Solo Cultural Exploration at Feynan Ecolodge, Jordan

Arrival at Jordan's Hidden Gem

After months of planning and anticipation, I finally arrived at Feynan Ecolodge, nestled in the heart of Jordan's Dana Biosphere Reserve. The journey here was an adventure in itself, a world away from the bustling streets of Delft and a far cry from my work with international NGOs. I traded my usual tailored pantsuit for lightweight clothing, ready to embrace the desert heat and the unique experiences that awaited.


Discover the enchanting Feynan Ecolodge in Jordan, where luxury meets sustainability in the heart of nature's beauty.

My day began with an early morning flight from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Amman. It’s always a bit of a bittersweet moment, leaving Jan behind, even for a short while. He sends me off with a kiss and a reminder to journal every thought, every detail, for the blog. Layla called just before I boarded, wishing me luck and teasing me about finally ‘roughing it’ a little. I chuckled; she knows my penchant for comfortable accommodations, but this trip is different. This is about connecting with something deeper, something more authentic.

The flight was uneventful, but the anticipation kept me wide awake. As we descended into Amman, the landscape transformed from the familiar greens of Europe to the arid, ochre hues of Jordan. After landing, I met my local transfer, a friendly Bedouin man named Omar, who greeted me with a warm smile and a traditional Arabic coffee. The drive to Feynan Ecolodge Reception Centre (parking) was an experience in itself. We bumped along desert tracks, the landscape unfolding in a panorama of rocky mountains and endless skies. It was a stark contrast to the manicured gardens of my Delft home, but I found a strange sense of peace in the vast emptiness.


Discover the beauty of nature and sustainable living at Feynan Ecolodge Reception Centre in the heart of Jordan's wilderness.

We arrived at the Feynan Ecolodge Reception Centre, where I left the bulk of my luggage. The final stretch to the lodge required a four-wheel-drive, and the change in vehicles was a clear signal that I was entering a different world. As we drove, Omar shared stories of the local Bedouin communities and their deep connection to the land. He spoke of sustainable living, of respecting nature, and of the challenges they face in a rapidly changing world. It struck me how similar their struggles were to those of other marginalized communities I’ve worked with through my NGO, albeit in vastly different contexts.

Finally, we reached the lodge. It was even more stunning than the photos I had seen online. Built of local stone and designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, Feynan Ecolodge is a beacon of sustainable tourism. There’s no electricity grid here; everything is powered by solar energy, and the lodge operates with a minimal environmental footprint. The absence of artificial light adds to the charm, creating a serene and magical atmosphere.

The beauty of simplicity lies in its ability to reveal the essence of life.

After settling into my room, which was simply furnished but incredibly comfortable, I made my way to the dining area for breakfast. The lodge offers a vegetarian buffet with an array of local and international dishes. The food was delicious, fresh, and bursting with flavor. I savored every bite, knowing that the ingredients were locally sourced and prepared with care. It was a refreshing change from the processed foods that often dominate our modern diets.

The morning was spent exploring the lodge and its surroundings. I wandered through the central courtyard, admiring the traditional architecture and the intricate details of the design. The lodge has 26 rooms, each decorated with local textiles and crafts. The staff were incredibly welcoming, always ready with a smile and a story to share. I felt immediately at home, a sense of belonging that transcended cultural differences.

For lunch, I dined at The way to Vinan, a charming spot that offered a delightful array of local cuisine. The flavors were rich and authentic, providing a true taste of Jordanian culture. I tried a variety of mezze, including hummus, baba ghanoush, and falafel, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. It was a culinary journey that transported me to the heart of the Middle East.


Experience authentic Jordanian cuisine amidst breathtaking views at The Way to Vinan in Dana Village.

In the afternoon, I visited the Feynan Ecolodge shop, a treasure trove of local crafts and artisan goods. I purchased a few souvenirs, including a hand-woven scarf and a set of traditional Bedouin coffee cups. Each item was a testament to the skill and artistry of the local community, a tangible reminder of my time in Feynan. The shop supports local artisans, providing them with a sustainable source of income and preserving their cultural heritage. As someone deeply involved in cultural heritage preservation, I found this aspect of the lodge particularly inspiring.


Experience the beauty of Jordan at Feynan Ecolodge, where sustainability and comfort meet in a stunning natural setting.

As the sun began to set, I found a quiet spot on the rooftop terrace to reflect on my first day. The sky was ablaze with color, a breathtaking panorama of orange, pink, and purple hues. The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional call of a desert bird. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the simple beauty that exists in the world. I thought of Jan and Layla, wishing they could share this moment with me. Perhaps one day, I’ll bring them back to Feynan, to experience the magic for themselves.

For dinner, I enjoyed a meal at Fienanas Way Restaurant, another culinary gem that showcased the best of Jordanian cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food was simply divine. I savored each dish, appreciating the unique blend of flavors and spices. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Jordanian cuisine at Fienanas Way Restaurant in Dana, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and culinary traditions.

As darkness fell, the lodge transformed into a candlelit wonderland. The soft glow of the candles created a magical ambiance, casting long shadows and highlighting the intricate details of the architecture. I joined a group of fellow travelers on the rooftop for a stargazing session. Far from the light pollution of the city, the night sky was a tapestry of stars, a breathtaking display of cosmic beauty. One of the local guides, Ali, pointed out constellations and shared stories of ancient Bedouin astronomers. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of our place in the vast universe.

Before retiring to my room, I sat in the courtyard, sipping a cup of herbal tea and listening to the sounds of the desert. The air was cool and crisp, and the stars twinkled above. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this opportunity to connect with nature, to learn about a different culture, and to discover a new part of myself. As I drifted off to sleep, I knew that this was just the beginning of an incredible journey.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Wadi Finan and the Green Oasis. I am eager to see more of the natural beauty of this area and to learn more about the local flora and fauna. I also hope to visit Faynan Heritage Home to delve deeper into the history and traditions of the Bedouin people. I am particularly interested in learning about their traditional crafts and their sustainable way of life.

This solo trip to Feynan Ecolodge is more than just a vacation; it’s a pilgrimage, a quest for authenticity and connection. It's a chance to step outside my comfort zone, to challenge my assumptions, and to embrace the unknown. And as I reflect on my first day, I realize that I am exactly where I need to be, surrounded by beauty, simplicity, and the warmth of human connection. Perhaps, in this remote corner of Jordan, I will find a new perspective on life, a new appreciation for the things that truly matter. And perhaps, just perhaps, I will find a way to bring a little bit of this magic back home with me, to share with Jan, Layla, and the world.

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I realize that I forgot my power adapter for Jordan. I will need to charge my devices at the front desk, which offers limited internet service. I also wish I had brought my binoculars for stargazing. I will make sure to pack these essentials on my next trip. For now, I am content with the simple pleasures of Feynan Ecolodge, the warmth of the community, and the beauty of the desert landscape.