Best Cities to Visit in Africa and the Middle East
Friday, November 21st, 2008
Africa and the Middle East are often off the map for US-based travelers. Most people have vague misgivings about the infrastructure and security of destinations in Africa and Western Asia. Granted, even the most modern places in Africa aren’t up to the modernity standard of Europe or North America (except Dubai). But Africa and the Middle East are beginning to open up in ways that they never have before. Classic tourist spots like Jerusalem and Cairo are still charming. And new destinations, like Cape Town, Tunis and Tel Aviv are coming into their own.
Here are some of the best cities to visit in Africa and the Middle East:
1. Dubai. If you want everything larger than life, head to Dubai. This wealthy emirate features the world’s tallest building, the world’s only 7-star hotel, and the world (or at least a man-made version of it, filled with multi- million-dollar beach villas). Even Europe’s scene-makers are starting to take notice, building restaurants and hotels.
2. Cape Town. South Africa’s picturesque coastal city will be getting some press in 2010 when the World Cup of soccer comes to the country. Infrastructure is improving, as is security. And the city’s beaches, nearby wine country and shopping malls make Cape Town a great base for an African vacation.
3. Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Security fears aside, Israel is a great place to visit. The country is infused with history. Jerusalem is an important historical location for three of the four major world religions. Tel Aviv, on the other hand, is a modern metropolis with a cool nightlife and European flare.
4. Tunis. The capital of Tunisia is a favorite relaxing and shopping spot for Europe’s francophones. The modern, mostly secular country is one of Africa’s easiest and safest places to visit.
5. Then there are the old classics: the pyramids near Cairo, the markets of Marrakech and the beaches of Zanzibar. These retain their charm, and probably always will.