Destinations: Middle East - The Lovely Escapist

Travel Guide to the Dead Sea I Hilton Dead Sea Resort and Spa

Julie Mari Maca — Thu, 29 May 2025 02:03:52 +0000

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The Dead Sea had always felt like one of those places that existed more in stories than reality. We’d all heard of it growing up—how salty it is, how you float without effort, how people smear themselves in mud. But nothing really prepares you for what it’s like until you’re actually standing on the shore, looking out at that still, glistening water, with the sun setting over the hills of Israel on the other side.

The Dead Sea sits between Jordan, Israel, and the West Bank. It’s the lowest land point on Earth, and its only major water source is the Jordan River. There’s a real sense of history here—Herod the Great once used this spot as his personal health resort. It’s hard not to feel like you’re stepping into something ancient and powerful.

Why We Chose the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa

Here’s the first and probably most important tip I can give you—choose your resort wisely. There’s not much outside the resorts in this area. No shopping streets, local cafes, or places to walk around. You’re basically staying on the property for your entire visit, so comfort, food, beach access, and pools matter.

We stayed at the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa, and honestly, it was the perfect choice. It’s one of the newest and nicest properties along the Jordanian side of the Dead Sea

Since the Dead Sea area isn’t a town in the traditional sense—it’s mostly made up of resorts—we knew picking the right hotel was key. We stayed at the Hilton Dead Sea Resort & Spa, and it had everything we were looking for: direct beach access, pools with a view, solid dining options, and a comfortable room to crash in.

The resort has several pools, including an infinity pool for adults and a family pool. There’s a rooftop bar, and the views from nearly every corner are stunning. Just a heads up: the adult and kid pools are only separated by a rope, so if you’re hoping for a quiet, adults-only vibe, it’s hit or miss depending on the crowd.

Floating in the Dead Sea

Of course, the main reason we were here was to float. And yes, it really is as weird and amazing as it sounds.

We changed into our swimsuits, grabbed our towels, and walked down to the beach. There’s an elevator to take you there quickly, though it wasn’t working during our visit. Luckily, they had golf carts shuttling guests to the sand.

Once on the beach, the salty water glistened under the sun, and we eagerly stepped in. Because of the extreme salinity (about 10 times saltier than the ocean), you don’t really swim here—you float. And floating is effortless. The moment we lay back, our bodies were lifted. It’s a strange, almost magical feeling.

Tip: Don’t shave the day you go in. Even the tiniest cuts sting like crazy. Also, keep your mouth and eyes out of the water—it burns.

Mud Bath Experience

Next, we moved on to the classic Dead Sea mud bath. At the beach, there are bowls filled with mineral-rich mud just waiting to be smeared all over your body. We helped each other lather it on—backs, faces, legs. It turned into a hilarious photo session, but it’s actually a pretty beneficial treatment.

You’re supposed to let the mud dry for about 15–20 minutes before rinsing off in the sea. After that, you rinse again in fresh water and jump into the pool. Our skin felt incredibly soft afterward, even if the results weren’t instant miracles. For better effects, some people do it repeatedly over a few days.

There are studies like this one from PubMed that show the Dead Sea mud may help with conditions like osteoarthritis and psoriasis, though results vary.

Poolside Meals and Jordanian Treats at the Hilton Dead Sea Resort and Spa

Once we were cleaned up, we treated ourselves to a meal at Bacchus, the poolside Italian restaurant at the Hilton Dead Sea Resort. We shared bruschetta, wood-fired pizza, and a refreshing lemon tart. Our guide also introduced us to Limonada, a traditional Jordanian drink made of lemon juice and fresh mint leaves blended with ice. Super refreshing on a hot day.

Dinner was at 1312, a Lebanese restaurant with casual vibes and a great selection of wines. The hummus was creamy, the grilled meats flavorful, and the French fries a fun side dish to share.

The next morning, we had breakfast at Spectrum, the hotel’s buffet. It was one of the best hotel breakfasts we’d had on the whole trip. Think grilled meats, cheeses, fresh salads, eggs, and—believe it or not—a whole table of desserts. Yes, dessert for breakfast is totally acceptable here.

