Levant

Planning a Bespoke Luxury Journey to the Levant

The Levant—the historic and culturally rich region of the Eastern Mediterranean—holds some of the most captivating secrets of the ancient world. Spanning the majestic archaeological landscapes of Jordan, the vibrant cultural tapestry and culinary mastery of Lebanon, and the sun-drenched, myth-steeped beaches and ruins of Cyprus, this region offers an unparalleled travel experience. However, because of the complex geopolitical landscape, varying border regulations, and the sheer abundance of historic sites, planning an independent trip here can be incredibly daunting. Partnering with the expert Levant travel agents at Vincent Vacations is the key to transforming a logistically challenging trip into a seamless, deeply rewarding, and ultra-luxury getaway.

Our travel agency brings deep first-hand expertise, long-standing connections with elite destination management companies, and preferred relationships with the world’s finest hospitality brands. When you book your Eastern Mediterranean journey with us, you do not just secure flights and hotels; you unlock a world of exclusive benefits. Through our membership in the prestigious Signature Travel Network, our clients enjoy high-value Signature Travel Network perks, complimentary luxury upgrades, custom-tailored private tours, and the peace of mind that comes with 24/7 travel advocacy. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the signature experiences of Jordan, Lebanon, and Cyprus, detail our logistics and safety strategies, compare DIY bookings with professional travel planning, and outline a checklist timeline for your dream Levant vacation.

Jordan: The Jewel of Hashemite Heritage and Desert Wonders

Jordan is a land of striking contrasts, where ancient history meets modern luxury and desolate red deserts give way to the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea. It is a destination that demands active exploration, private guiding, and high-end accommodations to truly appreciate its magic. From the bustling capital of Amman to the silence of Wadi Rum, our travel advisors craft bespoke itineraries that showcase the absolute best of Jordan.

Amman and the Ancient Ruins of Jerash

Your Jordanian journey typically begins in Amman, a city built on seven hills that blends contemporary culture with historic monuments. A private guide will lead you through the Citadel (Jabal al-Qal'a), where the Temple of Hercules stands high above the city, offering panoramic views of the downtown Roman Theater. Just an hour north of Amman lies Jerash, widely regarded as one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the world. Walk along the original Cardo Maximus, stand in the center of the unique Oval Plaza, and listen to the bagpipes in the ancient South Theater. To experience Amman in ultimate comfort, we recommend staying at the Four Seasons Hotel Amman or the St. Regis Amman. Both properties offer refined oasis-like settings in the prestigious Fifth Circle district, where Vincent Vacations clients receive preferred rates and VIP recognition.

Petra: The Crimson Rose-Red City

No trip to Jordan is complete without visiting Petra, the legendary Nabataean capital carved directly into the sheer red sandstone cliffs. To bypass the crowds, we arrange for you to enter the site early in the morning through the Siq, a narrow, mile-long gorge flanked by towering cliffs. As you reach the end of the Siq, the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh) slowly emerges in the sunlight—a moment that will leave you breathless. A private archaeologist guide will lead you past the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs, and up the 800 hand-cut stairs to the monumental Monastery (Ad Deir). For a magical evening, we can arrange tickets to Petra by Night, where the Treasury is illuminated by thousands of candles under a starlit sky. Stay at the Mövenpick Resort Petra, located directly at the entrance of the archaeological site, allowing you to walk right into history and return to a luxurious swimming pool and spa.

Wadi Rum: Glamping in the Valley of the Moon

Heading south, the landscape shifts to the otherworldly expanse of Wadi Rum, a desert wilderness of red dunes, towering sandstone mountains, and ancient petroglyphs. This is the playground of Lawrence of Arabia and the setting for countless Hollywood sci-fi films. We organize private 4x4 Jeep safaris driven by local Bedouin guides who know every hidden canyon and natural stone bridge. Instead of returning to the city, spend the night at an ultra-luxury Bedouin camp such as Palmera Camp or Memories Aicha Luxury Camp. Here, you will stay in a luxurious Martian Dome complete with king-sized beds, private en-suite bathrooms, and panoramic glass walls that allow you to fall asleep looking at the Milky Way. Enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner cooked under the desert sand (Zarb) and participate in a private stargazing session led by a local astronomer.

