TRICIA STEVENS
PERSPECTIVES
JORDAN
Jordan has more than 100,000 archaeological sites and some of them are still in their original state, such as the city of Petra and Jerash. Your first glimpse of Petra is sure to be a bucket list moment! Jordan is a fascinating country that is safe and welcoming. The daily call to prayers are chilling yet peaceful, and there is so much to learn about the culture.
ABSOLUTE MUSTS
The Lost City of Petra
This Ancient City located in southern Jordan (3 hours from Amman) was named as one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’ in 2007. The stone city of Petra is a massive hand carved network of tombs, monuments and religious structures. The Nabateans realized that it was easier to carve through the sandstone than it was to build free-standing structures that could hold up to earthquakes. The well-known Treasury is one of the most elaborate temples in Petra. It was named The Treasury in the 19th century as it was believed to contain treasures. It was believed that an Egyptian pharaoh hid his treasure in the urn located in the middle of the second level. Some believe this tale because the 3.5m high urn is marked with rifle shots that were perhaps used to break it open. The lost city is over 100 square miles (4x larger than Manhattan). Allow yourself enough time to check out the Monastery, the Palace Tomb, and the spectacular Treasury at night, when it glows with hundreds of lit candles.
King Abdullah Mosque
Built in 1982 and completed in 1989 this blue-domed mosque located in Amman is worth the visit. Named after the ruler of Jordan from 1921-1951, the mosque can accommodate up to 7,000 worshipers and an additional 3,000 outside. This is the only mosque in Amman that welcome non-Muslim visitors, however women are required to cover their hair, bare arms, and legs. Headscarves are available at the entrance as well as abayas (black full-length dress).
Float in the
Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is a large landlocked lake between Jordan and Israel. It has the lowest land elevation on Earth (sitting 1,385 feet below sea level). The white “foam” that collects on the shores of the Dead Sea is actually salt and the sea is 10x saltier than the ocean, making it impossible for plants and animals to survive here (hence the name). You’ll find it challenging to keep your legs down in this body of water and it will be sure to give you a laugh. Don’t forget to give the Dead Sea mud mask a try, which is said to provide many health benefits for your skin.
Jerash
Jerash is home to one of the largest and most well-preserved Roman Ruins outside of Italy. Hadrian’s Arch marks the start of this ancient city of wealth and many of the ruins at Jerash still remain intact, making it easier for archeologists to piece together the past. Check out the incredible columns at the Temple of Artemis and the magnificent North Theatre which was once used for large meetings and later for musical poetry entertainment.
Aqaba
Aqaba is the southernmost city in Jordan and the only coastal city in the country. Known for it’s beaches along the Red Sea and incredible snorkeling, it is the perfect destination to stop for a few days to unwind. Stroll along the waterfront and check out the many shops and restaurants, or spend your time on (or in!) the water.
Spend the Night in Wadi Rum
Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011, Wadi Rum (also known as the Valley of the Moon) is a valley cut into the red sandstone and granite rock in southern Jordan. ‘Wadi’ is a bed or valley of a stream that is usually dry except during the rainy season. It is the largest wadi in Jordan. Its incredible landscape and isolated location make it the perfect place to enjoy the night.
Try Maqluba
This traditional Jordanian dish consists of rice, chicken, and spices. It is cooked in one pot and flipped upside down when its ready to serve, so the rice stays on the bottom and the chicken stays on the top.
