explore the middle east.Our TripsThe Middle East is an enchanting, mysterious and beautiful region steeped in history, where the past seems to burst forth from every majestic landmark, stunning vista and charismatic city. We've put together a selection of great value trips that will enable you to explore the incredible countries of this region in style and comfort. In Jordan we can explore the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum in a 4x4 Jeep and float relaxingly in the famous waters of the Dead Sea. In Syria, perhaps you'll feel like wandering around the stunning Omayyad mosque and bartering to your heart's content in the bustling bazaars of Damascus. As for Israel, prepare to be blown away by the incredible religious history of the holy city, Jerusalem. Why not join us and discover the infectious magic of an area known as the 'cradle of civilisation'!Our InclusionsAt Topdeck we realise that cash doesn't grow on trees, so we're all about trying to give you maximum value for money, whilst never compromising on quality. Choose to visit the Middle East with Topdeck and you'll stay in quality 3-star hotels, you'll enjoy included airport transfers when you arrive and depart, and you'll find that all entry fees have already been paid for in your trip cost! But that's not all - the astounding ancient city of Petra in Jordan has been described by UNESCO as "one of the most precious cultural properties of man's cultural heritage" and was unsurprisingly chosen as one of their World Heritage Sites. In our more humble opinion, it's hands down one of the most amazing sights you will ever see! For that reason, we don't believe a visit to Petra should be an optional excursion - so it's included in every one of our Middle East trips! We're certain that no-one visiting this region would possibly want to miss this magical destination. Above all else though, we're confident about one thing - that if you choose one of our fantastic trips in the magnificent Middle East, you're bound to make memories to last a lifetime!Dome of the Rock, JerusalemThe Dead Sea (One of the world's saltiest bodies of water)Wadi Rum desert camp, JordanChilling around the campfire at Wadi Rum was such a highlight of my trip!- Vicki, Dunedin, New Zealand

EGYPTISRAELJORDANSAUDIARABIAAmmanPetraDead SeaAjlounJerashCastleWadi Rum21NO. OF NIGHTS STAYDAY STOPstart/finishMadabaMt NeboKarak WANT TIPS & ADVICE FROM PAST TOPDECK PASSENGERS?CHECK OUT OUR FORUM forum.topdeck.travelDates & Prices 2012/13MIDDLE EASTPlus see pg. 232StartFinish12May1218May1226May1201Jun1209Jun1215Jun1223Jun1229Jun1207Jul1213Jul1221Jul1227Jul1204Aug1210Aug1218Aug1224Aug1201Sep1207Sep1215Sep1221Sep1229Sep1205Oct1213Oct1219Oct1227Oct1202Nov1210Nov1216Nov1224Nov1230Nov1208Dec1214Dec1222Dec1228Dec1312Jan1318Jan1326Jan1301Feb1309Feb1315Feb1323Feb1301Mar1309Mar1315Mar1323Mar1329Mar1306Apr1312Apr1320Apr1326Apr13What's Included»»6 breakfasts (B), 1 dinner (D)»»5 nights twin/triple share in 3? hotels, 1 night Desert camp twin/triple»»Arrival and departure airport transfers»»Excursions as per the itinerary»»4x4 Jeep excursion in Wadi Rum»»Entrance fees to sights forming part of the itinerary»»Local guides in Petra and Jerash»»Services of a fully trained English speaking Driver and Trip LeaderDay 1 Amman. Arrive at Queen Alia International Airport and meet our Topdeck representative. A transfer to the hotel is included.Day 2 Amman. We head north through the olive groves to the ancient city of Jerash. Our local guide shows us around the complex. See Hadrian's Arch, built to commemorate his visit in 129AD. The hippodrome, which hosted the chariot races, could hold 15,000 spectators, and the colonnaded main street still has the ruts made from the chariots. From Jerash we visit Ajloun Castle with spectacular views over the Jordan Valley. We arrive back in Amman for the evening. (B)Day 3 Amman - Petra. We travel to the town of Madaba, the Christian centre of Jordan, famous for its mosaics. From here it is not far to Mt Nebo where Moses is said to have seen the 'Promised Land'. Then we head off to the Mujeb Valley, known as the Grand Canyon of Jordan - the valley is 1km deep and 4km wide. We also stop at Karak one of Jordan's most famous castles before arriving in Petra. (B)Day 4 Petra. A full day to enjoy, and take in, the awesome Rose city. Petra's importance grew due to the caravan trade, but with the development of sea trade its importance dwindled and by the 14th century it was effectively lost to the West, only being rediscovered in 1812. Our local guide will make Petra come to life. (B) Day 5 Petra - Wadi Rum. Today we head off to the desert stopping first at 'Little Petra'. This maze of rockscapes rise from the desert floor to a height of up to 1750 metres. We transfer to 4x4 Jeeps for a journey through stunning desert landscape. Tonight we stay in a desert camp. (B,D)Day 6 Petra - Amman. Heading for the western side of Jordan we travel to the Dead Sea. The high salinity of the water means you literally bob about on the surface. We spend time here swimming, and relaxing before heading back to Amman late afternoon. (B) Day 7 Amman. Our trip finishes today after breakfast. A transfer to the airport is included. (B)Go to topdeck.travel/Jordan-Adventure for more info.|33TRIP CODE: HTJAD7 Day Jordan AdventureFloating in the Dead Sea4x4 Jeep excursion, Wadi RumThe Nymphaeum of JerashUSD7 Days from $895 per personTrip price of $895 + $200 Local Payment Trip price of $1065 + $200 Local Payment