Relaxation at the Spa

One of the highlights of my stay was the massage at the spa of Hilton Dead Sea Resort. My therapist was incredibly skilled—at one point, she actually climbed on the table to apply deeper pressure. It felt amazing. Afterward, I was offered herbal tea and allowed to rest with no rush at all. If you’re someone who enjoys spa treatments, I can’t recommend it enough.

Things to Know Before You Go

Here’s what I wish I knew beforehand:

The Dead Sea resorts are isolated. There aren’t towns, cafes, or shops nearby, so you’ll mostly stay within the hotel premises.
Choose your resort carefully. We liked the Hilton, but other good options include the Mövenpick Dead Sea and the Kempinski Ishtar.
If you’re planning to visit other nearby attractions, consider the Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve, known for its river canyons and hiking trails. Or check out Ma’in Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in natural waterfalls.

The weather is HOT. Pack accordingly—light clothing, hats, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle are essential.

How Many Nights?

Personally, I think one to two nights is perfect. It’s just enough time to float, relax, and recharge before heading home or continuing your trip. Any longer and you might get a bit bored unless you’re planning excursions.

Don’t Miss the Sunset

One of the most unforgettable moments from our trip was watching the sun set over Israel from our poolside chairs. The sky turned gold, then pink, then deep purple as the salty sea reflected all the colors. It was silent, peaceful, and the perfect way to end the day.

For a more detailed look at my full Dead Sea experience and other travel adventures, check out my blog here.

Final Thoughts

The Dead Sea might not be the bustling resort town you imagined, but that’s part of its charm. It forces you to slow down. To float. To breathe. After a whirlwind journey through Jordan, it gave us exactly what we needed—a little stillness, a little salt, and a whole lot of memories.

Whether you’re ending your Jordan trip here like we did or just visiting for a day, don’t skip the Dead Sea. Float, soak in the mud, sip Limonada by the pool, and catch that sunset. You won’t regret it.

The post Travel Guide to the Dead Sea I Hilton Dead Sea Resort and Spa appeared first on The Lovely Escapist.

Exploring Wadi Rum: A Dreamlike Desert Adventure in Jordan

Julie Mari Maca — Tue, 20 May 2025 02:41:59 +0000

Wadi Rum, also known as the “Valley of the Moon,” is one of the most surreal places I’ve ever set foot in. Located in southern Jordan, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a vast desert wilderness of red sand dunes, towering rock formations, and an otherworldly silence that makes you feel like you’ve landed on Mars. It’s no wonder movies like The Martian, Dune, and Lawrence of Arabia were filmed here.

Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or someone looking to disconnect under starry skies, Wadi Rum offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Why Visit Wadi Rum?

Wadi Rum’s unique landscape feels like stepping onto another planet. It’s no wonder filmmakers use it to represent Mars or distant planets. But beyond the epic visuals, Wadi Rum offers a rare stillness, a connection to nature, and the rich cultural presence of the local Bedouin people who call it home.

Here’s why Wadi Rum is a must-visit:

Cinematic Scenery: Towering rock formations and deep canyons stretch across crimson sand, creating a dreamlike setting. It’s where movies like The Martian, Dune, and Lawrence of Arabia were filmed.
Cultural Immersion: Staying in a Bedouin-run desert camp gives you the chance to learn about local traditions, taste authentic food, and listen to stories passed down for generations.
Stargazing Like Never Before: Wadi Rum is one of the best stargazing locations in the world thanks to its remote location and zero light pollution. I saw more stars than I ever imagined.

To understand the geological significance, you can visit the Visit Jordan tourism site for an overview of Wadi Rum’s natural features. If you want to read more about our trip in Jordan, read our blog here.

How to Get to Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is remote, but it’s accessible by car or arranged transfer from major tourist cities in Jordan. Here’s what to expect from the most common starting points:

From Amman (4 hours): You can take the Desert Highway south. It’s a long drive, but it’s worth it if you’re doing a full Jordan road trip.
From Petra (1.5 hours): A scenic drive through winding roads and desert views. This is the most popular jumping-off point for Wadi Rum visitors.
From Aqaba (1 hour): If you’re flying into Aqaba or visiting the Red Sea, Wadi Rum is just a short detour inland.

