Jordan Tour
When I first mentioned where I was going, most people responded the same way: “Isn’t Jordan near Syria? Is it safe?” It was not altogether surprising that people raised concerns about safety issues as Jordan actually borders Syria and Amman is only about 100 miles from Damascus.
However, once there, it may as well have been a million miles away as we felt totally safe throughout our trip. Jordan is the most stable country in the region and the people there are some of the friendliest I’ve ever met. Also, unlike in some other Arabic countries, you can walk around without being hassled. Petra is obviously the main draw for visitors to Jordan and is undoubtedly the highlight of any trip. However, there are so many other wonderful sights to see and this trip allowed us the opportunity of experiencing the diversity that this wonderful and fascinating country has to offer.
It was a jam packed week and our group was divided into two, with half of us, including myself, concentrating on historical and cultural sights and the other half concentrating on adventure activities such as hiking and canoeing.
Our flights to Amman were with Royal Jordanian and the service and comfort on board was very good. Jordan is only a 5 hour flight from London which is a real bonus.
The city of Amman is a blend of old and new and there are many interesting places to visit from here including the ancient Roman city of Jerash which is without doubt a “must see “ on any itinerary to Jordan.
After spending a couple of nights in Amman, we headed south to the Dead Sea along the Kings Highway, stopping at Madaba and Mount Nebo en route. The next day we made our way to Petra, then finally to the Red Sea resort of Aqaba.
The hotels we stayed at were different in character and all of a high standard. From the modern luxury Hyatt hotel in Amman and the ultra-modern Kempinski City hotel in Aqaba to the more traditional Arabic design of the Moevenpick hotels at the Dead Sea and Petra, they all provided excellent facilities and service. The quality and choice of food was very good but alcoholic drinks were extremely expensive.
We enjoyed so many wonderful experiences during our week in Jordan including a “hands on” Arabic cookery class, jeep and camel riding in the spectacular desert scenery of Wadi Rum and floating in the Dead Sea.
Jordan really has something to appeal to everyone and my lasting impression is of a safe, fascinating, culturally rich country and the genuine warmth and friendliness of its people.