Top 3 Unique Travel Destinations in the Middle East

European cities may be the cliché dream destination for all of us wanderlusters, but there are definitely some great and unique vacation spots outside of the mainstream. The New York Times recently released a list of the “52 Places to Go in 2015” and three from the MENA region made the cut.

Here is a closer look at each of these three destinations and what they have to offer would-be travelers.

Classifying Oman as “The Middle East’s best-kept secret no longer” might be lofty praise, but coming in at No. 20, the sultanate may just deserve it.

Unlike the famous skyline of Dubai, Oman offers a view of natural grandeur with soaring mountains, quiet ravines and an attractive coastline. From sites of historical heritage, picturesque beaches and mountain resorts, Oman offers a perfect escape from the fast pace of Gulf regional cities.

With several new resorts planned and opening soon, it looks like Oman has already anticipated the secret getting out.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2012, Rabat may not have the fame of Casablanca or Marrakesh, but as the capital of Morocco, the city definitely has a lot to offer.

Situated along the sea, the bustling city boasts European-style boulevards and modern public transport system, making visiting the city’s Roman ruins, medieval districts and the new Musée Mohammad VI, the country’s first museum of modern and contemporary art, a breeze.

So brush up on your French and start planning your trip to this idyllic seaside city endowed with interesting history, unique culture and fresh artwork.

Have you been lusting after those all picturesque photos of the exquisite Greek islands? Well maybe there is an alternative at a cheaper price, with less of the tourist fuss that normally comes with such a highly publicized location. Enter Kas.

While hordes of tourists have already discovered the neighboring town of Kalkan, Kas remains a secluded traditional fishing community nestled along the Mediterranean coast.

With the reputation of being a diver’s paradise, the village also is a good location to jump over to the nearby cities of Xanthos and Patara. With a hippy vibe, several jazz-playing joints along the waterfront can serve as a great evening spot to end the day.

So what are you waiting for? These unique destinations are waiting for you to come and discover them.