Preserving traditions in the face of rapid modernization, the bustling port city of Doha offers a bevy of fascinating attractions. Wander the bustling Souq Waqif, a modern evolution of an ancient Bedouin market. Take in the stunning National Museum of Qatar, Doha's newest architectural gem that seems to grow out of the landscape like a desert rose. After admiring the treasures of the Museum of Islamic Art, look for Doha's famed pearl monument as you stroll the crescent-shaped Corniche.

The 1958 discovery of oil transformed Abu Dhabi from a rural backwater into a modern metropolis with one of the world's highest per-capita incomes. Today it features skyscrapers, malls, luxury hotels, tree-lined boulevards, and gardens, while retaining an Arabian mystique. Cruise the Gulf and nearby islands on a traditional dhow, visit Heritage Village to see traditional crafts, or browse the souk for gold and Bedouin silver jewelry.

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.

Archaeological finds show 5,000 years of civilization in Jeddah, whose mix of old and new makes Saudi Arabia's "bride of the Red Sea" so appealing. Explore Al Balad's narrow medieval alleys, built from Red Sea coral blocks. Browse the bustling Souq Al Alawi, the kingdom's largest bazaar. Stroll the Corniche past green landscaping, cafes, piers, and King Fahd's Fountain, then try kabsa, Saudi Arabia's national dish.

Aqaba, in southwestern Jordan, is Jordan's only seaport and the gateway to Petra. Petra dates back to perhaps 7000 BC, was one of the earliest farming communities in the Middle East, and was built from solid red rock with intricate carvings. Once the capital of the Nabataean civilization, it stretched from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea. Enter through a half-mile chasm and see the magnificent Treasury.

Cross the Nile to the Valley of the Kings, including Tutankhamen's tomb and Hatshepsut's mortuary temple. Take a jeep safari into the desert to a Bedouin settlement for sweet tea and flatbread, and watch the sunset over the sands. Shop for hand-painted papyrus, mother-of-pearl boxes, alabaster trinkets, jewelry, and ancient-style replicas. Enjoy lamb, falafel, and other Middle Eastern and Egyptian specialties.

Cross the Nile to the Valley of the Kings, including Tutankhamen's tomb and Hatshepsut's mortuary temple. Take a jeep safari into the desert to a Bedouin settlement for sweet tea and flatbread, and watch the sunset over the sands. Shop for hand-painted papyrus, mother-of-pearl boxes, alabaster trinkets, jewelry, and ancient-style replicas. Enjoy lamb, falafel, and other Middle Eastern and Egyptian specialties.

Explore Galilee: the Jordan River, Mount of the Beatitudes, Tabgha, and Nazareth. In Haifa, see the Bahai Gardens and shop at Panorama Center or Massada Street. South of Haifa, Ein Hod offers hand-blown glass, pottery, silver, gold, and crafts. Dining ranges from French and Continental to Middle Eastern, with fresh fish, grilled lamb, and homemade kanafeh-baked sweet cheese with pistachio and honey.

Explore Galilee: the Jordan River, Mount of the Beatitudes, Tabgha, and Nazareth. In Haifa, see the Bahai Gardens and shop at Panorama Center or Massada Street. South of Haifa, Ein Hod offers hand-blown glass, pottery, silver, gold, and crafts. Dining ranges from French and Continental to Middle Eastern, with fresh fish, grilled lamb, and homemade kanafeh-baked sweet cheese with pistachio and honey.

Piraeus is the gateway to Athens, the "Cradle of Western Civilization," famed for its lasting cultural and political influence. Driven by tourism and the 2004 Olympics, Greece has redeveloped many sites. Athens remains a historian's delight, with the Acropolis, Parthenon, Plaka's winding streets, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Archaeological Museum's renowned ancient artifacts.

Sorrento is one of the world's most beautiful towns, with breathtaking coastal views and rich history dating back to the 11th century BC. Overlooking the Bay of Naples, it is a key point on the Sorrentine Peninsula and a top destination in Campania. Also plan a day trip to Capri, one of Italy's most celebrated islands, known for its natural beauty.

Rome offers endless choices: enjoy street performers at the Spanish Steps, wine and people-watching in colorful Trastevere, or the city's rich history and architecture. St. Peter's Basilica is a full-day visit, with the Sistine Chapel and panoramic views from the dome. Don't miss the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, and Aventine Hill, which overlooks the Imperial Palaces ruins and the Circus Maximus.