Once you reach the Wadi Rum Visitor Center, you’ll meet your camp’s driver and transfer to a 4×4 that takes you into the protected desert area.

Where to Stay: Choosing the Right Wadi Rum Camp

Staying overnight is the best way to truly experience Wadi Rum. Camps vary in style—from traditional Bedouin setups to luxury Martian-style domes.

Types of camps:

Traditional Bedouin Camps: These are made of goat-hair tents and usually offer shared bathrooms, simple bedding, and communal meals. Perfect if you want an authentic, unplugged experience and are traveling on a budget.
Martian Domes & Bubble Tents: These futuristic dome-shaped tents come with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and sometimes even glass ceilings for stargazing. I stayed in one of these and loved waking up to panoramic desert views through my window.

What to look for when booking:

Meals Included: Most camps offer a full Jordanian dinner and breakfast. Some even prepare meals underground using a method called Zarb.
Jeep Tours & Activities: Many camps include a 2–3 hour tour in the price or offer discounted packages.
Facilities: If you’re visiting in winter, ask if there’s heating. Some camps also have solar power to charge your devices.

Bedouin Camp Experience: Culture Under the Stars

Staying overnight in a traditional Bedouin camp is where Wadi Rum truly comes alive. My camp had simple but cozy tents, hearty home-cooked meals, and a fire circle where we gathered at night to share stories, listen to traditional music, and stargaze.

And wow—the stars. With no light pollution for miles, the night sky in Wadi Rum is a sparkling ocean of constellations. I spent hours lying on a blanket, mesmerized by the Milky Way above me. For astronomy lovers, this place is a dream, and some camps even offer stargazing tours with telescopes.

The Bedouins’ hospitality was warm and genuine. They shared stories about their traditions, the meaning behind the songs, and how their families have lived in this desert for generations. It was a humbling reminder of how deeply rooted culture can be in a place as remote as this.

The Bubble Hotel Hype: Is it Worth the Price?

You’ve probably seen photos of Wadi Rum’s futuristic-looking bubble hotels on Instagram—glass-domed pods with views of the desert and night sky. While they look sleek and luxurious online, my honest take? They’re more style than substance.

Many are located near main roads or other camps, so you don’t get the serenity or seclusion you’d expect. The domes often fog up or get dusty quickly, and even though they feature en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning, they lack the cozy authenticity and human warmth of the Bedouin experience.

If your goal is luxury over connection, these might appeal

Top Things to Do in Wadi Rum

The desert isn’t empty—it’s packed with natural wonders, cultural sites, and epic views. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

Jeep Tour of Major Sites: This is the best way to see the highlights. You’ll drive over sand dunes and stop at places like:
- Lawrence’s Spring: A natural spring with views over the valley, said to be used by T.E. Lawrence during the Arab Revolt.
- Khazali Canyon: A narrow gorge filled with ancient petroglyphs and Nabatean inscriptions carved into the walls.
- Um Frouth Rock Bridge: One of several natural rock bridges in the desert. You can climb up for a great photo with the desert behind you.
- Red Sand Dunes: Steep hills of fine red sand. It’s fun (and tiring!) to climb them barefoot and run or slide down.
Camel Rides: A peaceful way to explore the desert, especially at sunrise or sunset when the colors are soft and golden.
Stargazing Nights: After dinner, step outside your tent and look up. On a clear night, you’ll see the Milky Way, constellations, and maybe even a shooting star.
Traditional Bedouin Meals: Don’t miss Zarb—meat and vegetables slow-cooked underground. Served with rice, bread, and yogurt-based sauces, it’s flavorful and filling.

For more travel tips, permits, and how to get there, check the official Jordan Tourism Board.

