I just returned from a wonderful trip to Jordan. We felt welcome and safe. Here are just a few of our many wonderful experiences.
We got to explore the beautiful ruins of the Roman city of Jerash. I especially liked the sound of call to prayer from the various nearby mosques while we were walking on roman cobblestones with ruts from the chariots, lined by an even row of pillars on both sides.
One of the highlights was the lost city of Petra, with its monumental pillars carved into sandstone cliffs. I had read about it and seen many pictures and it still took my breath away. Of course, there is the Treasury, made famous by Indiana Jones, but around every corner and bend, there are more temples and tombs that are carved out of rock! We hiked 700 steps up to the monastery, from which we had incredible views over a landscape similar to what you find in the American Southwest. So full of reminders of a great civilization that existed here so long ago. The Nabataeans, who created this city of timeless beauty, had to reroute dry washes to protect against flash floods. They also created many reservoirs and water channels to provide water year-round to its inhabitants. Coming from Arizona, this made a huge impression on me!
At a Bedouin Camp in Wadi Rum, we got to enjoy the Bedouin hospitality. We had lunch in one of their large tents (made of tightly woven goat hair), sitting on soft cushions with Persian rugs covering the dirt floor. Outside, the wind was howling and sand was pelleting the tent walls. Inside, it was nice and quiet, with a small fire keeping us warm. When the sand storm let up a bit, I was able to ride my first camel. I have now fallen in love with these gentle creatures, as I just could not resist their big eyes with these lovely long eyelashes. Who would have known that some of them absolutely love to be scratched? I am still wondering how my horses would take to having a camel as a stable mate!
Our last stop was at the Dead Sea. After floating on top of the water, we had dark mud rubbed all over us and then were ordered to go back into the Dead Sea to wash it off. I will never forget the sensation of bobbing in the water, while rubbing the mud off my arms and legs. My skin has never felt so silky.
I was so impressed with the diversity of this small country and the friendliness of the people and highly recommend Jordan to anyone with an interest in cultures and history. FBN
Monika Leuenberger
Avenues of the World Travel
2915 N. Fourth Street, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
928 556 0853
www.avenuesoftheworld.com