Ya'lla Tours USA

14/09/2024

Morocco Tours Spotlight: Best of Morocco

14/09/2024

Morocco Tours Spotlight: Best of Morocco
At 6 nights/7 days, Best of Morocco is one of our introductory Morocco tours. It focuses on the imperial cities of Fes and Marrakech, with some brief touring in Casablanca, Meknes and Rabat. Meknes and Rabat are also imperial cities.

Why book Best of Morocco?
This tour is ideal for travelers with limited time or budget, although a drawback of the tour is that there is no time spent in the Sahara Desert. This is a major attraction for many tourists to Morocco. We have several longer Morocco tours that include a night camping in the Sahara.

Browse our Morocco page.

Our Best of Morocco itinerary offers a variety of experience. The drive from Fes to Marrakech across the Middle Atlas Mountains brings expansive scenery and glimpses of sleepy village life and breaks up the days spent in energetic cities. In the cities, visits to serene gardens and monuments contrast with the sensory jumble of the old medinas. (In North African cities, the medina is the historical heart, a maze of narrow streets and usually free of motorized traffic. Ancient walls with monumental gates surround the medinas.)







Best of Morocco in a nutshell
Best of Morocco is one of our privately escorted Morocco tours. Travel with the same licensed guide and driver throughout. Four levels of accommodations range from 4-star to deluxe. In many cases, we use riads, which are restored, grand old houses because riads generally offer a more authentic experience than hotels and are usually located in the medinas.

Touring days in Fes and Marrakech (days 3 & 5) involve quite a bit of walking. On day 2, the drive from Casablanca to Fes takes about 4 hours but is broken up with sightseeing stops in Rabat and Meknes. Day 4 is a long day of driving, but the vehicle is comfortable. You'll enjoy varied scenery, from rugged mountains to green valleys, with picturesque villages tucked into the landscape. This is a private tour, so you can stop and stretch your legs as often as you like.

For a more economical alternative to this tour, look at our Imperial Cities of Morocco. The itinerary is identical to Best of Morocco, however rather than being accompanied by a private guide throughout, a driver escorts travelers in a private car and local guides meet them in each city.

13/09/2024

Wishing you all a peaceful weekend with some timeless scenes from a Nile River cruise in Egypt ~

09/08/2024

ISTANBUL: ZOOM IN!
Istanbul tours take visitors through a grand sweep of history on a millennial scale. Monumental buildings dot the shores of the city's extensive waterways, marking historical periods like an architectural timeline, the view that launched a thousand trips! In this post however, we drop down in and amongst the domes, towers and minarets and focus on some of the visual intricacy the Turks do so well.

30/07/2024

Visiting Dendera temple complex is a highlight of Egyptian touring and that is saying a lot! The site was developed in the Old Kingdom, some 4,500 years ago, possibly even earlier. Existing buildings are from the Greek Ptolemaic period, significantly newer, but still 0ver 2,000 years old. There are a number of interesting structures within the complex but, as one of the best-preserved ancient temples in all of Egypt, the Hathor Temple is the main reason for visiting Dendera. Inside the temple, the surfaces are covered in color and carvings.

Dendera makes an easy, leisurely daytrip from Luxor, about a 90-minute drive each way. Most visitors spend around 2 hours exploring the site.

Our Royal Touch of Egypt tour includes visiting Dendera.
Or, ask us about adding Dendera to a custom itinerary.

18/07/2024

Is the Great Pyramid at Giza a cosmic engine harnessing the power of the sun?

Does it focus gravitational fields of the moon to regulate volcanic lava flow on the opposite side of the earth?

Check out the Premier episode of our new VLOG and ponder these and other mind-blowing theories about the Giza pyramids!

The Great Pyramid of Giza: Not a Trip - An Odyssey! FIVE super-fun facts, FOUR compelling scientific theories, and plenty of exciting new discoveries! Brough...

11/07/2024

If you've ever wondered what's going on in the shadows of all of those shiny towers, read on for a few answers and general tips for some sea-level sights of Dubai ~

BEACHES
Dubai is blessed with miles of pristine, powdery beaches and clear, warm waters. Many beaches are public and free of charge. Private beaches may allow entry for a fee. There's even a floodlit night beach with lifeguards.

