#in jordan we have petra and the open desert | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

janatours · 12 days ago

Text

Middle East Tours

Middle East Tours offers a wide range of customizable tour packages to explore the rich history, culture, and landscapes of the region. Whether you're interested in ancient ruins, bustling markets, or stunning desert landscapes, we have a tour that will suit your interests and preferences.

dubai Tours Packages, offering a variety of experiences including desert safaris, city tours, and luxury shopping excursions. Explore the vibrant culture and modern architecture of this dynamic city with expert guides leading the way.

Explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of Turkey with our expertly curated turkey tours packages 2025. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality of this fascinating country.

morocco tours packages offer a variety of options for exploring the diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage of Morocco. From camel treks in the Sahara Desert to guided tours of historic medinas, there is something for every traveler to enjoy in this fascinating country.

One Of Our Middle East Tours

13 Nights -14 Days Egypt & Jordan Holiday Packages

Explore the splendors of 13 Nights / 14 Days Egypt & Jordan Holiday Packages, Experience the rich cultural heritage with Jordan Travel Package, Try Egypt and Jordan Combined Travel Package, Enjoy a tour from Cairo to Petra Jordan, scout Cairo attractions, Live a different atmosphere with amazing Nile view Between Luxor & Aswan, Explore the beauty of nature with Egypt to Petra, Embark on a fantastic trip visiting the highlights of Jordan. Explore Mount Nebo, Madaba, and the Dead Sea.

Day 1:

Upon arrival at Cairo airport, you will find our representative waiting for you with a sign with your name after that you will visit the most famous Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Valley temple then transfer to the hotel for check-in and overnight.

Day 2:

Pick up from the hotel and start a full-day tour to visit Memphis the first capital in ancient Egypt to visit the open air Museum and the colossal statue of king Ramses II after that drive to Sakkara to visit the first Pyramid built in history the Step Pyramid then visit the private tombs of the high officials to see the daily life scenes after that drive back to the hotel and overnight.

Day 3:

Pick up from the hotel to visit the Egyptian Museum to see the famous collection of king Tutankhamen and the other collections then drive to Old Cairo to visit Islamic and Coptic Cairo, the Hanging church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and Amr Ibn El Aas Mosque after that drive to Khan El Khalili the famous bazaar after that drive back to the hotel.

Day 4:

Pick up from the hotel early morning and transfer to Cairo airport to take the Domestic flight to Luxor, arrive in Luxor and meet our guide then start a full-day tour to visit the West bank, Valley of the Kings “we will Enter3 royal tombs” then visit the temple of Queen Hatshepsut temple at Dier El Bahari and the colossi of Memnon then transfer to the valley of the Queens to visit the famous tomb of the Queen Nefertari the most beloved wife from King Ramses II then transfer back to the cruise ship for embarkation, lunch, and dinner at the cruise ship and overnight.

Day 5:

Pick up from the cruise ship by our guide and start a full-day tour to visit the most famous Karnak temple the largest temple in the World after that transfer to visit Luxor temple then transfer back to the cruise ship, after lunch the cruise ship start to sail toward Esna, reach Esna and cross the famous Esna Lock then sail again toward Edfu, reach Edfu, and overnight in Edfu.

Day 6:

Pick up from the cruise ship and visit the Edfu temple of God Horus after that back to the cruise ship, sail toward Kom Ombo, and reach Kom Ombo to visit the temple shared between the 2 Gods Sobek and Haroris after that transfer to the cruise ship, sail again toward Aswan, reach Aswan and overnight.

Day 7:

Pick up from the cruise ship and start a full-day tour to visit the famous Aswan High Dam, and Philae temple of Goddess Isis then drive to visit the unfinished obelisk after that drive back to the cruise ship and overnight.

Day 8:

Pick up from the hotel early morning and transfer to Abu Simbel to visit the great temple of King Ramses II and the small temple of his beloved queen Nefertiti after that drive back to Aswan, arrive in Aswan, And transfer to the hotel in Aswan for check-in and overnight.

Day 9:

Pick up from the hotel and start a full-day tour to visit the famous Nubian Village to see the real Nubian Lifestyle then visit the Botanical garden to see a very famous collection of rare birds and plants after that transfer to Aswan airport to take the domestic flight back to Cairo, arrive at Cairo airport then transfer to the hotel in Cairo and overnight.

Day 10:

Pick up from the hotel early morning and drive to the second capital of modern Egypt Alexandria to visit the Great-Roman monuments, the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa,Pompey’s pillar then visit Montazah gardens And King Farouk palace after that transfer to the library of Alexandria which contains more than 8 Million books After that visit Citadel of Qaitbay and the Mosque of Abu El Abbas after that drive back to Cairo,arrive in Cairo and transfer to the hotel overnight.

Day 11:

Pick up from the hotel and transfer to Cairo airport to take an international flight to Amman-Jordan, Arrival at Queen Alia International airport, where you will be met by our representative to help you through formalities, then transfer to Amman for a City Tour of Amman, which includes Amman Citadel, the Roman Theatre, and Grand Husseini Mosque, and King Abdullah Mosque & Folklore Museum. Proceed to Jerash one of the best preserved roman outposts in the world, known as the Pompeii of the East for its extraordinary state, Visit Umm Qais, then head back to your hotel in Amman for a drop-off.

Day 12:

Pick up from your hotel in Amman and depart to get some free time on the Dead Sea Shore the Public beach. Then onto Mukawir for a visit following the road to Mount Nebo where Moses was granted a view of the Promised Land. Afterward, head to Wadi Jadid for an overview and then to Madaba where you will visit Saint George’s church and see the incredible mosaic of the Holy Land. Transfer to your hotel in Madaba for a drop-off.

Day 13:

Pick up from Madaba Hotel and head to The “Red-Rose” City Petra. The world wonder is without a doubt Jordan’s most valuable treasure and greatest tourist attraction. It is a vast, unique city, carved into the sheer rock face by the Nabataeans. The entrance to the city is through the Siq, a narrow gorge, over 1km in length, After the Siq, you will be facing the Treasury, and then proceed to the Roman-style theatre. Get into your private car and around the city of Petra to see the Bedouin lifestyle there and then see the overviews of Wadi Musa.

Day 14:

Check out from Petra Hotel then transfer to Queen Alia International Airport by our representative to help you with the final airport formalities.

The mentioned tour itinerary include the following:

Private English-speaking Egyptologist tour guide.

Entrance fees to all the mentioned sites.

Transportation with private A/C van to all the mentioned sites.

The service of meet and assist at the airports.

5 Nights hotel accommodation with B/B bases.

4 Nights accommodation Nile view cabin at a 5-star deluxe cruise ship with full board bases.

1 Night hotel accommodation at Aswan with B/B bases.

3 Nights hotel accommodation at Amman with B/B bases.

Domestic flight tickets Cairo / Luxor – Aswan / Cairo.

International flight tickets Cairo / Amman one way.

Service charge and tax.

The tour itinerary not include the following:

Visa Entry to Egypt.

Optional tours

Any other items not mentioned.

Tipping Kitty.

For more

· Middle East Tours: https://bit.ly/3DRteL1

· Egypt Packages: https://bit.ly/3TgGpvV

· WhatsApp: https://wa.me/201143320224

Email: [email protected]

0 notes

joeledsouza-12 · 2 months ago

Text

The 5 popular nightlife hotspots in Jordan

Jordan is an enchanting country located in the Middle East that is famous for its history, stunning natural beauty, and friendly people. Though the Great Wonder of Jordan is the city of Petra, the desert of Wadi Rum, and the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, the nightlife of Jordan is no less exotic to the country’s rich and diverse culture. While lively cafes and bars can be found on the streets of Jordan, one can also find quiet and beautiful resorts that welcome a breathtaking sunset.

At night, people of this fascinating country and tourists use different kinds of entertainment to spend their time. Regardless of whether one is looking for a laid-back evening in a shisha lounge or the entertainment of a cultural show in an old-style amphitheater or a beach party at the Red Sea, Jordan has it all. Welcome to this interesting series where we shall be taking you through five of the best places to be during the night in this enchanting country.

Below are five great places that you should not miss visiting when in Jordan at night.

1. Amman’s Rainbow Street:

Overview: Rainbow Street is in the central region of the capital and is popular among both the residents and visitors. It is a popular center of business and leisure, with an abundance of various cafes, restaurants, and shops to make an evening in this street vibrant.

What to Expect: Even at night, Rainbow Street is well illuminated and invites you for a walk. There is an opportunity to taste Jordanian food, both typical and exotic food: mansaf (lamb with rice) and different kinds of international cuisine. Most of the restaurants have provision for an open terrace, so you get to dine under the stars.

The street also features several shisha lounges where you can sit back and have a real conversation with friends as you puff on flavored tobacco. It is also possible to come across musicians who perform on the streets of the district or graffiti that contributes to the overall atmosphere of the region.

Tip: Remember to also check on the small stores along the street in order to find some traditional gifts or artwork.

2. The Dead Sea Resorts:

Overview: The Dead Sea is not only a natural phenomenon of being the lowest point on the surface of the earth, but also an attractive destination for luxurious hotels that are famous for their exclusive nightlife. The opportunities for rest and recreation at the resorts situated along the coast make the place ideal for vacation.

What to Expect: When the sun goes down, the beachfront resorts are active. Many of them feature beautiful beach bars and lounges where you can simply relax with your favorite cocktail or some non-alcoholic beverage while marveling at the beauty of the Dead Sea. Most of the resorts organize theme evenings. For example, entertainment programs at the pool or a night in a traditional African village with entertainment programs.

It is also possible to visit a spa in the evening and get a variety of special evening offers, which let the client have a good rest in a calm atmosphere. Music and the sound of waves are used in the background, and the atmosphere is quite lively but very relaxed.

Tip: Make a reservation for dinner at one of the resort restaurants for dinner with a view of the beautiful setting sun.

3. Jerash’s Ancient Theatre:

Overview: Jerash is called the city of ancient Roman structures, and among them, the Ancient Theatre occupies a special place. This amazing structure has an approximate seating capacity of 3000 and represents the history of the city.

What to Expect: At some point in the year, the theater has cultural shows, concerts, and theatrical performances that make it an interesting mix of history and culture. How can one watch a traditional music concert, a play, or even a movie in a venue that is as old as the Roman Empire?

The atmosphere at the place is sometimes romantic because lights are put up at night to brighten up the venue. Look up the local calendar to see if there are any shows you might catch while you are in town.

Tip: Make sure to get there on time to go around the archaeological site before the show starts and to take some good photos of the place.

