Ahlan wa sahlan! ?Welcome to Jordan!? Its the first and sometimes only piece of English most Jordanians learn, and from the Bedouin of Wadi Rum to the taxi drivers of the Amman, you will be on the receiving end of this mantra every day. It is this open-armed welcome that makes travel in Jordan such a delight. In the midst of a very tough neighbourhood, Jordan retains a calmer air, a peacefulness not prevalent in surrounding countries. One thing that overwhelms travellers in Jordan is the sense of history, with every stone seemingly carrying some historical significance. But Jordan is also a place to put down the history books and get active. Drive along the coast of Aqaba, trek with the Bedouin in the camelprints of Lawrence of Arabia, or hike through stunning river gorges. Experience a country trying to balance its tribal traditions and its cherished Islam values as it pushes towards the global lifestyle.