Earning an international degree in Middle Eastern studies offers the opportunity to study in some of the most unique places in the world. Literally, anywhere in the Middle East is open to you, but some are are more full of kebabs than others. Pick what geographic climate appeals to your tastebuds and hop on it.

Israel is one of the most historically important areas on the planet, and one of the funnest to study in. Considered by some religions to be the Holy Land, Israel hosts many important sites that have played enormous roles in shaping our history. The territory itself has been occupied by the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, Babylonians, and Persians, combining elements from some of the most famous empires in history. Fast-forwarding to the current century, Israel is home to a diverse population, a strong economy, and beautiful beaches that stretch along the whole coast.

Lebanon is home to the ruins of history from half a dozen empires spread throughout the landscape. Because of its history, Lebanon has been influenced by Europe in several ways, including architecture and language (after all, French is the second most commonly spoken language, after Arabic). Lebanon also has some great universities; The American University of Beirut is regarded as being one of the top English-speaking universities worldwide. So, what’s stopping you? There’s some falafel in a shop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea just waiting for you!

England might not be your first guess where you would earn a degree in Middle Eastern studies, but there is a growing demand for specialists in this area, mainly due to the large number of refugees from the Middle East that have taken sanctuary there. In addition, the British Empire has had a lot of influence in the Middle East during the course of history, including the occupation of Egypt and Israel. Studying Middle Eastern studies in England puts you in a great position to work with people in need of someone who understands their culture and ways of life.