IN A DESERT LAND

Jordan is all about diversity. My first visit was almost 15 years ago, but each time I return I’m still amazed at just how colourful and vibrant this so-called desert land is.

When I’m away, the warmest memories I have are of the people. Everywhere you go, you’re greeted with ‘Welcome to Jordan!’ from kids and adults alike. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been invited to take tea with strangers, ordinary folk who are just interested in passing the time of day. There are so many pictures I could paint of Jordan. Pictures in sound, for instance: everywhere you go you hear the Muslim call to prayer, but you often hear a more familiar sound too: the pealing of church bells. Jordan is a tolerant and democratic land, where freedom of religious expression is guaranteed. Or pictures in nature: Jordan is much more than desert, also encompassing the lush, green hills of the north, rich with olive groves, and the golden beaches and warm waters of the Red Sea in the south. So much is packed into this little country, from the dynamic, modern capital Amman to the Roman splendour of Jerash and the natural wonder of the Dead Sea, lowest point on earth. But, of all the possibilities, these would be my Jordan Top 3.

 

1. Petra

One of the world’s most compelling destinations – a 2000-year-old city hidden away in southern Jordan’s Shara mountains. Petra was capital of the Nabateans, an Arabian tribe who traded with, and were taken over by, the Romans. Its crumbling grandeur and dramatic setting have pushed it into the realms of legend.

 

2. Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is a unique desert environment, shaped by parallel ridges of granite, basalt and sandstone mountains which rise 800m (2500ft) sheer from the desert floor. The views along these great avenues of rock are stupendous; a jeep ride through the sands followed by a night under a million stars is unforgettable.

 

3. Dana

This is my personal favourite – Jordan’s (and the Middle East’s) leading nature reserve. The tiny village of Dana perches above the tranquil Dana Valley, oriented due west. Jordan takes environmental protection seriously: there is a campsite, some great walking and just one little guesthouse. Pawn all your worldly possessions for the chance to view the sunset from their balcony.

 

Ma tthew Teller is author of the Rough Guide to Jordan (£13.99).