TRADITIONAL CULTURE
Cultural travelers find exotic sights of Dubai in the city's oldest neighborhoods, Bur Dubai and Deira, which cluster on opposite sides of Dubai Creek. The Textile, Gold, Spice and Perfume Souks are here. Teeming with the laden dhow boats of modern traders, the atmosphere around the saltwater Creek feels timeless.

NATURE
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected wetland area in the middle of Dubai. It's a haven for many species of migratory birds but the flamingos steal the show. Dubai currently has eight nature reserves protecting desert, mountain, coastal and marine ecosystems in more than 30% of the emirate's territory.

21/06/2024

DESTINATION INSPIRATION: CHANIA, CRETE
Chania, Crete on the northern coast of the largest Greek island is a captivating destination with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a unique blend of cultural influences.

Here are some reasons why it’s worth visiting:

Wander through the charming streets of the old town, where Byzantine, Venetian, and Classical Greek elements blend seamlessly.
Lovers of architecture will especially enjoy Old Chania. Don’t miss the picturesque Old Venetian Harbor of Chania Crete, probably the most photographed feature of Chania.

For insights into ancient Crete, explore Souda Bay, ancient fortresses, and the ruins of Aptera.

Visit stunning Balos Beach framing a unique lagoon with crystal-clear waters. This popular spot is accessible by boat or a challenging hike in and out.

If you’re up for an adventure, explore the rugged beauty of Samaria Gorge near Chania, Crete, one of Europe’s longest gorges.
The 10-mile hike through the gorge ends at the sea. It's a challenging trek, dropping 5,000 feet in elevation along the way.

Glimpse authentic Cretan life in the villages of Apokoronas, an area east of Chania town along the coast and in valleys of the White Mountains.

Visit monasteries of the Akrotiri Peninsula, like Agia Triada and Gouverneto, perched on cliffs with panoramic views.

07/06/2024

The Lycian Way is a 335-mile hiking trail between Fethiye and Antalya along Turkey's Mediterranean Sea coast. Hiking the whole trail takes about 30 days, but short lengths are easily accessed from towns along the route. Ancient ruins dot the landscape and add cultural depth to the stunning natural scenery.

Our Magnificent Turkey tour visits sites on the Lycian Way. This tour can be customized to spend more time in the area, if desired. https://www.yallatours.com/turkey/magnificent_turkey.shtml

01/06/2024

Located on a rocky peninsula in the Ionian Sea, the tiny village of Assos on Greece’s Kefalonia island is impossibly picturesque.
The colorful buildings of Assos cluster around a horseshoe bay and pebble beach, with clear, sheltered water for swimming. A 16th-century Venetian castle stands guard atop a forested slope.

About 36km from Kefalonia's capital town of Argostoli, Assos is a quiet spot to drink in the essence of authentic village life in Greece.

Drinks of another kind and fresh seafood are served at several waterside tavernas and cafes.

A visit to Assos can be added to any of our published Greece tours or included in a custom program.

Ya'lla Tours USA is a boutique Tour Operator to Egypt, Greece, Israel, Jordan, Morocco, Oman, Turkey

25/05/2024

Greece Tours, Day trips on Crete: Archanes
Among our published Greece tours, we have several island hoppers (https://www.yallatours.com/greece/), in which we cover all the logistics and leave the long island days entirely open for our travelers to fill, or not to fill, as the mood strikes them.



If the mood calls for a few hours of moderate activity, local authenticity and deep history, here’s an idea for a little day trip on Crete: Archanes is a beautifully restored mountain village in central Crete only 14km south of Heraklion and 7km from the famous Minoan site of Knossos. This traditional town features shady public squares, colorful Neo-Classical buildings, and long views across rolling fields of vineyards and olive groves, as well as an impressive concentration of Minoan ruins. The whole town sits on the site of an important center of Minoan civilization and there are other Minoan sites in the near vicinity. These sites are less flashy than Knossos, and visited by far fewer people, but equally as important historically.