4. Aqaba’s Beachfront Bars:

Overview: Sited in the south of Jordan, Aqaba is famous for its elongated beach of the Red Sea and the boulevard of its nightclubs. This seaside city is all about the nightlife, but not in the way one might initially expect.

What to Expect: Unfortunately, the nightlife in Aqaba is not very vibrant, but the beachfront bars and lounges are ideal for a drink and some relaxation after a long day of sun tanning or scuba diving. Some of these eating places provide terrace dining, which offers beautiful views of the Red Sea, making the eating places very welcoming. Patrons can savor a selection of cocktails and other alcoholic beverages accompanied by live music or dance music from disc jockeys.

Aqaba’s nightlife can be as late as the beach events or discotheque, and during the day, it can be the water activities, which can continue well into the night. It is a great place for socializing and to interact with other travelers around the world as well.

Tip: It is advisable to try to get to one of the beach bars in the evening in order to witness one of the most beautiful moments—the sunset.

5. Petra’s Cave Bar:

Overview: If you are looking for a blend of history and an amazing place to hang out at night, Petra’s Cave Bar is the place to be. Overlooking the ancient city of Petra, this bar is located in a cave and has that unique setting close to the entrance of the city.

What to Expect: The Cave Bar is well known for its splendid looks and historical background. On the menu there are cocktails, wines, beer, and other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages served in an atmosphere surrounded by natural rock formations. It is popular for organized live music performances and themed nights, and as such, the bar is frequented by both residents and visitors.

The magical atmosphere of the cave and the historical background of Petra make for an unforgettable nightlife. No matter if you want to relax after sightseeing in the ancient city or go out for a night of fun, the Cave Bar is great for that.

Tip: Look at their calendar to see whether there is something special or a show going on that you could attend while you are there.

Conclusion:

Jordan’s nightlife is a colorful tapestry created by the veils of its tradition, history and globalization. Whether you are strolling around the Rainbow Street in the centre of Amman or lying on the Dead Sea beach at night or dancing in Aqaba clubs, all of these sites provide a different insight into modern Jordanian society. These are not only places to have fun but also places which offer the ability to interact with the people and feel the famous welcoming heart of the Jordanians.

To those who are into a tour, the nightlife in Jordan is also a must-try. In order to fully appreciate these moments, make sure that you have all your travel papers in order, where and if a Jordan visa is required. Jordan at night, and every night is an opportunity to get acquainted with the atmosphere and traditions that are inherent in this country.

It is hence important to make arrangements for your trip through this fascinating country to be in a position to enjoy the nightlife. From cultural dances in prehistoric theaters to beach festivals today, Jordan’s nightlife experiences can be memorable. Thus, no matter if you are an evening person or maybe just tired after the day spent exploring the country, Jordan’s nightlife will definitely enchant you and make you desire to come back for more.

#Jordan #Jordan Visa

0 notes

travel-to-jordan · 7 months ago

Text

Is it worth to do Petra by night show: know more!

Petra By Night is, of course, a purely touristy event. You walk from the visitor centre through the candlelit Siq to the Treasury. There you sit in narrow rows on pillows on the ground, are served a warm tea and then listen to a mixture of stories (told in Arabic, so you won’t really understand anything) and music.

Afterwards, the treasury is lit up in bright colours, which ruined the atmosphere a bit for me. Then you walk back through the Siq. It doesn’t sound that impressive, but I really liked it.

Please don’t be one of those people who ruin the atmosphere with a torch. And if you do, go through the Siq last so that you don’t disturb anyone else.

When is Petra at night available?

Visiting Petra, Jordan during the day is a wonderful experience in itself however at night the experience is quite different and surreal. The Petra by night light show occurs only thrice a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8:30 pm until 10:30 pm each week. Hence it is advisable to alter your Jordan itinerary so that the day you visit Petra is one of these days in the week. It is quite a memorable experience walking through the candle-lit path on your way to The Treasury with only a limited number of people around. Quite different to the hustle and bustle of the crowds during the day. Since the Petra at Night show occurs on specific days, you will need to plan the rest of your tour accordingly.

How much does the Petra By Night ticket cost:

The Petra By Night ticket costs 17 JD. That’s quite a lot of money, especially as the show only lasts 2 hours in total. The entrance fee is not included in the normal ticket, you have to pay it additionally. Note that Petra by night show is not included in the Jordan Pass.

Tips for all visiting Petra by night:

Visit the Petra by night show before visiting Petra in the daytime. You might not enjoy Petra at night as much if you have explored it already

Grab your Petra night show tickets at least 30 minutes in advance. This gives you an opportunity to start your Petra candle night tour on time and hence be at the Treasury before the crowd arrives.It’s quite nice to have the place all to yourself before the show starts

Though most people do not use it all, it is recommended to avoid using flashlights, and torches, whilst at the Petra by Night show

Make sure you are physically fit to walk around 1.5 km of a walkway twice; since there aren’t transportation options available in case of emergencies.

Who can Visit Petra at Night

Petra night show is open to all age groups, and there are many Petra by night tickets available. Considering the distance of at least 1.2 km toward the treasure, and back; it might be a challenge for individuals with walking difficulties. With no availability of wheelchairs and vehicles or animals for transport, attending the Petra by Night show could be tricky. Similarly, younger children/toddlers, who might not be willing to walk such longer paths, could make the tour challenging for their guardians.

Planning for the trip?

Do you want to experience the luxury tours of Jordan like never before? Then look no further than YOLO Jordan Tours and Travel. We offer the best Jordan travel packages that will allow you to discover the enchanting hidden gems of this incredible country. From the historical sites of Amman to the breathtaking desert landscape of Wadi Rum, our expert guides will offer customized journey planning to let you experience an adventure you will never forget!

Click here to book your trip today!

#middle east #tour #tourism #tourist #travel #Jordan #dead sea #wadi rum #Petra

0 notes

jordanmwblog · 2 years ago

Text

Experience the Beauty of the Jordanian Countryside on a Private Tour

When it comes to breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Jordan stands out as a destination that captivates the imagination. While the iconic ancient city of Petra and the remarkable Dead Sea often steal the spotlight, the Jordanian countryside offers an equally enchanting experience. Exploring the country’s rural areas on a private tour unveils a world of picturesque valleys, majestic mountains, and traditional Bedouin communities. In this article, we will delve into the wonders that await you in the Jordanian countryside, highlighting the unique experiences and hidden gems that can be discovered on a personalized journey.

Discover the Varied Landscapes

Embarking on a private tour of the Jordanian countryside allows you to witness a diverse array of landscapes. From the rugged beauty of the Wadi Rum desert to the verdant hills of Ajloun, there is something for every nature enthusiast. Explore the magical Dana Biosphere Reserve, where rugged cliffs and deep valleys harmoniously coexist with a rich variety of flora and fauna. Trek through the mesmerizing Wadi Mujib, a stunning gorge that presents an opportunity for canyoning and exhilarating adventures.

For those seeking tranquility, a visit to the fertile and peaceful Jordan Valley is a must. Marvel at the lush greenery and vibrant orchards, while experiencing the rural lifestyle of local farmers. The rural landscapes of Jordan offer a scenic backdrop for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers alike.

Encounter Authentic Bedouin Culture

A private tour of the Jordanian countryside provides an intimate encounter with the region’s authentic Bedouin culture. The Bedouins, nomadic tribes with a rich heritage, have inhabited the desert for centuries. Immerse yourself in their customs, traditions, and hospitality as you visit their communities. Learn about their traditional handicrafts, sample traditional Bedouin cuisine, and listen to captivating stories passed down through generations.

One of the most remarkable experiences is spending a night in a Bedouin camp in the Wadi Rum desert. Gaze at the starry night sky, indulge in traditional Bedouin music, and savor a hearty meal cooked over an open fire. Engage in conversations with the locals, gaining insights into their way of life and the challenges they face in preserving their cultural identity.

Explore Historic Ruins and Hidden Gems

Beyond its natural wonders, the Jordanian countryside is dotted with ancient ruins and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Visit the ancient Greco-Roman city of Jerash, often referred to as the Pompeii of the East, and marvel at its remarkably preserved architecture and grandeur. Explore the ruins of Umm Qais, an ancient city offering stunning views over the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights.

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the forgotten city of Umm al-Jimal, where you can explore its well-preserved Byzantine and Umayyad ruins. Discover the fascinating mosaic city of Madaba, renowned for its intricate Byzantine mosaics, including the famous Madaba Map. These lesser-known sites offer a glimpse into Jordan’s rich history and provide a unique perspective away from the crowds.

Tailored Experiences and Personalized Itineraries

The advantage of a private tour is the ability to tailor your experience to your preferences and interests. Work closely with your tour operator to create a personalized itinerary that suits your desires. Whether you wish to focus on cultural encounters, adventure activities, or a combination of both, a private tour allows you to curate your journey.

Enjoy the flexibility of exploring at your own pace, lingering in places that resonate with

your soul and moving on swiftly from those that don’t. With a private tour, you have the freedom to spend more time in the countryside, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and cultural experiences that captivate you the most.

If you are an adventure seeker, engage in thrilling activities such as hiking, camel trekking, or off-road desert safaris. The Jordanian countryside offers a myriad of opportunities to quench your thirst for adventure and adrenaline. Scale the rugged cliffs of Wadi Rum, go canyoning in the narrow canyons of Wadi Mujib, or hike through the breathtaking trails of the Dana Biosphere Reserve. Your private tour can be customized to include these exhilarating experiences, ensuring an unforgettable journey.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed and serene getaway, a private tour can cater to your preferences as well. Take leisurely walks through the picturesque valleys, enjoy picnics by the tranquil streams, or simply unwind in the embrace of nature. Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the sounds of birds chirping, and let the beauty of the Jordanian countryside rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Expert Guides and Local Insight

When embarking on a private tour of the Jordanian countryside, you have the privilege of knowledgeable guides who are well-versed in the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders. These guides are passionate about their homeland and eager to share their insights, anecdotes, and local stories with you. Their expertise enhances your journey, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation of the places you visit.

Local guides can also introduce you to hidden gems and secret spots known only to the residents. They can take you to tucked-away viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the countryside, recommend authentic local restaurants where you can savor traditional cuisine, and connect you with the local communities for a more immersive experience.

