"Jordan - Don't miss out. Its not... " a Jordan Travel Page by mad4travel

Despite what some people might think, Jordan is not overrun with terrorists, suicide bombers and generaly nasty people who want to kill westerners.

Infact, nothing could be further from the truth.

The country is beautiful, full of grand vistas like Wadi Rum. The weather is great (altho a bit hot in the summer!)

There are diverse things to do here from experiencing the hustle and bustle of the cities such as Amman. Experiencing the weirdness of the dead sea. Getting into the ancient history and culture of the Romans and visiting wonders such as Petra.

The troubles in the Middle East have put many people off from going there, which is all the more reason to go! Have the place to yourself!

Jordan oozes with History.
It was an important part of the Roman Empire and the heart of trade routes between Europe and Asia.

Some Examples:

Mount Nebo:reputed to be the place where Moses died

Ruth, the Moabite ancestor of King David, came from what is now a central region of Jordan.

Herod the Great, came from what is now the southern part of the country;

Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in Jordan.

The Nabateans, who predated the Romans built Petra

Hellenistic/Roman ruined city of Jerash (ancient Gerasa), which hosts a world-famous festival of Western and Middle Eastern performing arts each July.

Byzantine mosaics at Medaba.

In the Middle ages, the crusaders, swept in from Jerusalem built the most formidable of their mountaintop castles at Kerak.

The wonder of Wadi Rum :backdrop for the filming of Lawrence of Arabia

So, lots to do. lots to explore. Bring some sunscreen and a hat and a sturdy pair of shoes!

Everywhere we went in Jordan people were charming and hospitable. Most spoke a smattering of English and it doesn't hurt to learn a few words of Arabic too.

Expect to haggle in the markets. Try the mint tea - its delicious.

Learn to love kebabs and hummus- you'll be eating lots of these!

The picture is of a boat trip off Aquaba. Lunch was included. What we did'nt realise is that it would be cooked on a BBQ on the front of the boat!

Handy when you are in a wooden boat and there are red hot embers leaping from the fire onto the carpet under the BBQ.

The guys were having to dowse the carpet with water to stop it catching fire!

It was bit of an experience as well as a tasty lunch!

Later on after lunch, we were treated to the surreal experience of seeing two Arab men, in full Arab dress, floating past on a polystyrene cube as big as a small car. They were fishing!! They waved hello and we waved back- what else could you do?
Strange things can happen to you in Jordan - don't miss it!