Two Countries, One Journey: Beirut & Jordan The Ultimate Levant Escape

About the destination: Beirut is the capital city of Lebanon and serves as the main entry point to the country. It is a melting pot of cultures, seamlessly merging the fervor of the east with the sophistication of the west. Beirut is a city of contrasts - it is modern yet ancient, liberal yet traditional. It boasts top-notch restaurants, vibrant nightlife, excellent shopping options, and a wide range of hotels. The city is steeped in history and architectural heritage that spans thousands of years and various civilizations, with remnants of Roman and Phoenician heritage still evident today. Beirut also serves as an excellent base for exploring the rest of Lebanon, which starkly contrasts the affluent, westernized capital, all within a maximum two-hour drive. With its stunning architecture and landscapes, delectable food, thrilling nightlife, and rich history, Beirut is a must-visit destination.

About the destination: Amman, regarded by some as the cultural hub of the Middle East, is the capital city of Jordan. Located on a hilly region between the desert and the fertile Jordan Valley, Amman is now a modern and cosmopolitan city filled with state-of-the-art buildings, hotels, upscale restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. However, traces of the city's rich history can be seen everywhere. The city's core is the Citadel, home to Roman and Ammonite ruins. From the Citadel's peak, you can enjoy a stunning view of the city's hills. While the city we see today may not be very old, the Citadel's hill holds evidence of the city's ancient past as Greek Philadelphia. An intriguing Archaeological museum worth a visit is also located here. Nearby, you'll find the Roman theatre and several museums showcasing fascinating collections of mosaics, jewelry, and costumes. A stroll around the city will lead you to mosques, a surprising array of churches, markets, and shops. Amman is a bustling city where modernity and tradition exist harmoniously. Furthermore, Amman serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. From Amman, it's easy to reach destinations like Jerash, Ajlun, Pella, the Dead Sea, and the Desert Castles.

About the destination: Aqaba is the only port city in Jordan, situated on the Gulf of Aqaba at the very southern tip of the country. It serves as Jordan's gateway to the Red Sea. In recent years, Aqaba has seen significant growth, leading to enhancements in its infrastructure and facilities. Aqaba has been a populated settlement since 4000 BC due to its strategic position at the intersection of trade routes between Asia and Africa. During World War I, the Ottoman forces were compelled to retreat from Aqaba following a raid, known as the Battle of Aqaba, led by TE Lawrence (also known as Lawrence of Arabia) and the Arab forces of Sharif Hussein in 1917. The most notable places to visit in Aqaba include: • Aqaba Fort: Originally built in the 14th century AD, the current structure was constructed by the Mamluk Sultan el-Ghawri Qansawh (1501-1516) and has undergone numerous modifications since then. • Ayla: Located next to the Moevenpick complex, this ancient city was established when Islam arrived in the region in 622 AD. • 4th Century Roman Church: This is the oldest known Christian church in history. • Aqaba Museum: This unique museum is certainly one of Aqaba's main attractions as it showcases a range of artifacts, as well as life-sized models of traditional life in one of Jordan's oldest cities. It also houses a collection of rare historical photos from the early 20th century to the present.

About the destination: People have inhabited Rum for thousands of years, enduring its severe conditions. They've been hunters, herders, farmers, and traders, given Rum's proximity to national borders. The renowned Nabateans once resided in Rum, leaving behind several structures, including a temple. The locals gained fame when they joined the Arab revolt forces under King Faisal's leadership and fought alongside Lawrence of Arabia during the Arab Revolt (1917/18) against the occupying Turkish and German armies. Lawrence frequently mentions Wadi Rum in his book 'The Seven Pillars of Wisdom,' a title seemingly inspired by one of Rum's towering mountains. Lawrence's exploits have become part of local folklore, with some popular tourist sites named after him, although whether he used these exact sites is subject to debate. Almost all the people living in and around Wadi Rum today are of Bedouin origin and, until recently, led nomadic lives, depending on their goat herds. They are resourceful, welcoming people who have largely contributed to developing Wadi Rum as a tourist destination. Recognizing Wadi Rum's unique natural and cultural history and the crucial role of tourism in the local economy, the Jordanian government declared Wadi Rum a protected area in 1998. With support from the World Bank, they commissioned the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, a national NGO, to prepare a conservation plan and assemble a team of locals to manage the area. This team, now under the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, is pioneering ways to restore and protect Rum's delicate desert habitats from increasing human pressure.