Conclusion

Embarking on a private tour to explore the Jordanian countryside is an opportunity to experience the lesser-known, yet equally enchanting, aspects of this captivating country. From its varied landscapes to its authentic Bedouin culture and historic ruins, Jordan’s rural areas offer a wealth of natural beauty and cultural treasures waiting to be discovered. A private tour allows you to tailor your itinerary, ensuring that you can indulge in your preferred activities and immerse yourself in the experiences that resonate with you the most. So, pack your bags, embark on a private tour, and let the beauty of the Jordanian countryside unfold before your eyes, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Visit us

https://jordanmw.com/jordanian-countryside-on-a-private-tour/

0 notes

dknuth · 2 years ago

Text

Petra 2nd Day

The next morning most of the group decided to go to a viewpoint high above The Treasury. It's a favorite viewpoint for photos of the Treasury. A local archeologist referred to the location as Instagram point.

I really don't like the angle and it didn't seem worth the time for the hike up a ton of stairs.

I also wanted to see more of the town center that we had blown right through the day before. The tombs in the canyon walls get all the attention but the ability of the Nabateans to build a city in the desert is also an interesting story.

So I took off before the others could get organized and headed back into the city in the hopes of getting there before the crowds were huge again. Usually, this means beating the tour busses. But a lot of people stay overnight in Wadi Musa with the same idea. But it was still less than mid-afternoon.

Walking back through the Siq I could observe more. A first observation is that the ancient stone paving doesn't have ruts from wagon or carriage wheels. That means that most of the traffic was on foot, or hoof. It makes sense given the surrounding desert, but it does point out a real difference.

I had more of a chance to view the hydraulic works too. A very noticeable piece of work was the tunnel that allowed them to divert the river of Wadi Musa to be diverted out of the town.

The entrance to the Siq also had a dam that they could close across the entrance in case of flood waters.

Inside the Siq there are drainage channels and pipes built into the walls that collected water from the side canyons. Those canyons had dams across the ends to control the flow of water into the system.

The entrance to the city is through a particularly narrow section straight into the area in front of The Treasury.

The crowd here was less than the day before, but the camels and such were already there.

Clearly, early morning was not the time to photograph the Treasury and the difference between the direct sunlight and the shadow was really severe.

The east canyon wall of the central area is lined with large tombs on an upper level. So I headed up there for a closer look.

Several of them have larger plazas in front or large interior rooms. These were apparently tombs for families and they would gather in or in front of them.

The sandstone these are carved from continues to weather, sometimes with spectacular results.

I think nature has greatly enhanced this one.

Then I headed to the church and temple on the north side of the main road.

The church has a spectacular mosaic floor.

At the older Temple of the Winged Lions, I met a couple of archeologists who work for ACOR in Jordan. The leader of my Saudi Arabia trip used to lead the ACOR team and then knew her. It was nice to make a contact there.

There's not much of the temple standing. It was knocked down by the 363 earthquake, which destroyed many of the buildings in town and much of the water system. The column capitols with the winged lions are in the local museum.

The column capitals had a unique design. The overall shape of a corinthian capital but stripped down to the basics, very modern.

Across the street is the largest complex, now called the Great Temple, although everyone agrees that it was the center of city government.

On the near side of the columns was a public open space with trees and a large water pool. This would have been a huge display of the city's wealth in water, amazing in a desert.

The Petra Museum has a number of interesting things, but the ones I found interesting, were the very stylized faces of the local god.

With that, we were done in Petra. The following morning we headed to the desert camp in Wadi Rum.

Note: I had previously mentioned getting bedbugs in the Little Petra Camp. I have determined it wasn't bedbugs, but fleas. It clearly came from the tent in that camp. Maybe the local stray cats took up residence on the bed when someone left the door open. But before I figured that out I spent a lot of time trying to figure out how to get rid of the assumed bedbugs.

I change my flight to France to one day earlier to find a laundry where I could wash and dry everything at a high temperature. I was trying to figure out how to get the suitcase cleaned. I asked the hotel I was going to in Basel for advice and in return got told to cancel my reservation, don't come to Basel, etc.

I did a detailed inspection of the contents of the suitcase and found no evidence of bedbugs. I hadn't gotten new bites, so the bedbug assumption was wrong. The locals kept talking about bugs around animals and I finally figured out they mean fleas.

So I don't need to go through the whole disinfection mess. That's a huge relief.

#Petra #Jordan

1 note · View note

historical-nonfiction · 4 years ago

Text

Long-Overlooked Desert City Reopened In Saudi Arabia

The once-prosperous Arabian trading hub of Hegra (also known as Madain Saleh) has been abandoned and virtually untouched for the past 2,000 years. You might notice that it looks remarkably similar to another rock-cut city of Petra. That's because they were part of the same Nabataean kingdom. Petra was its main city and capital, and Hegra was its second most important city, its southern trading city.

The Nabataeans were desert nomads who leveraged their importance in trading routes to eventually control the incense and spice trade routes through Arabia and Jordan to the Mediterranean, Egypt, Syria and Mesopotamia. The Nabataeans used their wealth to build stupendous rock-cut buildings and tombs. Unfortunately they were an illiterate people. We have occasional comments on them from their literate neighbors, and scanty archaeological investigations. But we simply do not know that much about the mysterious people who built Hegra and Petra.From the 300s BCE to the 1st century CE, the Nabataeans remained wealthy and powerful in their desert kingdom, until the expanding Roman Empire annexed the kingdom and took over their trading routes.

Saudi Arabia recently opened Hegra to tourists as part of the country's efforts to diversify its oil-focused economy, and since Petra sees nearly a million visitors a year, Saudi Arabia was clearly hoping Hegra will become a similar draw.

#history #saudi arabia #ancient history #archaeology #nabataean #mesopotamia #travel #tourism

551 notes · View notes

sciencespies · 4 years ago

Text

Our Ten Most Popular Stories of 2020

https://sciencespies.com/nature/our-ten-most-popular-stories-of-2020/

Our Ten Most Popular Stories of 2020

SMITHSONIANMAG.COM | Dec. 30, 2020, 7 a.m.

The year 2020 will go down in history as one of the most extraordinary in modern recollection. A devastating pandemic dominated conversations and our coverage, which detailed why the race for a coronavirus vaccine runs on horseshoe crab blood, explained how to avoid misinformation about Covid-19 and drew lessons from the past by examining diaries penned during the 1918 influenza pandemic. This summer, when a series of protests sparked an ongoing reckoning with systemic racism in the United States, we showed how myths about the past shape our present views on race and highlighted little-known stories about the lives and accomplishments of people of color. Toward the end of the year, amid one of the most bitterly divisive elections in recent history, we delved into the lengthy debate over mail-in voting and the origins of presidential concession speeches.

Despite the challenges posed by 2020, Americans still found reasons to celebrate: Ahead of the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage, we profiled such pioneering figures as Geraldine Ferraro, the first woman nominated as vice president by a major party, and Fannie Lou Hamer, who fought to secure black voting rights. In the cultural sphere, the discovery of dozens of intact Egyptian coffins thrilled and amazed, as did the reemergence of a long-lost Jacob Lawrence painting. From murder hornets to Venice’s new inflatable floodgates, Catherine the Great and the Smithsonian’s new open-access platform, these were Smithsonian magazine’s top ten stories of 2020.

Our most popular story of 2020 underscored the value of skillful art restoration, presenting a welcome counter to the many botched conservation attempts reported in recent years. As the National Museum of Scotland announced this December, experts used a carved porcupine quill—a tool “sharp enough to remove … dirt yet soft enough not to damage the metalwork,” according to a statement—to clean an Anglo-Saxon cross for the first time in more than a millennium. The painstaking process revealed the silver artifact’s gold leaf adornments, as well as its intricate depictions of the four Gospel writers: Saint Matthew as a human, Saint Mark as a lion, Saint Luke as a calf and Saint John as an eagle. Per writer Nora McGreevy, the cross is one of around 100 objects included in the Galloway Hoard, a trove of Viking-era artifacts found by amateur treasure hunters in 2014.

Curators used an improvised tool made of porcupine quill to gently clean the cross, which features engravings of the four Gospel writers.

(National Museums Scotland)

While most of England was on lockdown during the Covid-19 pandemic, archaeologist Matt Champion unwittingly unearthed more than 2,000 artifacts beneath the attic floorboards of Tudor-era Oxburgh Hall. Highlights of the trove included a 600-year-old parchment fragment still adorned with gold leaf and blue lettering, scraps of Tudor and Georgian silks, and pages torn from a 1568 copy of Catholic martyr John Fisher’s The Kynge’s Psalmes. Detailing the find in an August article, McGreevy noted that British nobleman Sir Edmund Bedingfeld commissioned the manor’s construction in 1482; his devoutly Catholic descendants may have used the religious objects found in the attic during secret masses held at a time when such services were outlawed.

In March, when the world was just beginning to understand the novel coronavirus, researchers learned that the SARS-CoV-2 virus—the pathogen that causes Covid-19—survives for days on glass and stainless steel but dies in a matter of hours if it lands on copper. (In later months, scientists would find that airborne transmission of the virus carries the greatest risk of infection, rather than touching contaminated surfaces.) The metal’s antimicrobial powers of copper are nothing new: As Michael G. Schmidt, a microbiologist and immunologist at the Medical University of South Carolina, told writer Jim Morrison this spring, “Copper is truly a gift from Mother Nature in that the human race has been using it for over eight millennia.” Crucially, copper doesn’t simply dispatch unwanted pathogens at an incredibly fast rate. Its bacteria-combating abilities also endure for long stretches of time. When Bill Keevil and his University of Southampton microbiology research team tested old railings at New York City’s Grand Central Terminal several years ago, for instance, they found that the copper worked “just like it did the day it was put in over 100 years ago.”

The Asian giant hornet, the world’s largest hornet, was sighted in North America for the first time.

(Washington State Dept. of Agriculture)

Another unwelcome surprise of 2020 was the rise of the Asian giant hornet, more infamously known as the “murder hornet” due to its ability to massacre entire hives of bees within hours. The first confirmed sightings of the insects in North America occurred in late 2019, but as Floyd Shockley, entomology collections manager at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, pointed out in May, observers need not panic, as the hornets don’t realistically pose a threat to human health. Honey bees are more susceptible to the predators, but as Shockley said, “[I]s it going to be global devastation? No.” Still, it’s worth noting that officials in Washington state have since found and eradicated a nest thought to contain about 200 queens. Left unchecked, each of these hornets could have flown off and started a colony of its own. Efforts to contain the invasive species are ongoing.

