Dead Sea to Petra

It was very peaceful around the Holiday Inn Resort Dead Sea and not much was planned, activity wise, except drive through to Petra, so we didn't leave until 11am. Nice and relaxing.

Driving down along the Dead Sea is certainly dramatic. We stopped at one point where the guide pointed out a spire of rock which is supposedly Lot's wife (from the Bible), who disobeyed God and looked back and was subsequently turned into a pillar of salt. They were running away from the sinful towns of Sodom and Gomorrah that God was going to destroy.

Leaving the Dead Sea we drove up into the mountains rising around 2000m from below sea level to about 1600m. Incredible scenery! Stopped for our own picnic lunch taking in the view.

The only organised activity we had was a visit to Shobak Castle, built around 12th century and something to do with Saladin and crusades but I couldn't quite grasp what the history or significance of this place was. Guess I'll have to google it (or not - ha!)

We arrived at the township of Petra and tomorrow we visit the number 1 landmark of Jordan. Think Indiana Jones! Should be great!Read more