Jordan is a Middle Eastern kingdom, where historic ruins, Muslim art and architecture and modern cities offer numerous travel choices. See Biblical sites and visit biospheres not far from red desert sands.

Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Jordan. View the Treasury, an ornate structure carved from red rock more than 2,000 years ago. Walk through the Siq, a narrow passageway carved by water through a giant sandstone rock. A mountaintop Islamic shrine attracts many pilgrims, some who believe it is an important site from the Old Testament of the Bible.

The country’s fascinating history includes occupation by Byzantines and Romans. Visit ancient Roman ruins at Jerash, an area that has had human occupation for more than 6,500 years. See public plazas and fountains, standing pillars of hilltop temples and a well-preserved amphitheater, all protected by sand until late 20th-century excavation.

Since most of Jordan’s citizens are Muslim, you’ll find mosques throughout the country. Stop to pray or gaze upon the interesting architecture. One of the most impressive is the King Hussein Mosque in Amman with four minarets, tall vaulted ceilings and gleaming exterior walls. Jordan is not all Muslim, however. Travel south to Madaba to see the Church of St. John the Baptist.

On the country’s western border, step into the Dead Sea, one of the lowest points of land on earth. Lie back to float easily in the very salty water with extra buoyancy. Apply a mask of the rejuvenating mineral muds or enjoy a modern spa experience nearby.

The Wadi Rim is a protected area of red, orange and yellow mountains, sand dunes and desert. Note the native plants in the desert setting and climb cliffs of granite and sandstone.

Travel to Jordan’s small seacoast at the Gulf of Aqaba to snorkel with dolphins, whale sharks and sea turtles in a colorful reef setting. Enjoy an exciting beach vacation not far from vast deserts and the capital city nightclubs of Amman.