In October, an engineering feat saved Venice from flooding not once, but twice. The barrier system of 78 giant, inflatable yellow floodgates—known as Mose—can currently be deployed to protect the Italian city from tides measuring up to three-and-a-half feet high. Upon its completion next year, Mose will be able to protect against tides of up to four feet. The floodgates’ installation follows the declaration of a state of emergency in Venice. Last year, the city experienced its worst floods in 50 years, sustaining more than $1 billion in damages and leaving parts of the metropolis under six feet of water. Built on muddy lagoons, Venice battles both a sinking foundation and rising sea levels. Despite the floodgates’ current success, some environmentalists argue that the barriers aren’t a sustainable solution, as they seal off the lagoon entirely, depleting the water’s oxygen and preventing pollution from flowing out.

While Hegra is being promoted to tourists for the first time, the story that still seems to get lost is that of the ancient empire responsible for its existence.

(Royal Commission for AlUla)

Desert-dwelling nomads turned master merchants, the Nabataeans controlled a broad swath of land between the Euphrates River and the Red Sea for some 500 years. But in the millennia following the civilization’s fall in the first century A.D., its culture was almost “lost entirely,” wrote Lauren Keith in November. Today, little written documentation of the Nabataeans survives; instead, archaeologists must draw on clues hidden within the empire’s ruins: namely, two monumental cities carved out of rock. One of these twin settlements—the “Rose City” of Petra in southern Jordan—attracts nearly one million visitors each year. But its sister city of Hegra remains relatively obscure—a fact that Saudi Arabia hopes to change as it shifts focus from oil to tourism. As several scholars told Keith, the Middle Eastern nation’s renewed marketing push represents a chance to learn more about the enigmatic culture. “[Visiting] should evoke in any good tourist with any kind of intellectual curiosity,” said David Graf, a Nabataean specialist, archeologist and professor at the University of Miami. “[W]ho produced these tombs? Who are the people who created Hegra? Where did they come from? How long were they here? To have the context of Hegra is very important.”

The May killing of George Floyd spurred nationwide protests against systemic injustice, acting as a call to action for the reformation of the U.S.’ treatment of black people. As Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch wrote in a short essay published in June, Floyd’s death in police custody forced the country to “confront the reality that, despite gains made in the past 50 years, we are still a nation riven by inequality and racial division.” To reflect this pivotal moment, Smithsonian magazine compiled a collection of resources “designed to foster an equal society, encourage commitment to unbiased choices and promote antiracism in all aspects of life,” according to assistant digital editor Meilan Solly. The resources are organized into six categories: historical context, systemic inequality, anti-black violence, protest, intersectionality, and allyship and education.

Human relationships can be difficult, but at least they don’t involve copulating until your inner organs fail. Yes, you read that correctly—death is the unfortunate fate for the male antechinus, a pint-sized marsupial that literally fornicates until it drops dead. Take similar comfort in the fact that humans don’t need to drink urine to start a relationship, as is the case with giraffes, nor inseminate each other via open wounds, as bed bugs do.

youtube

Today, stories of Catherine the Great’s salacious, equine love affairs dominate her legacy. But the reality of the Russian czarina’s life was far more nuanced. Ahead of the release of Hulu’s “The Great,” we explored Catherine’s 30-year reign, from her usurpation of power to her championing of Enlightenment ideals, early support of vaccination and myriad accomplishments in the cultural sphere. As Meilan Solly wrote in May, “Catherine was a woman of contradictions whose brazen exploits have long overshadowed the accomplishments that won her ‘the Great’ moniker in the first place.

For the first time in the 174-year history of the Smithsonian Institution, the organization released 2.8 million images from across all 19 museums, 9 research centers, libraries, archives and the National Zoo into the public domain. This initial release represents just two percent of the Smithsonian’s total collection, which boasts 155 million items and counting. It was part of an ongoing effort to digitize—and democratize—the Institution’s collections.

• An excerpt from Jennet Conant’s new book, The Great Secret: The Classified World War II Disaster That Launched the War on Cancer, in which she details how an investigation into a devastating Allied bombing of an Italian coastal town eventually led to an innovation in cancer treatment.

• A time-capsule story from the end of March about how and when we thought the pandemic might end. We were too optimistic about how long Americans would need to “flatten the curve,” and unmentioned in the story was how soon a vaccine would be developed.

• Another entry in our “True History of” series that looked at Tom Hanks’ World War II film from earlier this year, Greyhound

• An exploration of new research that rewrites the demise of Doggerland, a prehistoric land bridge between Britain and Europe

#Nature

2 notes · View notes

ajholdsamb · 5 years ago

Text

Petra- A world wonder that is truly deserving of the name

We have spent the past two days in Petra, a 2,000 year old Nabatean city that is carved out of ancient sandstone cliffs and looks like nothing I’ve ever seen before. It is the most famous site in Jordan, receiving over half a million visitors a year. Many people travel to Jordan just to see this site and I can see why. Made famous in modern times by movies like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Petra was famous long before that as the Nabatean capital city. The Nabateans came from nomadic tribes of desert people, who became extremely wealthy by controlling the trade routes between the Graeco-Roman kingdoms to the west and Indian and Chinese empires to the east. AJ want to insert more backstory here?

[Guy AJ: OK! Petra is to me a reminder of how fortune comes and goes and how it can build but also reduce empires. About 2,300 years ago a group of nomadic Arabs, later to be called the Nabateans, occupied parts of Southern Jordan and happened to be at the right place at the right time. The world was getting smaller and cultures were coming into contact with each other unlike ever before. Alexander the Great had just introduced half a continent to Greek society, sometimes after razing a town to the ground then building it back up with more floral patterns in their columns. Anyway, all this cultural exchange meant people wanted more things from further away places.

And what better place to be at that time than Jordan? It is located at the converging point of Africa, Europe, and Asia, a crossroads of significance since the first of our species left Africa. The Nabateans controlled trade routes through this important hub, and were able to acquire great wealth from Indian spices on their way to Alexandria and Greek statues passing through to a Red Sea port. They used their wealth to construct massive and awe inspiring tombs in Petra, which AJ and I stared at in amazement over 2,000 years later, but Petra is so much more than a valley for the dead.

Petra is thought to have been a city of several tens of thousands of people, who bartered over goods in markets, practiced religious rites in temples, and debated public policy in the city’s civic center. The remains of these institutions are mostly in rubble in Petra’s basin area, but the thousands and thousands of potsherds we observed walking around are testimony to the many people who lived here in the literal shadows of the dead from the tombs that ring the city.

Petra was incredibly cosmopolitan - the tombs incorporated stepped motifs from Mesopotamia, obelisks from Egypt, and ornate entablatures from Greece. The columns at Petra are distinctly Nabatean, however, with tops that point out like bull horns unlike any other classical style I’ve seen.

If fortune created Petra than a loss of fortune eroded it. By the time Petra was absorbed by the Roman Empire in the first century AD, new trade routes and greater confidence in seafaring made Petra increasingly obsolete. Although several earthquakes destroyed parts of the city in the following centuries, it is a ruin not from natural disasters but from money drying up and people gradually leaving to find better prospects elsewhere or to return to the way of life of those who founded Petra, herding in the Arabian desert like descendent Bedouin communities do to this day. Petra is a reminder that the good times don’t always last forever, cough, cough USA.]

Now that you have a little backstory, I’ll go into our experiences. Because we saw SO MUCH during our time in Petra, I’m going to write this blog post a little differently. Rather than chronicling everything, I’m going to narrow it down to the top five sites we saw and our top four practical tips. This should give a good overview of our experiences but also not take twenty years to write. Let’s start off with the practical and then get into the fun!

Top Four Practical Tips for visiting Petra

1)Go for more than one day, and stagger your entrance times

This probably increased our enjoyment of Petra tenfold. Through our Jordan Pass (which is a great deal by the way- it includes your visa fee and the entrance fees for every site we are going to visit in Jordan?!) we had bought two days in Petra. If you’re into archaeology, geology, nature, or just like to take it slower I recommend going for at least two days, because Petra is unique and wonderful and huge and there is just so much to see. You can check off the biggest of the sites in one intense sweaty day, but it is so much more enjoyable to take your time.

We decided to start off our first day super early, so we got into the park at the opening time of 6:00. Petra can get really crowded, but at 6:00 the only person there was the one sole ticket taker (we even got confused for a second, thinking that maybe the site was closed). This was such a good way to start off our first day because during the 40-50 min trek in we were often BY OURSELVES. This was especially cool during the walk through the siq, a box canyon with 500 ft. tall walls that meanders magically through to take you to the reveal of Petra’s most famous site- the Treasury. As we were leaving at 1:30 pm this walkway was packed with people and speeding carriages and decidedly less magical.

Getting in early we were also able to appreciate the main sites without being inundated by other tourists or salespeople. We actually got photos of the Treasury without other people in them! At one point on our first day I was like “wow AJ we’ve done so much already, it must be time for lunch” but it was 8am.

Starting early, we were able to do the intense hike up to the ceremonial high place while the weather was still cool. During the downhill hour and a half meander through the Wadi Farasa trail it started to get hot, so I was very happy to not have to climb a bajillion stairs again. After that we we saw a couple more of the big tombs, but then during the hottest and most crowded part of the day we were able to peace out without guilt because we knew we had another day. It was only 1 pm when we began the hour trek home, but by that point we had already had a full 7 hour day.

On our second day, we slept in and got started at 10. We actually began at the museum (which is really well done!) so we didn’t make it into the park until 11:00. Because we had already seen a lot of the main sites we were able to walk straight through to the parts we hadn’t seen and take our time. Then in the mid afternoon we began our all uphill hike to Petra’s Monastery.

I was worried about hiking uphill during the hottest part of the day but because we had gotten a late started we had energy, and a good chunk of the path was shady (side note-this is supposed to be one of Petra’s low seasons because it supposedly gets so hot, but it was in the 80s for us- not too bad!). We were able to have a picnic and enjoy the views, and then walk back through Petra during golden hour right before sunset. Again, there were almost no people! I think many visitors do a quick one day tour where they come in between 10-11 and only stay for a couple of hours. It was so nice to have the full two days in Petra, to get it when it was not crowded, and to see it in the different types of sunlight.

2) Think of the practicalities (you’re going to be doing a lot of hiking)

So real talk, AJ and I looked like dorks in Petra. We were wearing long sleeve tactical hiking gear with pants and had backpacks on with 10 liters of water and snacks (& when I say WE carried 10 liters of water I really mean guy AJ did, he’s such a beast). And yet we saw people in fancy dresses and high heels with no water?? Granted not everyone has to hike for 8 hours a day like we did, but it’s still at least a 50 min hike in through the dirt. You can buy water in the site, but it is way overpriced and it was nice to never have to worry about getting stranded somewhere without it. Plus we drank all of it and never got dehydration headaches👌🏻. It’s also fun to pack in a picnic to enjoy in the park. There are a couple restaurants in the site, but if you bring your own you can pick your spot (with lots of awesome views to choose from). There are also toilets on site, but it’s good to bring tp and handsanitizer because they are often not well stocked. Since it gets super sunny, wearing pants and a long sleeve t-shirt was clutch for the rocky trails, sun protection, and out of respect because despite tourist short shorts, we are still in a Muslim county.