The Dead Sea: Unrivaled Luxury and Wellness

End your time in Jordan at the lowest point on Earth: the Dead Sea. Famous for its hyper-saline waters and mineral-rich black mud, it has been a wellness destination since the time of Herod the Great. We recommend checking into the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, a masterpiece of Babylonian-inspired architecture featuring gorgeous infinity pools that blend seamlessly into the horizon. Here, our clients can enjoy luxury upgrades and spend their days floating effortlessly in the buoyant waters, receiving therapeutic mud wraps at the world-class Resense Spa, and watching the sun set over the hills of Jerusalem on the opposite shore.

Lebanon: The Paris of the Middle East and Ancient Phoenicia

Lebanon is a fascinating mosaic of cultures, religions, and history, packed into a small Mediterranean nation. Known for its warm hospitality, legendary nightlife, and world-class culinary scene, Lebanon is a destination that captures the hearts of luxury travelers. With a private driver and guide, you can easily explore the entire country using Beirut as your base.

Beirut: Culture, Nightlife, and Culinary Artistry

Beirut is a city of resilience and sophistication. Walk along the famous Corniche, explore the stylish boutiques and art galleries in the Saifi Village, and visit the National Museum of Beirut, which houses an extraordinary collection of Phoenician sarcophagi. Food is a central pillar of Lebanese culture. We can arrange private food walks through the vibrant neighborhoods of Gemmayzeh and Mar Mikhael, reservation access to elite restaurants like Em Sherif (for an opulent multi-course Lebanese feast), and private tastings of famous Lebanese wines in the nearby Bekaa Valley. Stay at the historic Hotel Albergo, a Relais & Châteaux boutique property in the Achrafieh district that exudes bohemian glamour, or the iconic Phoenicia Hotel Beirut overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and Zaitunay Bay marina.

Baalbek and Byblos: Temples and Ancient Ports

From Beirut, day trips reveal the incredible historical depth of Lebanon. A drive over the Mount Lebanon range brings you to the Bekaa Valley and the ancient ruins of Baalbek. This UNESCO World Heritage site features the most monumental Roman temple complex ever constructed. Stand in awe before the towering columns of the Temple of Jupiter and walk through the incredibly intact Temple of Bacchus, which surpasses even the Parthenon in its state of preservation. On another day, travel north along the Mediterranean coast to Byblos (Jbeil), one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Explore the medieval Crusader Castle, wander through the atmospheric stone souks, and enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the ancient Phoenician harbor.

Cyprus: The Crossroads of the Mediterranean and Myth

Cyprus, the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, offers a beautiful blend of sun-drenched Greek culture, historic ruins, and modern luxury. As a stable European Union member state, it serves as an excellent starting point or relaxing finale for a Levant itinerary. Its modern marinas, championship golf courses, and luxury resorts make it a premier destination in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Paphos and Limassol: Mosaics, Castles, and Seaside Glamour

The coastal city of Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is rich in archaeological wonders. Private guided tours will take you to the Paphos Archaeological Park to view some of the finest Roman floor mosaics in the world, depicting mythological scenes in vivid detail. Explore the Tombs of the Kings, a collection of monumental underground tombs carved out of solid rock. For lodging, stay at the legendary Anassa Hotel, a luxury hillside resort designed to resemble a traditional Cypriot village, overlooking the pristine waters of Chrysochou Bay. In Limassol, the island's modern heartbeat, you can stroll through the superyacht marina and stay at the ultra-chic Amara Hotel or the sprawling Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa. Here, our clients enjoy exclusive benefits, including spa credits and sea-view room enhancements.

