“Petra, Jordan
With ongoing turbulence across the Middle East, Jordan has seen its visitor numbers plummet in recent years; and while the U.S. State Department has placed a travel warning on Jordan, citing a high terror risk, similar warnings have also been issued for far more visited countries like Germany. It remains a safe and stable enclave within the region, rich with ancient monuments that date as far back as the 4th century B.C. To really experience the country’s history, head to Petra: The UNESCO World Heritage site is a three-hour drive through the desert from Amman, and even on a busy day, you’ll witness the architectural feats of the Nabataean in virtual solace. Not a selfie stick to be found. Petra is home to dramatic, dusty-rose natural gorges; temples and tombs carved into the rocks; and winding trails that lead to mountain summits. If you’re feeling adventurous, sign up for the Jordan Trail, a 400-mile hiking route that takes you from north to south, through the wadis and cliffs of the Jordan Rift Valley and the looming mountains of Wadi Rum—founded earlier this year, the trip hopes to bring Jordan the much-needed boost to its tourism industry. —L.A.”
