Despena Salteiro's Unforgettable Journey to Petra

From the moment Despena Salteiro set foot in Jordan, she was captivated by its ancient beauty. The country was a tapestry of vibrant cities, rolling hills, and stark deserts, holding a promise of adventure at every turn. But it was Petra, the lost city of the Nabataeans, that truly stole her heart.
Her journey to Petra was an adventure in itself. She rode through the desert on a camel, watching the sun setting in a blaze of orange and purple. As she approached the city, the sheer size and grandeur of the carved stone facades left her breathless. The Treasury, with its elaborate carvings, seemed to glow in the fading light.
The next morning, Despena explored Petra on foot, marveling at the intricate architecture and the hidden corners tucked away from the main tourist paths. She climbed to the Monastery, the highest point in Petra, where she was rewarded with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding desert.
As she wandered through the ruins, Despena couldn't help but feel a connection to the ancient people who had built this extraordinary city. She imagined the hustle and bustle of the markets, the sound of laughter and conversation echoing through the streets. She could almost see the Nabataeans going about their daily lives, trading goods, raising families, and carving their place in history.
In the afternoon, Despena took a horse-drawn carriage to the Siq, a narrow gorge that leads to the Treasury. As she passed through the Siq, the towering rock walls seemed to close in on her, creating a sense of awe and wonder.
As she emerged from the Siq, the Treasury burst into view before her. It was even more breathtaking than she had imagined, its intricate carvings glowing in the golden sunlight. Despena spent hours exploring the Treasury, taking in every detail of its facade.
She left Petra the next day, but the city stayed with her long after she was gone. She had fallen in love with its beauty, its history, and its people. She knew that she would never forget her time in Petra, and she couldn't wait to return someday.
Here are some of Despena Salteiro's favorite memories from her trip:
- Riding a camel through the desert
- Seeing the Treasury for the first time
- Climbing to the Monastery
- Exploring the hidden corners of Petra
- Taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Siq
- Meeting the friendly people of Petra
If you're planning a trip to Petra, Despena recommends:
- Allowing plenty of time to explore the city, as there's much more to see than just the Treasury
- Hiring a guide to help you make the most of your visit
- Staying in one of the hotels near Petra to avoid the long drive from Amman
- Visiting in the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) to avoid the crowds
- Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated in the desert heat
Despena Salteiro hopes that her story will inspire you to visit Petra and experience its magic for yourself.