If nothing else, at least wear tennis shoes and bring water.

3) Climb to some high places and get some views!

We did two uphill hikes while in Petra, one to the Ceremonial High Place (for ceremonies) and one to the Monastery. We took both slowly, and while they were steep & straight up hill, there were steps that made them doable. Each climb took about 45-60 minutes one way, with lots of breaks. The views at the end made them all worthwhile. It allowed us to pull back and really see the landscape of the wadi (valley). Both hikes ended up being two of our favorite aspects of Petra- so I’ll talk more about them later.

4) Don’t just try to check off all the main sites- go off the beaten path

Maybe because I had only really seen pictures of the Treasury, I didn’t realize before visiting how large Petra is. Since it was a complex city, the site is spread out and there are SO many places to see. On our first big day I realized just how exhausting trying to check off all the big ones in one day truly is. Some of our favorite aspects were going off the beaten path and exploring random less famous aspects of Petra. It’s fun to find your favorite tomb or take a rest on a side trail, all of which you don’t have time for if you’re trying to power through all the greatest hits.

Now on to the fun stuff!

Top Five Sites of Petra

5)Exploring the unnamed tombs

This fits in very well with our last tip from above. At around 7:15 am after hiking through the siq and spending some time at the treasury, we wandered off the main path to explore some of the unnamed tombs. Each tomb is different, it is fun to pick out your favorites and think about the people who would’ve been buried here or celebrated in these smaller places. They are more intimate than the larger tombs, and it feels really adventurous to get to walk around in these ancient buildings. The sandstone is often gorgeous, and it was really peaceful to take a break in these cool chambers. Also AJ named one the tomb of the drunken sailor cuz it was slanted.

4)Wandering through the Siq

Walking through the siq was a magical experience every time it happened, but especially without crowds and in the light at dawn and dusk. The first time it came as a surprise. We were hiking down from the visitors center when all of the sudden the landscape changed and we were at the entrance to the Siq, a 500 ft. tall canyon with imposing walls that almost block out the sun. Running along the path you can still see the distinct curves used for the Nabatean irrigation system. There are sculptures hidden along the pathway including the remains of what would’ve been a 10 ft. tall camel carving. You can see why the Nabateans would have chosen this geologic feature as their grand entrance, and it served to create a sense of magic for entering this special place.

3)Hiking the Wadi Farasa Trail

On the first day after I thought we’d be in Petra for months but it was only 8 o’clock, we started our hike up to the Sacrificial High Place. I’m glad we started early because it was a steep 45 minute hike and at 8am it wasn’t too hot. After a brief kerfuffle with a donkey (a Bedouin woman was trying to call it to her but we kept accidentally scaring it uphill), we made it to the top! There are panoramic views of Petra, including Aaron’s tomb. This was a sacred place where the Nabateans worshipped the sun and moon with a built in blood drain for sacrifices. It’s easy to tell why it is sacred- up there it’s so easy to feel close to the sky. AJ and I took a moment to lie down on the top to worship the celestial deities as the sun and morning moon faced off above us. Also, it was a tiring hike and we needed to lie down. Next, rather than going back down the steep way we came, we took the Wadi Farasa trail. There was all sorts of cool archaeology (a giant lion fountain!) and geology (sandstone with manganese and iron stripes!) to see on the way down. My favorite part was the the combination of the tomb of the Roman soldier and the garden triclinium because they are directly across from each other, and with the rubble from the column lined promenade it was easy to picture how the ancient people would’ve used this beautiful space.

2)The hike to the Monastery/the end of the world

Our second favorite site was on our other high place trek. This one we did in the late afternoon, and since it is through a canyon it was often shaded. We had a picnic lunch at the top in front of the monastery (one of the largest tombs in Petra that was later turned into a church). However, my favorite part was a spot beyond the monastery. We hiked 15 minutes further to the edge of the mountain to this little Bedouin tent & the views were INSANE! We could see so many mountain ranges come together to into this steep valley, with a convergence of different types of rocks. Guy AJ liked it because, in his words, “we’ve finally reached the edge of Petra.” In other words it was the first time we looked out and didn’t see any archaeology; we had found an end to this seemingly endless site. It was one of the prettiest places I’ve ever seen.

1)The Treasury reveal

The treasury (or the Khazneh) is the most famous site in all of Petra. Its location is featured in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, as well as countless other movies. In person the detail and scope is awe inspiring, and made all the more impressive by the long walk we had just had through the Siq. The first time the canyon opens up we saw this amazing 2,000 year old building. It was wonderful to get it almost to ourselves in the morning, and we also got to say goodbye without the crowds on the last day. It’s the most famous part of Petra, but for a good reason.

All in all Petra is one of the coolest places I’ve ever seen, a highlight of this trip and of my life.

Love,

The very impressed Ajs

5 notes · View notes

haveclotheswilltravel · 5 years ago

Text

Spending 3 days in Jordan will give you just enough time to see the highlights of this gorgeous country. Now, it’ll be up to you to decide if you want to see as much as you possibly can of Jordan in these 3 days… or pick out the sights that are most unique to Jordan and give them ample time for exploring. For this post, I’m actually going to do 2 itineraries – 1 itinerary featuring what we actually did (and this is how you can see the majority of the highlights in 3 days) and also 1 itinerary featuring what I would do if I could do it over.

How to Spend 3 Days in Jordan // Itinerary #1 – Northern Jordan (Jerash, Ajloun Umm Qais) + the Dead Sea + Petra + Wadi Rum

Transport Options for These Itineraries

Before we get into the itineraries, I’m going to share a few different options you have for getting around in Jordan…

Take tours – tours are easy and a stress-free way to get to all of the places mentioned in this post. (I’ll share some recommendations for each spot as well.)

Hire a private driver – this is what we did. We booked a driver for our entire time in Jordan who took us from Amman and to all of the places we wanted to see. This is a little pricier than a group tour, but it was great to go everywhere at our own pace and not worry about driving.

Rent a car and drive yourself from Amman – Driving in Jordan is much more organized than I had expected. If you’re comfortable driving in foreign countries, you would be just fine driving in Jordan. Amman has some traffic, like any other major city, but overall driving in Jordan is not chaotic at all. (If you’re from the US, you’re in luck, because you also drive on the righthand side of the road in Jordan.) Check out car rental rates, here.

Day 1 – Drive to Northern Jordan to See Jerash, Ajloun & Umm Qais

Overnight in Amman

*This private tour will take you to all of the spots metioned in Day 1.

We flew into Amman late the night before, so we slept in a little at our hotel in Amman before venturing out to Northern Jordan. (If you’re flying into Amman this morning, you could also easily drive from the airport to Jerash.)

Jerash is the highlight of this day. It’s sometimes called the “Pompeii of the East” because its Roman ruins are so well-preserved. (Click here for more info.)

Jerash

The entrance to Jerash.

Ajloun is also very impressive! It’s a 12th-century Arab castle that is not terribly overwhelmed by tourists. (It felt as though we had this place to ourselves!) It’s only about a half-hour drive from Jerash.

Ajloun Castle

Umm Qais is a Greco-Roman town that’s located on a hillside with sweeping views of the Sea of Galilee and 3 countries – Jordan, Israel, Syria and also Palestine Territories. There are ruins of ancient Gadara here and very few tourists. This is also the furthest spot away from Amman. (It’s over a 2-hour drive.) So, if you’re short on time this day…skipping Umm Qais would be your best bet, as the other two destinations are quite close to one another and aren’t too far of a drive.

Umm Qais

The Sea of Galilee in the distance.

To read all of my tips for Day 1 of this itinerary, click here.

Day 2 – Drive to Madaba & Mount Nebo & the Dead Sea

Overnight in Amman or at a Dead Sea Resort

*This private tour will take you to all the places mentioned in Day 2.

For this day, you’ll set out from Amman to Madaba. Madaba is an ancient town in Jordan, southwest of Amman. This is about a 45-minute drive from Amman. Madaba is best known for its 6th-century mosaic map in the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George. (Click here for more info.)

Madaba

The Madaba Map

Just had to wait a little bit for the crowds to disperse!

There is also a lovely little museum between Madaba and Mt. Nebo called “La Storia Tourism Complex.” The people who work here are SO friendly and enthusiastic – I loved it. The museum itself is filled with dioramas that depict various historical and biblical scenes throughout Jordan and its surrounding region.

La Storia Tourism Complex

Mount Nebo is next up – it’s about 710 meters above sea level with sweeping panoramic views of the valley of the River Jordan and also the city of Jericho…and if the day is clear enough, you can also see Jerusalem.

The Bible says Mount Nebo is where Moses lived out his final days and saw the Promised Land. It also says that Moses’ body is possibly buried here – however, there is no current proof of this.

Mount Nebo

Remains of the original church atop Mt. Nebo

After Mount Nebo, you can finish your day relaxing and floating in the Dead Sea. Personally, I would recommend staying at one of the resorts on the Dead Sea (click here to see them all). We drove back to Amman – and that was just silly, in my opinion. As the next day, it was roughly the same amount of driving to get to Petra. (Click here to see my post from the Dead Sea, and click here for everything you need to know before floating in the Dead Sea.)

The Dead Sea

To read all of my tips for Day 2 of this itinerary, click here.

Day 3 – Petra & Wadi Rum!

Overnight in a Wadi Rum desert camp

*These tours will take you to all the places mentioned in Day 3 (depending on where you are departing from).

Ah, the best for last! Time embrace your inner Indiana Jones! You’ll want to wake up as early as possible to make it Petra before the crowds. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Amman and also the Dead Sea. (Click here to read all of my tips for visiting Petra.)

Petra

After Petra, head to Wadi Rum to do a sunset Jeep tour and see “The Valley of the Moon” in all its glory. The sand in Wadi Rum is known for being the reddest in Jordan (colored by iron oxide). Wadi Rum looks so much like Mars – many movies have been filmed here for their otherworldly scenes such as The Martian, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Prometheus, Red Planet and…of course, Lawrence of Arabia – just to name a few. (Click here for more info on this Jeep tour.)

Then, end your day at a super cool desert camp! We stayed at Mazayen Rum Camp, and it was nothing short of amazing! A photo of our “tent” is below.

The “Martian” tents we stayed in.

*We had to leave at 3 am to catch our flight out of Amman the next morning – this was not ideal!

