Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

First glimpse of The Treasury at Petra, having walked through the Siq. The expert knowledge of Mikhled explaining the various carvings added greatly to the experience. The sheer expanse and quiet of the desert at Wadi Rum was awesome.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mikhled was an excellent leader who was hugely knowledgeable and was able to communicate effectively without overloading us with facts and figures. He was happy to elabarte on any topic when requested. He was very organised, had a good sense of humour, and never got flustered. It was unfortunate that the late arrival on day 1 and early start on day 2 meant that our group didn't get a proper chance to introduce ourselves. With a large group of 20 this was a slight disadvantage which took a couple of days to resolve.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take Jordanian Dinars with you (rather than US Dollars). The Trip Notes need revison on this matter. The Petra Visitor Centre had a 3 D model of the Petra site which was very useful in giving an understanding of the physical relationship of the various sites and monuments. The Visitor Centre and Petra Museum should be mentioned in the Trip Notes. Travel light. There are plenty of opportunities to wash and dry clothes.

Suggestions

We had two meals out with Jordanian families. The first was excellent, with the dignified host and family talking about Jordanian family life and mingling with the group. We opted out of "Petra By Night" to have a "Mansaf" meal at the second family. While the food was enjoyable, the evening was not a success as the host "Jeff" dominated the evening and conversation in a manner which caused us to be distinctly uncomfortable. In retrospect we would much rather have exerienced "Petra By Night" and eaten Mansaf at a local restaurant. While we understand the need to use trusted hosts, the fact that "Jeff" was hosting our group of 16, as well as the Exodus Cycling group and an American couple (all in different rooms), did not seem to meet the objective of helping (a number of) local families. The Edom hotel in Wadi Musa was excellenty positioned but our room was not clean and had a view of a rubble and rubbish pile out of the window (photos available!). At Wadi Rum, the Trip Notes advised that we would "learn about Bedouin culure and music through interacting with the family who run the camp". This did not happen.

Most Inspirational Moment

The 2 days in Petra

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fantastic - very knowledgeable

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for quite a lot of easy climbing

Suggestions

Highly recommended

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking through the canyon, catching my first glimpse of the Treasury in Petra brought tears to my eyes. I grew up reading about it in National Geographic, watching documentaries, and finally I was there. In person. It is overwhelming to say the ver least.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mikhled was the perfect balance of presence & availability. He advised approximate costs of items, how to negotiate, sometimes did it for us. He included everyone in the group decisions, and he often provided snacks & treats when necessity stops were made. Mikhled shared his knowledge & love of his country and culture with us. Any minor issues were promptly addressed and resolved as best as possible. He has such a great sense of humor and truly the patience of a saint. Absolutely ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go! It is a vastly gorgeous country. Every day was a new surprise. The experience blew away any expectations I had. We are here for less than a blink of an eye. See as much of this world as you can, WHILE you can.

Suggestions

Exodus, please include details in the trip notes about “dry hotels”, camping in Wadi Rum, and shockingly abrasive wind. As I’m sure you are aware many western folks like a drink, especially while vacationing. I feel safe in assuming most people who travel are aware of cultural differences, but some of us make assumptions about availability in tourist areas. I’ve never heard of a “dry hotel” and wasn’t entirely sure what that meant. It would be beneficial to have that information beforehand. Secondly, the hotel in Petra. At first glance we were all excited only to have carpets that weren’t clean, beds that were more like bounce houses, shower doors falling off the hinges, and one morning without hot water. I travel for work and leisure so have a certain expectation when it comes to lodging. The Edom Hotel did not meet them. The physical location was great and I believe that if the hotel were to correct these housekeeping problems it would be infinitely better. Secondly, the “camping” in Wadi Rum. Having been on a previous tour that included desert “camping” I had an idea of what to expect. Most in our group had not and were quite frankly dreading it. There are various styles of camping, from the most base level of “roughing it” to “glamping” with all the amenities & modern day comforts. More detailed information would have prevented many from unnecessary worry. The “glamping” in Wadi Rum was absolutely lovely. The people, location, food, and accommodations were warm and inviting. I am NOT an outdoorsy camper. That was my kind of camping! Lastly, the wind at Mount Nebo and Karak were shocking to say the least. No one has any control over Mother Nature. However, informing travelers of the climate and extraordinary winds would be helpful in preparing and packing. There were a few times I was concerned about losing my footing due to the 40mph+ winds. Again, no one has any control over that it is simply providing unsuspecting travelers of the possibility of it. I believe Exodus can do better with providing detailed information to travelers and addressing housekeeping concerns with hotels to ensure happier guests. All that being said, it was an amazing experience and I will sing the praises of Jordan to any and all willing to listen. My life has been enriched with the journey through this remarkable country.

Most Inspirational Moment

`entering the area by the Treasury having walked along the Siq. the place just kept giving and two days there are essential in order to take it all in and walk the walk everywhere. excellent

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mikheld is a very gentle soul who in true jordanian style wants all of the group to have a great experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

None. Go with an open mind and a mixture of travel wear just as you would for any other trip - the Wadi Rum experience was fantastic but take an extra little bag with your swim stuff for the next day and leave it on the coach overnight..then your packing is much easier.

