There are few locations in the world that remain as enduring and ageless as the magnificent yet sedate Wadi Rum. It’s longevity is perhaps because time shifts so gradually to the leisurely beat of life. It is conceivable that even the heartbeats of the indigenous Bedouin tribes tick that increment slower, with their face-wide smiles and calm presence. Wadi Rum was romanticised in T.E. Lawrence's magnus opus 'The Seven Pillars of Wisdom’ who described it as ‘vast, echoing and god-like’. Inevitably comparisons will be drawn with the renowned Petra, but it was certainly not overshadowed for me, metaphorically or physically with the epic Jebel Rum reaching the soaring height of 1754m.

The desert of Wadi Rum, however, is not what you would conventionally expect. As if grandiosely carved by divine means, the region known as Wadi Rum is actually a series of valleys about 2km wide stretching north to south for about 130km, found in Jordan. The dunes are formed with a radiant red sand and are accompanied by a glorious backdrop of majestic rock formations. Besides the extraordinary desert scenes, you are also able to visit Khaz'ali Canyon, the site of petroglyphs etched into the cave walls depicting humans and antelopes dating back to the Thamudic times, or Lawrence spring, a large crevice in a canyon with ancient inscriptions as well as what is regarded as Lawrence’s house.

Days flow by so effortlessly, I recommend staying at least one night. You can organise a tour by jeep and night accommodation with a Bedouin tribe through an organisation. At the end of the day of touring, we retired back inside the tent, to be fed some of the most mouthwatering food, baked in an under-ground oven. After we were treated to the soporific rhapsodies of a tribe member, and then to confirm what was already an unforgettable day, we dragged our beds outside and slept under the opulent glimmer of the stars. It is the towering mountains that speak louder than the hubbub of a city ever could.

Wadi Rum can be found in the South of Jordan. You can reach it by taxi or bus from either Petra or Aqaba.
Google map: bit.ly/cEaGfO
I also recommend organising the company on arrival, because you will be able to haggle on arrival for a cheaper price.

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If you look beyond the much celebrated souks of Damascus and Marrakesh, a brilliantly understated example are the souks of Tripoli. There is something about this place off the beaten track, that really preserve an air of adventure. Teaming with narrow alleyways, pungent aromas, vibrant fabrics and steamy hammams, it is an unforgettable experience. If you fancy a snack, the town is famed for its speciality sweet, 'haliwat al-jibn', which can be found in numerous outlets. However, my favourite feature was to be found within the Souk al-Sayyaghin. In the 18th Century, Tripoli was famed for its soap, and a small factory can be visited. The humble workers show you around the small surroundings, while explaining the process, before offering a plethora of soaps of all shapes, scents and sizes. Available for very reasonable prices.

Soap shop: Bader Hassoun
Phone: 03-438 369
Found just off Al-Kind Arjieh St.

Google map: tinyurl.com/34xblno

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