Now, this 1st itinerary will ensure you hit the majority of the sights in Jordan in your 3 days! However, the next itinerary is how I would do it if I had to redo my 3 days in Jordan…

How to Spend 3 Days in Jordan // Itinerary #2 – Petra + Wadi Rum + the Dead Sea

Day 1 – Petra

Overnight in Petra (Wadi Musa)

I would head straight to Petra on your first day in Jordan. Petra is a sight unique to Jordan that deserves at least an entire day + an overnight stay to really do it justice (in my opinion). Doing a day trip here is cutting it too short. (Click here to read all of my tips for visiting Petra.)

Day 2 – Petra + Wadi Rum

Overnight in Wadi Rum

If you didn’t get enough time exploring Petra on your first day, you could do one more hike that morning before heading to Wadi Rum. Then, in Wadi Rum you could do another hike or camel ride or Jeep tour – depending on your preference.

Then, spend the night enjoying your desert camp under the stars! (Click here for desert camp options.)

Luxury desert camp in Wadi Rum.

Day 3 – Dead Sea

Overnight at a Dead Sea Resort

Wake up bright and early to enjoy the sunrise from your desert camp. Then, hit the road to the Dead Sea. (It’s about a 4-hour drive, unfortunately.)

Spend the rest of the day lounging by the Dead Sea and slathering on some of that magical Dead Sea mud!

This second itinerary is my personal preference because, for me, Petra and Wadi Rum were the highlights of this trip. They are such unique and otherworldly experiences, that deserve far more time than the first itinerary allows. If you’ve never been to the Dead Sea, and aren’t planning to visit Israel, then the Dead Sea is a must as well. However, if a trip to Israel is on your bucket list – I’d save the Dead Sea for that trip, and spend an extra day exploring Petra instead.

*Click here to read all of my posts from Jordan.

If you liked it – Pin it!

*Disclosure: some of these links are affiliate links. Meaning, if you click a link and make a purchase, Have Clothes, Will Travel gets a very small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible! I am also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

How to Spend 3 Days in Jordan – The Ultimate Itinerary Spending 3 days in Jordan will give you just enough time to see the highlights of this gorgeous country.

#3 day itinerary #itinerary #Jordan travel tips #Petra #Wadi Rum

1 note · View note

janatours · 22 days ago

Text

Middle East Tours

Middle East Tours often include popular destinations such as the ancient city of Petra in Jordan, known for its stunning rock-cut architecture. Another highlight is the vibrant city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, famous for its modern skyscrapers and luxurious shopping. Additionally, many tours feature the historic city of Jerusalem in Israel, offering rich cultural and religious significance.

When choosing the best dubai Tours Packages, start by considering your interests and the attractions you most want to visit. Look for packages that offer a good balance of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and leisure time. Lastly, compare prices and read reviews to ensure you get the best value for your money.

turkey tours packages 2025 offer a diverse range of cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus, marvel at the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia, and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul's Grand Bazaar. Additionally, guests have the opportunity to indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine and participate in authentic cultural festivals.

morocco tours packages offer unique experiences such as exploring the vibrant souks of Marrakech, camel trekking through the Sahara Desert, and visiting the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Travelers can also enjoy the stunning architecture of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca and the breathtaking landscapes of the Atlas Mountains. These tours provide an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich culture and history of Morocco, making for an unforgettable journey.

One Of Our Middle East Tours

13 Nights -14 Days Egypt & Jordan Holiday Packages

Day 1:

Day 2:

Day 3:

Day 4:

Day 5:

Day 6:

Day 7:

Day 8:

Day 9:

Day 10:

Day 11:

Day 12:

Day 13:

Day 14:

Check out from Petra Hotel then transfer to Queen Alia International Airport by our representative to help you with the final airport formalities.

The mentioned tour itinerary include the following:

Private English-speaking Egyptologist tour guide.

Entrance fees to all the mentioned sites.

Transportation with private A/C van to all the mentioned sites.

The service of meet and assist at the airports.

5 Nights hotel accommodation with B/B bases.

4 Nights accommodation Nile view cabin at a 5-star deluxe cruise ship with full board bases.

1 Night hotel accommodation at Aswan with B/B bases.

3 Nights hotel accommodation at Amman with B/B bases.

Domestic flight tickets Cairo / Luxor – Aswan / Cairo.

International flight tickets Cairo / Amman one way.

Service charge and tax.

The tour itinerary not include the following:

Visa Entry to Egypt.

Optional tours

Any other items not mentioned.

Tipping Kitty.

For more

· Middle East Tours: https://bit.ly/3DRteL1

· Egypt Packages: https://bit.ly/3TgGpvV

· WhatsApp: https://wa.me/201143320224

Email: [email protected]

0 notes

roadjanus · 6 years ago

Text

Heading to the Dead Sea...lucky we’re not dead...

A Muslim woman’s bathing suit next to a bikini! Border crossing and our YMCA lobby . So beautiful!

First glimpse of Israel...from Jordan height of land.

Heading to the Dead Sea

We thought we had that covered...just a short drive from Aqaba to the north end of the Dead Sea. There we would take a look at that oddity (400 m below sea level). Stay overnight and the next day...over the border to Israel. But of course, 5 hours later we arrive. How did that happen? Well, I’m using that new app — maps.me. It is a wonderful little app that works like google maps but offline. But we’re not too good at operating it as yet. So we set the route but didn’t press start, so it was showing where we were going rather than where we should go. So we ended up on this little road heading out of Wadi Musa, past Little Petra (who knew) and the road got smaller, and twister, and then smaller, and we were climbing up and up and up. And the road got smaller and narrower. An occasional donkey cart. Bedouin settlement. Then nothing. Just that narrow, serpentine road. We eventually came to the height of land. What a view. I think it was our first sighting of Israel. Fabulous. Then we had to come down from that height of land. I closed my eyes.

We came along the Western Jordanian border. There were a lot of very poor people living along this border. Looked like market gardening was the main industry. Until we got to the potash mines at the south end of the Dead Sea. This whole area was poor and extremely ugly. People were living in shacks that used some sort of poly to keep out the wind. This was in great contrast to the beautiful farms in the Jordan Valley. Towns were as poor as anything we ever saw in Africa. Even when we got to what the map said was a resort area we were taken aback by the lack of resort infrastructure. There didn’t seem to be any resorts that were close to the sea. We can see Israel across the sea. This land is so poor that we can’t understand why anyone is fighting over it. Lots of times we’ve said this. The land is so rocky and mountainous. Desert, rock fields.

When we finally reached the north of the sea we drove in circles for quite a time to find the hotel. No signage. Then when we finally reached the hotel we find a fairly new Ramada, with a fence and gate...and a man who checks for bombs. So we passed that test. We got checked in and then discovered that all our worldly goods would have to be handed over in order to eat at the hotel. What a price! Crazy. Who are they feeding at that price. By that time we were pretty tired and a little Hangry. So off we went to a little restaurant that was on the main road. So I go in to check out the menu and while I’m there, Bestie’s Man discovers he can’t open the car door. He’s locked in! Haha. A man steps up to help. Eventually it’s fixed. He’s out! So the restaurant doesn’t have hummus. The man who helped said, “Just go next door to the convenience store and buy some. You can bring it to the restaurant.” And that is what we did. We ordered fried chicken and grilled chicken (the best we’ve had so far this trip— and that is saying something) and brought hummus from next door and had wonderful bread. All for a pittance. And a cat came in from outside and shared our leftovers. Don’t you just love this country! People were so friendly and helpful. The food was so good. The cat was friendly. No more Hangry!

In the morning Bestie and I headed down to the sea. We only had about an hour as the man from the car company was coming to pick up the car and drop us at King Hussein Bridge (Allenby Bridge). I rubbed the mud on, then went into the ocean. A couple who were already there told me to walk in and then sit. so I did. And I floated. It was next to impossible to push my legs down. I know that sounds crazy. So I had to turn and propel myself backwards with my arms until I got to shallow water. It felt unnatural. I’d been warned not to get the water in my eyes or even on my face as it would burn. The mud came off, sort of oily. It stuck to my cuticles and under my nails. It was a ‘sperience!

And off to the crossing. We’d been warned that trouble could be had at this bridge. It is the only crossing for the Palestinians coming from the West Bank. They can cross into Jordan and fly out of their airport or continue into the Middle East. Of course the Israelis are touchy about the Palestinians. The Jordanians are touchy about the Israelis that are coming into their country or going out. So everyone is on edge. The men at the crossing were grim. Uniforms and guns. Not the friendly Jordanians that we’d been encountering incountry. Not that they were unpleasant. Just serious. But we were dropped off and walked into Jordan customs, paid our exit fee and then boarded a shuttle bus that would take us to the Israel border. The system they have set up seems to me to be awkward in the extreme. They take our passports when we pay, (10 Dinars) then we wait, then we go out and put our luggage on the bus, board the bus...all without any instruction. A very nice Chinese man helped us. And a priest also offered assurances that we were doing the right thing and that our passports would be returned. And sure enough, a man came on with a pack of passports and matched them up with the faces on the bus. We paid him the fee to ride the bus. 8.5 Dinars each. What they were doing with those passports I can’t imagine.

We drove awhile, waited awhile. A Jordanian policeman came on and checked a passport or two, looked us over. We drove some more. Checkpoint. Then we were at Israeli customs. Another lineup. Luggage goes through a big scanner. We waited quite a while for it. Took a long time for the luggage to come through. But I had some time to look around. There were women working there. I hadn’t realized how much I missed them. They were, generally, smiling and cheerful, helpful. The men were friendly, although I noticed there were several men just watching. They had security tags on and were just leaning on the wall, watching. Many soldiers with big guns stood around but did not appear threatening to us.

I have to say that the magic word is “Canadian”. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve said this and been fast tracked through security lines, scanner lines. Welcome, Welcome! It’s wonderful to be Canadian.

We got through Israeli customs. So from start to finish, about 3 hours. Not bad. No problems, just waiting.

And we’re in Israel. It is immediately more organized, more European. Everything is done quickly and completely. We get a taxi and we’re off to Jerusalem. The country is neat and tidy. Great road. It is obvious we have left Jordan. It’s 45 minutes to our hotel. So glad to be here

#jordan #dead sea #retirement #second childhood #border crossing #Allenby Bridge #King Hussein bridge #Israeli customs

1 note · View note

yes-jordanperfecttourss-blog · 2 years ago

Text

Five Reasons Why A Trip To Jordan Is Incomplete Without Visiting Petra

Known as the "Lost City", the "Pink City", and also the "Rose Red City", Petra is a charming old city and UNESCO world heritage site settled in the desert canyons of southern Jordan. The dusty pink stone exterior and mystical desert landscape are well known for being among the world's Seven Wonders. We state here the five reasons why not visiting Petra of Jordan makes a trip to the land incomplete.