What to Pack for a Desert Camping Trip

Wadi Rum is wild and remote, so be prepared. Here’s a list of essentials:

Layered Clothing: It gets hot in the day and cold at night. Pack breathable shirts and a warm jacket.
Scarf or Keffiyeh: Protects against sun, wind, and sand. You can also buy a traditional one in Jordan.
Sunscreen & Sunglasses: The desert sun is strong, even in cooler months.
Comfortable Shoes: Closed-toe shoes for walking and hiking on sand and rocky surfaces.
Power Bank: Many camps run on solar energy and don’t have electricity 24/7.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Especially useful if you’re staying in traditional tents without full lighting.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated—dehydration is common in the desert.
Camera or Smartphone with Space: You’ll want to capture every moment.

If you want some tips and tricks on how to travel light for your trip in Wadi Rum, read our blog here.

Final Thoughts

Absolutely—Wadi Rum is unlike anywhere else I’ve been. It’s not just about the landscapes; it’s about the feeling of being disconnected from the modern world and connected to something timeless. Whether you’re sitting quietly on a sand dune or watching the sky turn from orange to deep indigo, Wadi Rum leaves a lasting impression.

If you’re visiting Jordan and planning to see Petra or the Dead Sea, add at least one night in Wadi Rum. You’ll come away with dust on your boots, stars in your eyes, and a story worth telling.

The post Exploring Wadi Rum: A Dreamlike Desert Adventure in Jordan appeared first on The Lovely Escapist.

7-Day Jordan Itinerary Travel Guide: A Journey through Time

Julie Mari Maca — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 02:42:34 +0000

Jordan is a country where ancient history and dramatic landscapes meet, offering an adventure through time. Each day, from sprawling Roman ruins and rose-colored sandstone cities to sweeping desert vistas, promises discoveries. If you’re planning a weeklong trip, Jordan’s blend of culture, history, and natural beauty makes it an ideal place to explore.

This 7-day Jordan itinerary covers the country’s most iconic destinations, from Amman’s bustling capital to Petra’s wonders and the surreal landscapes of Wadi Rum. We’ll take you step-by-step through Jordan’s highlights, with practical tips to help you make the most of your time. Whether you’re floating in the Dead Sea, hiking through ancient ruins, or gazing at the stars in the desert, this guide will help you experience Jordan in an immersive and manageable way.

Day 1: Arriving in Amman – The City of Seven Hills

Amman is the perfect introduction to Jordan. This bustling city is set on seven hills and resembles a mix of ancient and modern worlds. Plan to spend an entire day here, visiting The Amman Citadel, a historical site atop Jabal al-Qal’a. It’s packed with Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad ruins, including the Temple of Hercules. You’ll need about 1-2 hours here, not just for the ruins but also for the panoramic views over Amman.

Next, head down to Downtown Amman. Walking through the souqs (markets), you’ll encounter stalls brimming with spices, perfumes, and souvenirs. For lunch, consider a local spot to sample Jordanian classics like mansaf or falafel, which are available downtown and have plenty of affordable options. Wrap up your day at the Roman Theater, just a short walk away. This ancient amphitheater seats 6,000 and is a window into the city’s Roman past. By the end of the Day 1 Jordan itinerary, you’ll understand the mix of cultures and eras that define Amman.

Check out here to ensure you don’t miss any must-see spots in Amman.

Day 2: Jerash – The Ancient Roman City

A short drive (about 1 hour) north of Amman lies Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. You’ll want to set aside at least half a day here for your Jordan itinerary. Start at The Temple of Artemis, where columns soar against the sky, giving you an impressive welcome. Next, the Oval Plaza is a unique space surrounded by colonnades that once served as the city’s heart.

Explore the Nymphaeum, a grand public fountain, and then visit the Jerash Archaeological Museum to understand better the artifacts unearthed. Bring comfortable shoes. Jerash involves a lot of walking. After about four hours, you’ll head back to Amman, giving you time to relax or explore more of the city in the evening.

For everything you need to know to make your week in Jerash, Jordan, unforgettable, check out here.

Day 3: The Dead Sea

On Day 3 of your Jordan itinerary, prepare for a unique experience at The Dead Sea, around a 1-hour drive from Amman. This planet’s lowest point is famous for its salty waters, where floating is effortless. A couple of hours here should be enough to soak in the floating experience and try a mud bath, which is said to have therapeutic effects.

