Podcasts about madaba

Historie jordánského města Madaba je dlouhá přes 5 tisíc let. Leží nedaleko hory Nebo, ze které podle biblických příběhů Mojžíš před svou smrtí spatřil Zemi zaslíbenou za řekou Jordán. Ještě před 150 lety byste ze starověkého města našli jen ruiny. Dnes je Madaba pokladem plným archeologicky i umělecky cenných mozaik.Všechny díly podcastu Zápisník zahraničních zpravodajů můžete pohodlně poslouchat v mobilní aplikaci mujRozhlas pro Android a iOS nebo na webu mujRozhlas.cz.

Today, we're speaking with Vanessa Abbe, a travel advisor who joined me on my trip to Jordan last October. In this conversation, which we had live on Instagram recently, I wanted to hear her take on what it's like traveling in the country right now. Reminder: I'm running a 10-day group trip to Jordan this May. The trip runs from May 18th to 27th and you can get all the information by visiting here. Throughout February, you can save $150 off your booking by using code GOINGPLACESFEB when you join our trip. The code expires on Fri, Feb 28. What you'll learn in this episode:How Vanessa approached the safety question of traveling to JordanGaining a new perspective on the region through long conversationsThe impact of tourism cancelations on Jordan's tourism communityWhat it's like traveling in proximity to PalestineMeeting the people of Jordan: an Ammani photographer, a sustainable farmer in Madaba, the Bedouins of Wadi RumWhy hospitality looks like home-cooked meals in JordanWhy Petra By Night was one of the top experiences for VanessaWhat Vanessa has to say to someone considering going to JordanFeatured on the show:Follow Vanessa on Instagram: @adventures_vkabbeLearn more about our upcoming trip to Jordan in May hereGet more information at: Going Places website Join our Going Places newsletter to get updates on new episodes and Yulia's travel storytelling work. Subscribe at goingplacesmedia.com/newsletter!For more BTS of this podcast follow @goingplacesmedia on Instagram and check out our videos on YouTube!Please head over to Apple Podcasts and SUBSCRIBE to the show. If you enjoy this conversation, please share it with others on social and don't forget to tag us @goingplacesmedia!And show us some love, if you have a minute, by rating Going Places or leaving us a review wherever you listen. You'll be helping us to bend the arc of algorithms towards our community — thank you!Going Places with Yulia Denisyuk is a show that sparks a better understanding of people and places near and far by fostering a space for real conversations to occur. Each week, we sit down with travelers, journalists, creators, and people living and working in destinations around the world. Hosted by Yulia Denisyuk, an award-winning travel journalist, photographer, and writer who's worked with National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Travel, and more. Learn more about our show at goingplacesmedia.com.

How do schools navigate the complexities of inclusion, polarization, and freedom of expression while fostering a vibrant learning environment? Today, John Austin, Head of School at Deerfield Academy, joins Heterodox Out Loud to explore these questions and share insights from the groundbreaking report, Thriving in a World of Pluralistic Contention: A Framework for Schools.John reflects on his unique journey from aspiring surfer to educational leader, shaping student experiences across continents, including his tenure at King's Academy in Jordan. Drawing from decades of experience, John delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by diversity in schools, discussing how institutions can promote dialogue, trust, and intellectual growth through structured initiatives like randomized community meals and robust expressive frameworks. John also sheds light on the collaborative process behind the report and its three foundational pillars: disciplined nonpartisanship, expressive freedom, and intellectual diversity.In This Episode:Independent schools as laboratories for educational innovationBalancing inclusivity with robust academic inquiryThe significance of Robert Putnam's social capital theoryStrategies for fostering meaningful dialogue across differencesThe transformative potential of conscientious, courageous, and tolerant expressionAbout John:Dr. John Austin became Deerfield Academy's 56th Head of School in July of 2019. Prior to Deerfield, Dr. Austin served as Headmaster at King's Academy in Madaba, Jordan, and before that as Academic Dean at St. Andrew's School in Middletown, Delaware, where he joined the faculty in 1987. A graduate of Williams College, he holds a Master of Arts, Master of Philosophy, and Doctoral degrees in English and Comparative Literature from Columbia University, along with a Master's degree from the Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College. Last year, with funding from an E.E. Ford Foundation grant, Dr. Austin convened a group of renowned independent school leaders from across the United States to develop a framework for enhancing the expressive freedom of students, fostering in them habits of curiosity and critical analysis, and preparing them to thrive in a world of pluralistic contention. The resulting work, authored by Dr. Austin, Thriving in a World of Pluralistic Contention: A Framework for Schools, was published in May of 2024. Follow Heterodox Academy on:Twitter: https://bit.ly/3Fax5DyFacebook: https://bit.ly/3PMYxfwLinkedIn: https://bit.ly/48IYeuJInstagram: https://bit.ly/46HKfUgSubstack: https://bit.ly/48IhjNF

