Caravan-Serai Tours, owned by Rita Zawaideh, has again received a prestigious honor from the industry-leading Conde Nast Traveler magazine. 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.

In September, Rita will be leading tours to Libya and Iran, followed by a tour to Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan in October. This will be a unique experience, as travelers will get the direct benefit of her personal insight and knowledge of the region. Rita is a native of Jordan and will be at hand to help explain and interpret as the groups travel through North Africa, Persia, and the Cradle of Civilization. The tour to Libya (September 4th - 15th) will take in Tripoli, Sebratha, Leptis Magna, Ghat, Ghadames, and more. The tour to Iran (September 16th - 30th) will visit Tehran, Kerman, Yazd, Isfahan, and Mahan, highlighting Persian history and culture. The tour to the Levant (Jordan, Syria, Lebanon) will visit sites in Beirut, Byblos, Baalbek, Damascus, Aleppo, Palmyra, Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, and more, uncovering the rich culture and history of the region and runs from October 6-22. Space is still available to join Rita on these fascinating tours! 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.

Rita Zawaideh is part of El Centro de la Raza's 14-member Board of Directors who meet on a monthly basis. For more information about our Board Members please click here: Board Officers 2004