Middle East

The Middle East is always in the news as a region of turmoil. While there are certainly political problems in the Middle East worthy of news headlines, people should take the opportunity to get a broader understanding of this important region. Tourism provides an excellent opportunity to get to know the people, places and history of the nations of the Middle East. When people ask me which places in the Middle East I should visit, they are undoubtedly surprised when I list my top three favorites as Iran, Syria and Yemen, places most Americans would tend to avoid. Practically devoid of tourist, that trio make up some of the most authentic places to experience the Middle East and come to know the warmth and hospitality of their people. For those who prefer a destinations that are a little less cutting edge, Oman makes a great choice, while Egypt, which has been drawing tourists for millenia, has is a well-worn path.