Suppose you have the time and energy to detour to Masada or the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve nearby. The reserve, located around 40 minutes from the Dead Sea, offers hiking trails and cool freshwater springs. You could easily spend half a day here before returning to your Dead Sea resort or heading back to Amman for the night.

For a journey through the Dead Sea’s history and beauty, read this guide here.

Day 4: Petra

On Day 4, prepare for a long but rewarding adventure in Petra. Please arrive early, as it’s about a 3-hour drive from Amman. Start with The Siq, a stunning mile-long canyon that winds to The Treasury (Al-Khazneh). This iconic structure is Petra’s star attraction and is incredibly captivating in the morning light. Expect to spend around 2 hours here.

Explore The Street of Facades from the Treasury and tackle the climb to The Monastery (Ad-Deir). The uphill hike takes about an hour, but the views are incredible. Plan for at least 5 hours in Petra, and if you’re up for it, consider staying for Petra by Night (offered on select evenings). This experience lets you see the Treasury illuminated by candles, adding a magical end to your day.

This blog offers a detailed Jordan itinerary with recommendations for Petra, read it here.

Day 5: Wadi Rum

About an hour and a half south of Petra is Wadi Rum, a desert landscape that feels like another planet. Many travelers recommend booking a Jeep tour for an adrenaline-filled ride through the dunes, canyons, and rock formations. The tour takes about 2-3 hours and often includes a stop at Lawrence’s Spring and ancient petroglyphs.

To get a sense of Bedouin life, spend a night at a Bedouin camp. Most camps provide meals, traditional music, and even a campfire so that you can stargaze in this low-light area. Some tours also offer a camel trek, allowing you to experience the desert as the Bedouins have for centuries. Wadi Rum is ideal for an overnight stay to appreciate its beauty at sunset and sunrise.

For those dreaming of exploring Wadi Rum’s stunning deserts, this blog here offers an ideal roadmap.

Day 6: Aqaba – Red Sea Retreat

From Wadi Rum, drive 1 hour south to Aqaba on the Red Sea coast. Aqaba is Jordan’s gateway to beautiful coral reefs and underwater life. If you’re into diving or snorkeling, Aqaba’s coral reefs are a must-see, and tours are available for half-day or full-day excursions.

After some underwater adventures, relax on the beaches or at one of Aqaba’s resorts. If you’re still up for exploration, the Aqaba Fortress is a historic site worth visiting, and Souk by the Sea offers a mix of local crafts and live music performances. By evening, catch a seaside dinner and enjoy the calm of the Red Sea.

Day 7: Back to Amman – Final Explorations

Returning to Amman, where it all began, feels fitting as our week in Jordan winds down. This final day of the Jordan itinerary is a chance to slow down and savor the city’s energy and charm. Start with a stroll along Rainbow Street, a vibrant area packed with cafés, art galleries, and little shops. It’s a perfect spot to pick up any last-minute souvenirs, but even if you’re not shopping, just wandering here gives you a sense of modern Amman, a city that blends its rich history with a lively, contemporary vibe.

Then, head to the Jordan Museum in Ras Al-Ain. This place is a walk through Jordan’s story, from prehistoric artifacts to the famous Dead Sea Scrolls, which bring the country’s historical roots to life. The museum’s interactive displays make it engaging for all ages, so you’ll get a deeper connection to everything you’ve seen this week.

As the day unfolds, carve out a moment for some peaceful reflection at the King Abdullah Mosque. The beautiful blue dome and the serene interior offer a quiet place to appreciate the journey.

By evening, dive into the culinary scene, try Mansaf, the national dish, or indulge in Knafeh, a sweet, cheesy dessert. For a memorable farewell to the city, grab a rooftop spot to catch the sunset over Amman’s skyline, a mix of minarets, modern buildings, and ancient ruins all glowing in the golden light. Watching the city bathe in the sunset, you can’t help but feel a mix of gratitude and nostalgia for all the experiences this journey has offered.

