Palestinian refugees who fled from the camps in the South, staying there until 1982 while Israel bombarded the area. When the Debbane family returned after the war, the house was destroyed & they started the restoration process in 2000.

The home of the Debbane family incorporates all the elements of the Arab-Ottoman dar of this period, its layout & decor drawing inspiration from monumental religious architecture, madrassahs & mosques.

The atmospheric space features typical diwans (Oriental style living rooms), a liwan (a long narrow-fronted hall), several rooms & an open-air courtyard, with the characteristic features of the Ottoman period - brown & white stripes of stone & intricate mosaic tiles making up the interior. Despite its location on the bustling streets of Saida, the house is a peaceful escape.

The Palace consisted of the ground floor accommodating some small shops, stables & a garden & a 2^nd storey with diwans, a liwan, some other rooms & an internal courtyard open to the sky.

At the top of the entrance stairs can be found traces of the door leading to the harem. 2 characteristic rooms border the east & north-east of the central courtyard.

The qaat (the main room of the house) is a perfect example of the skilful integration of decor & architecture in the style of the Syro-Egyptian Mameluke school reinterpreted & embellished by Ottoman classicism.

Interior ornamentation around the windows, doors & on some of the walls enhances & accentuates the unity of the building. In typical ablaq, the ornamentation alternates with ashlar in two colours.

In the main rooms, the bases of the arches are honeycombed (muqarnas), another decorative feature typical of the period. Mosaic panels brighten up the walls of this room as if it were hung with carpets. Each has a different design & is separated by a border.

These multi-coloured marble mosaics, which portray both Mameluke geometry & Ottoman flora, cover the lintels above the windows & the archstones overhanging the doors. The floor is likewise covered in marble mosaics & the elaborate cedar wood ceiling is carved & painted.

The current descendent Raphael Debbane transformed it from a family home into a Museum & opened it to the public.

Next, proceed to one of the most prominent historical sites in the port city is the 13^th century Sea Castle built by the crusaders as a fortress of the holy land.

There is a possibility that the island on which the Castle is built was, in fact, the location of the Phoenician King's palace & several other Phoenician monuments which were destroyed by Esarhaddon & then by natural earthquakes. This island has also served as a shelter from inside attacks on the city.

Great Sidon, Little Sidon, powerful fortresses, pastures, cisterns & fortifications are all mentioned in the Assyrian king Sennacherib's recordings of his attacks on Sidon & nearby cities.

Today, the Castle consists primarily of 2 towers connected by a wall. In the outer walls, Roman columns were used as horizontal reinforcements, a feature often seen in fortifications built on or near former Roman sites. The rectangular west tower to the left of the entrance is the better preserved of the two.

There is a large vaulted room scattered with old carved capitals & rusting cannonballs. A winding staircase leads up to the roof, where there is a small, domed Ottoman-era mosque. From the roof, there is a scenic view across the old city & fishing harbor.

The east tower isn't as well preserved & was built in two phases; the lower part dating to the Crusader period, while the upper level was built by the Mamluks. There has also been some evidence of the old Phoenician city being buried under the sea in the area surrounding the castle.

One of the most prominent historical sites in the port city is the 13^th century Sea Castle built by the crusaders as a fortress of the holy land.

There is a possibility that the island on which the Castle is built was, in fact, the location of the Phoenician King's palace & several other Phoenician monuments which were destroyed by Esarhaddon & then by natural earthquakes. This island has also served as a shelter from inside attacks on the city.

Great Sidon, Little Sidon, powerful fortresses, pastures, cisterns & fortifications are all mentioned in the Assyrian king Sennacherib's recordings of his attacks on Sidon & nearby cities.

Today, the Castle consists primarily of 2 towers connected by a wall. In the outer walls, Roman columns were used as horizontal reinforcements, a feature often seen in fortifications built on or near former Roman sites. The rectangular west tower to the left of the entrance is the better preserved of the two.

There is a large vaulted room scattered with old carved capitals & rusting cannonballs. A winding staircase leads up to the roof, where there is a small, domed Ottoman-era mosque. From the roof, there is a scenic view across the old city & fishing harbor.

