Seattle-based Tour Company Owner Named Top Specialist 3rd Year in a Row by Conde Nast Traveler Magazine

Caravan-Serai Tours, owned by Rita Zawaideh, has once again received a prestigious honor from the industry-leading Conde Nast Traveler magazine. This marks the third consecutive year in which they have received this recognition. In an annual survey of travel specialists, the magazine lists the "The Greatest Travel Specialists on Earth", developed after exhaustive interviews, reference checking, and recommendations from other industry insiders. Caravan-Serai Tours and owner Rita Zawaideh have been recognized for excellence and the depth and recent firsthand knowledge of the Middle East and North Africa, but particularly for the countries of Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. Also part of the equation is Rita's strong relationship with local contacts, the high level of client commitment, a willingness to work with a range of budgets, and discriminating taste. This year's listing and more details on how the list was prepared can be found in the August edition of the Conde Nast Traveler Magazine.

Rita will be leading a tour to Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon, October 9-25, 2005. This will be a unique experience, as travelers will get the direct benefit of her personal insight and knowledge of the region. A native of Jordan, Rita will be at hand to help explain and interpret as the group travels to the Levant (Jordan, Syria, Lebanon) visiting sites in Beirut, Byblos, Baalbek, Damascus, Aleppo, Palmyra, Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, and more, uncovering the rich culture and history of the region. Space is still available to join Rita on this fascinating tour!

Caravan-Serai provides expert travel services and tour organization to the Middle East and North Africa. The company caters to small and medium sized groups as well as independent travelers. All inclusive, tailor-made tours blend an educational and cultural experience with fun and adventure.

For more information about Caravan-Serai Tours visit their website: www.caravan-serai.com or call 206-545-7300 or 800-451-8097.

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July 2004