JORDAN: WORLD OF WONDER
MY RETURN TO JORDAN
I want to return to Jordan and embrace the wondrous culture, as old as mankind. An avid cyclist, a bike trip would be an amazing way to view the countryside. Details about the cycling tour I am interested in can be found at Bestway2Jordan. I am open to new adventure, the great outdoors, and glimpsing familiar and unvisited landmarks.
I want Americans, Europeans, and others to share similar experiences in Jordan as I was fortunate to have. As a writer and photographer, I encourage readers to venture forth, try new things, and simply be prepared and keep their wits. Jordan, the "Switzerland of the Middle East," truly welcomes everyone. I humbly ask to be sent there again as a good will ambassador.
http://www.travel.bestway.com/travellers-sign-up/?utm_source=SmugMug&utm_medium=Blogger&utm_campaign=Bestway2Jordan
JORDAN: WORLD OF WONDER
People often ask of the six continents and nearly fifty countries I've visited, which is my favorite place to travel. Without hesitation I say: The Hashesmite Kingdom of Jordan was my most enriching journey. Jordanians are the most welcoming, friendly, and gracious beings I have ever met! And, they love Americans!
This Middle Eastern nation is "between Iraq and a hard place" says Munir Y Nassar, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities. “There is a sense of self-defiance and more awareness of geography and politics amongst United States tourists. They know who their friends are and are the last ones to cancel a trip.”
“Do not just focus on places and scenery,” he advises. “Try to share the entire experience about the people you meet and how they treat you.”
Indeed, people I met on the street as well as tourism industry staff treated me pleasantly and with respect. Although English is widely spoken, local residents expressed delight that I spoke a little Arabic.
MY FIRST JOURNEY
A major focus of my journey was visiting some of the Christian Biblical sites. At Mount Nebo, my band of seven and I gazed in awe at the arid wilderness sprinkled with ancient olive trees where Moses saw the “Promised Land.” A statue erected by monks translates, “All under one God.”
I felt humble drawing water from the Jordan River, for which the nation is named. A few yards away in a lowly sun-baked spot, John the Baptist is believed to have baptized Jesus.
Near Aqaba, now a resort overlooking the Red Sea, our Creator first manifested himself to humans. Young men pulled me on the deck to dance aboard the Sindbad vessel for there was much to celebrate. Israel and Egypt shone along the distant shore.
Strolling along the cardo in the aged remains of Jerash, I imagined the thunder of Roman chariots. In this “Cross Roads of Civilization” amidst the hills of Gilead, are stone vestiges of Byzantine, Greek, and other heritages.
I scooped grit for friends from the briny Dead Sea, earth’s lowest place at 1,335 feet below sea level on the water’s surface. En route to this remarkable region we paused in Zoar to observe a high, isolated salt pillar said to be the remains of Lot’s wife.
We stopped briefly at Dana Nature Preserve, one of six wildlife sanctuaries in Jordan. The United States has worked with its ally’s Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature to restore Jordan’s wetlands and improve its nature incentives. Local craftsmen and woman sell indigenous artwork to support this endeavor and themselves.
Another intriguing venue is Petra aptly named for its colorful caves and astounding rock formations. In remote areas, sometimes the tinkling of a sheep's bell was all I heard. While hiking through the narrow canyon by day and by candle-lit night, it was easy to imagine Indiana Jones storming through on “The Last Crusade.” Clomping on a camel, donkey, and Arabian horse afforded a different perspective of this natural wonder. After thess dusty excursions, a Turkish bath was rejuvenating.
Besides religious sites, Jordan offers salubrioius dining, sporting life, a curious world of nature, rich culture, and a magnificent, haunting desert.
WADI RUM
The wilderness of Jordan won my heart and soul. In the vast sienna sands of Wadi Rum, Lawrence of Arabia’s former stomping ground, we stayed at a primitive Bedouin campsite in a tent made of goat hair. Only a cot, candle, match, and woven matadorned our private chamber.