Dazzling natural beauty

The city of Petra, set into the dramatic mountains and canyons, was cut into the stone face by the old Nabateans. Entering the city is a mysterious encounter, and each step uncovers another miracle. As a visitor, you would wonder about the mysterious carvings in the stone as they wind through the secret pathways.

A sight into history

Visiting Petra offers an exciting look into history. The city was once the flourishing capital of the Inside the city, you will see the remains of an inventive water framework from the Roman and Byzantine periods, which is especially noteworthy given the desert conditions. While visiting Petra, Nabateans. Situated between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea, Petra was once a pivotal place to stop for traders.

you will likewise wonder about the architecture, especially the complex carvings on the stone face, tombs, holy places and the archaeological discoveries of copper mining.

It is safe and easy to reach

As Petra is a preserved heritage site and carries tourism to the locale, it is exceptionally focused on by the Jordanian government, which has guaranteed that it is both open and safe for vacationers. The nation depends vigorously on tourism and invites worldwide guests to visit this one-of-a-kind and magical site.

It is generally simple to make a trip to Petra, and the city is often visited on the way from Amman to Aqaba. However, visiting Petra in a group guided by reputed local tour operators is one of the most well-known ways of seeing it.

The social association

Individuals currently possessing the region around Petra and close by Wadi Rum are known as Bedouins. They are both a settled and nomadic tribe that has figured out how to practically adjust to the unforgiving desert conditions.

Bedouins are well known for their culture, hospitality, warmth, and profound comprehension of their natural surroundings. They have prevailed over time and found some harmony between incorporating into Jordanian culture and the locals and keeping up with their old customs.

Under the Stars

Visiting Petra of Jordan is an extraordinary encounter whenever you go; however, something stands out about Pink City around evening time. If you adventure down through the Siq after dark, you will find about 1,500 candles lighting your way to the Treasury.

If you want the best exploration and experience while visiting Petra, contact Jordan Perfect Tours at +962795022001. They bring locals who can organize the best trip. The amazing part of their tour is that though the charges are reasonable they never compromise on quality.

For info stay connect with our social media profiles Facebook & Twitter

#Petra of Jordan #Petra tour

1 note · View note

106days · 3 years ago

Text

I think this was Tuesday. I’ve also had a strong cocktail at the business lounge at Queen Alia airport so who’s to say.

We had a relatively late start, I slept in past 8am. A welcome change from our 5am alarms. We stopped on the way out of Wadi Musa for a photo of Petra from above. That dark line you can see in the middle of the first photo is the siq. Your barely know there’s a former city carved from sandstone in there.

After a bit of a drive, during which we stopped for coffee and snacks (and I bought dried rockmelon because, why the heck not - for reference, it’s delicious and very sweet), we arrived in a town by Wadi Rum - the desert region to the south of the country, near the border with Saudi Arabia. Hopped on open backed jeeps, where the trays had been fitted with bench seats, and set off into the desert.

Maybe 15 or 20 minutes later we were at our camp, the most surprising thing being that it was completely invisible until about 10 seconds before arrival. The desert has secrets like that.

Chucked out stuff in our rooms (they called it camping in the itinerary but it was like a school camp - a single row of single storey rooms with uncomfortable beds, but a really good shower) and had some lunch, and watermelon that Talal had picked up for us on the way. The fruit in Jordan has been really good.

After lunch, it was time for our drive through Wadi Rum. What can I say, other than it feels genuinely otherworldly, alien, Martian, moon-like. They’ve filmed literally countless movies out there, including the most recent Star Wars, I think - and you can completely see why. It’s a landscape like no other.

We stopped at one point and climbed a *massive* dune, up to some rocks at the top. On the way up, it felt like one of the most futile things I’ve done. I think I took several hundred steps for a sandy incline of around 30m. Each step up you took, you slid down a portion - quads on fire by the time I made it to the top. But the views were incredible. And it’s so quiet. So unnervingly quiet. Except for the wind.

What’s more fascinating than the inhospitable desert is the remnant Bedouins who still live out there, but only for periods of time now. I got the sense from Talal the younger generations appreciate stability and the comforts of modern life, i.e. tvs and phones and electricity. We stopped in for tea at a Bedouin tent, where the gentleman played that haunting one stringed violin-like instrument (the name of which I will have to look up) and sang for us. It was beautiful, and so peaceful in the tent. Instantly calming. Talal told us the gentleman would spend a week at a time out there, swapping with his son to mind the tent, as they sold a few little souvenirs, and perfume, and tea, and it was their livelihood. The gentleman told us he preferred winter to summer out in the desert. I imagine with a fire going, the tents (covered in wool blankets) would be quite cosy.

We kept going through the desert, stopping here and there for pictures. For one bit we walked along with a camel, and I got to pat him. They’re intriguing creatures. Their eyelashes, their funny little faces, the way their feet kind of splodge down as they walk.

Climbed a rock arch, climbed a rock that looked like a ship, climbed to the very top of a rock for sunset, which was stunning. Watched the crows coast on the western winds. Was captivated earlier by what looked like a house martin having fun, floating on the breeze.

Dinner that night was zarb - where they cook rice, chicken and lamb, and vegetables like potato and carrot underground in the sand for several hours. Can’t speak for the meat but the rice and veg were delicious.

Had a bit of wine, sat around the campfire; Talal had brought marshmallows and biscuits for everyone to make smores (however I abstained due to not being able to reconcile the fact that marshmallows have cursed beef gelatine in them). He took us out for a little nighttime walk, where we lay on a rock and looked at the sky, hoping to see shooting stars. The moon was waxing and was quite bright, the desert was properly illuminated - felt almost like daylight. Didn’t see shooting stars but someone had an app that showed you constellations - I saw libra for the first time! The Greeks or whoever came up with all this constellation business had some wild imaginations, let me tell you…

I’d say the highlight was seeing a Syrian fox scamper past us. Talal said he’s like a cat - comes up to camp for snacks. Practically domesticated!

#travel #jordan #wadi rum

0 notes

flyingcarpettours · 3 years ago

Text

Egypt and Jordan Tours

Discover the wonders of Egypt & Jordan with Flying Carpet tours, relish Egypt and Jordan Tours as a combine travel Packages, visiting Cairo, Jordan, Luxor and Aswan by Nile cruise. And explore the beauty of Petra and enjoy riding camels and life the adventure of Safari Packages in Wadi Rum with Bedouins. Get a unique vacation in Cairo via Egypt Tours and Jordan Holidays and visit the main attractions in the city, get the chance to visit the most famous archaeological site in the world, known as the great Pyramids of Giza which considered a defining symbol that have represented Egypt along the year, scout around the three pyramids which considered the magnificent man-made structures in history, built from roughly 2550 to 2490 B.C as massive tombs to the kings Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus, beguile your eyes with Jordan where is a stunning Rose City of Petra, don’t miss the chance to discover Mountain of Nebo, Madaba and Dead Sea. Increase your knowledge about the Ancient Egyptian Civilization and experience Egypt Vacation and Jordan Tours, Discover the greatness of the Ancient Egyptians and sail along the Nile River on board a deluxe Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan, where you will get amazed by watching the incredible amount of ruins and monuments. Explore Egypt Holidays and Jordan Tours and discover the best time and places to visit. Discover the history and architecture of these ruins and many others alongside knowledgeable guides. On Egypt Holidays and Jordan Tours, Jordan is the perfect destination to embark on a private luxury tailor-made holiday, from the historic site of Petra to the wild desert of Wadi Rum. Explore Egypt Travel and Jordan Tours Day 01: Arrive Cairo At the time your flight touching Cairo Land, one delegate from Flying Carpet Tours will be holding a sign with your name, transfer to hotel, relax from the inconvenience of your travel, be ready for your Cairo and Nile Cruise Package tomorrow, overnight in Cairo.

Day 02: Pyramids, Memphis, Sakkara Taste the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, then Flying Carpet Tours guide will escort you to a flourishing day tour toMemphis City at Mit Rahina, beguile your eyes with the huge Statue of Ramses II at the Open Air Museum in Memphis City, Next tour to the step Pyramid of King Zoser, Sakkara Pyramid, relax by having Lunch at local restaurant, Next Excursion to Pyramids of Giza, Explore Cheops, Chephren and Mykerinus, then your tour guide will take you to panoramic view of the pyramids, memorable photos available to the three pyramids together, next move to the Sphinx, scout the valley temple, your guide will give you some time for shopping to buy whatever you prefer, finally Flying Carpet Tours Guide will transfer you back to your hotel in Cairo, at night try optional tour to the sound and light show at the pyramids, overnight in Cairo.

Day 03: Egyptian Museum, Citadel of Salah El-Din, Old Cairo Enjoy the savor of your breakfast at hotel, then Flying Carpet Tours guide will escort you to a thrilling Cairo Tours, visit the Egyptian Museum, scout the treasures of Tut Ankh Amun, then your guide will reveal the legends of Salah El-Din Citadel where history and culture pave the way to breathtaking, watch the architectural splendor of the Alabaster Mosque, finally visit Old Cairo including the hanging church, Abu Serga Church, and Ben Ezra synagogue, finally your guide will escort you to Giza train station for departure to Aswan by Sleeper Train, Dinner on board the train and overnight.

Day 04: The High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, Philae Temple Taste the flavor of your breakfast on board the train, once you arrive Aswan train station, Flying Carpet Tours delegate will escort you to your hotel, visit Aswan High Dam, Feast your eyes by watching the glory of Philae Temple, passing by the Unfinished Obelisk, at the end of your tour, back to your Hotel, overnight in Aswan.

Day 05: Aswan / Abu Simbel / Aswan Today is designed especially for you to enjoy, We want you to be quite sure that your program includes cultural exchange activity once you visit Abu Simbel Temple, Take your breakfast box from your hotel at 04:00 am, then drive by your private vehicle to Abu Simbel where you will be learning more about the glory of the ancient Egyptian history, Visit the Temples of Abu Simbel which will definitely enrich your trip experience, then Flying Carpet Tours guide will drive you back to Aswan, check into your Nile Cruise, Lunch served on board, rest of the day at leisure, Dinner and overnight on board.

