Vision Quest: Four Icons in Jordan
From the moment you arrive in Jordan – known for its layered landscapes, historical attractions and cosmopolitan culture – you know you’re in for something special. In celebration of Tequila Komos recent unveiling in the country, we’re checking out a few sites, scenes and sounds outside Amman’s bustling city limits. A small country about the size of Portugal, Jordan’s unique milieu defies the laws of nature as we know it; Mediterranean climate mixed with Greco-Roman ruins, arid desert landscapes and the famed Dead Sea. Below, a foursome of not-to-miss experiences in Jordan.
FLOAT IN THE DEAD SEA
About 45 minutes from Amman, a drive during which you’ll descend from 3,000 feet above sea level to 1,400 feet below (also known to be the lowest point on the planet), will bring you to the biblical referenced Dead Sea, long known for its rich natural minerals and healing therapeutic waters. A place where the salt is known to be 10 times as much as the oceans, making floating an easy feat. The benefits of soaking in the world’s oldest natural spa? Soft buttery skin like Cleopatra, also helping remove skin impurities and aiding in skin disorders.
Stay: Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea; Set on the shores of the Dead Sea, this massive pale stone, 5-star luxury hotel features 345-rooms, whose split-level, 3-bed villas are anchored by small pools. Convenient to Jordan’s historical sites – Petra and the Roman ruins at Jerash, eat a lovely meal at Obelisk, or visit the spa for a massage or mineral-infused scrub using it ingredients from the sea. Or simply make use of why you came in the first place – enjoy a float on the sea.
WHAT TO DO
The arid, bone-dry climate of Wadi Rum (translation: “Valley of Sand'') is the scene of this otherworldly, Mars-like 280-mile desert sprawl made famous by Lawrence of Arabia and The Rise of Skywalker. An epic sight to behold, you’ll find red sandstone cliffs, up to 5,550 feet, dovetailing with colossal rock outcroppings and golden-rust colored sand. Guarding the valley entrance is the “Seven Pillars of Wisdom” – an ideal gateway for untouched nature and the vast rhythms of the desert. If you want to feel small, you’ve come to the right place.
STAY: Discovery Bedu Camp Outside a cluster of tents, you’ll find a meld of swinging daybeds and delicious Bedouin-style, coal-fired pots with meat, vegetables and freekah. To sip, there’s mint lemonade and come night, views of the starry cosmos (if you’re lucky, clear, interrupted sightings of the Milky Way). Choose your own adventure with hiking, camelback exploration, hot air ballooning (sunrise is ideal) or cruise around the sand dunes on a 4x4.
PETRA
Petra, in the southern part of Jordan, is the most celebrated of must-sees. An awe-inducing mile-long gorge made of red-pink sandstone narrows to reveal The Treasury, the legendary tomb facade that graces the cover of the guidebooks. Keep your eyes peeled for decorative elements left inside by the Nabateans; who roamed the place around 400 B.C. To avoid the crowds, plan an evening visit and opt for the silent, candle-lit tour through the Siq (a rock slit) as it gives way to the iconic Treasury.
STAY: Day trippers can drive from Petra back to Amman and stay at the Ritz Carlton; perched atop the city’s highest of the famed Seven Hills and featuring a rooftop pool, spa, and several eating venues. If you enlist in Petra’s night tour, drop your bags at The Movenpick Resort Petra, whose spa has a handsome hammam (with mud wraps) and a rooftop eatery with stellar views.
THE RED SEA’S AQABA
An emerging port town located on the Red Sea, Aqaba couples its surrounding rugged mountains with a still-sleepy, fishing-village vibe alongside ample shopping and a nightlife circuit. Water lovers and adventuresome types will enjoy windsurfing, snorkeling and scuba diving – as the coral reefs are still intact.
STAY: Set on the sandy shores of the Red Sea, the curved contour of Kempinski Aqaba hosts a private beach dotted with chic umbrellas and loungers; there’s also a large infinity pool and 200 minimalist, coastal-inspired blue-and-white guest rooms.
FOR THE ART INCLINED
In Webdieh, Dar Al Fanan, founded in 1988, includes a cluster of six renovated historical homes (from the 1920s) and warehouses dedicated to art exhibits and residences. You can also enjoy the ancient ruins of a 6th Byzantine century church and old cave inside a restored garden.
WHERE TO SIP KOMOS
First things first, the Ritz Carlton offers several spots to enjoy Komos, including a chic pool bar perfect for refreshing margaritas; and on the 20th floor, Roberto’s “La Dolce Vita” inspired Italian eatery pouring curated cocktails with sweeping city views. In Swefieh Village, Brasserie Julie serves bistro fare with several Komos drinks (obviously, don’t skip the french fries). Nearby, Fyxx doubles as a svelte, dimly-lit bar and liquor store for all your tequila Komos needs (you can also nab natural wines and cigars).
Also in the back of a liquor store, 13C (aka "Bar in the Back" for those who know) is billed as a speakeasy wine bar with raw bar delights, global juices and Komos (might we suggest pouring it neat). Meanwhile Alibi mixes its modern Middle Eastern cuisine with tequila cocktails, beer and wine. Perched on a rooftop of the Shepherd Hotel, you’ll find District slinging buzzy cocktails with stellar views.
And you won’t want to miss Mama Gaia, situated within Ayla Aqaba and hosting a swanky Sardinian-Jordanian eatery, a sultry nightclub called OUM, and a relaxing pool area.
