With the political upheavals in the Middle East, it’s understandable that North Americans express concern about traveling to the region. But Jordan’s relevance to current affairs, as well as its fabulous archaeological sites, natural beauty, opportunities for adventure and friendly people make the country a safe, must-visit destination.
Petra: The Treasury. © Charles & Mary LoveIn roughly 10 days, you can explore Amman, the capital; Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world; Petra, the rose city of the desert, established as a trading center by the Nabateans in the 3rd century B.C.; Wadi Rum, the desert region that T.E. Lawrence called “vast, echoing and God-like;” and Mt. Nebo, where, according to the Bible, Moses viewed the Holy Lands for the first time. Don’t miss camping in the desert with the bedouins at Wadi Rum!
You can travel independently (as we did) or in a group organized by experienced travel companies like Abercrombie and Kent (www.abercrombiekent.com) or Mountain Travel Sobek (www.mtsobek.com).