Practical Tips for Your Jordan Adventure

Weather: Jordan can be hot in summer and chilly in winter, so plan accordingly. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are ideal for more moderate temperatures.

Travel Time: Some places, like Petra and Wadi Rum, require long drives, so be prepared for road trips and consider hiring a guide or driver for smoother travel.

Tickets and Fees: Sites like Petra and Wadi Rum have entrance fees, so it’s worth checking costs ahead of time and purchasing a Jordan Pass, which covers multiple sites and the visa fee.

Packing: Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and a hat, sunscreen, and water bottle are must-haves for desert areas.

For those dreaming of exploring Europe’s finest travel destination, our blog offers an ideal roadmap to get the most out of your trip. Read here.

Final Thoughts

Our one Jordan itinerary was filled with incredible experiences that unexpectedly brought history, nature, and culture to life. Each destination, from Petra’s ancient wonders to the Dead Sea’s peaceful waters, left a lasting impression, and together they painted a complete picture of Jordan’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Every site we visited felt like a window into another time, each telling its unique story against the backdrop of modern-day Jordan.

If you’re planning a trip to Jordan, a week is just enough to cover the highlights while leaving space for personal discoveries and moments of reflection. Jordan’s diverse landscapes and warm hospitality make it more than just a travel destination; it’s a place that invites you to connect with the past and the present meaningfully. As you head home, you’ll likely feel, as we did, that this journey, while complete, has left a part of Jordan with you, one that continues to inspire long after the trip ends.

The post 7-Day Jordan Itinerary Travel Guide: A Journey through Time appeared first on The Lovely Escapist.

How To Visit Petra, Jordan | Tips & Tricks

Angie — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 03:48:14 +0000

Whether you are a fan of Indiana Jones, ancient civilizations, or travel, you’ve probably heard of the prehistoric Jordanian city of Petra. But while many have heard of Petra, only a few have experienced it firsthand. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World, it is one of the world’s most-visited ancient sites.

Petra’s History

Petra has an amazing history and has earned the name “The Lost City” for good reason.

Petra is more than a beautiful background for photos! It was first referenced back in the Bronze Age in Egyptian campaign accounts and the Amarna letters. However, it didn’t start to really grow until the Iron Age when it became a home for the Old Testament’s Edomites who used the canyon’s natural water reservoirs as a stopping ground for merchants. Petra later fell under the control of the Nabataeans, one of several nomadic Bedouin tribes that roamed the Arabian Desert. Petra was a Bedouin trading center and the capital of the Nabataean empire for 500 years between 400 B.C. and A.D. 100.

Rome took control of Petra in A.D. 106 and built many of the buildings still visible in the ancient city (like the 6,000 seat theater and some of the city’s most impressive facades). It is estimated that more than 30,000 people lived in Petra during the height of its importance. However, in 363 an earthquake destroyed many buildings and crippled the vital water management system. Petra passed through the hands of the Byzantines, Crusaders, and Mamluks before becoming lost to the Western World in the 12th century. Yes. The entire city of Petra wasn’t known to the Western World for hundreds of years. It wasn’t until the early 1800s did Swiss explorer, Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, disguise himself in Bedouin costume and infiltrate the ancient rock city. Until then, only Bedouins would travel into the canyons and use the city as protection against the elements.

Petra is more than just a few buildings carved in stone. Today, archaeologists have only explored less than half of the site and they are constantly finding new buildings. Petra spreads out over 100 square miles. During our visit, we walked more than 10 miles inside the city exploring all the various buildings and tombs carved into the cliffs.

Getting Around Petra

Your journey begins at the Visitors Center in the town of Wadi Musa. From the entrance, you’ll walk one mile on a paved road through and through a sandstone 250-foot-high (76-meter-high) slot canyon known as the Siq that leads directly to Al Khazneh (the Treasury). Walking through the Siq is remarkable and the experience feels magical in many ways. To get the best experience, go early and take your time as you approach the Treasury.

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Fun Fact: In the Hollywood blockbuster, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, the movie’s fictional Canyon of the Crescent Moon was modeled after this slot canyon.

