If you are an expatriate in the Gulf or have only a few days traveling in the Middle East, do I have the place for you: Jordan. A land rich in culture, history, tradition, and food, Jordan is often known as the Switzerland of the Middle East. Spend a long weekend and enthrall yourself to a weekend of ‘culture and history.’
See the Best of Cultural and Historical Sights of Jordan
From the famous Rose Red City also known as Petra; to Jerash, Ajloun and Um Quais; Bethany Beyond the Jordan; Mount Nebo; Madaba, the City of Mosaics, and relaxing in the Dead Sea, there’s lots to see and do in Jordan. Read on for more!
Day 1: A Visit to Petra’s Treasury and Rose Red City
Voted worldwide by over 100 million people, PETRA is Jordan’s Treasure and a must-see. It is a vast, unique city that was carved into the sheer rock face by the Nabataeans, an industrious Arab Civilization who settled in the area more than 2000 years ago. The tour gradually proceeds to unfold the mysteries of the Rose Red City with its spectacular treasury, Royal Tombs, burial chambers and high places of sacrifice.
You could spend a whole weekend in Petra, but if you only have one day, be sure to start early. Begin your day early with a day tour from a hired local guide who has grown up near Petra and know it “inside and out.” Walk the trail or if you’re feeling adventurous, take a horse/carriage ride to the Souk and Treasury. Stop at the Basin Restaurant for lunch near the Petra Museum where the food is good and the bathrooms are the best in the valley.
Day 2: Visit To North Of Jordan: Jerash, Ajloun and Um Quais
Come an experience the place where Roman Gladiators walked the cobblestone streets in Jerash one of the best-preserved provincial Roman cities in the world. A fine example of the grand, formal, provincial Roman urbanism, don’t miss out on Jerash.
From Jerash, journey north about 30 minutes to Ajloun Castle, probably the best example of Islamic architecture in Jordan. End your tour at Um Quais or Gadara, once known as cultural center in the late 16th century. Look to the north and catch a glimpse of the Tigris River, The Golan Heights and green valleys.
Day 3: The Religious Tour
Start your day at the site where Jesus was baptized in ‘Bethany Beyond the Jordan.’ This is where John the Baptist was living when he baptized Jesus. Then, travel north to Mt. Nebo where Moses saw the ‘promised land’ and where it is thought that he is buried.
Off to Madaba, the City of Mosaics, and one of the most memorable places in the Holy Land and a place that offers many sites to explore. Visit St. George’s Church to see a 6th century Byzantine mosaic map showing Jerusalem and other holy sites. Finally, try Jordan’s finest cuisine at Haret Jdounda, an authentic eatery in Madaba. Nibble on delicious Arabic Mezza, drink a few local drinks, and have try some argeela.
Day 4: The Dead Sea or the Largest Natural Spa in the World
The Dead Sea is the lowest place on earth and has a spiritual legacy of its own. Spend the day floating on the sea or wrap yourself with therapeutic Dead Sea mud and salts. Leave your stress behind and come and experience your very own wellness spa.
Spa packages can be arranged at Jordan’s finest Spas, including the Largest Real Spa in the Middle East at the Kempenski Hotel or at the Arabesque SPA at the Movenpick Hotel.
For more information or to visit Jordan, visit: www.sti-me.com.