This was was an amazing opportunity to experience such a historic landscape and a privilege to meet such friendly Jordanains with a fantastic sense of humour.
- What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Petra exceeded my expectations. I was so pleased that we were able to spend two full days there to marvel at the history and explore the challenging landscape. The site is much bigger than I had realised and you cetainly need sturdy footwear and a lot of energy to get the most from it, but there were suprises round every corner and views to die for!
The night in the desert will also stay with me, sleeping out under the stars next to the firepit after a truly amazing meal. Don't forget to take a torch!
- What did you think of your group leader?
- Khaled was very well-informed about all aspects of his country and answered all our questions with patience and humour. His ability to organise us all without it becoming overbearing, meant that everything ran smoothly and we learned so much.
- Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
You will be in the sun all day at Petra, so don't forget to wear something very light, possibly with sleeves to protect you. Some necks got very burnt but those who had bought the light white scarves kept cooler and were protected. Whatever you wear, it will be a deep shade of Petra-pink by the end of the day, including your shoes!
There seemed to be plenty of sleeping bags and blankets available to borrow at the desert camp, so perhaps a sleeping bag liner would be sufficient to take and cut down on that luggage.
For the female travellers, don't take too many changes of clothing for the evening - clean pair of jeans and three or four prettier tops will be plenty. You might need a wrap from time to time but there are plenty of these to buy everywhere.
- Is there anything else you would like to add?
Jordan is situated in a troubled part of the world but we felt safe at all times. Our tourist policeman who had to travel with us at all times was funny and friendly and very useful when getting us through the heavier traffic and helping us over rougher terrain.
I will carry the images of the arid landscape with me for a very long time - the rock formations, the desert, the camels, the enormous views and the closeness to all those biblical places we learned about in our childhood.