The east tower isn't as well preserved & was built in two phases; the lower part dating to the Crusader period, while the upper level was built by the Mamluks. There has also been some evidence of the old Phoenician city being buried under the sea in the area surrounding the castle.

After enjoying Lunch in between, leave Sidon & depart for Tyre which was previously an island.

"One can call Tyre a city of ruins, built out of ruins".

The Phoenician culture originated in the Eastern Mediterranean region of the Levant in the 2^nd millennium BCE. The Phoenicians founded the coastal city-states of Byblos, Sidon & Tyre.

Tyre (ancient Canaan) is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, though in medieval times for some centuries, by just a tiny population. It was one of the earliest Phoenician metropolises & the legendary birthplace of Europa, her brothers Cadmus & Phoenix, as well as Carthage's founder Dido.

Tyre was particularly known for the production of a rare & extraordinarily expensive sort of purple dye, produced from the Murex shellfish. This color was, in many cultures of ancient times, reserved for the use of royalty, or at least nobility.

Tyrian purple, also known as Tyrian red, Phoenician purple, royal purple, imperial purple or imperial dye, is a reddish-purple natural dye. It is a secretion produced by several species of predatory sea snails in the family Muricidae, rock snails originally known by the name Murex. In ancient times, extracting this dye involved tens of thousands of snails & substantial labor, and as a result, the dye was highly valued.

In Phoenician mythology, the discovery of purple was credited to the pet dog of Tyros, the mistress of Tyre’s patron god Melqart. One day, while walking along the beach the couple noticed that after biting on a washed up mollusc the dog’s mouth was stained purple. Tyros asked for a garment made of the same colour & so began the famous dyeing industry.

The Siege of Tyre was orchestrated by Alexander the Great in 332 BC during his campaigns against the Persians. The Macedonian army was unable to capture the city, which was a strategic coastal base on the Mediterranean Sea, through conventional means because it was on an island & had walls right up to the sea.

The town's foundations date back to approximately 2750 BC, after which it was ruled by the Egyptians & then the famous King Hiram, under whom it prospered. Later colonised variously by the Assyrians, Neo-Babylonians, Greeks, Seleucids, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Crusaders, Mamluks & Ottomans, the settlement began to languish from the 13^th century onwards & despite many attempts, never quite recovered its former glory.

Today, Tyre is the 5^th largest city in Lebanon & has a wonderful seaside location & what are Lebanon's best, cleanest beaches (you might even swim with turtles) & extensive Roman ruins. It is a predominantly Shiite town, the power base of Hezbollah's Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah & is also home to the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission (UNIFIL).

The main sites of interest are the Arc de Triumph, the Hippodrome and the excavation bringing back to master pieces from Crusaders, Romans, Greeks & Byzantine era.

First stop is the Triumphal Arch of Tyre, one of the city’s most impressive archaeological relics. The Arch stands over a long avenue which has a Necropolis on either side & Sarcophagi dating as early as the 2^nd century BCE.

The entire complex site is named Al-Bass & along with the Arch & Necropolis are the remains for large aqueducts which carried water to the city as well as the largest, best-preserved Roman hippodrome in the world - larger even than the Circus Maximus in Rome herself.

Walk over to the numerous Aqueducts which the Romans constructed to bring water from distant sources into their cities & towns, supplying public baths, latrines, fountains & private households. And engineering marvel, Aqueducts moved water through gravity alone, being constructed along a slight downward gradient within conduits of stone, brick or concrete.

Cities & municipalities throughout the Roman Empire emulated this model & funded aqueducts as objects of public interest & civic pride, “an expensive yet necessary luxury to which all could & did, aspire.” Most Roman aqueducts proved reliable & durable; some were maintained into the early modern era & a few are still partly in use, today.

The 7km long Tyre aqueduct runs parallel to the main road to the city & passes the Hippodrome.  Apparently, the Arches form the arcade that open up to the shops along the road.

