Through Jordan & Israel

From one old city to another... Petra to Jerusalem!

So many grouse things....

The contrast between the cultures of Egypt, Jordan & Israel. For three neighbouring countries they couldn't be more different. Particularly in their attitudes to women and tourists in general. Israel seems rather contemporary, Jordan a slightly progressive Middle Eastern culture, and Egypt is like a time warp going back 1000 years.

Al Siq & Petra. Al Siq is the entrance to the ancient city of Petra. It's a narrow canyon that winds its way to the treasury building which is an amazing temple carved out of the rockface. Everything in the city has been created by carving the insides out of the rock mountains.

The Dead Sea. Amazing! You can actually see the salt in the water and where it lines the shore. It's slimy, it stings, and tastes more salty than anything I've ever tasted. It's true that you can float standing up and read a book lying back in the water quite comfortably!

Israeli reception. Israelis are so happy for tourists to visit their country... we shared a taxi with a couple of Israelis from the border and they insisted on paying for the trip as a welcome gift to us. Everyone we've met has been interested in why we're here and gives us some advice on the best places to visit or things to do.

"Have you got arms?" I realised after a couple of seconds that the security guard was not referring to my two arms plainly in view. He was asking me the standard question asked of anyone entering a restaurant, bar or cafe in Jerusalem to check for weapons. And if you do have weapon (most commonly a machine gun slung over your back or a nice little trendy one on your hip) you can still enter as long as you have a license for it!

Tomorrow... Tel Aviv and then on to London to play with Bec!