Ancient Civilizations Tours and Cruises 2008
Choose an Insight Eastern Mediterranean vacation and we'll show you the mystery and splendour of these ancient lands in style. The region, which broadly encompasses Egypt, Greece, Turkey, Jordan and Israel, offers a wealth of sightseeing opportunities. Our knowledgeable tour planners have put together a range of tours and cruises designed to showcase the very best of these areas. We have structured the departure dates so you can easily combine two, three or more tours. Imagine yourself relaxing on your Nile cruiser as thousands of years of civilization are revealed before you. Then perhaps continue your vacation with a tour of Israel, Turkey or the Greek Islands. With Insight you can choose from tours and cruises ranging in length from seven to seventeen days. Many tours are "Extra Leisure", spending two or three nights in the same location.
Local Experts- Wondrous Sights
Let Insight introduce you to the region's diverse and exciting attractions. Each vacation includes a glittering range of special tours, excursions and, of course, our unique programme of premium highlights unmatched by other tour operators. You will enjoy these 'must see, must do attractions' as part of your vacation - not expensive extras. Whether it's a visit inside one of the Great Pyramids at Giza, the horse and carriage ride to the Temple of Luxor, an excursion to the legendary Temple of Poseidon, overlooking the magnificent Aegean Sea, or a cruise past Ottoman palaces on the Bosporus in Turkey, you will find that Insight has included an exciting range of premium highlights in the cost of your tour. Naturally, entrance fees and expert commentary by specialist guides are also provided. On every tour of 8 days or more, you will be treated to an exclusive highlight evening showcasing the very best in local cuisine and traditional hospitality. Because so much has already been included, you will have more leisure time to make this vacation a truly personal experience - time to bargain hunt in a bazaar, float on the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea or enjoy a special excursion from a quality range of options we have selected, like a visit to the awe-inspiring temples of Rameses II at Abu Simbel. Come and join us for a truly personal, unforgettable vacation experience.
Inclusive sightseeing day and night Relax, We'll be there every step of the way...
Whether you're visiting Jerusalem's famous Temple Mount, gazing in awe at the mighty pyramids or enjoying a relaxing cruise on the Bosporus, Insight's multi-lingual Tour Directors, Egyptologists and resident representatives will be on hand to explain in detail the history and cultural significance of these remarkable sights. Through them you will feel the real pulse of the region and return knowing you have had an enriching vacation experience. Each itinerary is carefully planned to introduce you to the glories of history, from ancient times to the present. One day you could be exploring the Valley of the Kings, or the next cruising the Nile in style. And for added reassurance Insight has resident managers in both Egypt and Greece. Their expert knowledge of local customs and regulations will allow you to sit back and savour every moment.
Cruising In Comfort & Style
If you want to feel you are being pampered like Antony or Cleopatra for a while, then an Insight vacation that includes a cruise is the perfect choice! Imagine cruising the Nile or sailing to the beautiful Greek Islands across the magical Aegean Sea. Tempting, isn't it?
Nile Cruising
Step aboard your Nile cruiser and you will find yourself on a comfortable floating hotel with every modern amenity at hand. Of course your Tour Director, who is also a qualified Egyptologist, will be with you all the way. You can relax on the sun deck by day as you cruise along the banks of the Nile, and enjoy traditional hospitality and entertainment by night. All Nile cruise vessels offer, air-conditioned cabins with panoramic windows and private bathrooms; a plunge pool, beautifully appointed lounges, sun decks, bars and legendary evening entertainment. Even the Pharaohs didn't have it this good! Guests on the Egyptian Elegance will have the privilege of cruising on the top rated M.S. Tower Prestige. As well as being fully-inclusive, it has floor-to-ceiling cabin windows and balcony rails, so you can sit back with an uninterrupted view as the sights of the Nile pass by.
Mediterranean Cruising
You'll get great enlightenment too with our Aegean and Greek Islands cruises. Let us welcome you aboard the mid-sized ships of Louis Lines with their typical Greek style. They are the perfect way to explore these waters, ancient cities and beautiful islands. Each vessel features expansive decks for sunning or strolling, one or more swimming pools, bars, restaurant, lounges, cabarets and al fresco dining options for breakfast and lunch. All offer great amenities including comfortable cabins with private facilities and air-conditioning. These wonderful vacations will bring you wonderful experiences of discovery, adventure and enjoyment. Whichever cruise you choose, all meals, entertainment, porterage, tips and taxes on board are included.
Outstanding Hotels in Superb Locations
The location and quality of your hotel is one of the most important aspects of any tour. That's why Insight Vacations has spared no effort to bring you our very special selection - from grand, classic hotels, some past favourites of royalty and great archaeologists, to modern properties often reflecting the style and elegance of the region. Ancient civilizations at your door, we also understand the importance of selecting excellent hotels that are close to the famous sights you've travelled so far to enjoy. Indeed, many of our hotels are only walking distance from historic landmarks or scenic attractions. In Jerusalem, for instance, you'll be staying at the magnificent Inbal Hotel, just a short walk from the Jaffa Gate and the Old City. In Cairo, the Marriott, a magnificent palace, is located in lush and tranquil gardens on an island in the very heart of the city while the modern and elegant Conrad has every bedroom overlooking the Nile. What could be more perfect? With Insight, you will stay in fully-air conditioned First Class, Superior First Class or Deluxe hotels in city centres or close to scenic or historic attractions. All twin-bedded rooms have private facilities. And, of course, gratuities, tips, service charges, porterage and taxes are already included in the cost of your tour! On the Egyptian Elegance guests will stay in truly classic hotels, such as the Old Winter Palace in Luxor and the Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan, where you will enjoy included High Tea on the same terrace so loved by Agatha Christie.
Impeccable Service and Local Cuisine
We also pay close attention to the standard of service and cuisine. You will begin each day with a sumptuous buffet breakfast and on most touring days relax over a delicious choice at your three course evening meal or buffet. Plus, we ensure that you will sample some local speciality dishes and national favourites. While cruising, all your meals are included and guests who travel on the Tower Prestige cruiser will also benefit from included local beer, wine and soft drinks during their cruise. It all adds up to an unforgettable vacation experience. It is no wonder therefore, that Insight is recommended by travellers worldwide.
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