Next point is the Tyre’s Hippodrome dating back to the 2^nd century. It is 90 meters wide, 480 meters long, had a capacity of about 20,000 people & was built for Chariot races. This Hippodrome is unique because it is built of stone instead of the more usual brick. In the center was a large granite Obelisk. On both sides were meeting places for the supporters of the teams, which were called the Blues (in the western part of the hippodrome) & the Greens (in the eastern part). These were luxurious buildings, with mosaics & equipped with baths.

Although primarily meant for chariot races, the hippodrome was also used for other types of sport & it is likely that at least some of the events of the Tyrian Games were celebrated at this place.

Tyre originally consisted of 2 distinct urban centers, Tyre itself, which was on an island just off shore & the associated settlement of Ushu on the adjacent mainland. Alexander the Great connected the island to the mainland by constructing a causeway during his siege of the city, demolishing the old city to reuse its cut stone.

Depending on the available time (& the Tour-guides discretion), you can stroll in the beautiful alleys of  Tyre old streets, visit the old port, ancient houses, churches & may be, even enjoy a swim.

Time to go back to Beirut.

Reach the hotel by evening.

Balance of the day at leisure for independent explorations or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestion and make arrangements). 

After an early breakfast, meet the Tour-guide & embark on a full day excursion to see the beautiful natural wonder situated in the Nahr al-Kalb valley within the locality of Jeita, - the Jeita Grottoes -  a system of 2 separate, but interconnected, karstic limestone caves spanning an overall length of nearly 9 kilometres.

One of the world’s most amazing agglomerations of stalactites & stalagmites, Jeita Grotto is widely considered to be the pride of Lebanon & was featured as a finalist in the New 7 Wonders of Nature competition.

The Caves were inhabited by prehistoric man, with evidence suggesting that they were previously used to produce swords. Reverend William Thompson, an American missionary, is credited with the modern discovery of the caves in 1836.

To reach the Caverns, you will board a cable car & enjoy a scenic ride on the charming Ropeway enabling you to savor the panoramic view of the surrounding abundant nature!

There are 2 viewing galleries.  The lower ones are accessed by a boat, while the upper caverns can be reached on foot.  A short dreamy boat ride over a distance of some 400m from the cave’s will captivate the visitor carrying him to another world full of peace and haunting splendor. Then, a walk of some 700m will stun the visitor with the spectacular beauty of the extraordinary amazing limestone formations.

Placed at the entrance of the lower grotto, you will see one of the most enormous (with a height of 6.6.m & weighting 65 tons) & attractive statue found in Lebanon called “Guardian of time”. There is also a lovely comfortable toy train shuttling up & down the upper & lower grottoes.

Enjoying the refreshingly cool temperature, the sound of rushing water, columns & sculptures that have been formed by water and time, supported by an effective lighting system, allowing to glimpse the uppermost roofs.  

To complete the touristic experience of Jeita Grotto, a restaurant & a snack shop offers delicious Lebanese traditional cuisine & beverages.

Then, drive on to Harissa Mountains, overlooking the Bay of Jounieh. Many Lebanese make frequent pilgrimages to Harissa which gives them a good perspective of Lebanese heritage & culture.

On the 600 meter Harissa hilltop stands a painted bronze statue of the Virgin Mary with her hands outstretched toward the city.

The shrine to Our Lady of Lebanon (Notre Dame du Liban), the nation’s patron saint, was erected in 1908 & has become one of the world’s most important shrines to the Virgin Mary that attracts millions of pilgrims & visitors each year. It is also occasionally known as Our Lady of Harissa & can be compared to Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue.

Getting to the base of the white statue requires 10 minute ride up the hillside from Jounieh aboard a teleferique (cable car). The breathtaking views of Beirut & the sea beyond from Harissa’s base are worth the ride in their own right.

In time, drive back to Beirut.

Reach the hotel by evening.

Balance of the evening is at leisure. There are many optional activities if you want to go out (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 07.00 am & embark on another full day 10 hour excursion discover more of the ancient heritage located east of the Litani River in Beqaa Valley.

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 07.00 am & embark on another full day 10 hour excursion discover more of the ancient & a natural heritage at Wadi Qadisha.

