Having missed out on so much travel over the last 2 years, we’re now lining up the holidays to make up for lost time, and explore some of those much dreamed of bucket-list destinations. In the Arabic speaking world, there are some many incredible destinations to choose from, we’re spoiled for choice. Not only that, but there is some truly inspiring travel content out there too, perfect for helping plan our getaways. Here are a few brilliant pieces of travel inspo we’ve been enjoying over recent months, and which have not only helped boost our Arabic language skills, but introduced us to local cultures too!
Jordan
We love the Visit Jordan website which is home to lots of articles, photos and pointers to help you plan for your trip. From Petra and Wadi Rum, to Amman and Aqaba, there are so many incredible places to explore. The website is available in Arabic and English which is great for improving reading and vocabulary skills.
Egypt
At the moment we can’t get enough of Emirati vlogger Joe HaTab. He covers loads of topics, but lots of his videos are about food, travel and meeting different people around the world. What’s more, his videos come with handy English subtitles, so are great for Arabic language learners to be able to explore new cultures and enjoy content aimed at native speakers. In this video he travels with a friend to Cairo and discovers the city’s delicious street food.
Work on your listening skills with this video about from the Egyptian tourist board. The video is short, so great for repetition, and has Arabic subtitles which are perfect for reading along with. Learn new vocabulary and see grammar used in context in this short, inspiring clip. We’re sure you’ll get a few trip ideas at the same time!
Want to try before you buy? Sit back with a virtual walking tour of the Pyramids. Lose yourself in the amazing history of this iconic site. With its incredible visual quality you’ll feel like you’re really there. So why not kick back one evening and use your imagination!
Morocco
With the idea of getting away this year so tantalising, what better use of time right now than planning ahead, exploring potential destinations, and improving our language skills ready for that extra special trip? Check out the Visit Morocco website. It’s full of articles about different places to visit, things to do, cuisine, culture, history and more. And, with both English and Arabic versions of the website, reading the articles and crosschecking the meaning is a great way of improving comprehension.
In particular, our digital exploring has made us fall in love with Fez & Meknes. Take a look at this inspiring video, and head to the tourism authority’s website to find out more.
Take things a step further and go for a stroll around the old souks of Marrakech with this virtual tour! Explore the sites and sounds of this magical place, and transport yourself to Morocco. The Wanna Walk YouTube channel has lots of fun walks around different destinations, so why not try and few, and then describe what you saw to your classmates in the next lesson. A great answer to ‘what have you done this week’, for sure!
Tunisia
Moving on, the Tunisian tourist board has a stunning website which lots of great articles to read about the country’s varied destinations, culture and cuisine. A corresponding English version of the website is also available, which is great for cross referencing and checking vocab. Take a look!
Oman
Have you ever considered Oman? Check out the national tourism authority’s website which has lots of different articles about visiting the Sultanate. Explore its nature, history, cuisine, adventures and more. Again, you can flick between Arabic and English and give your language skills a boost.
Did you know that Al Jazeera has a whole range of interesting documentaries available to watch online? You can find some really fascinating videos and learn so much about the history and culture of the Arabic speaking world, such as this gem – a short programme about Misfat Al Abriyeen – a small village made of clay, nestled in a stunning oasis in Oman. A handy feature which we love with these videos is the ability to slow down the speed – perfect for language students!
Dubai
As one of the top holiday destinations in the world, Dubai has something for everyone. Explore all it has to offer with the Dubayat YouTube channel. You’ll find Arabic language videos with English subtitles about all things Dubai. From cultural tips to event highlights and top hangouts, there are lots of fun and enticing videos here!
You can also get lots of ideas from the Visit Dubai website, and practise your Arabic reading skills at the same time.
Alternatively, try the BBC documentary, Inside Dubai which looks at the lives of Dubai’s wealthy locals and expats. It’s a real eye-opener and possibly falls into the category of trashy TV, but who doesn’t love the look of blue skies and beaches! It does actually offer some interesting facts about life in Dubai too, so it’s not just high fashion and fast cars. Check it out!
From A to B
Recently we’ve enjoyed a wonderful and upbeat Arabic language movie called From A to B. This Emirati film tells the tale of three friends to have unfortunately now drifted apart. Sadly, what reunites them again is the passing of another friend, but in his honour they decide to embark on an adventure-filled road-trip together from Abu Dhabi to Beirut. With many comical occurrences during the trip, this is a real feel-good film and great for inspiring taking a holiday with friends. Both Arabic and English subtitles are available, meaning it’s great for learners.
Find out more about learning Arabic with IH London here.