Hi folks,

I'd like to know if anybody here has backpacked/travelled to the Middle East. More specifically, I'd like to know if you've been to Istanbul, Turkey (although not Middle Eastern) and Amman, Jordan?

I'm a young Canadian < 25 yrs old and would much like to visit Istanbul and Amman. I'd like to go as far as Lebanon, Syria, Israel but I'm going to have to save these countries for another day. Ultimately, I want to fulfill my curiosity of the Middle East but would prefer with these cities listed above.

I was wondering if food and such other expenses are expensive or say, comparable to a European city? I've been to the UK, Spain, Austria, Germany, France and found that most of the food was on par. Besides, most of the time, I travel on a budget, particularly student-style finding cheap-eats or with the locals after a night of clubbing on the street for some bratwurst. I don't want to spend a fortune having to eat. I find that getting to Amman is expensive enough as it is. I'm flying from FRA. Any suggestions on how to minimize travel costs?

Anyways, your suggestions and input are appreciated. Thanks!