Maliha Masood: It's a tough one to answer with any definite opinions. Being a Muslim and Pakistani, I traveled in the Mideast with the idea that I would be readily accepted. For the most part, this was true. Safety issues are more about the people you run into, not always the political situation. It always comes down to individual situations and one person's problems don't mean problems for every single person. I believe it will be more of a challenge to travel anywhere in the world in the post 911 era and the Mideast is certainly not an exception. But I also strongly believe the spirit of the people is still open hearted and welcoming for the most part. You should go with faith and an open mind. Good luck!

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Malibu, Calif.: We are leaving for Egypt and Jordan this Saturday (12-22)! What are the best things to buy in both countries? We will be in Cairo, Aswan to Luxor cruise, Petra, Dead Sea...are there any activities or restaurants in these areas that we should not miss out on?? We like to try small local restaurants and to see how people live, etc...

Thanks for your advice in advance!

Maliha Masood: Wow! That's great you're going this weekend. I know you'll have a great time. I liked to buy local handicrafts, jewelery and wooden boxes. If you go to the Khan al Khalili bazaar in Cairo, be sure to bargain hard! Jordan has nice market emporiums often with fixed prices but bargaining is expected. As for activities, I find it best to just hang around where the locals are, small cafes and local restaurants. You won't be lacking for boredom! Wish you a wonderful trip.

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Atlanta, Ga.: Hello! My father is from Iran and I would love to go and visit. I do not speak Farsi and I do not think he would go with me. He keeps telling me to wait for the situation there to get better, but that doesn't seem likely. Is it really very dangerous to go? I would like to go to Tehran and Tabriz—what do you think? I am wary of the politics but I don't want to be an alarmist. I would travel with my boyfriend and leave from Atlanta.

Maliha Masood: Being highly adventurous, I'd encourage you to go, permission or not from your Dad. My parents were leary of my travels but I didn't listen to them! You will find the Iranians very hospitable and since you have Iranian heritage, they will even more welcoming, very curious and fascinated and ask you lots of questions. Since you'll be traveling with a guy, you'll be fine as far as not attracting too much attention. And since there is no best time to go and Mideast politics are always tense, I don't see the point of waiting. Tehran is a big city that will feel more like NYC. Tabriz is ancient and very beautiful. You will need to wear a headscarf in public, but other than that, you will find Iran to be a very modern culture. Enjoy!

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Washington, D.C.: Hi—I need help with finding organized tours for women traveling together. I am particulary interested in Oman & Dubai.

Maliha Masood: I'm not aware of any specific tour companies for women. I suggest you explore Dubai and Oman chambers of commerce and travel sites that are on the web. Just google the terms and you'll find links to tour operators. Email a few to ask for women preference. Good luck!

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