In December 2023, Deana, a Travel Club Elite’s Senior Consultant, visited Jordan, one of her ‘bucket list’ destinations, with Cox & Kings. This 7-day trip, meticulously crafted by Cox & Kings, offered her the perfect blend of history, culture, & relaxation, all accompanied by one of Cox & King’s dedicated local tour managers. From the bustling streets of Amman to the mystical landscapes of Petra & Wadi Rum, each day gave her the chance to discover more about this fascinating destination. This is her review:
Day 1
Departing from London Heathrow, after just a 5-hour flight with Royal Jordanian, we arrived in Amman. Upon arrival, we were welcomed by Cox & King’s representative. We then transferred to the Intercontinental Amman, a modern hotel in a prime location & with a range of amenities, which made it the perfect place to relax before the first full day of the tour.
Day 2
After being joined by our tour manager & guides, my first day exploring began with a visit to Jerash, the Greco-Roman city known as the “Pompeii of the East.” Here, we got the chance to explore well-preserved ruins, including temples, theatres, & markets that tell the tale of this ancient city’s grandeur. We then headed to the Reem El-Bawadi restaurant for a delicious mezze lunch, sampling the local cuisine, including hummus, moutabel & baba ganoush.
In the afternoon, we returned to the city to visit the ancient ruins of the temple of Hercules dating back 180AD, the fascinating national archaeological museum & the South Theatre, the jewel in the crown of this ancient city. In almost its original condition, it is simply vast. In the evening, we enjoyed an excellent dinner at the hotel.
Day 3:
Today, we drove along the Ancient Kings Highway toward Petra, getting the chance to stop at Mount Nebo, including the memorial site of where Moses saw the Holy Land. We also visited the site of Madaba, seeing St George’s church, home to a world-famous mosaic depicting the region. After a stop for lunch, we continued to Shobak, where the crusaders built a fortress in the 1200s.
We arrived in Petra just in time to take in the glorious view of the sun setting over the mountains & checked into the Movenpick Resort Petra. This hotel is a luxurious retreat close to the legendary site of Petra. With its lavish rooms & multiple dining options, the resort is a perfect retreat for a comfortable & indulgent stay.
Day 4
Today was dedicated to the iconic city of Petra. Accompanied by the Cox & Kings’ guide, I got the chance to walk along the Siq, the main entrance to this ancient Nabatean city leading to the famous Treasury & beyond. This provides an incredible glimpse of the Nabataean civilization which called this region home.
After lunch at the Basin restaurant & a moment to recharge, we also visited the Monastery & the High Place of Sacrifice. The day ended with dinner at the Movenpick Petra.
Day 5
Today, we headed south, stopping at Little Petra & the mesmerizing desert landscape of Wadi Rum. A 4×4 excursion through this awe-inspiring valley, famously featured in “Lawrence of Arabia,” & lunch under a Bedouin tent, provided a unique & adventurous experience.
Finally, we arrived at the iconic Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth, renowned throughout biblical & middle eastern history. Healing mineral waters, oases teeming with rare animals & world-class historical sites beckoned. We checked into The Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea with great anticipation.
Day 6
A day at leisure gave the chance to unwind & enjoy the wonders of the Dead Sea.
The day ended with a farewell dinner, giving me the chance to reflect on all the wonderful sights I was lucky enough to see.
Day 7
After the most exciting & memorable few days exploring Jordan, we said goodbye to the Dead Sea & drove to Amman for our flight home.
If you want to see this incredible country, please do not hesitate to contact us about this tour. We can also help you create a tailormade trip to Jordan or add extensions.
For more information about Cox & Kings’ Splendours of Jordan tour or to book with Extra Savings call Travel Club Elite free 0800 707 6229 or Enquire. ABTA 39+ Years | Rated 5* Trust Pilot & No.1 in the UK for Cultural Tours. (04.01.2024).