Try Petra for an Exotic Honeymoon

Petra, recently named one of New Seven Wonders of the World, is a city carved out of the limestone amidst the desert in southern Jordan. The fabled "red rose" city of Nabataea, was covered by the desert and "lost" to the western world from the 14^th to the 19^th century. Because of this, the site is amazingly well preserved and now welcomes visitors, including intrepid couples on their honeymoons.

Petra's History

The city of Petra dates back to the 6^th century BC, when it was the thriving capital of the Nabatean Empire, and later a vital trading link in the Roman Empire. An earthquake in the 7^th century AD, and the city's subsequent occupation by the Saladin Turks, left Petra abandoned. It was not "rediscovered" by the west until the 19^th century. More recently, Petra has become a popular tourist destination after it was featured in the Steven Spielberg movie, "Indiana Jones and Last Crusade."

Attractions

There's spectacular to see in all directions at Petra. Like the Grand Canyon or Ephesus in Turkey, it's one of those sites that must be experienced in person. Among the highlights at Petra are:

• The Siq – The long winding sandstone canyon leading to Petra contains some ancient drawings as well as remnants of Roman aqueducts.

• The Treasury or Al-Khazneh — The most widely recognized of the sights at Petra, this massive façade was carved directly into the stone face of the limestone cliff. It was created in the 1^st century, originally as a tomb for an important Nabatean king.

• The Monastery or El-Dier – Built in the 1^st century, this is the largest carved monument at Petra. Beware: there are 800 steps leading up to the entrance.

• Roman Theater – This 7000-seat amphitheater, built by the Nabateans and enhanced by the Romans is still used occasionally for concerts and special events.

• Wadi Rum – Located about an hour's drive south of Petra, this scenic desert valley was a haunt of Lawrence of Arabia and was the site of the l962 movie about his life. Today, private vehicles are prohibited, but you can hire a private camel or 4-wheel drive tour.

Getting to Petra

Visitors to Petra fly into the International Airport at Amman, Jordan and travel the two hours by bus or private car.

A valid passport and a Jordanian visa are required for entry into the country. Residents of the United States, Canada, the UK, and most European countries can obtain this visa upon entry into Jordan.

Where to Stay

Petra's recent popularity has brought an array of accommodations to nearby Wadi Musa. Among the best of these are the Marriott, the Grand View Hotel, and the luxurious Taybet Zaman Hotel and Resort, whose rooms are all located in individual houses and designed in traditional Bedouin style.

Image:

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(copyright istockphoto; licensed to Wedding Wizards)

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