Profile
Blog
Photos
Videos
Zaid's entry: I was planning on heading down to the Roman theatre today which is located in downtown Amman (see Jebel al-Qala'a photo album for a view of the theatre) but decided at the last minute to travel to a town called Salt about 45km NW of Amman. My dad joined me as well which was great! He had never stopped in Salt before, only just passed through it in his army days - it definitely is a unique place to visit so I'm glad we had the chance.
Salt is apparently the oldest municipality in Jordan. It was in fact supposed to be the capital of the country when Jordan was created but King Abdullah I had a falling out with Salt politicians and hence decided to move the capital to Amman. The city itself sits on three hills and as such, some of the streets are unbelievably steep - its a wonder that people would even consider placing a city here (see photo album). Its unknown when the area was first inhabited but its been since at least 1200 AD. Salt is well-known for its Ottoman architecture which dates from the late 19th-early 20th century. I have to say, the sights of the houses were quite breathtaking.
When we got to Salt, we entered into the market area. The streets were packed car-to-car so we parked right away. I left my dad to have some tea and I took off to the market area of the city by foot. It was what you might expect a old-time market to be like - cobblestone streets packed with people, unique smells, people shouting advertising their goods, etc. This was really great. I stopped bv a shop of trinkets/spices etc. and a man was playing a one-stringed instrument (I can't remember what its called now). He invited me in to his shop, asked me to sit down and chatted with me for a bit trying to tell me what I should see while I'm in Salt. He continuously repeated "Welcome, welcome" - extremely friendly people.
After roaming the markets we drove to the top of one of the hills to get a view of the city below form the residential areas up top. The streets were crazy! So steep, so busy, and just one lane! In a matter of minutes we had to back up going up a hill with a cliff-face right beside us!!! to allow another vehicle to pass. Sheesh.
Finally, before leaving I found a little handicraft shop (similar to that in Iraq al-Amir but smaller) so stepped in to have a look. It was quite nice, some nice little souvenir-type things inside. I tried haggling with the ladies inside for a couple of things but no-go. Oh well.
I decided that I wanted to try driving in Jordan so I took the wheel and started back the 45km to Amman. Overall, it wasn't too bad. It takes a bit of getting used to the fact that people straddle lines (I think to maintain options), change lanes without signaling, will approach to within inches of your vehicle, etc. but overall it was fairly comfortable. There's plenty of roundabouts here and at first these seem like everyman for himself but there apparently is a method to the madness. I think I need to go out an practice a bit more before I'll feel comfortable going it alone.
Not sure what my plans are for tomorrow. I'll figure it out sooner or later...
- comments
Bonny and Neal Keep touring the historical sites and avoiding the protests! Be safe!
Zaid Yes. Will do! Though they are peaceful and safe for the most part, things in this end of the world are always precarious. We'll be safe!
Aunt Pat I've enjoyed all the info you've given us Zaid. Pretty good documentary of all the places you've been too. It's just like being there. Too bad we aren't together. Say hi to all. good to here Dad was okay to travel. Love Aunt Pat --- PS I think that instrument is called a RaBaBa(spelling???) We have one of those here.
Aunt Pat I wanted to give you a 5 star rating. Be careful of all the protesting. Love Aunt Pat
Zaid Thanks for the one-star rating Aunt Pat!!! Yes - it would be great if you guys were here too. Next time hopefully...
Zaid You're right Aunt Pat - it's called a Rababa!