The Troodos Mountains: Byzantine Treasures and Vineyards

To experience the authentic heart of Cyprus, venture into the Troodos Mountains. This pine-forested range is home to the famous "Painted Churches of Troodos," a collection of ten UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches decorated with stunning, colorful medieval frescoes. Visit the wealthy and ornate Kykkos Monastery, stop for lunch in the picturesque cobblestone village of Omodos, and participate in a private wine tasting. Cyprus is home to Commandaria, recognized as the world's oldest manufactured wine, still produced using sun-dried grapes. Our advisors can arrange private meetings with local winemakers for an exclusive taste of this rich history.

Navigating Levant Travel Logistics: Borders, Flights, and Safety

One of the main reasons travelers avoid visiting the Levant is the perceived difficulty of logistics and border controls. Because Jordan, Lebanon, and Cyprus have different currencies, visa policies, and entry requirements, organizing a multi-destination itinerary on your own is complex. Our travel agency specializes in managing these details seamlessly.

Seamless Flights and Multi-Destination Itineraries

While land borders between Israel, Lebanon, and Syria are closed to international tourists, traveling between Cyprus, Jordan, and Lebanon by air is incredibly easy and quick. Flights between Larnaca (Cyprus), Beirut (Lebanon), and Amman (Jordan) take less than an hour. We arrange your regional air connections on top-tier carriers like Royal Jordanian, Middle East Airlines, and Aegean Airlines, coordinating schedules to ensure you do not waste precious vacation time in airports. Our team also coordinates VIP meet-and-assist services at each airport. Upon landing, a local representative will meet you at the jet bridge, fast-track you through immigration and customs, assist with your luggage, and escort you directly to your private driver.

Borders and Visas Made Easy

Visa rules in the Levant can change frequently. For Jordan, we secure the pre-arranged visas or arrange the Jordan Pass, which waives visa fees and includes entry to major archaeological sites. For Lebanon, we coordinate with our local ground handlers to ensure your arrival visa paperwork is in order. We also ensure that your passports do not contain stamps that could cause issues at specific border crossings, managing your entry documents with absolute precision. If you wish to cross between Jordan and the West Bank, our advisors arrange the complex logistics at the Allenby (King Hussein) Bridge, ensuring you have the correct permits and a private transfer waiting on both sides of the border.

Safety, Security, and Peace of Mind

At Vincent Vacations, the safety of our clients is our absolute highest priority. We constantly monitor travel advisories from the US Department of State and maintain daily contact with our partners on the ground in Amman, Beirut, and Nicosia. The local DMCs (Destination Management Companies) we partner with are elite agencies with decades of experience. They provide our clients with private, professional English-speaking drivers and modern, GPS-tracked luxury vehicles. If a security issue arises or flight schedules change, our local teams adapt your itinerary in real-time, rerouting tours and managing hotel adjustments without you having to lift a finger. This level of security and convenience is something online booking platforms simply cannot replicate.

Why Book with Vincent Vacations? Signature Perks & Luxury Upgrades

When booking a luxury vacation to a complex region like the Levant, working with a reputable, well-connected travel agency is essential. Vincent Vacations is an active member of the Signature Travel Network, which gives us immense leverage with the world's finest hotels, resorts, and tour operators. We use this leverage to secure exceptional value and VIP recognition for our clients.

When you book your Levant accommodations through us at partner properties like the Four Seasons Amman, Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, Phoenicia Beirut, or the Anassa in Cyprus, you will receive exclusive Signature Travel Network perks, which typically include:

• Complimentary Room Upgrades: Priority for room category upgrades (e.g., upgrading from a deluxe room to a spacious suite with a Mediterranean or Dead Sea view) upon check-in, based on availability.
• Daily Breakfast Credits: Complimentary daily breakfast for two guests throughout your stay, saving you significant out-of-pocket costs at luxury properties.
• Resort & Property Credits: A food and beverage or spa credit (usually $100 USD per stay) that can be applied to fine dining, pool cocktails, or therapeutic spa treatments.
• Early Check-In & Late Check-Out: Subject to availability, allowing you to maximize your travel comfort and enjoy resort amenities on arrival and departure days.
• VIP Welcome Amenities: Customized welcome gifts, fresh fruit platters, local wines, and personalized greetings from the hotel’s general manager.

