Traveling has become an integral part of our life, but the standard routes have become quite boring - Egypt and Turkey cause only convulsive yawns, European streets seem the same, and everything else is too far away or expensive. I want something new, simple and original. So that you can lie like a seal on the beach, see the sights, and eat deliciously, and let the locals not be particularly intrusive.
photo Sandy beach in Aqaba (resort on the Red Sea)
Smart people will advise Jordan, and most of the townsfolk will cautiously say “no, thank you” and go on reading the news. But in vain. Those very smart people, if you listen to them carefully, will tell you that Jordan is the safest country in the region. An Arab country that is not influenced by radical sentiments does exist. Yes, friends, today is the day of discovery. In the Kingdom of Jordan, it turns out, everything is calm. While it is not clear what is going on in the world, Jordan manages to remain an oasis of peace. The local population is pleasant civilized people, fluent in English and breaking all stereotypes about Arab countries. They are polite, always ready to help, and they certainly will not grab your hands in the bazaars, hoping to shove you another bracelet. In general, they make the most positive impression. The flight is only four hours, and it's also nice to be with S7 Airlines and Royal Jordanian.
The discoveries do not end there. The country has at its disposal half of the Dead Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba (Red Sea). Beautiful beaches with soft sand, bright coral reefs, clear turquoise water. You look at the photographs, grab your head and think: "But where have you been before?" And they were always there, we just did not notice them. It's like a diamond against the background of simple glass - it seems completely nondescript, but you just need something to notice and appreciate. Do not exchange for those that are closer, brighter and cheaper, but choose wisely.
There are also many attractions here - what is Petra alone worth, which, by the way, was included in the list of the new seven wonders of the world. Just imagine - a whole ancient city, built entirely of stone, which has been preserved since the first century AD! And the entrance to it is a building carved into the rock. There are also canyons, gorges and archaeological sites. In a word, everything that the soul of connoisseurs of history and antiquities can only wish for.
In addition, Jordan is considered one of the most important places for believers from all over the world. After all, it is here that Mount Nebo is located, where Moses was buried. Thousands of pilgrims visit this holy place every year, strengthen their faith and discover something new for themselves.
The advantages of the Kingdom of Jordan do not end there. Standard jeep trips to the desert are complemented here with breakfast in the company of real Bedouins in order to fully immerse themselves in their life, explore the culture and local traditions. Active recreation in the country is highly respected and diligently cultivated. There are diving in the Red Sea among colorful reefs, horseback riding, and even paintball competitions for thrill-seekers.
By the way, water sports are well represented in Jordan. For example, in Aqaba, you can do not only diving and snorkeling, but also go fishing, go water skiing, and rent a yacht or boat to go to the open sea. Considering that Jordan is a Kingdom, entertainment here is also the most "royal", for example, golf. Amateurs and professionals, slightly frozen on the server of the Eurasian continent, can enjoy playing here among the picturesque green fields that appeared like a mirage in the middle of the desert!
Those who travel wisely know that for non-trivial shopping it is necessary to go to the capital of Jordan - Amman. Many shops of various levels and price categories in the most beautiful eastern city will surprise even the most inveterate shopaholics. It is noteworthy that there are fewer people in shopping centers here than in Dubai, which means less competition for exclusive items and brands that are presented in large numbers. There are also traditional oriental bazaars in Jordan, but they are Europeanized, that is, civilized and pleasant to visit. Although, of course, bargaining is still appropriate here.
And, of course, speaking of a reasonable approach to travel planning, one cannot fail to mention the Jordan Pass, which, like a golden key, opens all the main doors. By purchasing a Jordan Pass before the trip, a traveler will not only be able to visit the main attractions of the country with a discount of up to 40%, save their time without having to stand in long queues at the box office, but also get a Jordanian visa for free.
This is such a wonderland, this Jordan. A country with a rich cultural heritage, civilized population, distinctive traditions and world-class resorts. A country in which ancient biblical stories come to life right in front of admiring spectators. Wonderland, which opens only to the elite. Those who are not afraid to discard all prejudices, study the issue and go towards the unknown. For those who are smart about travel planning and are always ready to discover something new for themselves, and not reel in circles along the same beaten paths. No real traveler can consider himself as such if he has not been to Jordan.
The official website of the Jordanian Ministry of Tourism is www.visitjordan.com. You can choose Russian on the site.
