Jordan

We have arrived in Jordan and so far LOVE it.  We rented a small compact car (which we haven't named yet) and headed straight to the gas station since it was given to us with the gas light blinking.  Luckily we found petrol within 15 or 20 minutes.  Most of the signs are in Arabic with a few that have English inscriptions as well.  Driving anywhere near Amman is a bit crazy and made Toby second guess the idea of driving in this country.  It's entertaining to say the least trying to figure out their rules of the road.  At the petrol station we decided to head to a town of about 60,000 called Madaba.  Madaba is known for their mosaic architecture and seemed like a great place to start.

Once we arrived in Madaba and navigated the crazy streets, we found the visitors center and a map of town, shortly after that we found the Black Iris hotel.  A very simple hotel with basic rooms and bathrooms.  The owner is incredibly friendly and has been more than helpful in starting our adventure .  In fact so helpful and accommodating we haven't left yet.  They also serve breakfast each morning so we have eaten a lot of pita bread with hummus, fresh veggies, falafel, hard boiled eggs, date bread with homemade jellies and tea (and instant coffee).  It's nice because we all seem to be able to find what we like.  One of the kids rules this trip is NO COMPLAINTS ABOUT FOOD and so far so good.   Our first night we visited a Greek orthodox church with a mosaic tiled floor and an abundance of historical mosaic wall hangings.

On our second day we got up early and on the road to visit some castles.  The traffic was daunting at times but I just kind of laugh now when we are stuck between 2 large trucks with hay or sheep or other trucks and in 5 lanes of unorganized traffic and people crossing every which way.  Driving is an adventure in itself.  Once we were out in the dessert the traffic lessened.  After every Iraq sign 300km, 240km, 170km......Lex kept saying "I don't want to go to Iraq mom"  and we kept explaining we weren't going to Iraq we were going to Azraq, it just happened to be in the same direction as the border.  At one point we were only about 30km from the Saudi border as well.

The castles were all very different and were fun to explore. 

Today we ventured to the dead sea and tried to sink but were unable too.  The kids were convinced they would be able to walk on water but that was a no go too.  We spent the day at Amman beach were both locals and tourist come together to enjoy the sea and swimming pools for the day.  Sorry I don't have photo's up yet.  Maybe later.  Just wanted to give a quick update before we head out for dinner. Hope all is well at home.  Would love to hear from all of you and let us know if you have any questions!!