Petra - One of My Top 5 of All Time

Our tour specialist Cindi Zdance visited Jordan a couple of years ago and shares some of her thoughts:

Thanks to my career in travel, I've had the opportunity to visit many amazing destinations. I would have to put Petra in my Top 5 Greatest Visits.

Our full-day visit was amazing. The tour began with a short, but exhilarating horse ride to the beginning of the Siq. My horse boy felt the need to run with my horse rather than trot slowly (which he politely asked for my approval when I mounted the animal).

Standing at the mouth of the Siq, a seemingly hundred foot tall narrow valley of colorful rock which leads you to the entrance of this Lost City, you suddenly realize the importance of the site. Treasures are found in the rock along the way which offers insight on how the ancient Nabataeans lived, with a water channel which brought water into heart of Petra, to games which children played.

After the 30 minute walk or so through the Siq, you arrive at the Ancient Treasury which towers a few stories high. The monument was restored in the 1960s to strengthen and preserve it’s appearance.

We continued through the city passing remnants of a city from years ago, including more games carved in rock, temples and tombs. Up until the 1980s, many Bedouin families lived in these tombs, or caves, of Petra, but were moved to the houses built by the government at Umm Sayhoon. We were fortunate to meet Marguerite van Geldermalsen, author of the book "Married to a Bedouin". Ms. van Geldermalsen is still in Petra and sells jewellery handmade by local women and autographed copies of her book.

After a tasty lunch at a small restaurant located near the end of city, we burned off our meal with a hike up the 800+ natural stone "steps" to the Dier (or monastery). While it may sound daunting, I highly recommend pushing yourself to make the climb (donkeys are available to be hired as well). Not only is the Dier an impressive site, being the largest monument in Petra, but the awe-inspiring view of the valley below quickly makes you forget the climb. An amazing end to and unforgettable day (of course, there’s only one way in, therefore one way out of Petra, so you get to re-live the adventure as you follow your steps back toward the entrance - be sure to wear comfortable shoes) !

We spent the night at nearby Tybet Zaman Village, a very unique property, located just a few minute’s drive from the ancient site. Once an old Jordanian village, it was deserted by the living community during the 1960's. After much debate, the government decided to build a tourist hideaway to keep the community and culture intact for visitors to enjoy. The Village is now locally owned and managed. Maintaining an authentic feel, the bedouin-style rooms are each uniquely appointed and made of natural materials and stone. I loved the stay here and felt transported back to the late 19th century of rural Jordan, while still enjoying all the modern amenities of today.

Pictures just cannot do Petra justice! Hands down, I would say Petra will forever stay within my top 5 favorite sites in the world!