The surge in popularity of Middle East tourism cannot be overstated. From Egypt to Israel to Turkey to Dubai - by air or by ship - for history or to party & shop or for fun in the sun, the Middle East is hugely popular with western tourists today, and the top destination is....Jordan
Here are 6 great reasons why- courtesy of EZTravelpad contributing writer Marcela Dias
by Marcela Dias
Jordan is
home to amazing ancient manmade structures and beautiful natural landscapes.
Here are 6 places you shouldn't miss. Once you have decided on which ancient
Jordanian destinations to visit, book your hotel accommodation for
convenience. Jordan will for sure be a once in a lifetime experience.
Petra
Some may cast their minds back to "Indiana Jones and the Last
Crusade", in 1989, when Petra made a Hollywood debut. Imaginations will
need to be cast back thousands of years, however, to fully appreciate how old
this ancient city really is. This magnificent creation of the Nabataean people
was carved out of sheer rock, and unsurprisingly is Jordan's best tourist
attraction. The Treasury and Ad-Deir Monastery are beautiful examples, standing
intact as part of the rockface, from which they were intricately chiselled. A
striking stone gorge leads visitors into Petra. Those not on foot can explore the
temples and mausoleums by donkey, camel, or horse-drawn cart.
Amman
Amman, population 2 million, is the capital of Jordan, and also one of the
oldest cities still to be inhabited. Amman offers the luxuries of a modern
city, with enchanting evidence of the past, such as old temples, and an
archaeological museum housing a range of antiquities including an exhibit of
the Dead Sea Scrolls. Come in July to enjoy the annual Global Village festival,
a celebration of different countries' heritage.
Jerash
Modern day Jerash sits east of the carefully preserved ancient Jerash, with its
evidence of people that have lived in the region for an estimated 6,500 years.
Having been conquered by the Romans around two millenia ago, the proof of their
influence is unmistakable, from this old town resurrected and restored from
beneath the sand over the last 70 years. The re-assembled Hippodrome brings
this influence to life, by way of re-enacted chariot races and battles
featuring armour wearing legionnaires of a would be Roman Army.
Wadi Rum
While Amman and Jerash showcase amazing structures created by man, Wadi Rum
shows off nature's exploits. Imposing red rock structures, created by the wind,
sit amongst a sweeping desert. A modern off road vehicle can be hired to
explore the area, or a more traditional camel can be arranged. Meet the nomadic Bedouin peoples
of this region, and enjoy the majesty of this area, as depicted in
"Lawrence of Arabia".
The Dead Sea
Have you ever wanted to calmly float, while taking a dip in the sea? The Dead
Sea's mineral rich properties allows you to do just that. Others use the Dead
Sea's mud, seeking regenerative benefits. A long list of visitors desiring
health benefits have visited over the ages, including King Herod and Queen
Cleopatra. At 400m below sea level, the Dead Sea is also the lowest place on
earth.
Aqaba
The gorgeous coral and marine life of Jordan's Red Sea beckon at Aqaba. One can
swim with turtles and dolphins, or take advantage of the many local dive
operators' services and plumb the depths with colourful fish. Glass bottom boat
cruises and local sandy beaches are other options. Israel, Egypt and Saudi
Arabia are all within close proximity to Aqaba.
