Amman: A Modern Oasis

Our adventure started in Amman, Jordan's vibrant capital city. After a long flight, we found ourselves greeted warmly at the luxurious W Amman Hotel, where modern comforts met traditional hospitality. Amman's bustling markets, ancient citadels, and delectable cuisine made our stay here truly memorable. Exploring the city's blend of ancient ruins and modern cafes provided a perfect introduction to Jordan's diverse culture.

Petra Indiana Jones Tour: Unveiling Ancient Mysteries

Next on our itinerary was a journey to Petra, the ancient Nabatean city hidden amidst rose-red cliffs. Our base at the Petra Moon Luxury Hotel placed us right at the entrance to this UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking through the narrow Siq and catching our first glimpse of the iconic Treasury left us in awe, feeling like characters in our very own adventure movie. Exploring the ancient tombs and amphitheater with our kids was a history lesson they'll never forget.

Wadi Rum Desert Trip: Bedouin Hospitality and Camel Trekking

From Petra, we headed to the otherworldly landscapes of Wadi Rum, where endless stretches of red sand dunes and granite mountains awaited. Our stay at the Suncity Camp immersed us in Bedouin culture, sleeping under the stars in cozy desert tents. The highlight? A sunset camel trek through the desert, the kids giggling with excitement as we watched the colors of the sky change.

Jeep Ride and Bedouin Meal in Wadi Rum

The following day, we embarked on a thrilling Jeep ride across Wadi Rum's sandstone valleys and towering cliffs. Our guide shared tales of Lawrence of Arabia, adding a layer of history to the breathtaking scenery. Ending the day with a traditional Bedouin meal by the campfire, under a blanket of stars, was a true highlight of our adventure.

Balloon Trip over Aqaba: Views from Above

Leaving the desert behind, we journeyed to Aqaba, Jordan's coastal gem along the Red Sea. Our stay at the Hyatt Regency offered panoramic views of the turquoise waters. A sunrise hot air balloon ride over Aqaba provided us with breathtaking vistas of the city, mountains, and sea, a serene moment high above the bustling world below.

Red Sea Snorkeling in Aqaba: Underwater Wonders

No trip to Jordan would be complete without exploring the vibrant marine life of the Red Sea. Snorkeling in Aqaba's crystal-clear waters revealed a kaleidoscope of colorful fish and coral reefs. Even our youngest, at just 7 years old, marveled at the underwater wonders, making this experience truly unforgettable for our family.

Visit to the Dead Sea: Floating in Tranquility

Our final stop was the Dead Sea, where we indulged in the therapeutic waters renowned for their buoyancy and mineral-rich properties. Floating effortlessly while surrounded by Jordan's rugged landscapes was a serene and surreal experience, a perfect way to reflect on our incredible journey through this remarkable country.

Jordan, A Land of Wonders

As we wrapped up our journey through Jordan, we reflected on the countless adventures we shared as a family. From exploring ancient ruins, to snorkeling in vibrant seas, Jordan offered us a glimpse into a world of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking new experiences, Jordan has something to offer everyone. We left with hearts full of gratitude and memories to last a lifetime. Until next time, keep exploring!

Yours in adventure,
Emily Jackson

Some Useful Links

• Arabic Cuisine Courses
• Marriott Amman
• Petra Moon – Luxury Hotel
• Suncity Camp – Glamping in Wadi Rum
• Hyatt Regency Aqaba
• Dead Sea Resort and Spa

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1. TREK BENEATH THE RED SEA

Since no river opens into it, the Red Sea is renowned for its unrivalled visibility and world class diving. No PADI? No problem. Sea Trek is Aqaba’s quirky solution – an ethereal excursion along the seabed wearing astronaut-style helmets. Fresh air is pumped in from the surface; all you have to do is breathe deep, channel your inner Jacques Cousteau and enjoy the vibrant coral forests and marine life all around you.

Book it yourself: royaldivingclub.com  

2. GET YOUR BOND ON IN A GYROCOPTER

If you’re a James Bon fan, you’ll know exactly what a gyrocopter is: a pocket-sized aircraft with self-propelled rotors, which can fly lower and slower than regular helicopters. This makes them perfect for sightseeing – particularly over the ridiculously clear waters of the Red Sea. Jordan’s Royal Aero Sports Club recently started tourist flights over Aqaba in these “motorbikes of the sky” – sadly minus the hidden missiles and gadgetry of 007’s ‘Little Nelly’. 

Book it yourself: rascj.com/gyrocopters

3. ENJOY A HOLLYWOOD QUAD BIKE TOUR OF WADI RUM

Wadi Rum – an incredible sandscape of rolling dunes, oases and weathered escarpments – has become Hollywood’s go-to destination for filming other worlds. An easy 45-minute drive from downtown Aqaba, you can hire quad bikes and a guide from Atlantis Rum Camp, before heading out into this stellar desert wilderness to visit key sites from blockbusters including The Martian, Dune, Red Planet, Star Wars and Lawrence of Arabia.  

Book it yourself: atlantisrumcamp.com

4. DESERT CAMP WITH THE BEDOUIN

For centuries, Wadi Rum has been the home of the Bedouin – a welcoming nomadic people who now run comfortable camps out in the protected desert wilderness. One of the best is Sun City with its luxurious, Martian-style domes – and more traditional goat-hair tents available deeper in the dunes, for those who want the fully authentic experience.

Either way, don’t miss dinner in the main camp, where “zarb” is the undisputed highlight: Bedouin BBQ slow-roasted in underground pits; followed by fireside dancing.   

Book it yourself: suncitycamp.com

I hope you enjoyed this photo blog. I have many more adventures to read about. Subscribe here to get them all in your inbox each month. Please look up Adventure Cities which is broadcast on the Discovery Channel and Bally Sports.

If you liked this article, check out my friend Eric's article on his last trip to Australia: Australia’s Grampian Mountains and the Great Ocean Walk.

Jacket: Cotopaxi Men’s Fuego Hooded Down Jacket

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