Barr Fellowship Learning Journey to Jordan
October 12 – 25, 2023

Join the Barr Fellows on a once-in-a-lifetime Learning Journey to Jordan, a desert kingdom in the Middle East! Immerse yourself in a world of red desert sands and ancient ruins — all while surrounding yourself with the famous Jordanian warmth and hospitality. A known safe haven for incomers of all kinds, Jordan has absorbed thousands of refugees as well as large numbers of tourists from all over the world. The Barr Fellows’ Journey to Jordan will take you to a place of daily discovery in mind, body and spirit. Aside from seeing one of the famed Wonders of the World, Petra, and beholding Wadi Rum, the Valley of the Moon, while sleeping under the stars in a Bedouin-style camp, you will have the rare opportunity to engage in deep conversation with government officials, NGO Directors, and local entrepreneurs. Throughout this unique trip, custom-designed based on the interest areas of this group of Fellows, you will explore this amazing land through various lenses, including but not limited to: women’s and youth empowerment, urban development, social justice, conservation and environment, and beyond.

Why Jordan? Click here to access the summary page for this program.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Behold Petra, the ancient UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and crown-jewel of Jordan’s many antiquities, in a truly unique and private tour. This pink-hued ancient city is carved directly into solid rock cliffs.
• Learn about Jordan from business owners, NGOs, professors, and government officials across the capital city of Amman – a bustling and populous metropolis in an otherwise rural country.
• Visit Wadi Rum, a spectacular pink-tinged mountain jutting out of the reddened dunes of the Jordanian desert.
• Explore Al-Salt and hike the harmony trail where people of different religions live in peace.

ITINERARY:

More details to follow. You will receive the final itinerary in September 2023.

 Thursday, October 12 – Depart Boston

Meet at Boston’s Logan Airport to begin this journey together! Fly overnight to Amman.

Friday, October 13 – Arrival in Amman

Marhaba! You will arrive in Amman at the Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) and be assisted through the immigration process and transferred to your hotel.

In the evening, you will convene with the group for a Welcome Dinner to kick off the week’s adventure!

Overnight: InterContinental Amman

Saturday, October 14 – Amman

Visit mosques, churches and heritage buildings throughout Amman to get orientated with the city!

Overnight: InterContinental Amman

Sunday, October 15 – Wednesday, October 18 – Activities & Meetings in Amman

The next four days will be a mix of meetings, sightseeing and opportunities to relax in Amman. More details on these sessions, along with a final itinerary, will be confirmed in September.

Overnight: InterContinental Amman

Thursday, October 19 – Feynan EcoLodge

Head to the Dana Biosphere Reserve and check into the Feynan EcoLodge. The lodge is remote and rustic and allows its guests to switch off and be immersed in the calmness of its natural surroundings. It is committed to preserving the environment and supporting the local community.

Overnight: Feynan Eco-Lodge

Friday, October 20 – Petra

See one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Petra! Meander through the ancient city, and learn about its history and culture.

Overnight: Petra Marriott Hotel 

Saturday, October 21 – Wadi Rum 

Enjoy a jeep tour of Wadi Rum and follow in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia, climbing sand dunes and rock bridges.

Overnight: SunCity Camp

Sunday, October 22 – Hike Jabal Al-Hash / Wadi Rum 

Explore Jabal Al-Hash, close to where the Jordanian border intersects the Saudi Arabian border and Wadi Rum.

Overnight: SunCity Camp

Monday, October 23 – Dead Sea

Head north to the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea. Float in the salty water, relax by the pool, enjoy the sunshine and views while trying out the invigorating mud bath to cleanse the skin, and the other various treatments at the spa.

Overnight: Marriott Dead Sea

Tuesday, October 24 – Dead Sea / Amman

Enjoy the rest of your time at the Dead Sea then depart for Amman.

In the evening, you will close out the journey with a Farewell Dinner.

Overnight: InterContinental Amman

Wednesday, October 25 – Departure

Transfer to Queen Alia International Airport for your departure back to Boston — or to continue on your travels!

We wish you a safe journey back home!