MAIN Travel Middle East Jordan

Petra, a tourist attraction of Biblical proportions.

Ruled by a royal couple seemingly out of Hollywood central casting (the dashing King Abdullah II and his equally charismatic wife, Queen Rania) - Jordan is located in the political "hot' zone bordering Saudi Arabia, Syria, Israel, Iraq and Egypt.

Unlike their sometimes contentious neighbors, Jordan has enjoyed a relatively long and frutiful peace over the past decades and offers travelers a contrast of attractions — a place where you can walk in the footsteps of Moses, explore beautiful Dead Sea coral reefs at Aqaba, marvel at stunning desert views at Wadi Rum, or take in mysterious Petra, "the Rose City of the Desert".

Most visitors' first encounter with Jordan is the capital city of Amman, comparitively lackluster but populated by warm and friendly people. It's also a good jumping off point for wonders that await including nearby Roman ruins at Jarash.

However, the must-see on any visit to Jordan is Petra, a wonderfully preserved ancient Arab city built near the Valley of Moses where the Biblical leader miraculously struck a rock and water gushed forth. Plan to spend at least a day or two exploring the place including the spectacular treasury and equally impressive views from atop the monastery.

Another not-to-be-missed tour includes an expedition to Wadi Rum where desert meets awe-inspiring jebels (mountains) providing history lessons in ancient graffiti, preserved temples and Stone Age shelters.

More about Jordan travel & tourist attractions around the Web:

Jordan - Tourism - The government portal, and better than most, with video clips and guides to Amman and surroundings, the Jordan Valley, the Desert Castle loop, Petra, Aqaba and Islamic holy sites.

Ruth's Jordan - A virtual love letter with comprehensive info on Jordan and its geography, tourist attractions & history, plus images, discussion board, fun stuff, and lots more the guide books don't tell you...

Amman.com - Tourist Attractions - Overviews with photos of top travel sites in Amman, Ajloun, Karak, the Dead Sea, Jarash and more, along with additional focus on Aman restaurants and cafes, pubs and nightclubs.

Petra - Take the photo tour with information and history on the Siq, Khazneh, Royal Tombs and more, with related links.

Wadi Rum, Jordan - Lonely Planet guide to the desert region and Bedouin culture, details on what to see and how to get there, related links.

City of Al Karak - Quick take on the city's history & culture with more on the ancient Crusader castle, photos, related links.