The Middle East remains one of the most compelling regions on earth: ancient cities layered with history, extraordinary landscapes, and a warmth of hospitality that often surprises first-time visitors. Indeed, Jordan was the destination for one of our inaugural trips. Yet in times of geopolitical tension it is natural to ask a sensible question: is it safe to go? If you’re travelling with Club Avandra, you can rest assured we’ll answer this question for you. But if you’ve been inspired by some of our recommended ‘Avandra Loves’ hotels, for example, and are planning to travel independently, you need to stay informed, choose your destination carefully and travel with a little extra awareness.
The Middle East is, of course, not one single destination. It is a vast and varied region, and many countries remain open to visitors and continue to welcome international tourism. Popular destinations such as Morocco and Egypt at the time of writing still receive millions of visitors each year, although travellers are advised to remain aware of local conditions and monitor official updates. Our Jordan trip is, of course, on hold pending the advice for the country changing.
The Middle East also plays an outsized role in global aviation, largely thanks to geography. Sitting neatly between Europe, Asia and Africa, the region has become the world’s great crossroads in the sky — the place where long-haul journeys naturally connect. For travellers, this means that many routes to Asia, Australia and parts of Africa pass through major Middle Eastern hubs like Dubai or Doha. When airspace in the region is disrupted, flights around the world can be delayed or rerouted, which explains why events there ripple quickly through global travel plans.
In short: what happens in the Middle East doesn’t stay there — it shapes the journeys of travellers everywhere.
The first principle, as with any destination, is simple: always check official travel guidance before you book. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) regularly updates advice for each country, including whether travel is discouraged or restricted. If the FCDO advises against travel to a destination, most travel insurance policies become invalid, which can leave you vulnerable if something goes wrong.
At the moment, parts of the region remain volatile. The Foreign Office currently advises against travel to Israel and the Palestinian territories due to ongoing conflict. More broadly, tensions across the Middle East mean that the security situation can change quickly, sometimes with little warning. Travellers should be aware that events such as military escalation may cause sudden flight disruptions, airspace closures or cancelled routes.
For solo travellers, as with anyone planning a journey there, preparation is key. The most reassuring approach is to plan carefully: choose established hotels, organise transfers in advance and keep a flexible itinerary in case transport schedules change. Registering your travel plans with the FCDO and ensuring you have comprehensive insurance are both sensible steps.
Cultural awareness also matters in peacetime as well as times of unrest. The Middle East is famously hospitable but remains culturally conservative in some areas. Dressing modestly, respecting local customs and using reputable transport providers are simple ways to travel comfortably and confidently. Women travelling alone are generally safe in major cities and resorts, but it is wise to take common-sense precautions — particularly at night — as you would in any unfamiliar destination.
Above all, it is worth remembering why travellers continue to visit the region. From the rose-red canyons of Petra to the souks of Marrakech and the serene deserts of Oman, the Middle East offers experiences that feel both ancient and deeply alive.
For Club Avandra women, the region can still be extraordinarily rewarding — provided journeys are planned with care, awareness and a spirit of curiosity. As with all good travel, the key lies in balancing adventure with good judgement.
