On MoroccoThe best buys in Morocco are traditional tagines, rugs, spices and also Moroccan slippers.
On SyriaEvenings can be chilly and days can be sweltering in Syria; make sure you pack accordingly so you are not caught out by the change in temperature.
On JordanTry an evening cookery course at Beit Sitti - it is a fantastic experience and will give you a real insight into Jordanian cuisine.
On SyriaThe traffic can be incredible in Damascus and Aleppo; always cross the street with a local if you can.
On MoroccoIf you have eaten one too many tagines, then there are some excellent French restaurants in Marrakesh, Grande Cafe de la Poste is one of my personal favourites.
On JordanIf you are looking for a unique experience, then you cannot beat the beautiful Feynan Eco Lodge in Dana Nature Reserve.
On EgyptBe prepared to haggle over the price when shopping in the souks - it's not rude, it is the way of life here and even the locals do it!
On JordanMake the most of your time in Petra and climb the steps to the High Place of Sacrifice - you wont regret the effort when you see the incredible views.
On LebanonMake sure you convert any unused Lebanese pounds before you leave the country. You will have lots of trouble trying to do this once you have left.
On MoroccoIf you have a free afternoon in Marrakesh, I would recommend a Moroccan cookery course. They're great fun!
On JapanVisit Kanazawa's Omi-Cho food market for some of the world's freshest sashimi and sushi.
On SyriaMake sure you do not have an Israeli stamp in your passport, you will not be allowed to enter Syria.
On MoroccoAlways ask permission before photographing people in Morocco, especially in the more remote areas where it can cause genuine offence.
On EgyptMake sure you keep hold of smaller notes and coins where possible in Egypt; baksheesh or tipping is commonplace for almost every service you receive.
On SyriaI would recommend taking a comfortable pair of sturdy sandals or shoes for exploring the ruins, there can be a lot of walking involved.
On JapanTipping is uncommon in Japan - remember not to leave tips in bars and restaurants as you may confuse staff!
Biography
Megan's enthusiasm for travel was first sparked by a college field trip to Morocco in 2001. Since this experience, she has taken every opportunity to explore the world at length while studying for her Law degree at Exeter University. After graduating, Megan realised that travel was her passion, and sought a career within the industry.
She has been fortunate enough to visit North Africa, Arabia and Japan extensively over the past few years with Audley, fuelling her love for these diverse regions. These most recent trips have further enhanced her wide knowledge of the culture, sights and beautiful hotels that these countries have to offer. When not working, Megan enjoys foreign cinema, swimming and snowboarding.
My Most Memorable Experience
My most memorable travel experience is undoubtedly stepping aboard the Steam Ship Sudan in Aswan. I had read about the cruise before my visit to Egypt, but it would have been impossible to anticipate the true extent of the Sudan's charm. Unlike many boats on the Nile, the cruise has just 23 cabins which are decked out in wood and brass with period features. If you are looking for a luxury Nile valley experience, then the Sudan offers the perfect base.
My Favourite Destination
The snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas are so close to Marrakesh that they are clearly visable from the rooftops of many of the city's riads. Within an hour's drive you can be in the scenic Ourika valley; bartering at the local market, enjoying gentle hikes and staying at one of my favourite places, the Kasbah Bab Ourika. Despite being at the very foot of the range there are some jaw dropping views around the Ourika valley such as those down the rugged valley or up to the shimmering peak of Jebel Toubkal, North Africa's highest mountain.
Moving higher up, there are a couple of wonderfully scenic, serpentine mountain passes that you can drive: the Tizi-n-Tichka and my favourite the Tizi-n-Test. A short detour from the latter is the historic 12th century Almohad mosque in the small mountian village of Tin Mal. Naturally the mountains make spectacular walking territory with many hikes launching from the Berber run eco-property, the Kasbah du Toubkal. The views here are fabulous and you can try anything from a relatively gentle stroll around the village of of Imlil to a full on assailt on the 4,000 metre summit of Jebel Toubkal.
My Favourite Accommodation
The Fujioto Ryokan is one of the most simple, yet charming, traditional inns Japan has to offer. A stay includes an outstanding tasting menu, which is the only thing more impressive than the warm service provided by Mr Fujihara and his daughter.
Adding to the overall charm is the location, in the small postal town of Tsumago, which has no outward sign of the modern world, meaning it provides the perfect contrast to Japan's futuristic bustling cities.