The site of a Minoan palace right in town has been sporadically excavated since 1964. Walk about 1.5km from town into a cypress and pine forest to Fourni, site of a Minoan cemetery with burials spanning a period of more than 1,000 years. To visit this site, you many need to make an appointment with Archaeological Collection of Archanes. We can help with this. About 4km southeast of town, the Minoan Temple of Anemospilia is controversial among scholars because remains there have been interpreted by some to be of a human sacrifice. If Minoans practiced human sacrifice, evidence is scarce and disputed. Although the archaeological site is closed to the public, it can be seen quite well through the wire fence and the atmosphere of the spot and mountain views make for a worthy visit. About 5km south of Archanes is Vathypetro, site of a large Minoan villa and great views of the island.

A small Archaeological Museum in town displays Minoan artefacts found in the area.
A number of Byzantine churches in and around Archanes house some fine 14th-century frescos.

Check out our island hopper tour, Gaia (https://www.yallatours.com/greece/gaia.shtml), which includes 3 nights on Crete.

17/05/2024

Day Trips from Marrakech: Ourika Valley
Perhaps the best-known mountain excursion from Marrakech is to the Ourika Valley, a stunning 60-90-minute drive southeast from the city.

The main village of the valley is Setti Fatma on the Ourika River.

16/05/2024

Check out our private Best of Dubai tour!
4 nights/5 days from $2,295
See highlights of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Arabian Desert
https://www.yallatours.com/dubai/best_of_dubai.shtml

10/05/2024

According to legend, the god Apollo slayed the Python that guarded the Omphalos, the navel of the Earth, to found his oracle at Delphi.

Seekers came from around the known world to hear the words of the god channeled through the Delphic Oracle, a priestess known as the Pythia.

Delphi was also known for the Pythian Games, similar to the original Olympic Games.

The extensive remains are mostly from the 6th- 4th centuries BCE and are scattered on several terraced levels down the side of Mt. Parnassus. A small museum holds artifacts found at the site.

Delphi is approximately a 3-hour drive northwest of Athens. The modern town of Delphi, with a good selection of hotels, restaurants and shops, is right next to the ancient site.

These Ya'lla tours to Greece include visits to Delphi: Scholar's Classical, Scirocco, Aegean Highlights, Ultimate Greece, and Aeolos.

04/05/2024

PYRAMIDS PYRAMIDS PYRAMIDS!
and some camels too.

There are pyramids all over Egypt, and in other countries too, but today we're gazing upon the pyramids of Giza, the most famous pyramids in the world, one of which is the only remaining of the world's seven ancient wonders. These pyramids are the tombs of three pharaohs who lived more than 4,500 years ago.

Giza is located in the greater Cairo area.







Picture can't begin to capture the marvel of the pyramids of Giza. Browse our collection of tours and go see them in person! (https://www.yallatours.com/egypt/)

03/05/2024

PYRAMIDS PYRAMIDS PYRAMIDS!
and some camels too.

There are pyramids all over Egypt, and in other countries too, but today we're gazing upon the pyramids of Giza, the most famous pyramids in the world, one of which is the only remaining of the world's seven ancient wonders. These pyramids are the tombs of three pharaohs who lived more than 4,500 years ago.

Giza is located in the greater Cairo area.

27/04/2024

ARABIAN DREAMS
The sights of the Arabian Peninsula are more diverse than one might think. Here's a random sampling of Arabian scenes, minus the sand dunes and skyscrapers.

23/04/2024

https://www.yallatours.com/morocco/royal_touch_of_morocco.shtml

Camp in style in the Sahara Desert on our Royal Touch of Morocco tour!

Ya'lla Tours USA is a boutique Tour Operator to Egypt, Greece, Israel, Jordan, Morocco, Oman, Turkey

22/04/2024

19/04/2024

EGYPT - LOOK UP!
The sights of Egypt are monumental and there's a lot going on overhead. Don't forget to look up! But do watch your step.

19/04/2024

our travelers currently in Egypt, "...we couldn't feel more safe and welcome..."

