6
JORDAN
624 Kilometres – 18 Days
21-22 February – Nuweiba, Egypt – Aqaba, Jordan - 28 km
From Nuweiba, Egypt one could cycle via Israel and Lebanon to
Turkey, or take the ferry to Jordan and cycle via Syria. The
uncomplicated ferry to Jordan was a no-brainer as it was difficult or
near impossible to get into Syria with an Israeli stamp in the
passport. The ferry departed after five instead of three p.m., resulting
in us arriving in Jordan after dark and leaving an hour’s cycling at
night until reaching the city centre.
After a good night’s sleep, I spent the next day exploring our new
country and Aqaba while strolling along the beach, where Jordanians
swam fully clothed. However, two surprises awaited: firstly, things
were rather expensive as the Jordanian dinar was strong and,
secondly, it became clear Jordan was another mountainous country.
Aqaba’s old town, where we bunked down, offered an exciting dose of
ancient Arabia centred around a souq. These markets were
fascinating and allowed a peep into the Jordanian lifestyle. Cafés
were packed by men in kaffiyehs, smoking shisha pipes and sipping
the local brew. I imagined a camel as a more appropriate means of
transport than a bicycle. The market offered the best food in Aqaba
including delicious hummus. Unused to the currency, I bought one
JD’s falafel and received two full bags, enough for supper, breakfast
and lunch!