Many Brits who counted on this summer to be a repeat of last year are now regretting not planning their summer holidays abroad in warmer environs, but it is not too late to plan a trip for this autumn. Although many sun seekers may head to the Caribbean in the upcoming months for their essential dose of vitamin D, the countries of the Middle East provide just as much sunshine, are much closer and there are no hurricane threats. As well as practically non-stop sunshine, the Middle East also offers visitors a rich and varied history and culture to discover.

Sun drenched beaches, world class diving, superb snorkelling and all inclusive resorts may not come to mind when thinking about holidays in the Middle East and North Africa, but it should. Many parts of these countries are taking advantage of their hot climate, clear blue seas and their rich histories offering holidaymakers a variety of sports, activities and relaxation.

Visitors can take day trips to ancient cities such as Luxor in Egypt or Fes in Morocco, shop in the modern metropolises of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, or even take a luxurious Egyptian cruise down the Nile. Britons that feel cheated by the wash out UK summer can take their strong pound and plan a relaxing holiday in the region while having the option of seeing some of the greatest sights in the world.

Fes is the spiritual and cultural centre of Morocco and a great place to go if you have been enchanted by the Moorish style that Morocco exudes. Here you can visit the oldest medina in the country, visit mosques, dye pits and tanneries, and also dine at fantastic restaurants, shop in the open air markets and people watch at the cafes. Mint tea is the beverage of choice, a refreshing drink after strolling through the ancient city where you can explore the narrow streets and be glad you escaped the rain and lacklustre weather back home.

The great pyramids are emblematic of Egypt and are probably what first comes to mind when people think of a holiday there. The majority of visitors travelling to Egypt will most likely go and see this great wonder of the world, but there are other things in Egypt that should not be missed. Egypt has some of the highest class hotels and resorts in the world offering renowned dive centres and water sports as well, which employ experienced teachers to take on first timers or help the advanced improve.

If you are planning your autumn holiday in North Africa or the Middle East it may seem hard to choose but at least it is easy to find a place that has everything you require for your vacation.

The Caribbean may conjure up images of white sands and palm trees, but the sunshine of North Africa clearly rivals even the sunniest spots of these islands while having no threat of hurricane season. If the rainy wet miserable weather of the British summer is giving you itchy feet to get out and catch some rays, don’t pass up the hot sun closer to home in the ancient cities or warm beaches of North Africa and the Middle East.

Originally posted 2010-04-10 22:31:57.