My group explored the crystal wonderland by jeep and for 30 minutes on foot. I was entranced by the sounds of nesting swallows, the scent of xeric vegetation, and the imposing sandstone cliffs. At sunset, we scrambled over the golden hillsides as young boys rode by on camels.
Our hosts served traditional lamb and chicken and fresh fruits and vegetables for dinner. By a flickering campfire we drank Zhoula, a strong herbal tea, and told stories. Later, I reclined for hours on a blanketed sofa to watch an infinite galaxy and to wish upon a shooting star.
Our desert journey was also a time for personal revelation. The hot, clean dry air soothed my body and mind. I relearned to appreciate simplicity, good will, and abundant health. I have heard that prayers are stronger in the Holy Land, so I said some fervent ones.
Regardless of one’s faith or disbelief, Jordan is a place of warmth, miracles, and solace. I never felt more spiritual, complete, and connected to my good earth and its people.
http://www.travel.bestway.com/travellers-sign-up/?utm_source=SmugMug&utm_medium=Blogger&utm_campaign=Bestway2Jordan
To learn more, please contact me or see:
Feasting in the Holy Land, AAA Home and Away, Oct. 2014.
http://www.offbeattravel.com/jordan-visit.html
Gannett Publications, A Jordan Crossing (Shore Style, B1, 2006)
Crossing Jordan: One Woman's Journey
http://www.churchsolutionsmag.com/articles/youth-in-the-church/73h2911525689740.html (Please contact me for information).
http://www.offbeattravel.com/jordan-visit.html
ODESSA: (Jordanian publication)
Appreciating Nature, at 61, and Yaum al-Umm (Mother’s Day) ‘Round the World, at 67 (Mar. 2007).
Journey to Earth’s End at 75, World’s Largest Flower, Rafflesia at 79, and Romantic Getaway in Western Ireland at 111 (Feb. 2007).
THE JORDAN TIMES: Letter to the Editor, Lovely Experience
Read MoreI want to return to Jordan and embrace the wondrous culture, as old as mankind. An avid cyclist, a bike trip would be an amazing way to view the countryside. Details about the cycling tour I am interested in can be found at Bestway2Jordan. I am open to new adventure, the great outdoors, and glimpsing familiar and unvisited landmarks.
I want Americans, Europeans, and others to share similar experiences in Jordan as I was fortunate to have. As a writer and photographer, I encourage readers to venture forth, try new things, and simply be prepared and keep their wits. Jordan, the "Switzerland of the Middle East," truly welcomes everyone. I humbly ask to be sent there again as a good will ambassador.
http://www.travel.bestway.com/travellers-sign-up/?utm_source=SmugMug&utm_medium=Blogger&utm_campaign=Bestway2Jordan
JORDAN: WORLD OF WONDER
People often ask of the six continents and nearly fifty countries I've visited, which is my favorite place to travel. Without hesitation I say: The Hashesmite Kingdom of Jordan was my most enriching journey. Jordanians are the most welcoming, friendly, and gracious beings I have ever met! And, they love Americans!
This Middle Eastern nation is "between Iraq and a hard place" says Munir Y Nassar, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities. “There is a sense of self-defiance and more awareness of geography and politics amongst United States tourists. They know who their friends are and are the last ones to cancel a trip.”
“Do not just focus on places and scenery,” he advises. “Try to share the entire experience about the people you meet and how they treat you.”
Indeed, people I met on the street as well as tourism industry staff treated me pleasantly and with respect. Although English is widely spoken, local residents expressed delight that I spoke a little Arabic.
MY FIRST JOURNEY
A major focus of my journey was visiting some of the Christian Biblical sites. At Mount Nebo, my band of seven and I gazed in awe at the arid wilderness sprinkled with ancient olive trees where Moses saw the “Promised Land.” A statue erected by monks translates, “All under one God.”
