Set on the ancient crossroads between Arabia and the Mediterranean Sea, Jordan is full of historic sites. Crusaders' forts along old trade routes and ancient cities carved from stone will captivate anyone in search of the past. And while the land might be ancient, Jordan's cities offer the modern conveniences that help make your trip to the past a little less demanding. When you tire of desert ardors, you can relax at a Dead Sea spa or go scuba diving in the Red Sea.

Although it's mostly covered by desert, Jordan also has mountains, forests, marshes, beaches, plains, rolling hills and fertile river valleys. The Jordan Valley is actually an extension of the Great Rift Valley, which runs through Kenya and Tanzania in Africa.

Syria is home to some of the best ruins in the world. For those interested in ancient history and the culture of the Middle East, it's an absolute treasure trove. Clubs, bars and cafes have sprouted all over Damascus, the capital, and it's quite common to see wizened old men in traditional kaffiyehs talking with young men in T-shirts or to spot old women in chadors mingling with young women in short skirts and makeup. The odd juxtapositions actually add to the country's allure.