Abu Dhabi
A cosmopolitan metropolis rich in splendours, from the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest in the world with its 800 domes and 1,000 columns, to the Heritage Village, Emirates Palace and Al Ain archaeological site with its palace museum.
Al Fujairah
A jewel of history and nature, set in majestic hillsides and wadis inhabited since the Iron Age. Marvel at its atmospheric old city and 17th Century fortress, Al Bithna Oasis with its prehistoric tomb, and the exquisite village of Masafi in the Hajar Mountains. Sun-seekers will find their own paradise in its scenic secluded beaches.
Aqaba / Petra
You could pop across from Aqaba to Eilat for snorkelling and resort life. But you can do that anywhere, so why not do something unique instead? A visit to the hidden city of Petra will remain etched into your memory for ever. As your horse takes you down the narrow Siq, you are suddenly confronted by a magnificent treasury hewn from solid rock. It’s just the first of many magnificent monuments that make up this incredible deserted city.
Bahrain
The name means “two seas” in Arabic, referring to the freshwater springs of this magically unique archipelago of 32 islands, famed for its pearls since the Persian Empire. Be inspired by the prehistoric Royal Tombs and pottery at A’ali, alongside modern achievements that include the International Motor Racing Circuit and the 15-mile King Fahd Causeway to Saudi Arabia.
Dubai
An ultramodern city steeped in tradition, flanking the coast with a natural creek on the edge of the Arabian Desert. Discover Ajman’s famous museum and souk, take a leisurely tour of the city in a traditional Dhow after dinner, traversing the desert’s golden dunes in a 4×4 or bathing in the natural pools at Hatta.
Haifa / Jerusalem
Set at the foot of Mount Carmel, Haifa is your introduction to the miraculous Holy Land. If money’s no object, take a helicopter tour to Jerusalem, inspiring Massada and the depths of the Dead Sea. In Jerusalem, visit the Wailing Wall, see glittering Dome of The Rock and walk the Via Dolorosa to the site of the Crucifixion at Calvary.
Muscat
Renowned as one of the world’s greatest ports since Ancient Rome. Journey through time in the breathtaking Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts, the bustling souk, the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Mosque and the Beit Al Zubair museum. And treat yourself to the timeless natural fragrances of the exclusive Amouage perfumery.
Port Said / Cairo
The glories of Egypt beckon from Port Said. Experience the sights and sounds of Cairo, gaze upon the face of the Boy Pharaoh, Tutankhamun, and gasp at the hoarded treasures of the Archaeological Museum. Explore delicate mosques and vibrant bazaars. Then sail on the Nile, go on a camel ride or journey out to Giza and the vastness of the Pyramids and the enigma that is the Sphinx.
Tangier
For a taste of exotic flavours, visit the old town’s famous Casbah, the impregnable palace built behind fortress walls, and its lovely sultan’s gardens. Walk through the hillsides of winding streets and lanes, where each street is set aside for different groups of artisans.
MSC Cruises scraps MSC Orchestra’s Red Sea winter plans
MSC Cruises has cancelled its full Red Sea winter programme for MSC Orchestra from 8 November to 17 April 2024 because of the Israel – Palestine conflict. The company decided proximity of some of ship’s ports of call to Israel and the number of restrictions in the bordering countries would have adversely affected the holiday
- Published in 2023, 2024, Israel, Middle East, Ocean Cruises
MSC Preziosa sailing from Southampton and two new ships in MSC Cruises’ winter 2022-23 line-up
MSC Cruises’ fleet of 21 modern ships, including the new MSC Europa and MSC Seascape, will sail to more than 190 destinations in 85 different countries during winter 2022-2023. From mini-cruises to the 118-night world cruise, they will explore the Middle East, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, South America and South Africa. MSC World Europa, the
- Published in 2022, 2023, Africa, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Middle East, Northern Europe, Ocean Cruises, South America
Ancient civilisations await as MSC Magnifica makes her Red Sea debut in Jeddah this winter
MSC Magnifica is set to become the world’s first cruise ship to homeport in Jeddah, opening the sea gate to access the wonders of Saudi Arabia. MSC’s Red Sea debut cruises for Winter 2021/22 will visit culturally-rich destinations in Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Egypt, some of the world’s best beaches and a chance for guests
- Published in 2021, 2022, Egypt, Middle East, Ocean Cruises, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Looking to smoother waters worldwide with Crystal Symphony in 2023
Cruising may look a little unlikely for some time yet but Crystal is looking to a more certain future and offering for sale all of its 2023 cruises aboard Crystal Symphony. In all, the ship will sail 36 all-inclusive itineraries of six to 15 nights, with 23 sailings of 10 nights or less. There are
- Published in 2023, Asia, British isles, Europe, Mediterranean, Middle East, New Zealand, Northern Europe, Ocean Cruises
Crystal offers 2020 vision of the world with more than 100 ocean voyages
Crystal is offering a mouth-watering calendar of more than 100 ocean-going voyages for 2020. Crystal Esprit will be visiting some of the world’s most significant sites in 2020 In total, 64 Crystal Cruises sailings and 44 Crystal Yacht Expedition voyages will explore the oceans of the world. “Our 2020 itineraries for Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity deliver the culturally
- Published in 2020, Asia, australia, China, Destinations, Hawaii, Japan, Mediterranean, Middle East, Ocean Cruises, South Pacific













