In modern Turkey, the legacy of centuries of history coexists with progressive and contemporary culture. Its exciting capital, Istanbul, spans Europe and Asia: here, upscale eateries and swanky nightclubs are squeezed between Byzantine and Ottoman structures, with calls-to-prayer from city mosques sounding above the city.

Lebanon, a beautiful country that’s often overlooked when planning a holiday, should be on everyone’s bucket list in 2018. You simply won’t find delicious hummus (and Lebanese mezzes), Roman ruins, fun nightlife, stunning mountains and beaches, awe-inspiring mosques and churches, all in one place anywhere else in the world!

In this twin set of seven-day scenarios, you'll give yourself an urban base to explore in-depth and from which to branch out into the regions. If you're enticed by the beach and nightlife of Tel Aviv, Israel's Mediterranean metropolis, start there. If you are more motivated by historical or religious interest, make Jerusalem your starting point.