OT Off to the Middle East! What timing!!!

So far the Middle East  issues have affected Tunisia, Egypt, the Yemen, Syria and, most extreme of all, Libya. Lebanon is bit dodgy and they are a bit unhappy in Kuwait and Oman.  Israel is getting very edgy! The govts in Qatar and Saudi Arabia have a firm hold on the reins at the moment! Dubai seems OK despite being bankrupt!

So not the best of times to go to Jordan for a two week +  archaelogical tour!  But we booked it 6 months ago!!!

Jordan looks OK at the moment! In general the people there seem to like their King and he has made lots of concessions to try to keep them happy! Fingers crossed and insurance policies checked!!

Oh well, we were in Egypt 5 days before the massacre of tourists in 1997 (and at the very site where it happened) and left Thailand just before one of their rebellions. Been OK so far!!!!

Well, apart from severe coral poisoning in Koh Samui, being run over in Hanoi, nastily infected cut which wouldn't heal in Namibia, malaria scare after India. But I always seem to get home, even if not in one piece!

See you in just over two weeks!

Kate

Oh my Kate, thats kinda scary! I'll keep you in my prayers that you have a fun, educational and SAFE trip :) Take lots of pictures to share with us when you get back. BTW, do you have to wear special garments while in Jordan to cover your head/ face?

No, Jordan is in general a modern country with reasonably liberal ideas in many spheres of life.  There is a form of sharia law, for example, but it is not an extreme one. Woman are much freer than in some countries and although some will wear various forms of coverings (depending on the region and the family's own choices) there is no national compulsion to wear them.

The king was educated in the US and his wife was a successful business woman.

However, as I always do, wherever I go, I will respect their views on modesty and wear skirts below my knee, tops with elbow length sleeves etc. I find it very offensive when people visit countries and do not have the simple good manners to avoid giving offence! And i do always have a scarf in my bag just in case! I also always try to have a lightweight wrap around skirt just in case i feel the need to cover my legs completely.

Having some of the most incredible ancient cities in the world  in their country means that they are very used to western tourists - but not the bikini-clad sort!!

Kate

Kate, be well and stay safe. We will expect lots of stories and photos upon your return.

Judy

This newbie is going to miss you.  Stay safe and ENJOY!

 Kate, have a wonderful time and be safe!  It sounds like you have been to and seen many amazing places.  Can't wait to hear about this adventure!

Marlena

Stay safe, Kate!

Kim

Have a wonderful time, Kate. We expect pics when you get back. Ones with you in them.
Sue

Kate,

Sounds like a wonderful trip!  Have a great time!

I've always wanted to go to Jordan - they have some beautiful spots.  I love the middle east and most middle eastern people.  I've only been in Egypt, but had such a wonderful time.  My ex is Egyptian. 

Can't wait to hear some stories when you get back. 

cat

Hope you have a safe, but wonderful time!