The Magic of Jordan
- Jean-Paul Courville
- Oct 1, 2017
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 2
By: Jean-Paul Courville
Jordan is an Arab nation on the east bank of the Jordan River, defined by ancient monuments, dramatic landscapes, and a depth of history that’s difficult to fully absorb in a single visit. From archaeological wonders to desert expanses and sacred sites, it’s a country where history feels close enough to touch.
I’ve had the opportunity to visit Jordan twice—first in 2014 and again in 2017—and both trips left a lasting impression. My journey began in the capital city of Amman and unfolded across the country: from the ancient city of Petra, carved into rose-colored sandstone cliffs and dating back to around 300 B.C., to the coastal city of Aqaba on the Red Sea; from the stillness of the Dead Sea to the Roman ruins of Jerash, often considered one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world.
Some of the most powerful experiences came off the standard tourist path. Hiking into Wadi Mujib—navigating water, rock, and narrow canyon walls—was both humbling and exhilarating. Standing atop Mount Nebo, traditionally believed to be the resting place of Moses, offered sweeping views across the Jordan Valley. Camping with Bedouins in Wadi Rum, beneath endless stars and towering sandstone formations, felt timeless—stories shared over fire, tea poured without hurry, silence respected.
One of the most striking moments was visiting the baptism site of Jesus Christ along the Jordan River. Standing on the Jordanian side, you can look across water barely twenty feet wide and see daily baptisms taking place on the Israeli bank. It’s a quiet reminder of how much spiritual and historical weight this region carries.
Beyond the landmarks, it was the people who deepened the experience. I have close Jordanian friends who live in As-Salt, a historic hillside town near Amman. Through them, I was invited to a traditional feast at a local friend’s farm, where we shared mansaf—the national dish of Jordan—served in the generous, communal style that defines Jordanian hospitality. It wasn’t a restaurant meal or a staged experience; it was family, culture, and tradition at the table.
Jordan isn’t just a place you visit. It’s a place you feel. The landscapes stay with you, but so do the conversations, the generosity, and the sense that history—ancient and modern—continues to unfold all around you.
