Traveling solo has its perks and quirks, and my recent journey to Petra, the fabled “Rose City,” was a vivid mix of awe, self-discovery, and cultural encounters. Let me take you through the highlights of this unforgettable adventure.
Why Petra?
I’ve always been fascinated by history, though not necessarily obsessed with Roman culture or architecture. Petra, however, holds a special allure. There’s something magical about this ancient city—a blend of natural wonder and human ingenuity. The Romans may not have built Petra from scratch, but they enhanced its beauty with their artistic touch, leaving behind a timeless masterpiece.
The Journey to Petra
I took a bus from Amman to Petra—a budget-friendly choice, though I can’t recall the exact fare. It was a somewhat unnerving experience since I was the only Asian on board. The curious stares from fellow passengers made me chuckle: “What’s this guy doing here?” The bus stopped several times at gas stations, and the driver even advised me not to step out, not even to use the restroom. Perhaps it wasn’t the safest route for a solo traveler, but I felt secure enough throughout the journey.
Arriving at Petra
When I finally reached Petra at 4 PM, it hit me: I was running out of time! With only one evening to explore before heading back to the Netherlands, I had to make the most of it. Though I missed the iconic sunrise, I snapped countless photos of the ruins bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun. Petra at night was simply breathtaking—a mysterious and enchanting sight that I’ll never forget.
Encounters with Bedouin Kids
Exploring Petra wasn’t just about admiring the architecture. I met many Bedouin kids selling souvenirs. Surprisingly, some of them spoke excellent English, albeit with a hint of mischief. They were charming yet tricky, so I’d advise tourists to tread carefully while bargaining. Nonetheless, their entrepreneurial spirit added a human touch to my experience.
Beyond Petra: A Quick Detour
After my whirlwind exploration of Petra, I joined a friend from the hostel—Rostyslav from Poland—for a visit to the Dead Sea. Rostyslav, an introverted yet incredible person, made the experience even more memorable. Floating in the salty waters of the Dead Sea was a surreal moment that capped off my Jordanian adventure.
We also visited a famous Biblical site—a rock whose name I shamefully forgot (note to self: brush up on Biblical history!). For the grand finale, I explored the Roman Amphitheater in Amman. This ancient relic was a fitting end to my journey, tying together the Roman influence I admired so much in Petra.
Why I’ll Always Love Petra
Petra left an indelible mark on me, not just for its architectural beauty but for the entire experience—the journey, the people, and the stories. I’d happily return one day, perhaps to catch that elusive sunrise and relive the magic.
Thank you, Jordan, for the memories. Until next time!
