SENSATIONAL SARDINIA

A deeper dive into the Mediterranean masterpiece

This month, we’re handing the lens of our regional travel focus over to an industry expert: Matt Vlemmiks, Leisure Manager at dnata Travel, who’s taking us on a ‘Journey across the unforgettable wonders of Jordan,’ only a three-hour flight time from the UAE. Our suggested week-long itinerary starts in the capital city, where modern luxuries sit alongside fascinating historic sites. Travel on to time-defying Petra, one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’, before staying amidst two of the Middle East’s most incredible natural landscapes – the Wadi Rum desert, and Dead Sea coast.

Day 1-2: Amman Visits to Jordan typically start in Amman, for a glimpse into local life and culture amidst its central hub. On a walking tour with a local guide, take in the best of the city from the streets of old downtown to marketplaces full of treasures, top historic landmarks, and its most famous restaurants. Take a day trip to the ancient city of Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Recommend hotels include the 5-star Landmark Amman, where rooms and suites are amongst the largest in Jordan, with panoramic city views. Its multiple restaurants and lounges also include the city’s longest outdoor bar.

Day 2-4: Petra No trip to Jordan would be complete without taking in the spectacular ‘lost city’ of Petra. Built in the third century BC by the Nabataeans, the intricate hand-carved temples, palaces and other important structures are hewn straight out of the red desert sandstone. We recommend taking at least two days to experience its natural beauty and architectural achievements. For a unique experience, every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday ‘Petra by Night’ sees thousands of candles light up the city, whilst ‘Petra Kitchen’ cooking classes offer an authentic, social affair. Stay at Hayat Zaman Hotel, close to the site. Here, modern facilities are styled within an authentic late 19th-century Jordanian village.

Day 4-5: Wadi Rum Undoubtedly one of the most incredible natural wonders of the Middle East, experience ‘Mars on Earth’ amidst the red sands of the Wadi Rum desert. Located in the south on the eastern fringes of Aqaba, explore its famous valley lined by epic limestone formations, on to boundless empty spaces, canyons, water holes, and other natural treasures, with the chance to spot millennia-old rock drawings. A two-hour Jeep tour allows a trip to the most iconic spots in a day. For clear, uninterrupted views of the night sky, stay in a ‘bubble tent’ at Jabal Rum Camp with endless opportunities for stargazing.

Day 5-7: Dead Sea Also known as the world’s largest natural spa and the lowest body of water on Earth, Jordan’s Dead Sea coast is another of the country’s most spectacular natural landscapes. Its main attraction is the water itself, uniquely mineral-rich and high in salt content, allowing visitors to float peacefully as they soak up its regenerative qualities. At the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa, enjoy direct access to its stretch of private Dead Sea beachfront, whilst taking advantage a range of amenities from spa treatments to a rooftop bar overlooking the shore.

LOOKING TO TRAVEL FOR LONGER?

One of the benefits of booking through an agent, is that itineraries can be tailor-made to meet the individual needs of travellers. For those looking to explore more of Jordan, other places of interest include Aqaba on its glorious Red Sea coast – a divers’ paradise, and for keen hikers, see the beautiful Dana Biosphere Reserve. Another option is to combine a trip with more of the Middle East. dnata Travel’s ‘Discover Jordan’ holiday package takes in highlight stops and accommodation featured in this article, private transfers, a local guide, and more. For further advice and inspiration, or to create your ideal itinerary, contact the dnata Travel experts via call or WhatsApp on 800 DNATA (36282), on social media @dnatatravel, or visit a dnata Travel retail outlet, with stores located across the UAE. dnatatravel.com.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).

2023-09-17T14:34:19Z dg43tfdfdgfd