Israel & Jordan

Oh my, where to begin.  I cannot think of another place in the world that is more complex than Israel, with Jerusalem and the surrounding area being the epicenter of that complexity.  After touring the Old City for 5.5 hrs with Olga, a Russian immigrant of Israel who speaks six languages and has a PHD in biblical archaeology, my mind was blown!  Where else in the world do you have ancient history in a still active city, with three major world religions, one country (Israel) and one state (Palestine) all converging on it and claiming it in some capacity.  All sides have their arguments, all sides have done terrible things, still nothing is resolved.  A heavy place unlike any other.

My 2nd big solo trip of the year.  Is a pattern forming?  Trips with others are always better, but solo isn't bad, especially on a cultural / history trip like Israel and Jordan.

Let's start with Jordan which included Petra and Wadi Rum.  AWESOME.  I'd put Petra up there with Taj Mahal, Machu Picchu and Christ the Redeemer.  Beyond the famous mausoleum at the entrance (Al Khazneh), what I didn't know is there are a number of other epic sites in the area, carvings into rock that are thousands of years old.  Needed more than 4 hrs to explore.  Later that night, Wadi Rum bedouin camp was a great escape.  The location for Lawrence of Arabia and The Martian.  Definitely felt like Mars.

Palestine tour was fascinating, sad and eye opening.  As I said, many arguments can be made on all sides, but the recent momentum behind the Israeli settlements in the West Bank just doesn't feel right.  Disappointing to learn that ~15% of settlers are actually Americans, many from NY.

And Tel Aviv is totally different vs Jerusalem.  Beautiful Mediterranean beaches, nightlife along Rothschild Blvd and generally it felt like no worries.  Quite a contrast.