I felt humble drawing water from the Jordan River, for which the nation is named. A few yards away in a lowly sun-baked spot, John the Baptist is believed to have baptized Jesus.
Near Aqaba, now a resort overlooking the Red Sea, our Creator first manifested himself to humans. Young men pulled me on the deck to dance aboard the Sindbad vessel for there was much to celebrate. Israel and Egypt shone along the distant shore.
Strolling along the cardo in the aged remains of Jerash, I imagined the thunder of Roman chariots. In this “Cross Roads of Civilization” amidst the hills of Gilead, are stone vestiges of Byzantine, Greek, and other heritages.
I scooped grit for friends from the briny Dead Sea, earth’s lowest place at 1,335 feet below sea level on the water’s surface. En route to this remarkable region we paused in Zoar to observe a high, isolated salt pillar said to be the remains of Lot’s wife.
We stopped briefly at Dana Nature Preserve, one of six wildlife sanctuaries in Jordan. The United States has worked with its ally’s Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature to restore Jordan’s wetlands and improve its nature incentives. Local craftsmen and woman sell indigenous artwork to support this endeavor and themselves.
Another intriguing venue is Petra aptly named for its colorful caves and astounding rock formations. In remote areas, sometimes the tinkling of a sheep's bell was all I heard. While hiking through the narrow canyon by day and by candle-lit night, it was easy to imagine Indiana Jones storming through on “The Last Crusade.” Clomping on a camel, donkey, and Arabian horse afforded a different perspective of this natural wonder. After thess dusty excursions, a Turkish bath was rejuvenating.
Besides religious sites, Jordan offers salubrioius dining, sporting life, a curious world of nature, rich culture, and a magnificent, haunting desert.
WADI RUM
The wilderness of Jordan won my heart and soul. In the vast sienna sands of Wadi Rum, Lawrence of Arabia’s former stomping ground, we stayed at a primitive Bedouin campsite in a tent made of goat hair. Only a cot, candle, match, and woven matadorned our private chamber.
My group explored the crystal wonderland by jeep and for 30 minutes on foot. I was entranced by the sounds of nesting swallows, the scent of xeric vegetation, and the imposing sandstone cliffs. At sunset, we scrambled over the golden hillsides as young boys rode by on camels.
Our hosts served traditional lamb and chicken and fresh fruits and vegetables for dinner. By a flickering campfire we drank Zhoula, a strong herbal tea, and told stories. Later, I reclined for hours on a blanketed sofa to watch an infinite galaxy and to wish upon a shooting star.
Our desert journey was also a time for personal revelation. The hot, clean dry air soothed my body and mind. I relearned to appreciate simplicity, good will, and abundant health. I have heard that prayers are stronger in the Holy Land, so I said some fervent ones.
Regardless of one’s faith or disbelief, Jordan is a place of warmth, miracles, and solace. I never felt more spiritual, complete, and connected to my good earth and its people.
http://www.travel.bestway.com/travellers-sign-up/?utm_source=SmugMug&utm_medium=Blogger&utm_campaign=Bestway2Jordan
To learn more, please contact me or see:
Feasting in the Holy Land, AAA Home and Away, Oct. 2014.
http://www.offbeattravel.com/jordan-visit.html
Gannett Publications, A Jordan Crossing (Shore Style, B1, 2006)
Crossing Jordan: One Woman's Journey
http://www.churchsolutionsmag.com/articles/youth-in-the-church/73h2911525689740.html (Please contact me for information).
http://www.offbeattravel.com/jordan-visit.html
ODESSA: (Jordanian publication)
Appreciating Nature, at 61, and Yaum al-Umm (Mother’s Day) ‘Round the World, at 67 (Mar. 2007).
Journey to Earth’s End at 75, World’s Largest Flower, Rafflesia at 79, and Romantic Getaway in Western Ireland at 111 (Feb. 2007).
THE JORDAN TIMES: Letter to the Editor, Lovely Experience
