Things to Do in Middle East And Africa

With space for up to 5,000 worshippers, the Jumma Mosque (also known as the Juma Masjid) is the largest mosque in the southern hemisphere. It is also one of its oldest, its impressive minarets having dominated Durban’s Indian Quarter for over a hundred years, its sheltered ground floor-level shops forming an intercultural dialogue with the rest of the city.

The building is a fascinating mix of Mughal Indian and colonial South African styles, distinguished by the archways and decorative plasterwork of the off-white exterior and the serene marble of the surprisingly spacious interior, which offers an oasis from the bustling commercial activity of the area.

Jebel Shams is Oman’s highest peak, and at around 10,000 feet (or 3,000 meters) it makes a cool contrast to the baking coast. The regular road runs out about two-thirds the way up, so from there on in it’s 4-wheel-drive or, for the adventurous, hiking. Either way you’ll have stunning views of Wadi Nakhr, a dramatic canyon whose sheer walls drop down to a valley floor of tiny villages and date palm plantations.

Colorful rugs made using goat hair and natural dyes are a specialty of the region. There are also a number of eerie village ruins which testify to the difficulty of living in this fascinating yet challenging area.

In ancient times, the Roman town of Gerasa grew rich from iron ore as well as agricultural products which flourished in this comparatively lush temperate region. This wealth in turn endowed the town with architectural treasures: the unique oval Forum, Hippodrome, Amphitheater, Agora, and the proud columns of the Temple to Artemis. The majestic Hadrian’s Arch dates from the eponymous Roman Emperor’s visit, an event which signaled the town’s importance.

Not long after the spread of Islam into the area, Gerasa was devastated by an earthquake and for centuries lay buried in sand. This accounts for the remarkable state of preservation in this, one of Jordan’s most important Roman sites. Significant sections of all the above-named sites can still be seen next to the modern town of Jerash, as well as colonnaded streets and city walls which precisely delineate the town’s contours, giving a vivid sense of life in an ancient Roman town.

You don’t have to head for the big game reserves to see the amazing variety of South African wildlife – it’s all on display at Johannesburg Zoo. On a sprawling 54 hectare (133 acre) site you’ll see evidence of an enlightened zoological program, with majestic lions, playful monkeys and distinctive horned oryxes all given room to roam.

Additionally, you’ll find non-native animals including polar bears, Siberian Tigers and camels. While enjoying the green expanse of one of Jo’burg’s great outdoor spaces you can watch crocodiles being fed, handle (non-venomous) snakes and visit a real farmyard.