Jordan

Ancient archaeological sites, shifting desert sands, and rich Arabian culture makes Jordan a fascinating destination. There’s much to explore here, including world-famous monuments and natural attractions such as the Dead Sea.

Capital Amman is a fusion of old and new, where modern buildings rub shoulders with ancient ruins. Jabal al-Qala’a hill contains historic sights such as the 8th-century Umayyad Palace complex and imposing pillars from the Roman Temple of Hercules. A 2nd-century Roman amphitheatre still hosts occasional events. Explore the country’s history at the outstanding Jordan Museum, whose artefacts include parts of the Dead Sea Scrolls and the country’s oldest-known human statues. Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts showcases a carefully-curated collection of contemporary Middle Eastern art. Other must-see destinations include the ancient, rock-carved city of Petra, which dates back to around 300 BC and is nicknamed the “Rose City” for its pink sandstone walls. The wild, vast deserts of Wadi Rum are also worth a visit, where caravans of camels flock around Lawrence’s Spring. The intensely blue waters of the Dead Sea are said to have many healing properties, and its high salt concentration provides natural buoyancy to easily keep you afloat.