Travel the World with us

 

As we bid farewell to summer and welcome the crisp embrace of fall, we would like to take a moment to wish you a joyful and restful Labor Day Weekend. This time of year serves as a meaningful pause — a chance to reflect and express our deepest gratitude to the countless individuals who work tirelessly, both behind the scenes and on the front lines. Their dedication, resilience, and hard work are the backbone of our communities, and their efforts never go unnoticed. Labor Day is more than just a long weekend, it’s a celebration of the human spirit, of perseverance, and of the drive that moves us forward. We honor their commitment, sacrifices, and the vital roles they play every single day.

From all of us, thank you, and have a safe, well-deserved

Labor Day Weekend.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Ghana, Togo, and Benin (Jan 08 - Jan 22, 2025) led by expert Tour Lecturer: Mohamed Halouani a spellbinding exploration of West Africa’s living traditions, sacred rituals, and storied landscapes. This immersive experience promises far more than sightseeing: it invites you into the heart of cultures shaped by centuries of resilience, spirituality, & celebration.

 

Your adventure begins along the vibrant coast, where the pulsing rhythms of local music, bustling open-air markets, and welcoming communities offer a colorful introduction to the region. Here, you will engage directly with local practitioners of Voodoo, one of the oldest and most misunderstood spiritual systems in the world. Through intimate encounters and awe-inspiring dances, you will witness how this sacred tradition continues to shape everyday life — profound, powerful, and deeply human. As we venture inland, the landscapes shift from lush rainforests to wide savannahs, and so too do the cultural expressions. Nestled in the rocky hills, we meet the Taneka people, whose way of life remains steeped in ancient tradition and spiritual customs. Their villages, rituals, and stories speak to a remarkable continuity between past and present.

 

In northern Benin, encounter the Somba people, known for their distinctive clay fortress-homes, often described as fairy-tale castles. These intricate structures are as functional as they are symbolic, reflecting a deep connection between architecture, ancestry, and identity. A visit to a mysterious witches' village adds a thought-provoking dimension to the journey, revealing how folklore, spirituality, and social dynamics intertwine.

 

Crossing into Ghana’s Ashanti heartland, you will delve into the enduring legacy of one of West Africa’s greatest kingdoms. In Kumasi, experience the spectacular Akwasidae Festival, a biweekly celebration held in honor of Ashanti ancestors. Amid colorful regalia, hypnotic drum rhythms, and intricate royal rituals, you'll witness a culture where history is not only remembered — it is lived. Your journey culminates along Ghana’s historic coast, where massive European-built castles, including Cape Coast and Elmina, stand as sobering monuments to the transatlantic slave trade. Walking through their stone corridors is a powerful, emotional experience — one that invites reflection on the past and its enduring echoes in the present.

 

This is more than a tour, it's an invitation to deeply connect with West Africa’s extraordinary blend of cultures, kingdoms, festivals, and spiritual traditions. With expert insights from your tour lecturer, each stop becomes a window into the soul of a region that has shaped and continues to shape global history and heritage. For the culturally curious, the spiritually open, and the historically minded, this journey is a true once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

We are excited to announce that the dates for our Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of Congo, &Gabon expedition have been updated to Feb 10 - Feb 22, 2026. This adjustment allows the tour to run consecutively with our popular Atlantic Coast trip (Jan 22 - Feb 09, 2026), giving adventurous travelers an incredible opportunity to explore both extraordinary journeys back-to-back. Designed for the bold and curious traveler, this off-the-beaten-path expedition into the heart of Central Africa promises breathtaking landscapes untouched by mass tourism, intimate encounters with rare and

 

Often called Africa’s hidden Eden, Gabon will steal your heart with its untamed wilderness and astonishing biodiversity. Nearly 25% of the country is protected land, home to some of the richest and most pristine ecosystems on the continent.

 

Despite the recent events that took place in the Eastern frontier of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), we are still including a night in the capital city of Kinshasa which is currently safe and calm, before crossing the mighty Congo River to visit the neighboring Republic of the Congo. There you will explore Brazzaville, the lovely city on the River and fly to the 2nd largest city of Congo: Pointe Noire on the Atlantic Ocean where you will visit the famous Chimpanzees reserve and rehabilitation center.

