What to Expect

The Republic of Cyprus is an island in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, 40 mi south of Turkey. The capital and largest city is Nicosia. Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded the north in response to a military coup on the island which was backed by the Athens government. A thin buffer zone occupied by the United Nations Forces in Cyprus separates the two sectors. It is possible to cross the 'Green Line' between the two parts and we will do so on several occasions with the use of our passports. No visas are necessary. Cyprus is part of the European Union and since January 1, 2008, uses the Euro as its currency.

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a small country with few natural resources, but it has played a pivotal role in the struggle for power in the Middle East. Jordan's significance results partly from its strategic location at the crossroads of what most Christians, Jews and Muslims call the Holy Land. It is one of two Arab nations to have made peace with Israel and is a key ally of the US. Visas for our group will be obtained upon arrival at the airport in Amman. It is NOT necessary to obtain a visa from the Jordanian Embassy in Washington, DC.

Cyprus and Jordan both enjoy a warm and dry Mediterranean climate, and during our trip you can expect daytime temperatures in the 80s, with cooler temperatures in the early morning and evening.