Wonders of the Red
Sea

'Aqaba

As Jordan's only outlet to the sea, the tourist resort of Aqaba
is known for its fantastic diving opportunities, mild winter
climate and sandy beaches. Situated on the tip of the Red Sea in
southern Jordan on the Gulf of Aqaba, the town's greatest
attraction lies offshore in the colourful coral reefs that are
rated as the best in the world. These boast an incredible marine
life and provide wonderful opportunities for divers and snorkelers
in the clear waters year-round.

Besides underwater escapades, Aqaba is an ideal location for
swimming, water-skiing, parasailing, fishing or sunbathing. For the
history enthusiast, Aqaba contains sites dating back to 4000 BC,
including the recent discovery of what is believed to be the
world's oldest church (3rd century), the remains of the medieval
walled city of Ayla and a Mamluk fort. These are proof of Aqaba's
strategic position as the main port on the trading route to the Far
East from Africa in ancient times, which made it a thriving town,
and it is this same location today that makes it an important
tourist centre. It is also conveniently situated for excursions to
the spectacular desert scenery of Wadi Rum and the ancient rock
city of Petra.

'Aqaba

As Jordan's only outlet to the sea, the tourist resort of Aqaba
is known for its fantastic diving opportunities, mild winter
climate and sandy beaches. Situated on the tip of the Red Sea in
southern Jordan on the Gulf of Aqaba, the town's greatest
attraction lies offshore in the colourful coral reefs that are
rated as the best in the world. These boast an incredible marine
life and provide wonderful opportunities for divers and snorkelers
in the clear waters year-round.

Besides underwater escapades, Aqaba is an ideal location for
swimming, water-skiing, parasailing, fishing or sunbathing. For the
history enthusiast, Aqaba contains sites dating back to 4000 BC,
including the recent discovery of what is believed to be the
world's oldest church (3rd century), the remains of the medieval
walled city of Ayla and a Mamluk fort. These are proof of Aqaba's
strategic position as the main port on the trading route to the Far
East from Africa in ancient times, which made it a thriving town,
and it is this same location today that makes it an important
tourist centre. It is also conveniently situated for excursions to
the spectacular desert scenery of Wadi Rum and the ancient rock
city of Petra.

Eilat

As the cradle of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, Israel is a land heavy with history. This cultural complexity is reflected in the diversity of its natural landscape, which varies from the salty serenity of the Dead Sea, to verdant national parks and parched desert plateaus.

Most visits to the Holy Land begin with a trip to the capital city of Jerusalem. Its streets bustle with activity and busy markets lie against a skyline of sacred sites. By contrast, the modern commercial centre of Tel Aviv is dedicated to more hedonistic interests, such as sun-drenched beaches, good restaurants, designer-clothing stores and sophisticated nightclubs.

Sunbathing and scuba diving draw visitors to the Red Sea port of Eilat, while relaxation and spa resorts characterise the Dead Sea experience. The Galilee area, north of Jerusalem, appeals to pilgrims and nature-lovers alike. The region's concentration of holy sites is fascinating, particularly around the Sea of Galilee. Haifa provides a glorious, cosmopolitan base from which to explore the Galilee area, as well as the magnificent sea grottoes of Rosh Hanikra.

Israel is home to more than 200 museums, further underlining its status as one of the most culturally rich destinations on the planet. Its national parks are roundly celebrated for their beauty and accessibility. Of course, the country's chief attractions are religious, with sites of profound spiritual importance drawing pilgrims from three religions.

Sharm El Sheikh

A world-acclaimed dive centre and the most developed of the Red
Sea resorts, Sharm el-Sheikh has many holiday activities, and
plenty of luxury accommodation and restaurants available. Most
Sharm el-Sheikh hotels and diving centres are situated four miles
(7km) from the city at Naama Bay and it has become a busy holiday
resort with plenty of shopping opportunities, lots of late night
entertainment and an attractive holiday atmosphere.

Numerous dive sites are within reach of Sharm el-Sheikh,
including the huge drop-offs at Ras Mohammed in the extreme
southern part of the peninsula, the Straits of Tiran, various
wrecks, and about 28 sites located along the coast that are
accessed by boat. Naama Bay has a gently sloping sandy bottom, is
ideal for dive classes, and provides diving and snorkelling
opportunities for all levels without having to use a boat or car to
get there.

Besides excellent diving and snorkelling, which are the main
activities when in Sharm el-Sheikh on holiday, there are plenty of
watersports available if one feels like doing more than just
soaking up the sun. Add a vibrant nightlife with casinos, discos
and nightclubs and one can't complain of boredom!

Safaga

On the coast of the Red Sea is the port town of Safaga, Egypt. It offers a range of ancient historical sightseeing, water sports and a dip in its healing mineral waters. This picturesque landscape has all kinds of adventures to offer. The town is best known for its phosphate mines, diving opportunities and beautiful reefs and also attracts tourists year round with its warm climate and attractive landscape.

Yanbu al-Bahr

Hurghada

Ain Sukhna