We spent about 3 months travelling through “middle eastern” countries – Egypt, Jordan, Syria and Turkey, before continuing through a few eastern European spots.

All I can say is…go. Egypt’s not the highlight, much as some people might expect it to be…mainly because the dominance of the tourism industry leads to being treated as a mobile cash dispenser instead of a guest. Jordan, Syria, and especially Turkey are much more interesting.

Riding camels in Wadi Rum, Jordan, lazing around in the mud and stone village of Dana, also in Jordan, wandering the maze that is Old Damascus, and hiking in Cappadocia are all experiences which will never be forgotten.

And nowhere else have a travelled where you get countless invitations to come home with random locals, and people just pleased that you’ve chosen to visit their country.