Jordan is a jewel with gorgeous mosaics in ancient desert castles, beautiful hotels, and extraordinarily friendly people. To stand on Mount Nebo, or walk along the Jordan River, or float in the Dead Sea is to go back in time. The Jordan Valley runs along the western border all the way down into Africa where it becomes the Great Rift Valley. To the north is the Roman city of Jerash, second only in scale to Ephesus in Turkey. The fabulous oval Forum at the heart of this ancient city is unique in the ancient world!

Petra survived the Raiders of the Lost Ark (although there is a little kiosk outside the gate with reminders of the film) and is the most extraordinary site. Walk in with your guide, go through the narrow Siq and stare in wonder at this enormous Treasury carved in sandstone from the deep canyons of the Wadi Araba. Continue through to the Monastery – a climb of 800 steps but worth every step. The view from the top is outstanding and you can journey up by donkey if you wish. On the return down the Collonaded Street, take a horse or a horse-drawn carriage – make sure you have enough money for tips! Then, reward yourself with a delicious ice cream at the nearby Movenpick Hotel.