Dubai Post 75: The Amazing Country of Jordan

When I was younger, I had heard of a country who bared the same name as me.  When I was in Israel, I gazed into Jordan wondering what the country was like.  Little did I know, Jordan, which is slightly smaller than the size of Indiana, is a beautiful country filled with a rich history. 

Standing in front of the Roman Amphitheater in Amman. 

Looking over part of the city of Amman.  The Amphitheater
is to the right. 

Other than the UAE, it was clear to me that Jordan was the most Westernized country of the Arab world.  This was evident in the country's capital city, Amman.  A lot of this had to do with the western world’s rule in the country of Jordan which dates back to as early as the Roman Empire.  Citizens of Amman are reminded of the Roman rule on a daily basis with ruins are located in the heart of the city.

Amman is centered around the Citadel which sits atop a hill
in the middle of the city. 

The beauty of the country was something I was also surprised by.  Like most of the Arab countries I have seen, I expected to see a lot of sandy deserts.  That was not the case at all.  Sure there was some desert but much of Jordan’s landscape is very mountainous providing scenic views all over the country. 

Our group about to set out on our tour of Wadi Rum. 

A view from Lawrence's spring overlooking part of Wadi Rum. 

The most spectacular area in my eyes was Wadi Rum.  Its gigantic red stone peaks made me feel like I was in Arizona versus the Middle East.  I was also able to see some shoreline while I was in Jordan.  The wondrous Dead Sea is the border of Jordan and Israel on the western side of the country.

I could not imagine what the 1800 Swiss
explorers thought when they saw this sight. 

In front of the monastery after a 860 step hike. 

Lastly, there is Petra.  A cryptic Red Rose City that was lost for centuries amongst the mountains of Jordan.   The city itself is astonishing, as it is built into the rock with such fine detail.  However, the views that accompany Petra are what make it a world wonder.

The view at the top of the world at Petra. 

In the mountains over looking Israel on the way to the Dead Sea. 

Over the next few days, I will describe my group’s adventure in Jordan.  It truly was a wonderful country that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. 

Standing on the shore at the Dead Sea.  You can see the salt
formations along the rocks.