That sentiment has been ringing in my ears this morning as I have wandered the streets of Amman. My bible (aka the Lonely Planet guide to the Middle East) warned that travellers coming to Amman from Damascus would find the city disappointingly (or refreshingly) modern and Westernised. In my first hour or so here there were three things that indicated to me that this might be pretty close to the mark. Firstly, the outskirts of Amman is home to a KFC; secondly, there is a woman working at the reception of the Palace Hotel; and finally, I saw a sparkling new Hummer cruising the streets (mind you, I did also see one in Lattakia). I will let you make up your own mind as to how these fit with your picture of the Middle East.
I'm not sure whether I was in the mood for a change, or it is genuinely so, but with
a friendly vibe and relaxed feel, my vote is definitely on the refreshing side.
Amman was originally built on seven hills, but now covers about 40. I spent the morning walking up one of these to soak in the view from the Citadel. I the cruised by the Roman Theatre, stopping to enjoy a coffee in one of the numerous cafes, before resuming with a spot of shopping. I paid the princely sum of 25 fils (about A37 cents) for a delicious felafel and am currently working my way through the kilo of strawberries I bought at the fruit market (for about $3), which I might add I'm sharing with my fellow traveelers at the hotel.
With any luck the next couple of days will see me exploring Mt Nebo, the Dead Sea and the Roman ruins at Jerrash.
I'm not sure whether I was in the mood for a change, or it is genuinely so, but with
a friendly vibe and relaxed feel, my vote is definitely on the refreshing side.Amman was originally built on seven hills, but now covers about 40. I spent the morning walking up one of these to soak in the view from the Citadel. I the cruised by the Roman Theatre, stopping to enjoy a coffee in one of the numerous cafes, before resuming with a spot of shopping. I paid the princely sum of 25 fils (about A37 cents) for a delicious felafel and am currently working my way through the kilo of strawberries I bought at the fruit market (for about $3), which I might add I'm sharing with my fellow traveelers at the hotel.
With any luck the next couple of days will see me exploring Mt Nebo, the Dead Sea and the Roman ruins at Jerrash.
No comments:
Post a Comment