Suggestions

Not really. I will be back!

Most Inspirational Moment

For me there were two: Discovering the vast area of Petra beyond the Treasury was sensational. We drank tea at the Place of High Sacrifice and took a lesser-trodden route back – the scenery was simply stunning! Wadi Rum was amazing – an overnight in a tent in the desert is an experience not to be missed – the evening meal was delicious!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our guide Mikhled, was a real ambassador for his homeland. Demonstrating he loved his job, he shared his passion for Jordan with the group. He was professional, caring and at all times determined that our holiday would be the best he could organise. His choice of restaurants and lunches was a feast for the palette and gave a great introduction into Jordanian cuisine. The cooking class he organised allowed us to make some of the dishes ourselves (the recipes were sent to the group to allow us to try at home). Mikhled was at all times courteous, smiling and able to keep the group amused with his dry sense of humor. When difficulties arose, he was able to support and help to find a solution. Thank you Mikhled for making our week such a special experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The trip gives a lot but also expects a lot from each group member. It is vital that each person takes responsibility for themselves, their belongings and their timekeeping. It is important not to overestimate your fitness or underestimate the physical demands necessary in such a trip. There are many vista rewards for walking and climbing the age old routes but good footwear is an absolute must. The temperature range is quite diverse (from 8-20 degrees during our week) depending on which location is being visited. Make sure you have layers, warm clothes and a hat as well as swimming gear. For the Red and Dead sea we took water shoes which protected our feet from coral and sharp rocks. A lunch pack is available in Petra – this is a great option as you can choose your stop based on where you are rather than where food is available for purchase. Take a small backpack as you will need to carry the lunch pack. Not all ATM’s work with all UK bank passes so it’s a good idea to get a few Jordanian Dinars before leaving or at the airport to make sure you have money as necessary. There are lots of opportunities for shopping and cash is sometimes preferable. We used about 350 dinars per person during the week.

Suggestions

This is a once in a lifetime trip – make sure you take advantage of everything on offer and approach each day with an open mind (especially the additional activities cooking class, meal with a family, Little Petra, camel ride and Turkish baths). You will be rewarded with a glorious week in the absolute gem that is Jordan!

Most Inspirational Moment

Our guide Amer's passion for his country had my attention and was inspiring the entire week

Thoughts on Group Leader

There are not enough good things to say about Amer. He is an asset to his country of Jordan and to Exodus

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for the trip of a lifetime. This is a magical place to visit.

Most Inspirational Moment

2 full day Petra stay and desert stay.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Get to the airport at least 3 hours before to prepare the manually check in and long queue if you take flight with Royal Jordanian.

Most Inspirational Moment

The realisation that the history of the three significant Abrahamic religions surrounded me in this region. I went to see Petra, The Red and Dead Seas, I came away with so much more. Roman Jerash, Mount Nebu and Moses, the Baptism site of Jesus Christ no less, (optional extra, everyone took).

Thoughts on Group Leader

This is our third Exodus trip and as with the two previous it is the Group Leader who made it an exceptional experience. Amer, a warm, eloquent Jordanian with four relevant degrees brought the history, religions and politics of the region to life with clear chronological explanations drawn from the sites we visited. You felt totally confident in his care, bus broken down near Wadi Rum, replacement arrives within 20 mins - impressive for the middle of nowhere.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you're transiting through Heathrow be prepared for very lengthy delays, not quite as bad as Manchester, but pretty appalling still, with little care for passenger wellbeing. Try to drink plenty on the plane as there is nothing for the couple of hours it takes to transit from one terminal to the other via yet another security check.

Suggestions

There's a lot of litter beside the roads in the towns and cities, but the main sites are well cared for. This is a minor distraction compared to the quality of the experience. Everyone on our tour thoroughly enjoyed the trip, amazing country and outstanding guide from Exodus as usual.

Most Inspirational Moment

Petra was of course breathtaking. It was much bigger than expected and had so much to discover. I knew that would be amazing and it did not disappoint. We also got to have dinner with a local family which was a trip highlight for myself and the rest of the group. The family were so welcoming and the food was delicious. We were able to see a small glimpse of the locals' life which they were happy to share with us which i will never forget.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mouayad was amazing. I feel extremely lucky to have been shown Jordan by such a knowledgeable, friendly and patient person. Mouayad is so passionate about his country which is so lovely to see. He made everyone feel welcome and always had a smile on his face. Our trip was made even more special because of Mouayad.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you are interested in seeing the best parts of Jordan then book this trip! It is a full packed trip so expect to be busy.

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking around the corner to see the Treasury at Petra Hiking up to the high place alter in Petra. The Night Sky in Wadi Rum. Diving the Cedar Pride in Aqaba. Mud bathing in the Dead Sea I know that is 6 but couldn't wittle it down any more

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fadi did an excellent job and managed somehow to keep us mostly pointed in the right direction. He manged to get every thing done and made the trip super easy for us all.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Great Trip. If you are a diver there is a dive centre at the beach so you can arrange a dive for yourself if you so desire. Obviuosly this is not part of the trip :-)