#5 Petra and Wadi Rum

Welcome to “Introducing Israel by Tourist Journey '', In this series, we will explore Israel and discover some hidden gems. 
I’m Arielle and I invite you to come with me on this intimate journey and transport yourself for a few minutes to this magical place.
Today we’re going to visit the Jewels of Jordan. 
Explore the mysterious Lost City of Petra, and the red-rock desert of Wadi Rum with me! A small city carved out of stone hides deep within a valley surrounded by mountain ranges. Structures carved from rose-colored stone are detailed and beautifully preserved. 
Petra, the lost city of the world. One of the seven wonders of our world! Your visit is off to a magical start. With a journey through the Siq:A rose-red canyon of 1.2 km length with its walls reaching as high as 80 meters. It's like walking through a tunnel into the past! 
After 30 minutes of walking through the Siq, a high structure appears behind the rocks: The Al-Khazneh Temple, or as you probably know it, The Treasury. And oh wow, what a treasure it is indeed!  
Here's a fun fact: Despite its name, it wasn't actually a treasury, but an ancient tomb for a king. Raiders searched for treasures but without any success!  
If you climb up the rubble of rocks to the right of the temple, you will get an incredible view of the Treasury while enjoying a fresh cup of mint tea. 
With this incredible view, I will tell you about some history.

The ancient city of Petra was founded in 312 BC by the Nabataeans, Arab people who lived here at that time. When the Romans took control the city continued to thrive for a while, but a large earthquake destroyed many parts of the city. In fact, 85% of Petra is still buried today! 
Trade routes changed and the effects of the earthquake were heavy so it eventually became abandoned. 
Only in 1812 when a Swiss explorer rediscovered it, it was brought to the attention of the Western world. 
Make your way back down because the ancient city of Petra offers much more than just the Treasury. 
So get back up on your feet and continue your walk to the main temple: Qsar Al-Bint, also known as the Monastery. 
Take your time to explore the sites along the way:  The Street of Facades,  The Royal Tombs,  The Theatre with over 8000 seats and the Colonnaded Street - a long street lined with massive pillars that once existed here. 
A difficult but picturesque hike leads to the Monastery. The hike takes about 1.5 hours and includes 40 minutes of JUST stair climbing. Take a moment to enjoy the panoramic view of the desert from time to time. There are donkeys that pass by caring tourists, but it is completely fine to hike it yourself. There are shady spots for breaks and water can be bought everywhere. - I suggest you bring your own - it’s much cheaper! 
A little adventure is taking a shorter hike with a local guide to the Monastery. It will only take 20 minutes, but it is very steep so be careful not to slip! There is a secret viewpoint of the Monastery once you reach the top. Many signs point to a big rock a little way away that claims: "Top of the World: Best View in Petra" - I'm here to tell you that there's an even better viewpoint!  
As the Monastery is at your back, look at that big rock on your left that's behind the Bedouin tents. As you walk towards it, you will see a small trail