Wadi Rum (Jordan)

Wadi Rum literally means "Moon Valley", and after a night spent here, it is not hard to see why. A faint glow behind the escarpments is the first hint that a radiant and very large moon will illuminate the valley - no need for night lights here. During the day, the area is a natural wonder, as soaring, layered cliff stacks provide a fitting frame for peach-coloured sand dotted with tiny scrubby bushes. The scenery is unreal and breath-taking. A great moment of peace was when I climbed one of these, and was sitting on a rock, with the sun-warmed cliff at my back, a cool wind fanning my face and hair as I watched the sunset, complete with golden rays streaming from the great yellow orb as it disappeared behind the mountains.
The scenery is due to the fact that, long ago, all of this area was under water.
The evening here is very warm. I slept at a "Bedouin" encampment after dancing in the moonlight and firelight to traditional drum and string music.
So while I highly recommend the place, it is isolated and perhaps difficult to make your own transport and accommodation arrangements.