Unfortunately, the Treasury doesn’t host the holy grail or any treasure at all. It got the name “the Treasury” because of a giant urn carved above the entrance. Bedouin tribesmen living in and among the ancient ruins would try to shoot the urn with rifles because they believed it was full of treasure, but in reality, it is solid stone. Overall, the building is over 127 feet high and is nearly 82 feet wide.

The Treasury is one of the most photogenic spots in the city. Get there early or stay late to get the best photo. The light shines upon the front of the facade during the morning, so the preference is to get there early.

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From the Treasury, you’ll follow a path for 1.5 miles through another canyon to the “main” area of the city. As you go, you’ll see more tombs carved into the cliffs, but it isn’t until you get to the Roman road that you can see the Amphitheater, Royal Tombs, The Great Temple, Winged Lion Temple, and The Qasr al-Bint. All of which are worth exploring and are underrated.

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However, what you’ll probably be most interested in is finding the Monastery. Unfortunately, to get there, you have to climb up 850 steps. It’s only about a 40-minute hike if you’re in relatively good shape, but probably an hour or so if you take some breaks. If that’s too much, there are locals who offer rides via donkey.

Ad Deir is the Arabic name for “The Monastery” and it is the second most commonly visited monument in Petra. Once you arrive, turn right and you will see the amazing views. There is a little rest stop at the top, named “End of the World Coffee”, so you can buy some food and drink while you enjoy the view. The rock-cut façade of the Monastery is 154 ft high and 157 ft wide. The Monastery has appeared in several Hollywood movies, including Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

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Tips & Tricks for Visiting Petra

Spend the night. Trying to do get to Petra and see all of it in a single day is a common mistake. Remember that Petra is four times the size of Manhattan. Stay the night in Wadi Musa (we loved Petra Guest House Hotel and their Cave Bar) the night before you start exploring to ensure you can get to the gate early. In a perfect world, stay the night after too (you’ll be pretty tired after walking around all day).

Wear comfortable shoes. While donkeys, camels, and horse buggies can help you see the city, most of Petra’s sites are best reached on foot. Come ready to hike through cliffside paths, rock roads, and sand canyon floors. You don’t need hiking boots, but at a minimum wear tennis shoes.

Bring cash. Funny enough, the prices and variety of scarves, jewelry, and other goods inside Petra were better than anywhere else we visited in Jordan. We visited markets in Jerash, Amman, and Aqaba and still found that we should’ve bought more of our gifts inside Petra! Also, the “guides” you meet inside the city will charge for providing you access to certain photo spots not accessible to the public. So if you want to shop or get some unique shots of Petra, bring cash ($100 USD should be enough).

Skip the night tour. We’ve all seen the magical photos of Petra By Night. However, the actual experience is lacking. It is a long hike at night through the Siq to get to the Treasury. Then they perform a “show” for you which lasts about an hour or so. Afterward, they turn on tacky colorful spotlights onto the facade. After only about 30 minutes, they turn off the lights and blow out the candles. Without a professional camera and getting there early, you won’t get a good photo. Save yourself the $25 USD and get a good night’s sleep.

Watch the weather. It gets very hot in the summer and very cold during the winter. We went during Christmas and had to bundle up in the morning (which meant we had to carry a lot of coats around with us during the full day of hiking). However, we heard horror stories of how hot it can get in the desert during the summer months. Try to go during Fall or Spring if you can.

Petra is 100% worth visiting. We agree with the Smithsonian that Petra is one of the places you must see before you die. Just keep these tips and tricks in mind as you make your plans!

As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own. Be sure to check out more destinations on the blog here!

Angie xoxo

The post How To Visit Petra, Jordan | Tips & Tricks appeared first on The Lovely Escapist.

Top 5 Bars In Istanbul, Turkey | The Old City of Sultanahmet

Angie — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 00:12:06 +0000

Istanbul has always been a unique city. It is a city split between two continents: Europe & Asia, and for thousands of years was the center of trade routes including the silk road and various naval routes. This has led to Istanbul becoming a blend of various people, cultures, and religions.

