Really excited about coming back to Jordan after almost 2 decades. I have been following it in the news and magazines. I am very excited to see the new eco tourism approach of Jordan’s young beautiful Queen Rania.
Jordan is trying very hard to become a stand-alone destination but it still has long way to go. It is still best to book it as an extension to Egypt or Israel. It is a great 5-night extension if planned right or in even with Syria. Syria is definitely more exotic to the western eye, read more about Syria in my next column.

First night we arrive after midnight and feel very safe on our 2.5 hours of detoured ride to the Ma’In Springs. Ma’In hot springs, an Evason Hotel a 4* with  bones of 3*. Although only 8 months old it needs much TLC, especially in the Spa area. Very nice staff, kind hard working and graceful. Area great for hiking and the therapeutic waters of the springs are great for any bone problems. The 3 hour hike to the Dead sea is just amazing.

In Amman the Roman Amphetheater is the must see along with the museum at the site includes some Dead Sea Scrolls in an extremely unpretentious setting. Four Seasons, Hyatt, Sheraton are the nicer hotels.
Landmark is a 4-star convention hotel. Larsa is a good 3 star. Stay away from Al Fanar.

Ancient city of Jerash is a must see and a nice days trip from Amman. Hadrian’s Arc complete Roman city with Oval Plaza, collonaded street, several midsize Amphitheater, Baths. However Jerash has lost its UNESCO world heritage site designation by using too many new stones during restoration. Three Castles to the east is a must see: one is the Qasr Amra with suggestive frescoes, bath house and reception room.

Azrak Lodge – Eco lodge about 30k from Saudi and 250K from Iraq – wetlands for bird watching- Azrak Castle was the Lawrence of Arabia headquarters during the war with the Turks.
Karak the Crusader castle is only another 20 miles and it does not disappoint although no competition to the Crac de Chevalier in Syria.

Now rushing down to Petra to experience it by night. More later….

For more on travel to the Middle East & Egypt

Ayse Boykin
ayse.b@travelstoreusa.com

Tags: Amman, Ayse Boykin, Jerash, Jordan, Middle East, Petra

This entry was posted on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 12:43 pm and is filed under Jordan, Middle East, Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.