Dr. Ehab Hamarneh an arab changemaker and founder of the “Be You” movement, Dr. Ehab Hamarneh is a transformational teacher whose students include renowned singers, Oscar-nominated actors, influencers, and many business leaders. Though hailing from a small town called Madaba in Jordan, Dr. Ehab has grown to reach millions on social media, spreading a message of hope and empowerment in the Arab world. He has authored a best-selling book called Be You and formulated sought-after courses in his academy, such as Inner Peace, Rapid Manifestation, Self Love, Seven Universal Laws, Authentic Speaker, Soul Alchemy and Wealth Masters, to help people expand their consciousness, find their purpose, and live fulfilling lives. Ehab's exemplary work in purpose-driven leadership, healing processes, and ancient wisdom has been so significant that he now finds himself chasing a greater mission of enlightening a million leaders across the Arab world. #hikmatwehbi#dr.ehabhamarneh #د.إيهاب_حمارنة #podcast #arabicpodcast#hikmatwehbipodcast #wstudiodxb حكمت_وهبي# حكمت_وهبي_بودكاست# بودكاست#

Hello to you listening in Madaba, Jordan!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.I've known my friend Gene since we served together on pediatric wards at the US Naval Hospital Portsmouth. We went our separate ways after being honorably discharged; but, because the world is small and the Internet is large Gene found me and we've become fast friends.He reminded me the other day: "Before you can fly, you have to be willing to jump from a high place."Which, in turn, reminded me of a much loved song: The Cape by Guy Clark. [YouTube link and lyrics are  also below in the Episode Notes.]And the song, in turn, took me to memories of friendship, stories, dreams, taking a leap of faith, the passage of time, and the joy of it all.Story Prompt: Take a listen to Guy Clarks's song, remember a time when you were willing to trust your dreams and jumped. Write that story!  Practical Tip: The magic of stories is also in the sharing. If you wish share your story with someone or something.   All that matters is you have a story.The Cape - Guy ClarkEight years old with flour sack capeTied all around his neckHe climbed up on the garageHe's figurin' what the heckHe screwed his courage up so tightThe whole thing come unwoundHe got a runnin' start and bless his heartHe headed for the groundChorusWell, he's one of those who knows that lifeIs just a leap of faithSpread your arms and hold your breathAnd, always trust your cape Now he's all grown up with a flour sack capeTied all around his dreamsHe's full of piss and vinegarHe's bustin' at the seamsSo, he licked his finger and then he checked the windHe said, It's gonna be do or dieHe wasn't scared of nothin', boysHe's pretty sure he can flyChorusNow he's old and grey with a flour sack capeTied all around his headHe's still jumpin' off the garageAnd will be till he's deadAll these years the people saidHe's actin' like a kidHe did not know he could not flySo he did.Chorus"  [Guy Clark - "The Cape"]  You're invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, I hope you'll subscribe, follow, share a 5-star rating and nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time! Remember to stop by the website, check out the Services, arrange a Discovery Call, and Opt In to stay current with Diane and Quarter Moon Story Arts and on LinkedIn.  Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present: for credit & attribution Quarter Moon Story Arts

