Dubai is a place of fascinating contrasts, a distinctive blend of East and West, of old and new. You can venture across vast, dunes, climb rugged mountains, play on sandy beaches, explore dusty villages and shop in an ultra-modern mall – all in the same day. Since earliest times, Dubai has been known as “the city of merchants”, welcoming traders from distant lands with a tradition of courtesy and hospitality that still lives on today.

In this low-rise gem between the Arabian Gulf and scenic mountains, your first impression will likely be from the Sultanate of Oman’s beautiful main palace, but there is a great deal more to Muscat. Your guide to Muscat. Perched on the Gulf of Oman, Muscat has long enjoyed a history as a continental crossroads – its ancient capital enticing visitors from all corners of the world. Where other cities have altered with time, Muscat honours its ancestral roots. Traditional sugar-white houses and yellowed forts stretch from the Arabian Sea to the foothills of Western Hajar. Bulbous domes and minarets erupt from rooftops, and the masts of dhows sway in the city’s harbours. Even Muscat’s newer buildings exude special character. Add in sumptuous food, decadent markets and sweeping gardens, and you’re certain to fall in love with this exuberant city of charm and splendour.

Safaga is our gateway to the magnificent antiquities of Luxor and Karnak, considered by many to be the grandest of all Pharoanic temples. Known as Thebes, Luxor has a rich history going back to 2,000 BC and reached its height of glory during the 18th and 19th dynasties. Marvel at the massive statues and structures. Stroll down the Avenue of the Sphinxes to the grand ceremonial gateway of the Temple of Amun-Ra. Cross the Nile to the Valley of the Kings, sacred burial ground of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs; it was here King Tut’s tomb was discovered.

Safaga is our gateway to the magnificent antiquities of Luxor and Karnak, considered by many to be the grandest of all Pharoanic temples. Known as Thebes, Luxor has a rich history going back to 2,000 BC and reached its height of glory during the 18th and 19th dynasties. Marvel at the massive statues and structures. Stroll down the Avenue of the Sphinxes to the grand ceremonial gateway of the Temple of Amun-Ra. Cross the Nile to the Valley of the Kings, sacred burial ground of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs; it was here King Tut’s tomb was discovered.

Take in the impressive picture of the grand ships waiting to enter the Suez Canal at the southern entrance on the Red Sea. Suez is a primary hub for those wanting to visit Egypt’s historical wonders.

For more than 250 years, this was the last stronghold of the Knights of Malta. An optional excursion reveals the Grand Master’s Palace, doubtless one of the Mediterranean’s finest treasures.

Explore enchanting ruins inside ancient city walls built some 3000 years ago. Saunter beneath sweeping palms, soak up astonishing sea views or simply watch the world go by in this busy, buzzing port.

Step aboard in Southampton & straight into that holiday feeling. No flights, no hassle. Just the excitement of the days ahead and the promise of memorable moment. So, relax and raise a toast as the UK drifts from sight. Before you know it, you’ll be watching your destination come into view. But where will it be ?