Exploring in the Middle East can be challenging – especially if you don’t know anything about the area or its culture. Many countries and travel destinations in the Middle East totally outshine their reputation. However here are some things you should be aware of. Especially if this is your first time. We will guide you to choose, prepare and travel to an amazing destination in the beautiful, historical and exotic Middle East. The region of deserts, mountains, skyscrapers and history has a lot to give to you.
Choosing Your Destination in the Middle East
Choosing you our travel destination in the Middle East begins with identifying the purpose of your trip. Make a list about the things you are looking for. List your wants and needs for the trip. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a cultural sightseeing tour, write it down. And by the way, these are not your only options. Middle Eastern travel destinations can offer you luxurious self care, desert safaris and mountain adventures. Listing your needs and wants will help you decide your travel destination, when you get to the next step of planning your journey.
After listing what you are looking for, is time to set a budget for your trip. Determining the correct budget for the holiday is extremely important, even though it is the least fun part of planning a holiday. Calculate realistically what can you afford. This will help you realise what is truly at the essence of your trip.
When you have made peace with your bank account and know what you are looking for, you can start actually planning your perfect holiday. Now it is time to start comparing destinations and asking for suggestions. Maybe a friend of yours has travelled a bunch of countries in the Middle East and can recommend you some affordable and amazing destinations. Or maybe there is something you definitely want from your trip, and already know the destination.
Doing Your Research
In some of the Middle Eastern countries there are laws that could be surprising, especially for someone coming from western countries. Things that are totally normal in Europe, could be disapproved or even illegal in some of the Middle Eastern countries. Taking the time to learn the laws and culture of your travel destination will save you from issues later on. Also it is important to be honest with yourself and consider if the destination is safe enough. Stepping out of comfort zone is not everyone’s piece of cake.
You don’t want to get in trouble with the local authorities, or be the reason tourists are looked down upon in the future. Respect the locals and their culture, and make sure you follow the social protocol of your chosen destination. Take time to do your research about the laws and regulations regarding your visit. You wouldn’t want disrespectful tourists to your country, so don’t be one when you visit other counties. Be curious, open-minded and humble, you are there to learn, to see and to experience.
Take only pictures, leave only footprints.
Brace yourself
When it comes to visas, an EU passport is not the key to happiness in all cases. Although EU nationals get a free pass in many airports and travel destinations, that might not be the case in the Middle East. You still need to make sure if you need a visa to visit the destination, and what are the conditions to that visa. Some visas you can buy at the airport, and some need actions beforehand. Remember to check if you are allowed to bring your medication without an import permit.
In poorer countries it is possible to witness some things you may not wish to, so it is important to be prepared to encounter unpleasant things as well. In many countries people have much deeper insight and to hunger, poverty, illness, war, and natural disasters. Coming face to face with these things, although it is mind-opening, can be uncomfortable. It is always a good idea to brace yourself to witness things you may not wish to witness. One of the harsh realities of life is that there are not always much we can do about it. Neither can the locals, and the best way to help them is to be kind and support their businesses by travelling.
Watch: THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO ABU DHABI
Opening Your Mind
Travelling far away from your home is never easy. You already have made a brave choice to travel to a different country, now enjoy the experience. Being open to new adventures will help you to find the most fulfilling adventures there is. Embrace the new culture, people, cuisine because that is the most fun part of it. Things may not go according to your plan and you may face unpleasant things. However, the only way to keep coming back to the plane is to embrace the uncertainty. Authentic adventure will leave a piece of your soul wherever you go – that is the only way to grow more open.
Writer is a student of Hospitality Management in Lapland University of Applied Sciences. She has travelled multiple times in the Middle East, mostly in Northern Iraq’s Province of Kurdistan.
Have you ever travelled somewhere exotic? Tell us in the comments below!