Hello to you listening in Madaba, Jordan!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.I've known my friend Gene since we served together on pediatric wards at the US Naval Hospital Portsmouth. We went our separate ways after being honorably discharged; but, because the world is small and the Internet is large Gene found me and we've become fast friends.He reminded me the other day: "Before you can fly, you have to be willing to jump from a high place."Which, in turn, reminded me of a much loved song: The Cape by Guy Clark. [YouTube link and lyrics are  also below in the Episode Notes.]And the song, in turn, took me to memories of friendship, stories, dreams, taking a leap of faith, the passage of time, and the joy of it all.Story Prompt: Take a listen to Guy Clarks's song, remember a time when you were willing to trust your dreams and jumped. Write that story!  Practical Tip: The magic of stories is also in the sharing. If you wish share your story with someone or something.   All that matters is you have a story.The Cape - Guy ClarkEight years old with flour sack capeTied all around his neckHe climbed up on the garageHe's figurin' what the heckHe screwed his courage up so tightThe whole thing come unwoundHe got a runnin' start and bless his heartHe headed for the groundChorusWell, he's one of those who knows that lifeIs just a leap of faithSpread your arms and hold your breathAnd, always trust your cape Now he's all grown up with a flour sack capeTied all around his dreamsHe's full of piss and vinegarHe's bustin' at the seamsSo, he licked his finger and then he checked the windHe said, It's gonna be do or dieHe wasn't scared of nothin', boysHe's pretty sure he can flyChorusNow he's old and grey with a flour sack capeTied all around his headHe's still jumpin' off the garageAnd will be till he's deadAll these years the people saidHe's actin' like a kidHe did not know he could not flySo he did.Chorus"  [Guy Clark - "The Cape"]  You're invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, I hope you'll subscribe, follow, share a 5-star rating and nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, and join us next time! Remember to stop by the website, check out the Services, arrange a Discovery Call, and Opt In to stay current with Diane and Quarter Moon Story Arts and on LinkedIn.  Stories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present: for credit & attribution Quarter Moon Story Arts

Jerusalem and The Madaba Mosaic Map  -  English only. On a wall in the Old City, near the ruins of the ancient Roman Cardo, is a reproduction of an ancient map of Jerusalem. Why is this map so important?  Recorded January 4, 2023.

On the last day in Jordan, TruNews host Rick Wiles sits down for an exclusive interview with Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh. Dr. Talal is one of the most respected and influential businessmen in the Middle East. He speaks with Rick about World War 3, the New World Order, and Global Government. Rick Wiles. Airdate 5/6/22.Holy Land Day 1: Ancient Roman City and Elijah's Mountain - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49569185Holy Land Day 2: The City of Aqaba and the World's Oldest Church - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49573636Holy Land Day 3: Wadi Musa, Moses' Spring, and the Gateway to Petra - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49587574Holy Land Day 4: Explorations at Ancient Petra - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49599828Holy Land Day 5: From the Dead Sea to the Mosaic Churches of Madaba - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49630066Holy Land Day 6: The Journey from Mount Nebo to the Jordan River - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49644875Holy Land Day 7: The Revelation Church City of Philadelphia, Today's Amman - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49660019Holy Land Day 8: Matthew 24 and the Refuge City of Pella - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49681755

Today on TruNews, the team spends its last day in the field exploring the ruins of the ancient city of Pella, Jordan. According to historians Eusebius, Epiphanius, Regimitus, and Josephus, this is the place that Christians fled to before the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D., prophesied by Jesus in Matthew 24. The team also visits Umm Qais, known in the Bible as Gadara, the place where Jesus cast out Legion into the herd of swine. Rick Wiles, Doc Burkhart. Airdate 5/5/22Holy Land Day 1: Ancient Roman City and Elijah's Mountain - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49569185Holy Land Day 2: The City of Aqaba and the World's Oldest Church - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49573636Holy Land Day 3: Wadi Musa, Moses' Spring, and the Gateway to Petra - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49587574Holy Land Day 4: Explorations at Ancient Petra - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49599828Holy Land Day 5: From the Dead Sea to the Mosaic Churches of Madaba - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49630066Holy Land Day 6: The Journey from Mount Nebo to the Jordan River - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49644875Holy Land Day 7: The Revelation Church City of Philadelphia, Today's Amman - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49660019

Today on TruNews, the team ascends The Citadel, an ancient fortress standing guard over the Biblical city of Philadelphia mentioned in Revelation 3, today's Amman, Jordan. History and Scripture come alive in observing how Christianity was shaped and propelled by first-century influences. The team also visits Amman's well-preserved Roman Theatre, and also make a trip to the city of As-Salt, visiting several historic sites and churches. Rick Wiles, Doc Burkhart. Airdate 5/4/22.Holy Land Day 1: Ancient Roman City and Elijah's Mountain - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49569185Holy Land Day 2: The City of Aqaba and the World's Oldest Church - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49573636Holy Land Day 3: Wadi Musa, Moses' Spring, and the Gateway to Petra - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49587574Holy Land Day 4: Explorations at Ancient Petra - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49599828Holy Land Day 5: From the Dead Sea to the Mosaic Churches of Madaba - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49630066Holy Land Day 6: The Journey from Mount Nebo to the Jordan River - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49644875

