Eilat, Israel

A popular resort city on the Red sea

Eilat is a desert resort on the shores of the Red Sea, where temperate gulf waters nourish an astonishing variety of fish and corals, and a surprising number of ways to observe them. The snorkeling and diving are outstanding, but for those who prefer to remain dry there are glass bottom boats, a submarine, and the Underwater Observatory. A group of free-wheeling dolphins hangs out on an offshore reef; observe their antics, or jump in and join them.

Those who prefer an adventure ashore will enjoy Timna National Park, explored by Jeep or camel. Twice yearly millions of birds fly over Eilat, on migration routes between Europe and Africa.