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Rey Alton

Bellaire, TX

Travel Lifestyle Specialist

The process of planning, coordinating, booking, and managing travel arrangements can be a daunting experience.  But, with a seasoned and respected travel advisor, your travel planning experience will be streamlined and hassle-free. With more than ...
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The process of planning, coordinating, booking, and managing travel arrangements can be a daunting experience.  But, with a seasoned and respected travel advisor, your travel planning experience will be streamlined and hassle-free. With more than 25 years of travel industry experience, Rey specializes in providing knowledge-based guidance to corporate, government, higher education, and leisure travelers. Rey is committed to providing his clients with honest and straightforward advice throughout the travel planning process.  He places a special emphasis on being responsive to his clients’ needs while making each client feel comfortable and equipped to make informed travel decisions. Rey thrives on helping people fulfill their travel goals and dreams. As an experienced world traveler who has visited six continents and 45 countries, Rey uses his first-hand knowledge to help guide and advise his clients.   Rey has worked in the travel industry for more than 25 years and has experience with travel brands such as American Express, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, and Travel Leaders. A native Houstonian, Rey enjoys spending time with his young family, volunteering with the Boy Scouts of America, and practicing yoga.  Rey also serves as a frequent travel expert on local television networks, including ABC News-KTRK-13, Fox Morning News KRIV-26, and Great Day Houston-KHOU 11. He has been quoted in the New York Times, Travel Weekly, and CNN.com.Rey graduated from Hampton University with honors in 1995 with a degree in History.                  

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Petra Travel Agent Expert

Petra is an ancient city in Jordan, carved into rose-colored sandstone cliffs. It was once a major trading center for the Nabataeans, a nomadic people who settled in the region around the 4th century BC. The city is famous for its intricate architecture, including the Treasury, a monumental facade carved into the cliff face. Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination.

Here are the top 5 places to visit in Petra, based on a combination of popularity, historical significance, and unique experiences:

1. The Treasury (Al-Khazneh): This iconic monument, carved into the sandstone cliffs, is Petra's most famous attraction. Its intricate facade, adorned with columns, a frieze, and a towering urn, has become a symbol of Jordan. The Treasury was likely a tomb for a Nabataean king, but its exact purpose remains a mystery.

2. The Monastery (Ad Deir): This monumental structure, carved into the cliffs, is almost as impressive as the Treasury. It requires a challenging hike up over 800 steps, but the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort. The Monastery was likely a temple or a tomb, and its intricate facade features a large urn, similar to the Treasury.

3. The Siq: This narrow gorge, carved by erosion, serves as the grand entrance to Petra. The Siq is a dramatic and awe-inspiring passage, with towering cliffs that rise up to 200 meters high. As you walk through the Siq, you'll be met with a sense of anticipation, as the Treasury gradually reveals itself at the end of the gorge.

4. The Royal Tombs: These impressive mausoleums, carved into the cliffs, showcase the Nabataeans' skill in rock-cut architecture. The Royal Tombs include the Urn Tomb, the Silk Tomb, the Corinthian Tomb, and the Palace Tomb, each with its own unique facade and intricate details.

5. The Street of Facades: This striking archaeological feature is lined with numerous tomb facades, carved into the sandstone cliffs. The Street of Facades is a testament to the Nabataeans' architectural prowess and provides a glimpse into their funerary practices.

Petra, Jordan, is a treasure trove of ancient wonders, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors. Here are the top 10 activities to make the most of your time in the "Rose City":

1. Explore the Siq and Marvel at the Treasury (Al-Khazneh): Begin your journey through the Siq, a narrow gorge carved by erosion, leading to the iconic Treasury. This monumental facade, carved into the sandstone cliffs, is Petra's most famous landmark. Its intricate details and towering urn will leave you in awe.

2. Hike to the Monastery (Ad Deir): Embark on a challenging but rewarding hike to the Monastery, a massive structure carved into the cliffs. The climb up over 800 steps is worth it for the breathtaking panoramic views of the desert. The Monastery is almost as impressive as the Treasury, featuring a similar urn design.

3. Wander the Street of Facades: This fascinating archaeological feature showcases the Nabataeans' skill in rock-cut architecture. The Street of Facades is lined with numerous tomb facades, each with its own unique design and intricate details. It provides a glimpse into their funerary practices and the city's grandeur.

4. Discover the Royal Tombs: Explore the impressive mausoleums carved into the cliffs, showcasing the Nabataeans' architectural prowess. The Royal Tombs include the Urn Tomb, the Silk Tomb, the Corinthian Tomb, and the Palace Tomb, each with its own distinctive facade and intricate ornamentation.

5. Experience Petra by Night: Immerse yourself in the magic of Petra by Night, a special evening tour where the Treasury is illuminated by thousands of candles. The soft glow creates a breathtaking and unforgettable atmosphere.

6. Hike to the High Place of Sacrifice: For stunning panoramic views of Petra and the surrounding desert, embark on the hike to the High Place of Sacrifice. This historical site offers breathtaking vistas and insights into the Nabataeans' religious practices.

7. Explore the Colonnaded Street: Step back in time as you stroll along the Colonnaded Street, a Roman-era street that once served as the city's main thoroughfare. Flanked by columns and the remains of a bustling market, it offers a glimpse into Petra's Roman influence.

8. Visit the Petra Archaeological Museum: Delve deeper into Petra's history and culture at the Petra Archaeological Museum, located adjacent to the visitor center. This informative museum offers valuable insights into the Nabataeans and their civilization

9. Enjoy a Jordanian Feast: After a day of exploring, indulge in a delicious Jordanian feast at one of the local restaurants. Sample traditional dishes like mansaf (lamb cooked in yogurt sauce) and savor the flavors of Jordanian cuisine.

10. Take a Camel Ride: For a unique and memorable experience, take a camel ride through the desert. It's a fun and authentic way to explore the landscape and immerse yourself in the Bedouin culture.