Friday 13th, 7.am, and we are sitting in our coach, (no. 16, there is no 13 coach as it is unlucky in Jordan), ready for a two hour drive to the mysterious city of the Nabateans, Petra, one of the seven Wonders of the World. We are full of anticipation. From this natural fortress, the Nabateans commanded the trade routes from Arabia and the East, until the Romans conquered them.

On arrival we walked to the entrance of the Siq - a very narrow, twisting pathway between towering sandstone and rainbow-coloured Cliffs. The towering walls of the cliffs created an artificial gloom, until suddenly we emerged into the blinding light, and there before us was the Treasury, and our first glimpse of the Rose Red city. I cannot put into words exactly how I felt, but I think Chris agrees with me, it has truly been one of the most outstanding sights we have ever seen, all carved from solid rock and in a marvellous state of preservation. We continued walking, passing the many tombs, known as the Royal Tombs, which are also cut out of the rock, and past the Nabatean Theatre.

We slowly made our way back to the new town of Petra for a late buffet lunch, and on the coach ride back, we sat and reflected on the sights of this unforgettable day of our lives.