 

For those drawn to authentic cultural immersion, the Central African Republic (CAR) offers a rare look into traditional life in one of Africa’s most remote nations. In Bangui, the capital city, you’ll find a vibrant cultural tapestry woven through its bustling markets, local art, and the daily rhythm of life. Stroll through the colorful stalls filled with handcrafted goods, local spices, and the infectious energy of people proud of their heritage. The CAR may be off the radar, but it is full of heart, stories, and warmth.

 

This is not just a trip — it’s a raw, rare, and real expedition. From surfing hippos and roaring rivers to tribal markets and jungle trails, this tour is for the curious, the courageous, and the culturally open-minded. If you are ready to trade the expected for the extraordinary, join us as we uncover the untamed beauty and profound depth of Gabon, DRC, Congo, and the Central African Republic.

Following our success over the last few years with our tour to Morocco and the Spanish enclaves (Apr 06 - Apr 16, 2026), travelers were thrilled to explore Ceuta and Melilla, two extraordinary cities that blend layered history, political tension, and cultural complexity into one unforgettable experience. Perched along Morocco’s Mediterranean coast, both cities are Spanish-held enclaves — remnants of an imperial legacy that still shape the geopolitical landscape today. Though surrounded entirely by Moroccan territory, they remain firmly under Spanish control, fiercely defended by Madrid as integral parts of the nation, akin to the mainland’s semi-autonomous regions.

 

Yet, Morocco’s enduring claim to these enclaves casts a long shadow, fueling periodic diplomatic tensions. Behind heavily fortified borders, these cities now stand at the center of another contemporary challenge — a dramatic surge in African migrants risking everything for a foothold in Europe, making Ceuta and Melilla symbolic gateways to both hope and hardship.

But their significance reaches far deeper. Tracing their origins to the Phoenicians — the legendary seafarers of the Mediterranean — these cities have withstood centuries of conflict, conquest, and change. Spanish control, formalized in 1580, has endured with the exception of a brief Moorish resurgence from 1694 to 1720. Today, Ceuta and Melilla remain rare and riveting chapters in the broader Moroccan story — one that few travelers ever get to witness firsthand.

 

Even if Morocco has already graced your passport, this tour offers a fresh, deeper lens into its vibrant soul. Wander the bustling souks, where artisans craft beauty with their hands and heritage. Lose yourself in Fes, a medieval city enclosed within ancient walls, where winding alleys whisper tales of dynasties and scholars. And marvel at the ethereal desert landscapes, where golden dunes stretch endlessly, forming a natural canvas painted by time. Morocco remains one of the most welcoming and culturally rich destinations in the Islamic world — offering a safe, immersive, and unforgettable journey.

 

For a comprehensive adventure, we invite you to pair this journey with our Southern Morocco & Western Sahara tour, led by expert guide Michel Behar, from Mar 23 - Apr 06, 2026. Together, these back-to-back experiences offer a rare, full-spectrum exploration from remote desert oases to modern geopolitical flashpoints, from ancient cities to contested borderlands.

Spots are limited and interest is growing, secure your place now

before demand peaks.

We are thrilled to share some exciting news: Greenland, one of the most awe-inspiring and untouched destinations on Earth, is now officially part of our June 2026 travel offerings. But this isn’t just a trip. The timing of the adventure has been carefully chosen to align with one of Greenland’s most important and vibrant cultural moments: National Day.

Greenland is a land of contrasts: massive glaciers and green valleys, ancient traditions and modern Inuit culture, 24-hour daylight and the peaceful silence of nature. It’s a place where time feels suspended — and yet, during National Day, it additionally pulses with energy and pride.

 

Greenland National Day (June 21st) is not just a public holiday, it’s a heartfelt expression of national identity, unity, and cultural pride. Celebrated throughout the country, the day offers travelers a rare and moving glimpse into the spirit of the Greenlandic people. Due to Greenland’s limited infrastructure and the growing interest in authentic, off-the-beaten-path travel, accommodations and guided tours during peak periods like National Day tend to fill up quickly. This is especially true in June when the weather is ideal, and celebrations are in full swing.

 

With the recent interest in Greenland and UNITED’s four times a week direct flight to their capital city of NUUK from Newark airport in NJ, Greenland should be on your wish list before it becomes run over by mass tourism. 

