Jerusalem (Haifa), Israel

On the plateau of the Judaean Mountains between the Mediterranean and Dead Seas lies one of the oldest cities in the world. The very atmosphere of the ancient city of Jerusalem is heavy with solemn energy and sacred history. Along the northern slope of Mount Carmel lies the port city of Haifa, where your pilgrimage begins to a land filled with religious significance.

Atop Mount Carmel, the view gives way to a sprawling, modern city complete with skyscrapers and contemporary constructs. Often called “Israel’s San Francisco,” Haifa contains a bustling city alive with workers and residents as they go about their daily lives. Filled with museums and cultural events, Haifa boasts a rich and vibrant backdrop for even the most experienced traveler.

But the true jewel of the city are the Bahai Gardens, an oasis with Italian stone, fountains, emerald lawns, and vibrant flowers sloping down 19 steep terraces to a resplendent dome shrine that makes up the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Out at the Western Wall in Jerusalem, a hushed reverence falls over the place of prayer, a site rife with emotion. Walking through the old stone corridors of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, you cannot help but get mired in the history of this sacred city that holds significance to many major religions.

Venturing to the outskirts of the city, you find the Mount of Olives, where some of the oldest olive trees in the world still stand. The Garden of Gethsemane provides another holy site, with a backdrop of lush green to feel the embrace of nature.

Jerusalem (Haifa), Israel

On the plateau of the Judaean Mountains between the Mediterranean and Dead Seas lies one of the oldest cities in the world. The very atmosphere of the ancient city of Jerusalem is heavy with solemn energy and sacred history. Along the northern slope of Mount Carmel lies the port city of Haifa, where your pilgrimage begins to a land filled with religious significance.

Atop Mount Carmel, the view gives way to a sprawling, modern city complete with skyscrapers and contemporary constructs. Often called “Israel’s San Francisco,” Haifa contains a bustling city alive with workers and residents as they go about their daily lives. Filled with museums and cultural events, Haifa boasts a rich and vibrant backdrop for even the most experienced traveler.

But the true jewel of the city are the Bahai Gardens, an oasis with Italian stone, fountains, emerald lawns, and vibrant flowers sloping down 19 steep terraces to a resplendent dome shrine that makes up the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Out at the Western Wall in Jerusalem, a hushed reverence falls over the place of prayer, a site rife with emotion. Walking through the old stone corridors of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, you cannot help but get mired in the history of this sacred city that holds significance to many major religions.

Venturing to the outskirts of the city, you find the Mount of Olives, where some of the oldest olive trees in the world still stand. The Garden of Gethsemane provides another holy site, with a backdrop of lush green to feel the embrace of nature.

Masada (Ashdod), Israel

The port of Ashdod acts as a gateway to the powerful history of the Holy Lands. A pilgrimage along the expansive scenery along the Dead Sea takes you to Massada: an ancient fortress and ruins that hold great significance in the Jewish religion. Overlooking the remnants of the past Jewish rebels’ stone houses from which they fled slavery, solemnity takes hold under the blazing desert sun.

The trek to the summit of Massada begins either on the zig-zagging Snake Path or the easier Roman Ramp. The walk along these paths offers stunning views of golden sun over brown, stone hills as far as the eye can see. But if walking is not your speed, then you can ride the cable car up from the eastern entrance of the national park for an equally amazing vista.

Below the ancient fortress lies the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea, where you can float weightlessly for an experience like none other. The silky smooth waters flow over your skin creating a pleasant sensation that makes it impossible to tell that you are still bound to the earth.

Out in the quiet desert of the Mitzpe Ramon nature reserve, a deep blue-black sky filled with twinkling stars surrounds you with a sense of wonder. As you gather around a crackling fire at your campsite with new friends, basking in the crisp, cool night, you cannot help but be overwhelmed with the pure magic created by a perfect night for stargazing.

Masada (Ashdod), Israel

The port of Ashdod acts as a gateway to the powerful history of the Holy Lands. A pilgrimage along the expansive scenery along the Dead Sea takes you to Massada: an ancient fortress and ruins that hold great significance in the Jewish religion. Overlooking the remnants of the past Jewish rebels’ stone houses from which they fled slavery, solemnity takes hold under the blazing desert sun.

The trek to the summit of Massada begins either on the zig-zagging Snake Path or the easier Roman Ramp. The walk along these paths offers stunning views of golden sun over brown, stone hills as far as the eye can see. But if walking is not your speed, then you can ride the cable car up from the eastern entrance of the national park for an equally amazing vista.

Below the ancient fortress lies the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea, where you can float weightlessly for an experience like none other. The silky smooth waters flow over your skin creating a pleasant sensation that makes it impossible to tell that you are still bound to the earth.

Out in the quiet desert of the Mitzpe Ramon nature reserve, a deep blue-black sky filled with twinkling stars surrounds you with a sense of wonder. As you gather around a crackling fire at your campsite with new friends, basking in the crisp, cool night, you cannot help but be overwhelmed with the pure magic created by a perfect night for stargazing.

Limassol, Cyprus

Limassol surprises travelers not only with its rich, historical culture, but also as a modern city. From beautiful beaches and wine villages, to outdoor adventures, to galleries, shopping, and a wealth of venues to indulge yourself with the local gastronomy, this Cyprus city has no shortage of wonder. Cyprus’ largest seaport lies in Akrotiri Bay, awaiting explorers to discover its magic.

To begin your historical journey through the city, find the path to Limassol Castle, also called Lemesos Castle. Archaeologists found that while the castle itself dates back to the Middle Ages the structures of its foundations appear to come from long before then. These old stones stand amid a surrounding scenery of lush green and blue skies, creating a picture of a monument that stands outside of time.

