Got The Autumn Blues? Here Are 8 MENA Destinations To Make Them Go Away
The MENA region is situated at the center of the world, spread out over three continents, putting it in the unique position to be one of the best places to go all year round. That said, since we’re entering fall, we thought of highlighting some of the countries you might want to consider on your next trip to shake away those autumn blues.
Egypt
Cairo
In the country’s capital, Cairo, there’s a lot to see; thanks to its massive size, it won’t be easy to get bored. With the hustle and bustle of the city that never sleeps, and the rich culture and history that will always surround you.
Greater Cairo has no shortage of museums like the Egyptian Museum and National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, landmarks, such as the Citadel, the surrounding mosques, and of course the Pyramids of Giza. One visit to the lovely city and you’ll never want to leave.
Dahab
On the eastern shores of Sinai, Dahab is a hidden gem on the Red Sea. One of the world-renowned diving spots, if you’re an avid and well-trained licensed diver, this is the place to be.
If you aren’t, that’s fine too. The incredible weather intertwined with the chill vibes you’ll experience in the lovely town will make you relaxed in no time. So indulge in the local cuisine while you relax in front of the gorgeous crystal-clear waters with nothing but the wind in your hair and the sound of crashing waves.
Luxor
Going further south to Upper Egypt, Luxor is a history buff paradise, with locations and temples dating back thousands of years. The Temple Complex of Karnak is one of the most dazzling and stunning structures among the city’s various monuments.
Make sure you plan ahead before you go because there’s so much to see that it will take up much of your time quickly. You can also sit with the friendly locals and drink tea on the banks of the Nile.
UAE
Dubai
The most technology-forward city in the Middle East, Dubai is the epitome of luxury and class. From the moment you step out of the DXB airport terminal, you’re greeted with some of the country’s most beautiful landmarks, one of which you can actually see from an extremely far distance.
Visit the clouds by heading on over to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Perhaps you’d like to get a glimpse of what the world might look like in the future at the beautifully designed Museum of the Future, which has curving calligraphy covering the structure from the outside. There’s definitely something for everybody.
Saudi Arabia
Jeddah
A coastal city on the Red Sea, Jeddah thrives during the fall; with diving being one of the major highlights just before winter sets in. The presence of several shipwrecks near the coast provides experienced divers with several hotspots to test their mettle and observe several stunning marine life. Such as whale sharks, dolphins, schools of barracudas, tunas, and even some blue-spotted stingrays.
Top hotspots include the Ann Ann Wreck, the Cable Wreck, the Chicken Wreck, and the Farasan Islands.
AlUla
A must-travel destination; AlUla has a wide variety of different sites to visit and activities to do. Visit the Al-Hijr ancient tombs, which have been well-preserved for thousands of years and are a sight to behold. You can also trek to the Elephant Rock, a geological marvel and another famous attraction in the area.
AlUla also has several experiences to take, including thrilling experiences and outdoor excursions, such as zip lines, bike rides, stargazing trips, live performances, and even helicopter tours.
Morocco
Chefchaouen
Moving on to the west, Chefchaouen is the place to go if you want some amazing weather and a city covered in azure blue and white, creating a dream-like city perfect for your upcoming Instagram reels and posts.
The city isn’t the only thing that’s stunning though, as nearby trails and hikes into the mountains will provide trekkers with a memorable view for years to come. Remember to bring a camera with you because you’ll be taking a lot of photos, walking down the streets of the old city, and visiting the local bazaars and the Kasbah museum.
Lebanon
Akkar
A province in the north, Akkar has a multitude of once-in-a-lifetime experiences to go through, including the Ghabat Al-Ezer, where you can get lost in the beauty of nature. As you surround yourself with fantastic natural scenery, such as the leaves in the trees highlighting the sky above you in bright orange while fall goes in full swing.
You can also go on a hike into the wondrous mountains and enjoy the area where you can not only take in the scenery but play with the snow at high altitudes.
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