Day 06: Nile Cruise

Taste the flavor of your breakfast on board, feast your eyes once your Cruise sailing to Kom Ombo, arrive Kom Ombo, unleash your soul while exploring the glory of Kom Ombo Temple, sail towards Edfu, Visit Horus Temple in Edfu, continue sailing to Esna, Lunch on board, Dinner and overnight on board.

Day 07: Nile Cruise Taste the flavor of your breakfast on board while sailing to luxor, arrive luxor, feast your eyes between Valley of the Kings ( visit 03 Tombs Only ), Next visit to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, known now with the name of El-Deir El-Bahary, your last visit will be to Colossi of Memnon, Watch the glory of the two huge statues, finally your tour guide will escort you back to your Cruise, Lunch included on board, Dinner and overnight on board.

Day 08: Luxor to Sharm Taste the flavor of your breakfast on board, feast your eyes and scout Luxor Culture, visit the fabulous Karnak Temple with its huge Pillars hall, next tour to Luxor Temple, finally your tour guide will escort you to Luxor Airport, fly to Sharm, arrive sharm, transfer to your hotel, relax, overnight in Sharm.

Day 09: Sharm El Sheikh Taste the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, it is your leisure day in Sharm , try a lot of Water sports, Swimming, Snorkeling, Diving, bask under the gleaming Sun, beguile your eyes with the awesome Red Sea, Or choose between the splendid Excursions in Sharm, overnight in Sharm.

Day 10: Sharm El Sheikh Taste the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, it is your leisure day in Sharm , try a lot of Water sports, Swimming, Snorkeling, Diving, bask under the gleaming Sun, beguile your eyes with the awesome Red Sea, Or choose between the splendid Excursions in Sharm, overnight in Sharm.

Day 11: Sharm El sheikh / Amman Taste the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, then Flying Carpet Tours delegate will transfer you to Sharm Airport, catch your flight to Amman, arrive Amman Airport, transfer to hotel, relax from the inconvenience of travel, overnight in Amman.

Day 12: Mountain of Nebo, Madaba - Dead Sea Tour Taste the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, then drive by air-conditioned vehicle to The Mountain of Nebo, and visit the tomb of Moses the profit, then explore the old Monastery overlooking the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, as well as Jericho, then move to visit Madaba, akso visit St. George’s Church, then visit the mosaic map of Palestine, then drive to the famous dead sea, which is a salt lake bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel and the West Bank to the west, It was one of the world's first health resorts, it is your chance to enjoy natural health and the beauty at the same time, the dead sea considered the saltiest and most mineral-laden body of water in the world. Get relax, and enjoy, at the end of the day transfer back to the Hotel in Amman, Overnight in Amman.

Day 13: Petra Tour Taste the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, then drive by air-conditioned vehicle to The Rose Red City of Petra, know the legends of Petra, carved directly into vibrant red, white, pink, and sandstone cliff faces, the prehistoric Jordanian city of Petra was "lost" to the Western world for hundreds of years, Petra is without a doubt Jordan's most valuable treasure and greatest tourist attraction, enter this hidden city through a long narrow Siq, Explore the amazing carved buildings made by Human hands, get the chance to try horseback riding to the entrance of the canyon, Camels are available to hire inside Petra, finally at the end of your tour drive back to Amman, overnight in Amman.

Day 14: Final Departure Today is the valediction day, taste the flavor of your breakfast at hotel, then one of Flying Carpet Tours delegates will lead you to Amman International airport, for the final departure. More info about: Egypt and Jordan Tours Tel.: +201099906242 Email: [email protected] Website: www.flyingcarpettours.com

#egypt and jordan tours #egypt jordan #egypt and jordan combined tours #Egypt and Jordan Tour Packages #jordan tours #egypt and petra tours #petra jordan tours

0 notes

awintersail · 7 years ago

Text

Jordan, Egypt and the Suez Canal

April 26. Once again I am playing catch-up with the narrative of our journey. We are now sailing from Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy to Algiers, where will will spend a very short day tomorrow, our second consecutive brief stop. We only had six hours in Cagliari, but we used it well. Yesterday and Tuesday we were berthed in Valletta, Malta, our first European port of the cruise. Originally, we were to spend only one day in Malta, but the Tunisia port call scheduled for Wednesday was canceled for security reasons, and we picked up an additional half day in Valletta. We had heard about a month ago that Tunis might be skipped, so it was not a surprise. As described later, Malta was very nice, so it was a fine place to devote some extra time.

But, not to get ahead of the chronology, back to Jordan and Egypt. The fact is that we didn’t see much of Jordan except Petra and the ride through the desert and mountains to and from it. We docked in Al Aqaba, at the end of the Gulf of Aqaba, which is Jordan’s only coastal city. It is 4000 years old, but looks fairly modern and is taking advantage of the tourist opportunities afford by Petra and Wadi Rum. Wadi Rum is where T. E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) and his Arab army camped before launching a successful attack to drive the Turks out of Aqaba in WW I. The city shares both land and sea borders with Eilat, Israel to the west, and there is a busy border crossing point here.

It is a 3 1/2 hour drive to Petra, much of it through pretty desolate countryside of sand and jagged rocks. We climbed to an elevation of 5000’ before descending to Petra at 3000’. When you get there it is easy to see why only the Bedouins knew it was there until the early 19th Century. Petra was created by the Nabataeans around the 3d century BCE. It was positioned on a major trading route, and is thought to have been occupied by 20k people. Now, it is Jordan’s most visited tourist site

It is about a 2 mile walk from the parking area to the places shown in the pictures. The route is through a narrow, winding path known as the Siq. At the end of the Siq, the spectacular Treasury comes into view. Because the tombs of Petra were carved into sandstone, and because the area formerly was subject to annual flooding, many of the original features have been worn away by wind and water, but it it remains a marvel of ancient craftsmanship. We were fortunate that it was cooler than normal and with a breeze on this day.

From Jordan, we sailed access the Red Sea to the port of Safaga, Egypt on the west coast. Safaga was the departure point for our trip to Luxor (Thebes in the ancient world), The Karnak Temple, and The Valley of the Kings. Again, this was a long drive from the port, but took us through the fertile Nile River valley in addition to many miles of uninhabitable desert. In Egypt, only the Nile valley and lands irrigated by canals from the Nile, are arable. This constitutes only a small percentage of the country, and means that the population of 98M is concentrated in Cairo (20M), Alexandria (5M) and the other cities along the river.

Like India, Egypt has more people than it knows what to do with, half of whom are under 24 years old, and many are unemployed. Also, there are far more males than females in the youth population. Not a good situation. One solution appears to be to include them in the security forces. It is not an overstatement to say that armed men were almost everywhere. Most of the time, we had police escorts of heavily armed men including plain clothes men with prominent firearms protruding from their blazers. It avoided traffic jams, but we did not know whether we should feel more safe or less safe because of the security. Tourism is an extremely important (17%) part of the economy, and an attack on tourists would be extremely bad for business. But was this merely an excess of caution (or of armed men) or was there need for concern? I suppose if you hire all the men most vulnerable to recruitment by jihadis, you will reduce the number who are tempted to challenge the military rulers.

Our weather luck did not hold at Karnak and the Valley of Kings. It was hot and hotter; reportedly 105-110F. At least 2 people from the ship passed out from the heat. Despite the heat, this was the best ruin I had never heard of. This site is 4000 years old, and is remarkably well preserved, given its age. It is the largest religious building ever built. Comparing it to Petra shows you the difference between sandstone and granite. Much detail remains and many of the hieroglyphs have been translated. Truly amazing.

After Karnak, we crossed the Nile to the Valley of the Kings. It is a huge complex of underground tombs, only some of which have probably been found. The ancient Egyptians always placed burial grounds on the west side of the Nile, because that is where the sun sets. The Pharaohs abandoned pyramids and began creating underground tombs when they realized that a pyramid was mostly a large marker announcing: “grave robbers, here’s what you are looking for”. This dodge only worked a little better, which is why the discovery of King Tut’s tomb at this location in 1922 was such a big deal. It was still intact and the treasures were undisturbed. There has been nothing like it, before or since. Tut’s mummified body is displayed n the tomb, as is one of the sarcophagi which covered him. The remaining items are in the Cairo Museum which we visited 2 days later. Photography is not permitted in Tut’s tomb, but the other 3 open sites can be photographed. They include colors which were applied 3500 yers ago and are still bright.

On the next day we took a break from the heat and snorkeled in the Red Sea at Sharm el-Sheikh. As advertised, the fish and coral here were beautiful: far better than The Great Barrier Reef. Sharm, as the natives call it, is quite beautiful, and used to be a favorite beach resort for Egyptians and Europeans. It has a casino and many hotels of all prices. And, it is pretty affordable. Unfortunately, in recent years the political instability and fear of terrorists has kept many tourists away. Our snorkel guides said business is starting to rebound.

The entire day on Friday (April 20) was spent going through the Suez Canal. Because there are no locks, and the surrounding countryside is mostly desert, this was not very interesting. We did see the new part of the canal which was recently opened to permit two-way traffic in a portion of it.

On Saturday, we docked in Alexandria, and immediately departed the ship for another all-day bus ride to Cairo, the Pyramids at Giza, and the Sphinx. Giza is on the west side of the Nile opposite Cairo. As you might be able to see in the pictures, the city has crept to within a few hundred yards of the Pyramids. Despite the ever-present garbage in Cairo, the historical sites are pretty-well kept, at least by developing world standards. However, like everyplace we went in Egypt, there were hundreds of people trying to sell us “stuff”, or camel rides, or donkey rides, or offering to take our photo for a tip. Everything was “a dollar”, until you agreed to a dollar and then the price went up. These places finally put me into vendor overload.

The Sphinx is right next to the Pyramids, so it did not take long to see it. It is undergoing restoration, which is partly completed.

As noted earlier, we went to the Cairo Museum, which will soon be the old Cairo Museum. It is filled with antiquities, but the big attraction is the King Tut display which occupies a large part of the second floor. Pretty nice. Lots of people were here but we could have used a couple more hours to see it all.

Between the museum and our visit to Giza, we had lunch on a Nile River cruise boat as it motored through Cairo. Lunch was good. We had 4 police escort boats. Like I said, lots of security.

Egypt shows signs of entering the world of developed nations but still has a long way to go. Literacy among the young exceeds 90%, Internet access is widespread, and college graduation rates are high. However, there are no jobs for those graduates. Birth rates are still too high. And to make a bad situation worse, 135K Syrian refugees have come to Egypt. On the other hand, in the rural areas, horse and donkey carts were plentiful, and people were harvesting wheat by hand. It is as if the 21st century is struggling to emerge from the 19th century.

That’s all for today. More soon on Malta and Sardinia.

5 notes · View notes