A walk through Prokymea Sculpture Park along the seaside with a pleasant ocean breeze creates the perfect combination of cosmopolitan sensibilities with simple pleasures. Molos promenade stretches from the zoo to the Old Port, its path lined by palm trees for a stroll that invites you to linger for a while. Once you have worked up an appetite, samplers known as mezes wait to tempt your palette at tavernas.

Rich flavors abound among the local fare of olives, grilled vegetables, hummus, calamari, roasted fish, and halloumi. A sampling of traditional Greek food might not be enough, so try a classic dish of moussaka. If you only want a quick snack between adventures, then stop at a local café to enjoy the rich aroma of a cup of coffee with a sweet pastry as you sit outside in the sea breeze and sunshine.

Cairo (Port Said), Egypt

The major seaport city of Port Said acts as the gateway to the iconic Cairo, Egypt. While often associated with the likes of the pyramids and the Sphinx, invoking images of ancient Pharaohs, Cairo stands as a relatively modern capital by Egypt’s standards. A vibrant mix of ancient history with contemporary skyscrapers and ornate mosques led Cairo to become known as the City of a Thousand Minarets.

Port Said stands along both the Mediterranean Sea and the Suez Canal. You can roam the five-mile boardwalk of the Waterfront Quarter for a peek at the grand homes. A trip to the port’s historic lighthouse provides a glimpse into the architectural evolution throughout the 19th century. The old lighthouse stands out among the palms and modern complexes that surround it, creating a unique backdrop for exploration.

Cairo comes alive with the bustling residents and citizens as they make their way between historic architecture and modern storefronts. The buzz and energy thrum through the city like its heartbeat, calling out to the venturous traveler looking for an authentic dive into Egyptian life and culture. The Khan Al-Khalili Bazaar makes for a loud and vibrant scene to find exotic spices and local wares.

Out on the Giza plateau lies one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the renowned Pyramids of Giza. Standing in the heat of the desert, watching camels pass these monolithic structures of past brings you to another place and time that will make you catch your breath.

Alexandria, Egypt

Founded in 331 B.C.E. by Alexander the Great, Alexandria once stood as the greatest city in the ancient world. The city is most associated with its famed library that came to a tragic end. Today, you can explore its grandeur through palaces of past, archaeological museums, and 150 acres of royal gardens and forest reserve.

The Port of Alexandria lies on the western edge of the Nile Delta and acts as Egypt’s second-largest seaport. The port leads to popular sites such as Alexandria’s Montazah Palace, overlooking the beach on the Mediterranean Sea amid lush scenery and palm trees for a magnificent view that inspires awe.

At the Roman Amphitheater of Alexandria in Kom El Dekka, a civilization long past comes to life amid the stone ruins. As the only ruins of Roman influence that remain in Egypt the pillars and benches of old feel like they hold a secret history that want you to discover it. Down in the Anfushi Necropolis, walking among ancient tombs below ground level, you cannot help but feel a chill as you step so far into the past.

Sprawled out in expansive, vibrant greens lie the Shalalat Gardens of Alexandria. The peaceful atmosphere of El Shalalat Park, where the gardens reside, creates the perfect backdrop for a quiet stroll along the paved path that eventually leads to a crumbling tower. Like a picture out of a storybook, the gardens make it easy to get lost in the magic of the city.

Cruising the Mediterranean & Levantine Sea

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore.

Heraklion (Crete), Greece

The capital of the Greek island Crete, Heraklion, holds so much history and wonder. It is known for the Palace of Knossos, a vibrant, painted structure of the Bronze Age. These rocky ruins of one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world will captivate even the most veteran traveler. What remains of ancient Minoan society gives modern-day explorers much to discover.

The Venetian Harbor greets you as you enter Crete’s largest city. Small fishing boats docked at the port create an odd yet intriguing picture floating in the water next to the ancient stones of Koules Castle. Wandering from the docks and into the city you will find influences and remnants of Byzantine, Turkish, Venetian, and Greek culture all throughout.

Heraklion’s Old Town takes you past neoclassical architecture and modern-day shops selling bronze statues that pay homage to the city’s myths and history. Strolling into Lion’s Square, you find the city’s famed fountain that gave the plaza its name. Once a part of an aqueduct built in Venetian times, The Lions, as the fountain is known, now stands as both history and incorporated into the town’s contemporary structures.

Explorers that want to take it easier will find the picture-perfect Ammoudara Beach not far from downtown Heraklion. A backdrop of local tavernas and a mountain range in the distance against blue skies creates an image out of a postcard. Clear, blue waters lapping against white sands mixed with pebbles make it a paradise that you will not want to leave.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Athens is still as iconic as ever. Winding pathways from ancient times transformed into modern-day roads and streets lead you to the monumental gateway of the Acropolis and other archaeological sites. It is a land soaked in history and mythology, but not stuck in the past.

As you wend through back alleys, passing the street art and getting serenaded by street musicians, you are never lost. You are simply taking a journey to an unknown destination. You may find yourself at the likes of the Church of Agioi at the southeast corner of the Holy Apostles Ancient Agora, a less-crowded historical site away from the flocks of tourists.

Try your hand at haggling with local vendors at the Plaka or Monastiraki flea market. There are so many handmade wares and trinkets to peruse and purchase. Keep an eye out for the more risqué souvenirs if you want a good laugh.

Aside from venturing through the cradle of Western Civilization, you can explore the port of Piraeus. It is the biggest port in Greece and one of the most important ports of the Mediterranean. Centuries of history have transformed this seaside town from a wartime fortress to a major shipping and transportation center.