Today on TruNews, the team explores Mount Nebo, and shares the last view of the Promised Land that Moses experienced before his death. Next stop, the Jordan River, as the team visits the site of the preaching of John the Baptist and the Baptism of Jesus. Rick and Doc also provide a recap of visits to other significant locations in the ‘Other Holy Land' of Jordan. Rick Wiles, Doc Burkhart. Airdate 5/3/22.Holy Land Day 1: Ancient Roman City and Elijah's Mountain - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49569185Holy Land Day 2: The City of Aqaba and the World's Oldest Church - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49573636Holy Land Day 3: Wadi Musa, Moses' Spring, and the Gateway to Petra - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49587574Holy Land Day 4: Explorations at Ancient Petra - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49599828Holy Land Day 5: From the Dead Sea to the Mosaic Churches of Madaba - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49630066

The TruNews tour of the ‘other side' of the Holy Land continues as the team explores the Dead Sea region. Along the way they encounter Lot's Wife, the possible remains of Sodom, and the fortress where John the Baptist was imprisoned and beheaded. Rick and Doc also visit several ancient church sites in the city of Madaba, where stunning mosaic tile work echo a vibrant Christian faith fifteen centuries later. Rick Wiles, Doc Burkhart. Airdate 5/2/22.Holy Land Day 1: Ancient Roman City and Elijah's Mountain - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49569185Holy Land Day 2: The City of Aqaba and the World's Oldest Church - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49573636Holy Land Day 3: Wadi Musa, Moses' Spring, and the Gateway to Petra - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49587574Holy Land Day 4: Explorations at Ancient Petra - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/49599828

Join Angela Sealana as she embarks on this week's spiritual pilgrimage to the Madaba, Jordan, also known as the City of Mosaics. This ancient town and sacred pilgrimage destination has a long history that is mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the books of Numbers (21:30) and Joshua (13:9). We will visit a large mosaic floor in what is now the Orthodox Church of St. George, in Madaba. This is the oldest known & best-preserved map of the Holy Land. During our journey, you will hear about: The ancient map of the Holy Land looks like, its fascinating history, and how it gives us a glimpse into the past The brilliantly colorful artwork of St. George Church, and what it's like to visit there The City of Mosaics; Madaba, Jordan, and personal experiences as a pilgrim in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan How this all connects to our daily lives, particularly what we can learn from mosaics. Click here for photos of the Church of St. George in Madaba, as well as a map view of its location, and more! Jewel for the Journey: "Our differences, then, are not a detriment or a danger; they are a source of richness. As when an artist is about to make a mosaic: it is better to have tiles of many colors available, rather than just a few!" – Pope Francis (Urbi et Orbi, 12/2018) We are so grateful to this month's sponsor, Veronica Leal in honor of Deacon Dan McShane, who made this podcast episode possible. Learn more at PilgrimCenterOfHope.org/Journeys Help us spread hope! PilgrimCenterOfHope.org/Donate

Created between 542 and 570 AD this fascinating map gives fascinating specificity and insights into dozens of Biblical cities. Incredible! God bless you and thank you for listening! Please join us again tomorrow!

The traditional location of the Upper Room, as recorded in the Gospels, is today placed on the southern end of Mount Zion Jerusalem close by the Church of the Dormition and the traditional house of Caiaphas. Its believed to the place where Jesus had his last supper with his disciples, also where he reappeared to them after his death… and where the first community of believers gathered together to await the arrival of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:13).One of the earliest artistic depictions of the Upper Room appears in the mosaic from the Church of St. George in Madaba, Jordan. It shows a smaller structure with the sloping roof immediately to its right this too may be the location of the upper room.The sun is about to set in Jerusalem and its light in the west still illuminates the city. The evening watch is about to begin. Jesus and the disciples have entered into the house and room that was arranged for their use as instructed. Shortly before sunset the last supper or seder has begun. Jesus and the disciples are reclining around a table that is low to the floor. They are on the floor cushions or a mat that covers the area.Most believe that their dining position was to recline with the body's upper part resting on the left arm, and the head raised, and a cushion at the back, and the lower part of the body stretched out. The head of the second guest was opposite the breast of the first guest, so that if he wanted to speak to him in secret he would lean upon his breast. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Let me take you to Madaba a city full of mosaics and the largest bed I've ever seen!!

