Memories of Jordan (and celebrating the ‘bucket list’)
A “GT” Travel Experience by Melanie Kay Smith
I was at a tourism industry conference a few months ago listening to a talk on the devastating effects of COVID-related travel bans on heritage destinations.
Professor Mike Robinson, the speaker, cited Jordan as a prime example.
Amidst my sympathy for the destination and its people, my ‘bucket list’ quest reactivated instantly in my mind.
It had lain dormant for almost two years through a series of lockdowns and uncharacteristically timid attempts at travel.
The inside track
Melanie Kay Smith is a researcher and consultant whose work focuses on urban planning, cultural tourism, and the relationship between tourism and well-being. Dr Smith is programme leader for BSc and MSc Tourism Management at Budapest Metropolitan University in Hungary.
Jordan!
Why had it taken me half a century to get around to visiting this relatively accessible place (for those of us in Europe) and its Wonder of the World?
Surprised by my zeal, my husband was quickly convinced by the chance to see Petra, and to float on the Dead Sea.
My sons were instantly attracted by the promise of visiting a ‘set’ of Star Wars, and snorkelling with Red Sea species so far unencountered in the Mediterranean.
One of the joys of travel is anticipation. COVID has unfortunately hindered that.
Our tendency to plan and to wallow in pleasurable expectations of a trip is frequently these days marred by the late arrival of PCR test results (worse still a positive result) or the cancellation of a flight.
More than one of our planned trips have evaporated into the ether during this pandemic, especially those with budget airline tickets attached!
This time I kept the faith … Continue reading this “GT” Travel Experience in full and for free, and gain access to many others at The “GT” Travel Blog.
