I will be in Dubai for a week in early November and I'd like to spend a week prior to that visiting other parts of the Middle East. Ideally, I would prefer to base myself in one city or two to avoid always being on the go. Would 3-4 nights in Cairo and 3-4 nights in Amman be a good idea? I thought it would be a good introduction to Egypt and Jordan. What else would you suggest I do?

I will be travelling solo and I must admit I am feeling a little bit nervous about going to the Middle East but I realized I must be open-minded and see the place for myself before I judge it.

I've been to Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Palestine and Turkey and in none of these countries did I ever feel unsafe. The people who fear that part of the world most are those who have never been there. Once you are there you will see what I mean.

Instead of staying in Amman I suggest spending at least one night a bit closer to Petra. I suppose Petra is doable from Amman but I enjoyed staying right by Petra to allow more time. I thought it was the most amazing archaeological site I've ever seen. 3-4 nights in Cairo would be good, but personally I prefer Luxor. There is so much to see in Luxor and it's much more laid back than chaotic Cairo. But either way (Cairo or Luxor) you won't go wrong.

I agree - Luxor is much nicer than Cairo. Cairo can be seriously insane! But no matter where you go there is so much to see and do you won't have the time to do it all!. remember just relax into the experience - it is what it is - different - isn't that why we travel?

mcbg1,

Check out my blog at: www.dmbtraveler195.blogspot.com for an independent solo traveler prespective of The Middle East.. Egypt, Jordan and Israel.

I think you will enjoy The Middle East with no worries.

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Suggest you first figure out how you'll travel between DXB/CAI/AMM and return to DXB. They look real close on a map, but air service maybe limited and expensive.

Check a site as Kayak www.kayak.com for flights, schedules & fares (especially days of week they fly). Once you've done this you can work out how many days in Egypt and Jordan.

Cairo is interesting with lots to keep you busy for 3-4/days, but so too is Luxor. And, in Jordan, best to head down to Petra for a few days.

Good luck!