Exploring the Timeless Wonders of Petra with Family

Farewell, Petra!

As our Jordanian adventure nears its end, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family in Wadi Musa. Today was all about soaking in the last bits of this ancient city, from delving into its history at the museum to wandering through the local markets of Wadi Musa. It's bittersweet, knowing we'll soon be heading back to Bonn, but the memories we've made here will undoubtedly last a lifetime.


Discover Wadi Musa, the enchanting gateway to Petra, where ancient history meets stunning landscapes in the heart of Jordan.

Our final day in Petra began with a hearty breakfast at the Petra Sky Terrace Restaurant. The view from up there was simply breathtaking – a panoramic vista of Petra that has captivated travelers for centuries. Sipping on strong Arabic coffee while the kids enjoyed their pancakes, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this moment. Klaus was busy snapping pictures, trying to capture the beauty one last time, while Aisha and Malik chattered excitedly about their favorite parts of the trip. It was a perfect start to the day.


Experience exquisite dining at Petra Sky Terrace Restaurant with breathtaking views over ancient ruins in Wadi Musa.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Petra Museum. I had heard wonderful things about it, and it did not disappoint! The museum is located near the entrance of the Petra Archaeological Park. Inside, we discovered a treasure trove of artifacts dating back to different ages. The museum contains 280 artifacts, showcasing the history of Petra and offering insights into the Nabataean way of life. There were five halls, each dedicated to a different aspect of Petra's story – from its origins to its zenith. Aisha was particularly fascinated by the jewelry and pottery, while Malik was glued to the displays about Nabataean engineering. I was captivated by the multimedia experience, which took us on a virtual tour of Petra, highlighting its unique architecture and history. It was a fantastic way to deepen our understanding of this incredible place. The museum truly brings the ancient city to life, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Petra.


Discover the treasures of Nabatean history at Petra Museum in Wadi Musa, a gateway to the wonders of Petra's ancient civilization.

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to Wadi Musa, the town that serves as the gateway to Petra. We wanted to experience a bit of local life and pick up some souvenirs before heading home. Wadi Musa, meaning Valley of Moses in Arabic, is a bustling town with a population of around 15,000. As we strolled through the streets, we saw a mix of modern buildings and traditional shops. The town's economy is largely dependent on tourism. We stopped by the Old Village Gift Shop. I was on the hunt for something special to remember our trip by. The shop had a wide array of handcrafted souvenirs and local artisan treasures. I finally settled on a beautiful, hand-painted ceramic plate depicting the Treasury. Aisha chose a small, intricately carved camel figurine, while Malik opted for a traditional Jordanian keffiyeh. I thought it was a fitting memento of our time here.


Explore the Old Village Gift Shop in Wadi Musa for handcrafted souvenirs and local artisan treasures that embody Jordan's rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, we decided to try the Rainbow Restaurant, which I had read about in several travel blogs. It was a cozy little place, and the aroma of Middle Eastern spices filled the air. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including hummus, falafel, and shawarma. The food was delicious, and the kids especially loved the falafel. It was a satisfying and authentic Jordanian meal.


Experience authentic Jordanian cuisine alongside fast food favorites at Rainbow Restaurant in Wadi Musa - perfect for every traveler.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of Wadi Musa. We learned that the town dates back thousands of years and has been inhabited probably as long as Petra itself. In fact, among its population, you can find Bedouins who arrived here from 1985, when Petra was declared a World Heritage Site and the last inhabitants of that place had to leave that historical enclave. We walked past local houses and schools. It was interesting to see how tourism has dramatically changed the way the locals live. I also learned about the Arab Revolt against the Ottomans. The locals inflicted a bitter defeat on the Ottoman troops in 1917. I found myself reflecting on the layers of history that permeate this place.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back to our accommodation to freshen up before dinner. For our final meal in Petra, we chose Sandstone Restaurant, known for its Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. The atmosphere was cheerful, and the service was prompt. Klaus and I enjoyed a glass of Jordanian wine, while the kids devoured their pasta. It was a relaxed and enjoyable end to a busy day.


Discover culinary excellence at Sandstone in Wadi Musa, where local flavors meet global tastes in an inviting atmosphere.

Before heading back to our hotel, we took one last stroll through Wadi Musa as the sun began to set. The buildings were bathed in shades of gold, brown, and cream. We listened to the Adhan calling Muslims to prayer from the mosque's minaret. It was a truly magical moment.

The weather in Petra in January can be quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 13°C. We were sure to pack layers and warm jackets, which came in handy, especially in the evenings. Despite the cold, the clear skies and sunshine made for pleasant days of exploring. We were lucky to have avoided any rain during our visit, although January is known to have some rainfall.

As I sit here tonight, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. We came to Petra seeking adventure and cultural immersion, and we found it in abundance. From the awe-inspiring Treasury to the bustling streets of Wadi Musa, every moment has been a learning experience for me and my family. I am so glad we made the journey, and I know that the memories we've created here will stay with us forever.

Tomorrow, we will begin our journey back to Amman, where we will catch our flight back to Bonn. It's time to say goodbye to Jordan, but I know that this is not the end of our adventures. The world is vast and full of wonders, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for me and my family.

Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. Until next time!

As we prepare to leave Jordan, I am reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta, a famous Moroccan scholar and explorer:

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”

Indeed, this trip has left me speechless at times, but now I am filled with stories to tell.

Until our next adventure!

I'm already looking forward to sharing our next family adventure with you all. Perhaps we'll explore more of Europe, or maybe venture further afield to Asia or South America. The possibilities are endless! But for now, it's time to bid farewell to Jordan and cherish the memories we've made in this magical land.

And to my dear readers, remember that travel is not just about seeing new places, it's about opening your mind, connecting with different cultures, and creating lasting memories with your loved ones. So, pack your bags, gather your family, and embark on your own adventure. You won't regret it!

Safe travels, everyone!

This trip to Petra has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of discovery, connection, and appreciation. As a Syrian woman living in Germany, I often find myself reflecting on the importance of cultural understanding and the power of shared experiences. Petra, with its rich history and diverse influences, has been a perfect example of how different cultures can come together to create something truly extraordinary. I am grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family and with all of you, my readers. May our travels always inspire us to be more open-minded, compassionate, and appreciative of the world around us.

Thank you again for joining us on this adventure. Until next time, farewell from Petra!

As the sun sets over the ancient city, I am filled with a sense of peace and contentment. Petra, you have captured our hearts, and we will never forget you.