TO THE EIGHTH WONDER

Jordan can be considered a country with a plethora of attractions. In addition to its impressive natural scenery, Jordan boasts a wealth of historical edifices that have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Conversely, a significant proportion of tourists have expressed discontent with the standard of service provided in the country, which they have deemed to be below the expected level. However, following the observation of the country's impressive natural and historical landmarks, the experience of warm hospitality and the acquisition of unforgettable memories serve to diminish the significance of these minor inconveniences.

Martian camels in Wadi Rum

For those residing in Aqaba, the most proximate destination is the Wadi Rum desert, also known as Wadi Rum.

Wadi Rum is situated 66 kilometres to the north of the coastal city of Aqaba. The site is situated at a distance of less than an hour by car from the Red Sea coast, 1.5 hours from Petra, and 3.5 hours from the capital, Amman. A variety of organised activities are available, including jeep safaris, camel tours and balloon flights.

The following description of the desert is taken from various tourist websites: Wadi Rum provides an opportunity to experience a landscape that is seemingly otherworldly, without the necessity of travelling to a distant planet. It is a location that is detached from the passage of time and seemingly detached from the physical universe. The geological formations of Moon Valley and Mars are representative of the overall landscape of Wadi Rum. It is regarded as one of the most remarkable locations on Earth. It is for this reason that a number of well-known films, including The Martian, Star Wars, Aladdin, Dune, and Lawrence of Arabia, were filmed in this location.

The Wadi Rum Protected Area encompasses a surface area of over 740 square kilometres, situated within the Hisma Desert in the southern region of Jordan. It is a complex ecosystem of exceptional beauty, characterised by a unique combination of rocks of the most bizarre shapes and shades, as well as a plethora of archaeological sites, including thousands of petroglyphs and inscriptions. The petroglyphs, inscriptions and archaeological finds of Wadi Rum provide evidence of human activity over a period of 12,000 years and illustrate the interaction between humans and the environment.

Additionally, Wadi Rum is frequently designated as the Moon Valley, a sobriquet initially proposed by American astronaut James Irwin. Following his journey to the Moon and subsequent observation of Wadi Rum, James told the late King Hussein of Jordan: "This place is the most like anything on Earth that I have seen when I have been to the Moon."

One might inquire as to the cost of the inquiry itself. The cost of tourist services in Jordan is relatively high. Furthermore, the government of the country has maintained the local currency rate at a fixed value for an extended period. One dinar is equivalent to $1.41, a value that is higher than that of the pound sterling. This contributes to the high cost of tour packages and other services. To illustrate, the minimum price for a one-hour round trip from Aqaba to Wadi Rum by the most economical taxi is 50 dinars. Furthermore, an additional sum should be allocated for the time spent waiting for a taxi driver, given the difficulty in locating one in the desert, particularly in the evening. Furthermore, a minimum of 30-40 dinars is required for a jeep excursion in the desert. A "Bedouin dinner" is estimated to cost approximately 15 dinars per person. The food (resembling Azerbaijani doshamya plov) is prepared according to traditional recipes over a period of at least three hours, with the ingredients buried in the sand.

It is worth noting that these prices are considered reasonable, and travellers are often able to negotiate lower rates through their acquaintances. It is notable that travel agencies in Aqaba now operate exclusively in the private tour sector, with no longer offering mass, pre-packaged trips. All pricing is based on individual quotations. To illustrate, a six-hour tour of Wadi Rum will cost 180 dinars per person.

A fee of 7 dinars is levied for admission to Wadi Rum. The Jordan Pass, which combines the cost of a visa with admission to over 40 tourist sites, is provided free of charge. However, prior to embarking on the excursion, it is necessary to traverse a short distance to the designated tourist hub situated within the desert expanse. At this location, a stamp will be provided, which will serve to activate the Jordan Pass.

Prior to embarking on an excursion to Wadi Rum, it is recommended to make a brief halt at the steam train, which serves as a prominent landmark within the Al Hijaz region. It is possible to board the original train, which runs on a small section of the Hijaz Railway, for the sum of 30 dinars. The railway was originally constructed by the Ottoman Empire in the early 20th century with the purpose of facilitating pilgrimages to Mecca. Tour guides assert that visitors to the region may also perceive themselves as participants in a cinematic narrative pertaining to the Arab Uprising of 1917.

During the tour of the desert, visitors have the opportunity to visit Bedouin tent shops, where they can partake in tea infused with spices, purchase local souvenirs, and explore the array of perfumes available for purchase. It is worth noting that even the most modest souvenir or trinket will typically cost at least 5-10 dinars. They will assure you that they have offered a significant reduction in price due to their admiration for your country of origin. Furthermore, it would be prudent to be aware that discrepancies may arise in the provision of change and in the processing of payments.

