A week in Jordan

What to see:

Amman - The Citadel- artifacts from the Bronze and Iron Ages as well as Roman, Byzantine & Umayyad periods. And the views from the top over the city are magnificent.

Jerash- Impressive ruins of a Roman provincial city. About 5okm north of Amman

Petra - of course! This is what you came to see. And it is well worth the visit. It’s about a half hour walk through the Siq to the Treasury. But, wait, there’s more? So much more in fact. Make sure you’re wearing comfortable walking shoes. Visit the Monastery, which was built in the 3rd century BCE as a Nabataean tomb; the Royal Tombs, carved into the rocks; the High Place of Sacrifice - by foot or donkey. That’s probably enough for one day, but if you’ve got more time there’s loads more to explore.

What to do:

A cooking class in Amman at Beit Sitti’s - learning to cook a Jordanian feast!

Swimming in the Dead Sea and covering yourself in mud. Your skin will feel soft & silky, and its a weird sensation floating in the very salty sea. Just make sure you don’t dip your head in.

A camel or jeep ride at Wadi Rum

What to eat:

Hashem restaurant, Amman -legendary falafel that has been trading for over 50 years. A cheap and satisfying lunch.

Sufra, Rainbow St - A delicious selection of all Jordan’s best dishes. Come hungry!

Hot drink vendors in Amman - selling hot chocolate, coffee and teas of all varieties - Sahlab ( with nuts and cinnamon), mint, chai & zaatar.

Alcohol - Not found easily as it is a Muslim country. If you need a beer or wine your best bet is a large hotel - but you will pay a hefty price.

Kunafeh - a dessert made with shredded dough and cream cheese and slathered in syrup.

Makloubeh -a slow cooked dish of rice, lamb and vegetables, cooked in a pot then turned upside down to serve.