Located in the northeast United Arab Emirates, bustling Dubai attracts visitors with its international facilities and exotic, yet cosmopolitan lifestyle. Known as the Hong Kong of Arabia, Dubai's modern duty-free shopping malls and traditional souks offer some of the best bargains in the world on such luxury items as gold jewelry and designer creations. For a more historic outing, visitors can explore the museum at Al Fahidi Fort or venture out into the Old Quarter of Bastakia.

This 'Norway of Arabia' has steep cliffs rising from the water that evoke the northern fjords. While here, delight in discovering historical treasures like the Khasab Fort, built by the Portuguese in the 17th century and today home to an excellent ethnographic museum, the 16th-century Bukha Fort and the impressive Kmazera Castle. Looking out across the Strait of Hormuz, take in a vista of fishing boats, wooden dhows and the occasional bottlenose dolphin frolicking in the pristine water.

Fujairah is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, on the Gulf of Oman. Fujairah is the only Emirate of the U. A. E. that is almost totally mountainous, surrounded by the ruggedly majestic Hajar Mountains. Dana Plaza offers shopping in the souks, while excursions include dune drives, camel safaris and a voyage to the region's only fjord, Musandam Fjords.

Muscat is the capital of Oman, a sovereign country. Muscat has been important since the 6th century BC, when Persians controlled the port. It was under Portuguese domination from 1508 to 1650, and subsequently the Iranians gained control of the city. Muscat became the capital of independent Muscat and Oman in 1741- the country's name was changed to just Oman in 1970. Muscat offers a number of exciting excursions including dolphin watching and off-road desert adventures.

Praslin is the second largest island of the Seychelles, lying north east of Mahé. Originally known as a hideaway by pirates and Arab merchants, Lazare Picault named the island "Isle de Palmes" in 1744. In 1768 it was renamed Praslin in honor of Cesar Gabriel de Choiseul, duc de Praslin, a French diplomat. Tropical forests and nature preserves abound, housing the unique coco de mer and vanilla orchids.

Mahé, the largest island of the Seychelles, was named for Mahé de Labourdonnais, a governor of Mauritius. It is the location of Port Victoria, the capital city. Ringed by steep and magnificent mountains, few capitals can claim a more beautiful backdrop. The nearby reefs and pristine marine national parks are a snorkeler's paradise

Bring your camera to Haller Park, home to giraffes, hippos, zebras, and a variety of bird species, providing an excellent opportunity for wildlife viewing. Below the surface, the coastal waters around Mombasa teem with marine life, making snorkeling and diving in places like the Mombasa Marine National Park a mesmerizing experience with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.

Zanzibar, part of the "Spice Islands," has long been a crossroads of African, Indian, and Arab influences, visible in its food and bazaars. Its main attraction is Stone Town, with whitewashed coral-rag houses, shops, bazaars, mosques, courtyards, and squares, while its pristine white-sand beaches offer a quiet escape.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest and richest city, is a multicultural crossroads of African, Asian, and Middle Eastern communities. Its name means "Haven of Peace," but the city is lively, with bustling markets, luxury hotels, and some of East Africa's best restaurants. Dining ranges from Tanzanian barbecue and Zanzibari food to Thai, Chinese, and American cuisine. Afterward, visit the National Museum for insight into Tanzania's history.

Discover Nosy Be, scented with native spices and flowers, and nearby Nosy Komba, home to lemurs found only in this region. Start with a stroll through Hellville's city center and open market. Then hire a driver for an island tour to see bright blue volcanic lakes, or take a boat to Nosy Komba for the lemurs. Back in Nosy Be, shop for local perfume, distilled rum, fine linens, and hand-carved wooden art. Enjoy fresh seafood seasoned with local spices in this colorful, aromatic destination.

Antsiranana (Diego Suarez), at Madagascar's northern tip, is a port city known for its colonial charm and natural beauty. See the emerald waters of Diego Suarez Bay, Sugarloaf Mountain, the crimson cliffs of Tsingy Rouge Park, and the forests of Kakazo-Be with ancient trees and wildlife. Explore markets and the city's blend of Malagasy and French influences.

The charming capital city offers lush mountain ranges, fine beaches, stunning coral reefs and picturesque villages. Learn of the rich cultural heritage Port Louis' five districts have to offer or admire the natural beauty of this volcanic island situated in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar.

The charming capital city offers lush mountain ranges, fine beaches, stunning coral reefs and picturesque villages. Learn of the rich cultural heritage Port Louis' five districts have to offer or admire the natural beauty of this volcanic island situated in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar.