Some of us are programmed to explore, others are programmed to dream. Regardless of which category you fall into, there is a whole world out there just waiting to be discovered.
Her.ie’s new weekly travel guide brings you to some of the most inspiring places in the world and dares you to turn those dreams into an adventure of a lifetime.
As the saying goes, ‘home is where your passport is’ – so where will your passport end up next?
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Famous for world-renowned landmark Petra, Jordan is a country that is full of surprises.
It invites you to explore, entices you to stay and above all, transports you back through a land that time forgot.
The Dead Sea
Also known as the Salt Sea, the Dead Sea is one of the most famous stop off points for tourists to the country. Take your time floating in the famous water that is located at 1,407 feet below sea level – Earth’s lowest elevation on land.
Handy hint: Cover yourself in the world-famous mud and bag a carton of it before you leave the region for fabulous-looking skin.
Amman
The sprawling city of Amman is the capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Take a tour of the vibrant city and make sure to take a stop at the 6,000-seat Roman Theatre. With delicious food and great nightlife, Amman intertwines old and new in a delectable mix.
Handy hint: For more history and culture, take a trip to the three popular museums, the Jordan Archaeological Museum, the Folklore Museum and the Museum of Popular Traditions.
Madaba
Take the 5,000-year-old Kings Highway south out of Amman to the City of Mosaics or Madaba. The city is famous for its stunning mosaics and is home to the famous 6th century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land.
Handy hint: Stop for lunch in one of the beautiful local cafés and take your time strolling through the streets to hundreds of stunning mosaics.
Petra
Perhaps the country’s most famous landmark, Petra is a historical and archaeological city in the south of the country. Also known as the Rose City due to the stone from which it is carved, it is the most-visited attraction in the country.
Handy hint: Wear strong walking shoes and bring a packed lunch. Once you go to Petra you won’t want to leave too quickly.
Jerash
The ancient city of Jerash is believed to be one of the best-preserved Roman towns in the world. It was hidden under sand for centuries before being carefully restored over the last 70 years.
Handy hint: The city is an exotic blend of east and west and is a must-stop for tourists. Again, good walking shoes and plenty of water are required.
Mount Nebo
Visit the famous mountain top where Moses is said to have first seen the Promised Land. A place for pilgrimage over the centuries, the view from the top across the Dead Sea and into the distant hills of Jerusalem is a must see.
Handy hint: Sit back and take in the sights. It’s not every day that you have the opportunity to visit a place steeped in religious and historical importance.
Wadi Rum
Disappear into the magnificent desert and escape on an adventure that you will never forget. Take a trip into the heart of the desert and see stunning Jordan in all of its natural glory.
Handy hints: If you have the money, a hot air balloon trip is well worth the cash.
Aqaba
Take time to relax and unwind in Aqaba after a hectic few days’ travelling. Take in some incredible watersports in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea and book in for some relaxation in one of the many fantastic spas in the area.
Handy hint: Still need more? Take a hike through the purple mountains that surround the city.
Insider’s tip: Jordan is well-known for its gorgeous craftsmanship, so be sure to pick up some beautifully made crafts from sand bottles to intricately-woven rugs, to utensils and jewellery.
