This was my first trip to the Middle East. It was undoubtedly one of the most memorable trips of my life and to say that it was a surreal, eye-opening, culture-shocking experience would be just scratching the surface. It was an unforgettable experience to see not only the people but to be immersed, even for a short time, in a culture and place that continues to be in front of the world spot light. It is a place rich with history and significance. Here is a glimpse of what I saw.