Those with an affinity for the natural world may choose to spend a night or several days in Wadi Rum in one of the tented camps. A variety of accommodation options are available, ranging from basic campsites to luxury lodges and pods, with prices varying from $11 to $300-$350. It is advisable to exercise caution during walks, as there is a risk of encountering snakes and black scorpions, which are typical inhabitants of desert environments. However, as the Bedouin population attests, the risk is relatively low. These creatures, which are typically regarded as dangerous in desert environments, tend to avoid human contact.

No way you can drown here

The Dead Sea covering an area of 67 by 18 kilometres is regarded as one of the most distinctive locations on Earth. The western portion of the Dead Sea is within the borders of Israel and Palestine, while the eastern portion is within the borders of Jordan. The border between the countries bisects the lake almost exactly in half. The Dead Sea is comparable to the Caspian Sea in that it is a substantial inland lake, receiving its water from the Jordan River.

The Dead Sea derives its distinctive designation from the elevated mineral content of its aqueous composition. The Dead Sea is devoid of fish, plants, and large living organisms, with the exception of bacteria. The atmosphere is devoid of allergens, yet the presence of bromine lends a soothing and tranquil quality to the environment. Additionally, the concentration of oxygen is 10-11% higher than in any other location on Earth. The Dead Sea is estimated to contain approximately 50 billion tonnes of natural minerals, comprising 21 distinct types. Furthermore, the concentration of these minerals is exceptionally high, ranging from 280 to 420 grams of salt per litre of water. As a consequence, drowning is not a risk at the Dead Sea, due to the extremely high concentration of salts in the water. The human body is simply "thrown" out of the water like a float.

In addition to the treatment of various dermatological conditions, chronic fatigue syndrome, sleep disorders, and neuropsychiatric disorders can be effectively addressed at this location. Experts have indicated that a minimum of 14 days is required for the Dead Sea to exert its therapeutic effects, although 21 days is considered optimal. It should be noted that bathing in this water is permitted a maximum of two or three times a day, with a duration of no more than 20 minutes. It is recommended that bathers enter the water with their backs and adopt a slow, deliberate approach to diving, assuming a prone position on their backs. The high concentration of minerals in the water renders drowning impossible. It has become a common practice among tourists at the Dead Sea to take photographs while lying on the water's surface and reading a newspaper.

Concurrently, the Dead Sea is the sole location on Earth where prolonged sunbathing is possible without adverse effects, due to the additional atmospheric layer, which mitigates the detrimental impact of ultraviolet radiation. The sea's depth of 436 metres below the global ocean level contributes to this phenomenon. However, it is imperative to take a shower after each immersion in the water, as failure to do so may result in adverse effects on the skin, including redness.

The most expedient route to the shores of the Dead Sea is from Amman, a distance of 65 kilometres. From the resort of Aqaba, which is a popular destination for tourists, the journey to the Dead Sea takes approximately 200 kilometres and approximately three hours. As previously stated, travel agencies in Aqaba are primarily engaged in the provision of bespoke, premium tours (either one-day or multi-day) for guests wishing to explore the country's tourist attractions. Accordingly, the cost of a one-day tour to the Dead Sea for a group of three tourists can range from 300 to 350 dinars, inclusive of transportation, an escort, a repast, and an excursion to the beach. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the cost of a taxi journey to the Dead Sea area is likely to exceed $180 per vehicle. Additionally, visitors are required to pay an entrance fee to access the beaches, which costs between 15 and 20 dinars, as well as for food and other items. Additionally, there are free bathing locations along the coastline, though these are typically devoid of the requisite facilities.

The route from Aqaba to the Dead Sea is regarded as the most developed in Jordan. The route traverses the Arava Desert, crossing the dunes, and passes by date and banana plantations in the Jordan Valley. Along the route, one may observe Bedouin settlements characterised by a degree of urbanisation, with residents residing in relatively modern, single-storey dwellings that deviate from the traditional nomadic huts. The Bedouin population engages in a variety of economic activities, including livestock rearing, which encompasses camels, sheep, and other domestic animals, as well as agricultural production. The produce can be purchased directly from the producers at the roadside. Depending on the season, one may purchase dates, tomatoes, bananas, and potatoes at a relatively low cost. Consequently, the price of 10 kg of tomatoes is 1.5 dinars (₼3.6), which is relatively inexpensive when compared to the prices observed in Jordan and globally. Camels, however, are a relatively expensive commodity. The average price of an adult animal is approximately 4,000 dinars. It should be noted that camel milk and meat are also sold at a higher price. The cost of a litre of milk is 5 dinars, while a kilogram of meat is priced at 7 dinars.

The region of the Dead Sea is most in demand from the end of September to May. During the summer months, the region also experiences a surge in demand for treatment, although the temperature of the air can exceed 50 degrees Celsius, which results in a notable reduction in hotel prices. The area of the Dead Sea is considerable, and it is in fact divided between Israel and Jordan. There are numerous high-end resort hotels that offer spa treatments with Dead Sea-related gifts. Concurrently, the mean cost of a beach hotel room for two individuals with breakfast, contingent on the season, is approximately $220. However, it is possible to find accommodations for as low as $120-$140.

