For centuries, Turkey has been the bridge between East and West, between Christianity and Islam, between Europe and the Middle East. Although many things have changed over the years-Turkey was formerly known as the Ottoman Empire until the end of WWI, and Istanbul, was known as Constantinople-Turkish hospitality, and the beauty and mystery of the land have remained unchanged. Although Turkey is moving quickly into modernity by stabilizing the economy, cleaning up its human rights record, and trying to retain a secular government, whether or not the country is allowed to join the European Union remains to be seen.

Although the Turkish economy is stable and fairly strong these days, the country still remains a bargain for tourists and visitors, especially when compared to other destinations in the Mediterranean. Budget travelers can travel, eat, and sleep for about $40-60 a day, while around $100 per day, allows one to sleep in nice hotels, eat well, and travel in style. In the major cities, dollars, euros, and other major currencies can be used, but when traveling in smaller villages off the beaten path, keeping a ready supply of Turkish Liras is advised.

Turkey has a modern transportation system in place, and visitors can easily and cheaply get in, out, and around the country via airlines, ferries, trains, buses, and cars. The trains are typically slower than the buses, but many do have sleeper cars for long-distance travelers, and can be a good value. The Bosfor Ekspresi train connects between Budapest, Bucharest, Belgrade, and Sofia.

Istanbul has to be considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities, with domes, minarets, and modern building all standing side by side in a city that as been home to philosophers, crusaders, mystics, artists, and holy men for centuries. Surely, no trip would be complete without a visit to the Aya Sofya, or its western name, Haghia Sofia. Built 15 centuries ago, the structure was first built as a Christian church, but became a mosque for several centuries before finally ending up as a museum. Another gorgeous religious structure that shouldn’t be missed is the Blue Mosque, or the Mosque of Sultan Ahmet. A perfect example of the perfection and harmony that Islamic architecture strives for, the mosque contains the largest courtyard of any Ottoman mosque, and six minarets.

Although Turkey’s cities are enormous, loud, and chaotic, plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the Turkish sun exist in the resorts, smaller towns, and islands that make up the rest of the country. Bodrum is one of Turkey’s most gorgeous resorts, replete with picturesque white houses and villas, and a bay that is usually dotted with sailboats, swimmers, and others enjoying the Aegean waters. Although Bodrum is a place to come for relaxation and rejuvenation, partygoers can dance the night away in the town’s famous discos, which pump out the beats until the early morning hours.

Turkey is both modern and old fashioned. At once European, Asian, and Middle Eastern, it was one of the first multicultural societies on the planet, and a melting pot of different ideas, cultures, customs, and arts, but also a place still defining itself. Visitors will be awed by the architecture, inspired by the art, and romanced by the energy and verve that the cities and people have to offer.

Travelers to Israel will find a country preserving its historical, religious, and cultural roots, while, at the same time, building for the future, embracing modernity, economics, style, and most of all, fun!

Jerusalem is home to three of the world’s greatest religions, with about 1/3 of the world’s population regarding it as a holy city. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all claim sacred places within the city, and the mix has produced some of the most beautiful architecture, shrines, and buildings that the world has to offer, but it has also produced the friction and fighting that has always plagued the city, as well as humanity in general. Jewish, Christian, and Muslim pilgrims from all over the world travel to Jerusalem to pray, meditate, and study in the 5,000 year old city. In fact, a visit to the district, known as the Old City, reveals many of Jerusalem’s most cherished places, such as the Temple Mount. All three religions claim parts of the Temple Mount as their own holy places. For the Jews, it the most holy place for their religion, seen as the place where the world was created, and also containing the Western (or Wailing) Wall, where Jews pray and leave written prayers for God, and also as the place where Abraham was willing to sacrifice his son, Isaac, to God. For the Muslims, the Temple Mount is regarded as the third holiest site in Islam, after Mecca and Medina. Since the shrine was built by David and Solomon, and these two are regarded as prophets in Islam, it is highly regarded that religion as well. It also is a place where Mohammad arrived on a winged horse after visiting heaven. For Christians, the place is not as important as a shrine or temple as it is to the Muslims and Jews, but more as the historical place where Jesus prayed and chased off the money changers.

The Old City is just one square kilometer, but contains as many religious and historical sites as anywhere in the world. The rest of Jerusalem is full of museums and archaeological discoveries as well.

Tel Aviv is everything that Jerusalem isn’t (but that’s not a bd thing), and demonstrates the Israeli vision for the future in its glass and steel skyscrapers, funky Art Deco neighborhoods, and clubs, discos, beaches, and dedication to business. If Jerusalem is the spiritual and religious capital of the country, then Tel Aviv is certainly the commercial, artistic, and cosmopolitan heart of Israel. Places that have beaches nearby are typically fun places, and Tel Aviv’s western beaches are gorgeous and happening. Whether it’s taking the family out for a day, looking for someone of the opposite sex, or just having a relaxing bite to eat at a café, Tel Aviv’s beaches offer a respite from the hassles of the big city. Tel Aviv is the Israeli center for music, galleries, and the performing arts. Because the weather is good year-round, a number of festivals, concerts, and outdoor events can normally be found. Whether jazz, electronic music, or more traditional folk music is your thing, Tel Aviv provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy a show either outside, or in one of the city’s theater, or performing arts venues.

Traveling to Israel, visitors will find a country with a deep historical and religious history, which billions of people respect and worship. The country also is building for the future, and offers lots of chances to enjoy all the benefits that the modern world provides as well.