This post was written prior to the bombing of Iran and since we intend to go in the future, we will leave it in the present voice.
We are soon off to explore in a land where construction by human hands is as ancient as antiquity itself. Construction that has survived beyond lost civilizations, languages, religions and even empires.
More ancient than the Silk Road, the oldest Maya ruins and the relatively young Angkor Wat, the Great Pyramid of Giza was ancient history even to what we consider as the ancient Egyptians of later times.
One of the many highlights of the trip will be sailing the Nile on a felucca, a traditional wooden boat with one or two triangular-shaped canvas sails, enjoying the local food prepared by the Nubian crew, and sleeping on a mattress on the deck under the stars.
The tour we had booked was cancelled following the attacks on Iran.
Then, we were off to see one of the new Seven Wonders of the World ... Petra. We'll have time in a Bedouin camp in the desert of Wadi Rum, to descend to the lowest point on earth for a float in the Dead Sea, and to explore ruins and castles. From our correspondence with guesthouse owners, we have already witnessed the reputation of Jordanians as hospitable people.
Travelling Jordan from south to north in the spring leaves us hopeful that we will see the hills and deserts of Wadi Rum and the trails of Petra bursting in colour with over two thousand species of native wild plants and flowers, including the black iris (national flower of Jordan).
Our three-week journey essentially follows the river that is the namesake of the country. The significance of the Jordan River cannot be overstated. It's a vital water source for irrigation of crops, especially in the Jordan Valley. It is sacred to Christians, Jews and Muslims who make pilgrimages to the river and it's water is bottled and exported around the world for use in both Royal and lay baptisms. Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Al-Maghtas), a UNESCO World Heritage Site is identified as the true place where Jesus was baptized. Learn more here: . And finally it is a geopolitical border with important agreements between Jordan and Israel.
Travelling in the south will be a mix of ride-hailing apps, private drivers and dolmus, while bigger buses like JETT and FLIXBUS will be available north of Dana.
Jordan has had an agreement with America, that they can use a Jordanian airbase. On the very day (Feb 28) that the Canadian Government issued an Essential Travel Only Advisory for Jordan (due to falling debris if the air base was bombed), a Jordanian man that we had been corresponding with about the possibility of accommodation and a guide, posted this:
"Dear Travelers in Jordan: If your flight has been canceled and you are stranded in Jordan, please know that you are not alone. We, as Jordanians, are ready to help. My family and other local families are willing to host stranded tourists in our homes free of charge until your travel arrangements are resolved. Jordan is known for its hospitality, and we stand by our guests in difficult times. If you need a safe place to stay, please contact me on WhatsApp: (provided his #). You are welcome here. Stay safe and do not worry — Jordan is your second home."
Thank you Audeh.
Finally, we head to the only city in the world that is built across two continents. We eagerly anticipate going from the mysterious subterranean world of Istanbul, to viewing it's unique skyline at dusk; to exploring the diverse neighbourhoods where east meets west; to witnessing the meditation ritual of the Sufi Whirling Dervish; to sailing the Bosphorus and even interacting with the famous cats.
It's said that Turkiye is at the crossroads of civilizations. Our problem will be trying to whittle down how many ruins, museums and bazaars; and how much art and dance we can experience in a month. We look forward to the wonder that is Cappadocia, to staying in an ancient cave hotel and to exploring its incredible geography both on foot and from the perspective of a hot air balloon at sunrise. Already, our stomachs are eager for Turkish cuisine, especially the breakfasts and the street food of Istanbul.
Renting a car for all of Turkiye, except Istanbul will help us conquer geography while providing the most time to explore.
In a history class your teacher may have played you this song as an introduction to studies on Turkiye: "Istanbul, Not Constantinople", composed by a Canadian Jazz Band (The Four Lads). Find it here.
The world is upended by these actions. Innocent people are being killed; oil can't get through the area, driving global gas prices up which affects the cost of energy, food and goods everywhere, the travel industry is a disaster, there will be increased poverty as governments spend money on war equipment and supplies instead of making life better for their people.
We were so looking forward to a three-month trip to explore the geography and ancient historical sites of these countries, experiencing some of their culture and local foods. We hope this will end soon and we can visit next spring.
Reputable organizations like UNICEF CANADA, UNHCR, and Save the Children Canada are a few of the agencies working to help people caught in this conflict.
