Country Information:
The capital of Jordan is Amman. About 8 million people live here, and the official language is Arabic. Most inhabitants are Muslim, with about 92 percent Sunni and 1 percent Shia or Sufi Muslims. Interestingly, the southern cities in Jordan has the most religious persons, whereas a small percentage of Christians live in the capital. The time zone is 7 hours ahead of EST.
Jordan is known for the incredible ancient city of Petra located there, also known as “the Rose City.” It is famous for its stunning architecture carved into a tall rock face, and is considered one of the seven wonders of the world. Some of the final shots in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade were filmed there!
Another amazing site to visit in Jordan is the Dead Sea, a buoyant body of water 9.6 times saltier than the ocean!
Jim’s Perspectives:
Jordan is what my father called “miles and miles of nothing but miles and miles.” It resembles a beige-ish lunar landscape. It gets just enough rain that Bedouins graze their sheep on sparse greenery.
This country has no oil and relies on its phosphate mines to fund the treasury.
This is a stable country with a very strong military, buying weapons from the U.S. and trains with the U.S. military. This Sunni country is vehemently anti-Iran, and is much more culturally traditional than Lebanon.
Visiting the lost city of Petra – named as one of the new 7 Wonders of the World – was the highlight of going to Jordan. Archaeological experts contend that Petra was first occupied more than 9000 years ago. This area was a major trading and refueling stop on the ancient trade routes. The houses and shops carved into the red-rose sandstone rock were unforgettable, and taking a donkey to the top of the monastery is highly recommended. While sitting in the king’s home, with no one around, I had an epiphany: Wealth and power are so fleeting, but love endures. No one even remembers the name of the king, so why even bother?! Living by loving completely is the only thing that matters or counts. Solomon would’ve been so proud : ^ )
The Marriott in Petra is AMAZING!
