Stuck in a rut when it comes to engagement, elopement or anniversary trip ideas? Forget the usual beach getaways (although, hey, no judgment there!). This year, why not venture off the beaten path and create memories that will truly last a lifetime? We’re talking about an adventure unlike any other, amidst the awe-inspiring backdrop of Jordan and, more specifically, its famed Wadi Rum region.

Jordan itself is a treasure trove of history and natural wonders. Imagine exploring the ancient city of Petra, carved from rose-colored sandstone cliffs, or floating in the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. But for a truly romantic escape, set your sights on Wadi Rum.

Nicknamed “The Valley of the Moon” for its dramatic desert landscapes, Wadi Rum is a place that stirs the soul. Towering sandstone cliffs painted in hues of red and orange rise from the vast desert plains, creating a scene straight out of a dream. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been a refuge for civilizations for thousands of years, and its rich history and natural beauty have captivated hearts for millennia. Even Hollywood A-listers couldn’t resist its magic – movies like “Lawrence of Arabia,” “Dune,” and “The Martian” were all filmed here! But Wadi Rum isn’t just about the scenery (although let’s be honest, that’s pretty darn incredible). It’s about the experience. Imagine waking up to a sunrise that paints the desert in a fiery glow, or gazing up at a sky teeming with a million twinkling stars at night. It’s about the thrill of exploring the rugged terrain by Jeep, the serenity of a camel ride through the dunes, and the feeling of complete peace and connection as you share this unforgettable adventure with the love of your life.

Brian and Aneela, a couple who celebrated their 10th anniversary with a trip to Jordan, said it perfectly: “We wanted to select a location opposite of the lush secluded white sand beach of our wedding in Thailand. Jordan gave us the perfect backdrop for a different but equally stunning destination.”

So, how do you turn this dream into reality? We’ve got you covered. This guide will take you through all the tips for planning a couple’s trip across Jordan, from must-pack essentials to unexpected gems discovered by Brian and Aneela themselves.

Why Jordan?

• Unique Landscape: Imagine a dramatic backdrop for your love story – towering sandstone cliffs, vast desertscapes, and endless starry nights. Wadi Rum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a landscape unlike any other. “We are always looking to stay a bit ahead of the curve before destinations become too popular,” Brian says. “Jordan is far from undiscovered by tourists, however, none of our globetrotting friends had taken a similar trip which made it appealing.”
• Action and Relaxation: Balance between adventure and tranquility. Explore the desert by jeep, go stargazing at night, or relax in a luxurious desert camp. “Scuba diving is a passion,” the couple says, “and Jordan provided unique underwater adventures unlike anywhere else in the world. Spearheaded by King Abdullah II of Jordan, is the world’s first Underwater Military Museum off the Gulf of Aqaba in the Red Sea. It is represented by 21 unique military vehicles sunk in battle formation. He and his son, Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah, are scuba diving enthusiasts who regularly dive in the waters of Aqaba. The Underwater Military Museum, along with several sunken airplanes and ships in other parts of the Gulf, make for an underwater experience not to be missed.”
• Rich in History: Jordan boasts a fascinating history, evident in ancient sites like Petra. Wadi Rum itself was a refuge for civilizations for thousands of years.

Planning Your Jordanian Adventure:

• Do-It-Yourself or Guided Tour? Brian and Aneela planned their trip independently. Extensive research using trusted resources is key. “Primary sources of research are Tripadvisor, (restaurants, cultural sites, etc.), direct to hotels (Marriott, Kempinski, Discovery Bedu), boutique luxury travel websites (SLH and Mr & Mrs Smith), and blogs of fellow travel enthusiasts,” Brian tells us.
• Logistics: Fly into Amman, Jordan’s capital. Consider internal flights for longer distances. Renting a car provides flexibility, but tourists are not allowed to drive in Wadi Rum, so you’ll need a guide there. Luckily, many establishments in Jordan accept U.S. credit cards and Uber is available in large cities. The couple did do a money exchange for the “Jordanian Dinar at the airport to be prepared for small unexpected hiccups and for tipping.”
• Staying Safe: Jordan is generally safe. Brian and Aneela recommend using the U.S. Department of State resources and registering with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program). “It is a free service,” Brian explains, “that will send emails with updates (health, weather, safety, and security) from the U.S. embassy in Amman. If there was an emergency while in the country, it would have helped the embassy contact us with instructions on what to do in case of a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.”

Respecting Local Customs:

• Dress Code: Jordan is a Muslim country. Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees for both men and women. “Jordan is generally relaxed compared to neighboring countries,” Brian says, “but stricter in comparison to Western countries. However, it is best for both men and woman to cover as much skin as possible. This is a sign of respect but also has the added benefit of protecting yourself from the sun. Dress code within hotels, particularly those near the ocean or Dead Sea, Western swimsuits are common but recommend covering up in the hotel lobby and restaurants.”

Brian and Aneela’s Unexpected Gems:

• Little Petra: This lesser-known archeological site offers stunning scenery and a unique “backdoor” entrance to the main Petra complex. The couple warns, however, “This path requires a significant amount of walking (about 8k) but it is in good condition and away from the crowds. You see wild sweeping landscapes you would not otherwise experience. The backdoor trail spits you out at one of the highlights of Petra, The Monastery, and you then walk back (an additional 4k, mainly downhill) through The Siq to the main entrance gate.”
• The Kindness: Every local Jordanian we interacted with was incredibly pleasant and helpful. It felt genuine versus a means to an end being in the tourism industry.
  

Packing Essentials:

• Clothing: Pack for hot weather with comfortable hiking shoes for exploring.
• Extras: Don’t forget a charging brick, wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, refillable water bottle, universal adapter, and a portable fan for those hot days.

Celebrating Your Love:

• Time is Key: Don’t try to cram too much into your trip. Spend at least two nights in each location to fully experience the magic. This is especially true for Wadi Rum, where the evenings and mornings offer the most captivating experiences.
• Leverage Your Hotel: Many hotels offer event planning services or can recommend reputable local vendors if they don’t have specific packages.
• Capture the Memories: Hiring a professional photographer can preserve the special moments of your trip. “Aidan Dockery shot our wedding in Thailand a decade earlier and joined us for this milestone anniversary trip as a surprise anniversary gift for Aneela,” Brian says. “Our photographs surpass any item we could have purchased as a memento.”