One of the most diverse areas of town is Istanbul’s Old City, also called Sultanahmet. Here you will find many important sites such as The Hagia Sofia, The BlueMosque, Topkapı Palace, and The Grand Bazaar. But you will also discover amazing restaurants with cuisine from all around the world as well as a few places to grab a drink.

During our time in Istanbul, we wandered around the Old City of Sultanahmet in search of different bars in Istanbul that offered friendly service, a good atmosphere, and reasonably priced drinks. And after 5 days in the city, we found a few!

So if you are looking for an alcoholic drink in Istanbul’s Old City of Sultanahmet, here are the top five options!

1. The Seven Hills Hotel Rooftop

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Seven Hills Hotel has two locations in Istanbul. The one you want to visit is just South of Hagia Sophia, maybe a quarter of a mile walk. We actually stayed at the hotel during our time in Istanbul and loved it. Their roof restaurant has some of the best views of Hagia Sophia and The Blue Mosque. Go at sunset to take in the views of the mosques’ domes lit up by the sun setting over the Bosphorus.

If you are looking for a good breakfast, they serve a fantastic spread! You can always get a few drinks and make it into a fun brunch if you would like. Nothing beats mimosas and beautiful views. Click here to know more about Seven Hills Hotel.

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2. Pierre Loti Hotel’s Loti Roof Lounge

For a fancy night out, go to the roof lounge of the Pierre Loti Hotel. After a long evening of shopping in the Grand Bazaar, we were desperate to find a place to relax and unwind. As we were walking home, we looked up and saw the glimmering lights of this hotel bar and figured it was worth checking out. It has an amazing view overlooking the roof of the Grand Bazaar and you can see all the way to Galata Tower.

The roof lounge is enclosed, so it is a great place to warm up during the summer or chill out during the winter. They have a full bar and can make anything you want. I got one of my favorites: Whiskey Sour! For more information about Pierre Loti Hotel, click here.

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3. The Kybele Hotel

We stayed in Istanbul for 5 days and 4 nights. And during that time, we visited the Kybele Hotel 3 times. We just happened to walk by our first night and grab a few drinks. Istanbul isn’t as cheap as some areas of Europe or Asia, but Kybele offers strong drinks at a cheap price. We came back the second day for lunch, which was great, and a few more drinks. Then our very last night in the city we went back for the full dinner experience.

Kybele has a great atmosphere. Even during December, we were able to sit outside and enjoy ourselves. They also have a few friendly cats who you can’t help but pull into your lap and offer some pets. I would say this is my favorite place we visited for food and drinks. The view isn’t as impressive as Seven Hills or Loti, but the atmosphere, prices, and quality were unbeatable. Visit their website here.

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4. Just Bar

One night in Istanbul, we wanted to truly “go out”. In December, partying isn’t as common as it is in Istanbul during the summer. However, Just Bar always has something going on. Heated street seating during the winter and open-air tables during the summer make it a great place to spend a lazy afternoon or night of singing and dancing.

Like any bar, Just Bar is busiest on the weekend (or during a soccer match). If that’s your thing, you know when to visit! If you are looking for a quieter evening, avoid it during those times. For more information about Just Bar, click here.

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5. Rounders Irish Pub

Rounders isn’t your traditional Irish pub. It feels like all the other Turkish bars and restaurants, but it does have a great staff filled with Irish hospitality. We loved chatting with the bartenders and staff when we visited. They were extremely friendly and happy to give us some advice on where to eat, what to see, and what time everything opens.

The drinks weren’t bad either! A good assortment of beer and a full bar meant you can find anything you want to wet your tongue. We didn’t eat here, but we saw the food and it smelled and looked delicious. For more information, visit here.

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Istanbul isn’t Ibiza, but it can still host a fun night out on the town. The lovely diversity of the city makes for a lot of amazing places to grab a drink. As always, drink responsibly!

Be sure to check out more destinations on the blog here!

The post Top 5 Bars In Istanbul, Turkey | The Old City of Sultanahmet appeared first on The Lovely Escapist.