Beyond these tangible benefits, our greatest value lies in our first-hand expertise and personal advocacy. We communicate directly with hotel managers before you arrive, ensuring your room preferences are met and milestones are celebrated. If you experience travel delays, our advisors handle the logistics, adjust your private transfers, and update the hotels, ensuring your trip remains stress-free and seamless from start to finish.

DIY Booking vs. Partnering with Vincent Vacations

Planning a trip to the Levant independently vs. booking through Vincent Vacations results in vastly different travel experiences. The table below highlights the crucial differences between these two approaches:

Step-by-Step Levant Vacation Planning Timeline

To ensure you secure the best luxury accommodations, private guides, and flight schedules, we recommend using this timeline checklist to plan your journey to the Levant. Your Vincent Vacations advisor will manage each step on your behalf.

Phase 1: 9 to 12 Months Before Departure (Foundations & Flights)

• Consult with your Vincent Vacations advisor: Discuss your travel style, interest in history/culture/beach, budget, and which combination of countries (Jordan, Lebanon, Cyprus) you wish to visit.
• Outline the routing: Decide on the logical flow of your trip (e.g., flying into Larnaca, Cyprus, then to Beirut, Lebanon, and finishing in Amman, Jordan).
• Book international flights: Secure business or first-class transatlantic flights to align with your regional itinerary.
• Select and lock in accommodations: Reserve key luxury properties (especially boutique options like Hotel Albergo in Beirut or luxury desert domes in Wadi Rum, which have very limited capacity).
• Purchase Travel Insurance: Secure a comprehensive travel protection policy covering flight disruptions, medical emergencies, and travel cancellations.

Phase 2: 6 to 9 Months Before Departure (Private Tours & Regional Flights)

• Book private guides and drivers: Secure certified private guides and professional chauffeurs for key historic sights (Petra, Baalbek, Paphos).
• Book regional flights: Secure seats on regional carriers between Larnaca, Beirut, and Amman.
• Curate exclusive experiences: Pre-book unique tours such as a private yacht charter along the Cyprus coast, a guided wine tasting in the Bekaa Valley, or a hot air balloon flight over Wadi Rum.

Phase 3: 3 to 6 Months Before Departure (Visas, Dining, & Spas)

• Initiate visa processing: Review the visa requirements for Jordan, Lebanon, and Cyprus based on your citizenship. Your advisor will handle the paperwork and coordinate the Jordan Pass.
• Secure fine dining reservations: Reserve tables at top-tier culinary hotspots in Beirut and Amman.
• Book spa therapies and wellness experiences: Pre-book signature spa treatments, such as Dead Sea mineral wraps at the Kempinski Ishtar Resense Spa.

Phase 4: 1 to 2 Months Before Departure (Document & Passport Review)

• Verify passport requirements: Ensure all passports are valid for at least six months beyond your return date and contain several blank pages for stamps.
• Review flight details: Confirm departure times, terminal locations, and baggage limits for both international and regional flights.
• Complete health or entry forms: Fill out any required digital passenger locator forms or arrival declarations for the destination countries.

Phase 5: 1 to 2 Weeks Before Departure (Final Briefing)

• Receive final documentation: Review your comprehensive digital travel packet from Vincent Vacations, including flight details, hotel vouchers, transfer instructions, and guide contact info.
• Review emergency procedures: Confirm contact numbers for your travel advisor and local ground representatives.
• Pack appropriately: Pack comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, light layers for warm days and cool desert nights, and conservative clothing for religious and historical sites.