Drive to UNESCO World Heritage listed Bcharre, one of those idyllic mountain villages that looks like it has come straight out of a storybook, perched atop the stunning Qadisha Valley

The Qadisha Valley is the kind of place you might think only exists in movies. This magnificent Valley cuts into the land & is surrounded by soaring, pine-covered mountains on both sides.

Bcharre is particularly famous as birthplace of the acclaimed Lebanese poet, painter & sculptor birthplace of the artist & poet Khalil Gibran (1883-1931) the 3d best-selling poet of all time, following only Shakespeare & Lao-Tzu. Though he spent much of his life in the United States, a lot of Gibran’s poetry & artwork reflects his upbringing in Lebanon’s mountains & the town has honoured him with a Museum.

There are traditional red-roofed houses, panoramic views, cedar trees & great restaurants dotted throughout the area, not to mention great skiing in the winter & an excellent base for a pleasant hike in the Qadisha Valley.

Stop in the pristine mountain town & briefly explore the Khalil Gibran Museum in a 19^th century Monastery that was cut straight into the rock, giving it an extra mountainous feel. It was Gibran’s dying wish to be buried in the Monastery & have it converted into a Museum which contains mostly Gibran’s paintings, snippets of his original poetry & even his Coffin.

A short drive away from the town are the Cedars of God, a beautiful & only remaining reserve holding the ancient, original & epic trees Lebanon is famous for.

The Cedars of God themselves are majestic. Among 1,000s of trees, there are around 300 mammoth pre-historic cedar trees that have been around longer than any living thing & their subdued magnificence exude an spiritual aura. 12 thousand of those trees date back to more than a 1,000 years.

The Canaanites, Egyptians & Phoenicians used cedar wood to build their temples & ships. King Hiram sent cedar wood to King Solomon to build the Temple in Jerusalem. It was also used to build the Phoenician fleet.

The best way to enjoy the valley is on foot. Hike on the dirt road, which leads deeper into the valley & turn back whenever you get tired. For a more arduous hike, there are trails leading from Qadisha to Ehden that span 16km.

Take your time walking around the cedar grove & allow the timelessness of these Biblical trees to really sink in. There is a path where the visitors can walk & watch the cedar trees that are 35 meters high & with a circumference of 14 meters.

Entrance to the Cedars of God is donation-based & all proceeds go to maintaining the reserve. Outside the reserve there are several souvenir shops & small snack shops, where you can stock up on your cedar goods before entering the reserve.

Proceed further inside Wadi Qadisha (literally meaning ‘Holy Valley’) is also home to various Hermitages & Monasteries. The word ‘Qadisha’ comes from a Semitic root word which means "holy".

There are Caves & Sanctuaries which were inhabited from the 3^rd millennium B.C. till the Roman period. Hermitages, rocky Monasteries & Churches are scattered in this valley.

If you want to visit the monasteries, the Monastery of Mar Elisha & Deir Mar Semaan, a Hermitage founded in AD 1112, are both beautiful & easy to get to.

For those visiting Bcharre in the winter, don’t miss the chance to ski some of Lebanon’s highest and most stunning peaks. The Cedars Resort 15 minute drive from the town, opens from November to April and  depending on the snow conditions, is a gorgeous spot to spend a day skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or just enjoying the snow. Equipment rentals are available at the base of the mountains.

In time, drive back to Beirut.

Reach the hotel by evening.

Balance of the evening is at leisure. There are many optional activities if you want to go out (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Alas, like all good things, the wonderful experience comes to an end. Time to say good-bye to enchanting Canaan & go home. But, we sure hope that you may want to discover a bit more of this mystical country which boasts a recorded 7,000 years of ‘Biblical’ history, on your next visit.

Check-out of the hotel by 12:00 noon (if the departure time is later in the evening, we will request the hotel to allow the usage of the hotel facilities & to leave the luggage at the Bell Desk). 

In time, you will be met by a Journeys Rep, who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to Terminal? - Terminal? - Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport for your onward journey.  B

            ***        End of Services      ***