12/04/2024

40 seconds of Greek island bliss ~

12/04/2024

OH, CAPPADOCIA!
Visit the Cappadocia region in central Anatolia, Turkey for its intriguing, magical landscapes and hidden historical depths.

29/03/2024

In the midst of this Christian holy week, we offer images of sites in Jerusalem where, according to tradition, Jesus Christ spent his last hours as a man with his followers, where he suffered and died, and where he rose from death three days later.

The traditional route Jesus walked through Jerusalem to his crucifixion is known as the Via Dolorosa or Way of the Cross. Along the route, 14 Stations of the Cross mark events from the condemnation to death by Pontius Pilate to the entombment of Jesus after his death on the cross.

23/03/2024

DESTINATION INSPIRATION – METEORA, GREECE
In central Greece, near the town of Kalambaka, is Meteora. The name means something like "suspended in air" and describes a collection of Greek Orthodox monasteries perched 1,000 feet above the Plain of Thessaly at the top of titanic rock formations.

The lofty rocks were first inhabited in the 11th century by Christian hermits seeking solitude and security. They scaled the towers and lived in caves and cracks in the stone. In the 13th century, groups of monks came to the area and began to build. Over the next several hundred years over 20 monasteries were built.

Today, the six surviving monasteries are open to visitors. Inside you'll find a few monks and nuns and important collections of frescos, manuscripts and icons. Meteora is over 5 hours from Athens, so you'll want to overnight in Kalambaka, the small town at the foot of the rock towers. You can get a 2-day motor coach tour to Meteora from Athens or a 3-day tour to Meteora and Delphi, or a 4-day tour that combines Meteora with Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia and Delphi.

Visit www.yallatours.com/greece (http://www.yallatours.com/greece) to see tours that include Meteora.

In central Greece, near the town of Kalambaka, is Meteora. The name means something like "suspended in air" and describes a collection of Greek Orthodox monasteries perched 1,000 feet above the Plain of Thessaly at the top of titanic rock formations. The lofty rocks were first inhabited in the 11th....

22/03/2024

METEORA, GREECE
In central Greece, near the town of Kalambaka, is Meteora.
The name means something like "suspended in air" and describes a collection of Greek Orthodox monasteries perched 1,000 feet above the Plain of Thessaly at the top of titanic rock formations.

The lofty rocks were first inhabited in the 11th century by Christian hermits seeking solitude and security. They scaled the towers and lived in caves and cracks in the stone. In the 13th century, groups of monks came to the area and began to build. Over the next several hundred years over 20 monasteries were built.

Today, the six surviving monasteries are open to visitors. Inside you'll find a few monks and nuns and important collections of frescos, manuscripts and icons. Meteora is over 5 hours from Athens, so you'll want to overnight in Kalambaka, the small town at the foot of the rock towers. You can get a 2-day motor coach tour to Meteora from Athens or a 3-day tour to Meteora and Delphi, or a 4-day tour that combines Meteora with Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia and Delphi.

Visit www.yallatours.com/greece to see tours that include Meteora.

19/03/2024

https://youtu.be/aW6cnSV-UJI?si=qgBIv7HMvHR01LQJ

Clergy and congregants from churches in the Midwest express their feelings of gratitude and inspiration while visiting Israel on a recent pilgrimage.

16/03/2024

AWESOME NATURE IN WADI RUM
Included in many of our Jordan tours, Wadi Rum in the southeast of the country is three hundred square miles of protected desert, where you’ll find red sand dunes, mountains, and narrow canyons snaking between sheer towers of granite and sandstone. A small population of Bedouins live much as their ancestors have done for millennia. Tens of thousands of petroglyphs and inscriptions in the wadi are evidence of human habitation going back 12,000 years.

Spend a few hours exploring Wadi Rum by 4X4 with a local guide or stay overnight, or for several days, sleeping in a Bedouin-style camp. Our organized tent camps have en suite bathrooms in guest tents and multi-course meals prepared on site. There are countless opportunities for hiking and rock climbing in this vast, wild place.