Phase 6: During Your Stay (The Experience)

• Land and relax: Look for your VIP meet-and-assist representative at the airport, enjoy your hassle-free transfers, and begin your bespoke Levant adventure.
• Ongoing support: Contact your Vincent Vacations advisor at any time for adjustments, restaurant bookings, or in-trip assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why should I book a Levant vacation with a travel agent instead of doing it myself?

The Levant is a logistically complex region with unique border dynamics, visa rules, and safety considerations. Booking with Vincent Vacations ensures you have access to vetted private guides, reliable local drivers, and secure luxury vehicles. Additionally, we provide high-value Signature Travel Network perks (like complimentary breakfast, resort credits, and room upgrades) and act as your 24/7 advocate if flights are delayed or travel regulations change, ensuring a completely seamless experience.

Is it safe to travel to Jordan, Lebanon, and Cyprus?

Yes, but it requires local knowledge. Cyprus is one of the safest countries in the EU. Jordan is highly stable, welcoming, and has been a tourism hub for decades. Lebanon is a country of incredible warmth and culture, but it requires careful coordination and up-to-date local monitoring. Vincent Vacations keeps you safe by partnering with top-tier local ground handlers, providing private drivers, avoiding sensitive areas, and maintaining real-time safety monitoring throughout your journey.

How do I travel between Cyprus, Jordan, and Lebanon?

The best and most efficient way to travel between these destinations is by air. Short direct flights of less than an hour connect Larnaca (Cyprus) with Beirut (Lebanon) and Amman (Jordan). Vincent Vacations handles the booking of these regional flights and arranges VIP airport meet-and-assist services, so you can transition between countries smoothly and without stress.

What are the visa requirements for US citizens visiting these countries?

US citizens traveling to Cyprus do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. For Jordan, a tourist visa is required, which we pre-arrange or bundle into the Jordan Pass. For Lebanon, US citizens can receive a free one-month tourist visa on arrival at Beirut International Airport, provided their passport does not contain any stamps or entry visas from Israel. Your Vincent Vacations advisor will audit your passport and handle all visa paperwork to ensure compliance.

When is the best time of year to visit the Levant?

The best time to visit the Levant is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant and mild—perfect for exploring the ancient ruins of Petra and Baalbek or hiking in the Troodos Mountains. Summers can be extremely hot in the deserts of Jordan, while winters can bring rain and cool temperatures, though Cyprus remains relatively mild year-round.

What should I wear when traveling in the Levant?

In Cyprus, standard European resort wear is perfectly acceptable. In Jordan and Lebanon, we recommend dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious or historical sites. Men should wear long pants, and women should keep their shoulders and knees covered. Bringing a lightweight scarf is highly recommended for women when visiting mosques. For exploring archaeological ruins like Petra, Jerash, and Baalbek, sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are essential.

Can Vincent Vacations help with group bookings or milestone celebrations in the Levant?

Absolutely! We specialize in custom group itineraries, multi-generational family trips, destination weddings, and milestone celebrations. Whether you are planning a private family reunion at the Dead Sea, a group cultural tour of Phoenician ruins, or a milestone birthday party in Beirut, we manage the room blocks, private transport, group dining, and exclusive event planning from start to finish.

Secure Your Bespoke Levant Adventure Today

The Levant is a region of unforgettable wonders, where you can walk through the ancient stone canyons of Petra, marvel at the monumental temples of Baalbek, and relax on the Mediterranean beaches of Cyprus. Don't leave a journey of this magnitude to chance. Partner with the travel experts at Vincent Vacations to design a customized, luxury itinerary filled with VIP recognition, Signature Travel Network perks, and luxury upgrades.

Let us handle all the complex logistics, private guides, and flight bookings, leaving you free to immerse yourself in the history and beauty of the Eastern Mediterranean. Contact the travel experts at Vincent Vacations today by calling 1 (888) 883-0460 or request your customized travel quote online at https://www.vincentvacations.com/get-a-quote. We look forward to crafting your ultimate Levant escape!