We are excited to unveil another fascinating destination: South Korea (Oct 22 - Nov 03, 2026) as the newest destination in our curated travel experiences and we invite you to join us on an unforgettable journey in this dynamic and captivating country which is led by our capable tour manage David William. Often described as a perfect harmony of old and new, South Korea offers a rare opportunity to explore ancient traditions alongside cutting-edge innovation. From the moment you arrive, you will be immersed in a culture that is rich, welcoming, and deeply inspiring.

 

Journey through time as you explore South Korea’s majestic palaces, sacred temples, and royal tombs — living testaments to a proud and deeply rooted cultural heritage. These ancient landmarks don't just tell stories — they invite you to walk through history itself. Indulge your senses with Korea’s world-renowned cuisine, where every bite tells a tale. From sizzling Korean BBQ and flavorful street food stalls to elegant temple cuisine and bustling local markets, you’ll experience the full spectrum of Korea’s rich culinary landscape. Feel the pulse of Seoul, a city of contrasts where neon lights shimmer beside centuries-old hanoks, K-pop rhythms fill the air, and each neighborhood reveals its own unique character. It's a city that never stops moving yet always honors its past. Take a breath of fresh air in Korea’s tranquil side, from the serene countryside and charming coastal towns to lush mountains and scenic trails.

 

Whether you're looking for reflection, inspiration, or the perfect photo, these landscapes provide the space to connect with nature and yourself. Immerse yourself in authentic cultural experiences,  from doing traditional hanbok, participating in tea ceremonies, and learning time-honored recipes in Korean cooking classes, to witnessing the artistry of folk performances passed down through generations. Our thoughtfully crafted itinerary is designed to balance iconic highlights with meaningful local encounters, ensuring that each day unfolds with new discoveries and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore South Korea with us, a journey where every step tells a story, and every moment becomes a lasting memory.

We are thrilled to announce the long-awaited official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Cairo on November 3, 2025, a historic milestone for Egypt and the world of archaeology. Located in the shadow of the Great Pyramids of Giza, GEM is now the largest archaeological museum in the world, offering an unparalleled gateway into the grandeur of Ancient Egypt. This state-of-the-art complex will house over 100,000 artifacts, including the entire collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures — many of which will be displayed for the first time ever.

 

This is not just a museum, it’s a global cultural destination, decades in the making. Don’t miss your chance to be among the first to walk its grand halls and witness history unfold. Whether you are planning a future visit or joining one of our upcoming Egypt tours, the Grand Egyptian Museum promises to be a highlight you’ll never forget.

We have refreshed, revamped, and reimagined our Facebook page to bring you even closer to the journeys you love. Whether you are dreaming of your next destination, reminiscing about past adventures, or looking for insider travel insights — our new and improved page is your go-to hub for all things travel.

 

Enjoy stunning photos from our tours around the world, relish behind-the-scenes moments and traveler highlights, get updates on upcoming trips and exclusive announcements. Read cultural stories, travel tips, and destination spotlights and we would love for you to be part of the journey! 👉 Follow us, like, share, and comment, your engagement helps us grow our community of curious, inspired, and adventurous travelers. Let’s explore the world together — one post at a time!

We are thrilled to introduce our newly launched Destinations Tab on our website, a one-stop resource designed to give you in-depth insights into the countries we offer. In this section, you will find a brief yet informative outline of each destination we promote, giving you a clear understanding of what makes each country unique. Along with these descriptions, you can also access helpful fact sheets, and maps of each country. Whether you are looking to explore the culture, attractions, or key travel tips for your next destination, this section provides all the essential information you need to make informed travel decisions. Dive in and start exploring the diverse destinations we offer!

We have an abundance of incredible adventures waiting for you—far too many to fully capture in this newsletter! To discover all the exciting possibilities, we invite you to revisit our 2025-2026 Catalogue and explore the full range of journeys on offer. Once you've found the perfect destination, simply let us know where your next adventure will take you!

Wishing you all a Happy end of summer, happiness and health.


Sincerely,

Ihab Zaki, Managing Director

and Spiekermann Travel Team

Spiekermann Travel Service Inc.

18421 E. Nine Mile Rd.

Eastpointe, MI 48021

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Phone: 1 800 645 3233

1 586 775 9550


 www.mideasttrvl.com

info@mideasttrvl.com

amy@spiekermanntravel.com

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