Visiting Jordan

Today I floated in the Dead Sea again. This is the third visit for me. Because it is December there were very few people around. Only the hardy ones braved the cold (23C) to swim. The hotel also had a indoor great pool and spa area. It is about 40 minutes from Amman straight down hill all the way. We were 400 metres below sea level. The Sea is shrinking, too. the water levels were at least 10 metres lower than they were the last time we were here. There is lots of development on both sides. Hotels etc on the Jordanian side and more lights from the communities across the Sea … Jerusalem is closest. An ancient city ….. the contrast with Modern Amman is interesting.

I find it interesting being here again.  Time and space … so linked.  I feel as though I have never left.  The feeling of familiarity grows.  My dad once described living in the Middle East like living on another planet.  Life is different here.  Even three years ago it was more different then it is now.  American Fast food outlets abound in Amman.  There are three shopping malls now.  Westerns must feel more at home.  I am not so sure how the Jordanians feel.  They are adapting.  That’s what they do.  They are peaceful people and they welcome everyone and their culture.

It rained today and it was foggy.  The driving is frantic in good weather.  Today was even more exciting.  Lunch and then spa and then dinner.  Not a bad way to spend a Monday.  Great hosts in a great, growing city.  Amman is two or maybe even three times the size it was on my last trip. The growth is evident in the traffic and yet people remain pleasant as they remind you of their needs with their horns.

I am beginning to really enjoy this place and its people.