The high concentration of microelements, salts and muds found in the Dead Sea has led to their application in a number of fields, including cosmetology, the treatment of skin diseases, joint conditions, balneology, the production of medicines and dietary supplements.

A plethora of souvenir and cosmetic shops can be found along the road and in the resort area. The goods are offered at considerably higher prices to tourists arriving by bus or car. Consequently, soap is available for 5 dinars, creams and lotions for 35-90 dinars, and ordinary Chinese magnets for 5 dinars. It would be advisable to avoid such establishments and to conduct research into the prices before making a purchase. This is particularly important if the goods in question are strongly recommended by guides, who may receive a percentage of the sale.

By the way, there are several notable tourist attractions in the vicinity of the Dead Sea. Primarily, it is the site of Jesus Christ's baptism in the Jordan River, regarded as the third holiest place in Christianity. Subsequently, one encounters Hammamat Ma'in, a location endowed with natural thermal springs that have a history intertwined with the Bible. Additionally, one may visit the memorial of the Prophet Moses (Mount Nebo) and the site of the beheading of St. John the Baptist (Mount Mkawir). In the vicinity are the Museum of the Lowest Place on Earth, situated at an altitude of -298 metres below sea level, and Jordan's most celebrated canyon, Wadi el Mujib.

A True Miracle

Petra is a remarkable and enduring example of human ingenuity and architectural achievement. It is a site of immense cultural and historical significance, attracting visitors from across the globe. Petra is known as the "lost city" due to its location within a rocky formation. The city's unique geological composition allows it to display a remarkable chromatic transformation throughout the day, ranging from a soft pink to a deep burgundy hue. The city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. In 2007, at the Lisbon Tourism Summit, Petra was designated as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It is now frequently designated as the eighth wonder of the world.

Within the confines of Petra, one may observe the intricate carvings of Nabataean tombs, hewn into the rock slopes. The city's streets bear witness to the Roman Empire's influence, with architectural vestiges such as temples, a colonnaded street, a theatre, and a nymphaeum. Furthermore, the city of Petra has also preserved the Byzantine heritage, as evidenced by the presence of a church with mosaic floors. At one time, it served as a significant caravan hub along trade routes, facilitating the exchange of goods such as incense from Arabia, silk from China, and spices from India. It served as a crossroads between Arabia, Egypt and Syria-Phoenicia. Following the filming of Hollywood blockbusters such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and The Mummy Returns, Petra has become a popular tourist destination.

It is a common misconception that the landmark known as El Khazneh (The Treasury) is Petra itself. However, this is not the case. Petra is a vast metropolis, encompassing an area of 264 square kilometres, which is equivalent to approximately 50,000 football pitches. A leisurely pace allows for the completion of the journey to El Khazneh in approximately one hour. Conversely, the tour of the lost city may require two days. For this reason, the organisers sell tickets to Petra at a price of 50 dinars for one day and 55 dinars for two days, with the option of purchasing tickets for longer periods. Those in possession of a Jordan Pass will be granted free admission to this state reserve. To obtain a complimentary ticket and map of noteworthy locations, visitors are required to present their activated tourist cards at the ticket office situated at the entrance. The guide is available in several languages and provides information on approximately fifteen attractions, including brief descriptions, a list of rules and services, locations of Wi-Fi access points, ATMs, cafés, and other pertinent details.

The journey from the capital of Jordan to Petra takes approximately three and a half hours, while the drive from Aqaba, which is located approximately 150 km away, takes between one and a half to two hours.

Similarly, Petra is situated in the northern region of Jordan, where temperatures may decline during the winter season. The route to Petra traverses a mountainous region characterised by a winding course and elevations reaching 1,500 metres. This topography bears resemblance to the Aghsu pass in Azerbaijan. It is imperative that vehicles reduce their speed in this area, particularly when visibility is impaired by fog. While the summer season in Petra is characterised by relatively mild temperatures, reaching a maximum of 35 degrees Celsius, the winter months are characterised by significantly cooler conditions. It is therefore advisable to pack appropriate warm clothing.

At the entrance to the reserve, one may encounter numerous souvenir shops and small cafés, the prices of which are notably elevated. It is advisable to engage in bargaining, as the price may be reduced significantly, even by a factor of three. It is also advisable to greet the vendor with a polite salutation, such as "Salam alaikum," and to indicate that you are from a Muslim country. This can have a significant impact on the final price for a particular service.

Upon entering the reserve, visitors are provided with a guide and transportation to their desired destination, which may be by electric car or horseback. The proprietors of the equine services proffer prospective patrons the enticement of gratuity-inclusive pricing, citing the absence of additional fees. Nevertheless, upon arrival at the destination, a considerable gratuity will be requested. It would be prudent to exercise caution.

Upon departure from the reserve, visitors have the option of visiting a modest, free state museum that offers insight into the history of Petra. In general, there are more than 40 noteworthy tourist attractions in Jordan, which may require several weeks to adequately explore. It is therefore possible to plan a holiday to Jordan over a longer period of time. We wish you a pleasant journey.