Salt on the Mother of Camels

Had about a week of downtime at ACOR in which Aaron studiously worked (and got to check out the collection at the Citadel) and Noah and I “puttered around”. On Friday, we went out to Umm al Jimal (“The Mother of Camels”), near the Syrian border, with every intention of taking the bus. We ended up taking a taxi out the site (thankfully – as we learned that buses don’t go there on Fridays) and were enthralled. We’ll have to go back. It’s like the Dead Cities of Syria met the Desert Castles of Jordan. FANTASTIC. Very cool city made of basalt and sprinkled with cisterns.
The following day, we headed out to Salt (about 30 mins. outside of Amman) with the unflappable Kim. The bus is conveniently located right across the street in front of the University. It was a gorgeous day and we oogled the Ottoman architecture and headed up to see the English Hospital, now a school for the deaf. The generous caretaker took us on a tour of the facilities and offered us tea (Noah was a big fan). After a chicken lunch, we headed back to Amman.
We also enjoyed a visit from a friend from Ashkelon days…..and Noah is still asking, “Where is Peter Chomowitz?” Peter, you left a mark.
My aunt Pam arrived hours after Peter left and we embarked on a whirlwind tour…hang on to your hats…..