In this episode of Flourish In The Foreign, Barbara of Going Global with Barbara shares her story of being an international talent acquisition specialist and entrepreneur while living with her family in Madaba, Jordan.   Join the Flourish Community for practical tips to get & stay abroad!    Episode Credits: Christine Job-Creator & Host Zachary Higgs-Theme Music

The term "Palestine" creates a lot of confusion. Much has to do with the lack of historic background for the term. We look into how the name originated and how it has been used throughout the centuries. This can be an eyeopener for some.In our news section, Inside Out, we also talk about why Palestinian-Arab slogans are used under the Black Lives Matter demonstrations, and we talk about the planned investigation by the International Court of Justice against Israel for assumed war crimes. (The episode picture shows the Madaba-mosaics that we mention in the podcast.)

Mozaikowa mapa Ziemi Świętej z VI wieku.

Previously, we shared the story of Gaith, a street librarian who sold books from his classic Mercedes to spread reading culture in his native Jordan and to raise money for the first bookstore in his hometown of Madaba. Now, he’s finally fulfilling his dream of living in a bookshop.

Francisco Agostinho (Projecto100Rota) era funcionário público, mas deixou o trabalho para ser líder de viagens. Agora trabalha, sim, mas ao ar livre e sempre em registo de aventura. Já foi à Jordânia umas sete ou oito vezes só nos últimos 2 anos e explica porque é que a Jordânia é um país incrível. Que outras oportunidades terá para fingir que está num filme do Indiana Jones enquanto visita Petra? Ou imitar o Lawrence das Arábias no deserto de Wadi Rum.   7 Maravilhas da Jordânia: 1. Ok, já sabemos que Petra é magnífico, que é Património da Humanidade, que é uma das novas Maravilhas do Mundo, e que a Fachada do Tesouro supera as expectativas, mas a Jordânia tem muito mais além disso. 2. Para começar, os muçulmanos são muito hospitaleiros e as ligações que se criam são muito fáceis, respeitando sempre o espaço do outro. 3. O país está no meio de Israel, Palestina, Irão, Iraque, Síria… vizinhos um pouco turbulentos, o que faz com que a Jordânia receba influências de todos os lados. 4. Mais de 50% da população da capital Amã são palestinianos, aos quais se juntaram agora sírios e iraquianos – tudo malta a fugir de conflitos. Por isso é que Francisco Agostinho acha que a Jordânia devia ganhar um Nobel da Paz. 5. Ir ao fundo do Mar Morto. É uma espécie de piada - há uns tempos, tudo ficaria a flutuar, mas a verdade é que o Mar Morto está com cada vez menos água. Estão a pensar ir buscar água ao Mar Vermelho para o Mar Morto não secar. 6. Descobrir o Mapa de Madaba, o mapa da Terra Santa. Este mosaico cobre parte do chão da igreja de São Jorge, em Madaba. 6. Dormir num acampamento beduíno nas areias vermelhas do deserto do Wadi Rum  

In this week's episode of Behind the Smiles, child life specialist Nicole and electronic medical records team leader Jill sit down to talk about the comprehensive care we provide every patient during medical missions. The pair were members of the volunteer team during our most recent mission in Madaba, Jordan. Here they discuss everything that goes into delivering high-quality heath care for patients around the world and detail some of their most memorable mission moments. Watch the 12th episode of Behind the Smiles to learn more about these two women and their commitment to helping children born with cleft. Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/O3Rz3irrSKo Did you enjoy this episode? Are you enjoying our new series? Reach out and let us know what you think! This is the last episode of season 1. Stay tuned for updates on season 2. For more information about our work, visit: https://www.operationsmile.org Follow Operation Smile: Blog//https://www.operationsmile.org/blog Facebook//https://www.facebook.com/operationsmile Instagram//https://www.instagram.com/operationsmile Twitter//https://twitter.com/operationsmile --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/behindthesmiles/message

Pediatrician Dr. Shadi Alsmadi says, “This is not just one surgery and, ‘Goodbye.’” In this week's episode of Behind the Smiles, we caught up with two volunteers in the post-anesthesia care unit during our medical mission in Madaba, Jordan. Field Medical Director and pediatrician Dr. Peter Radell of Sweden and pediatrician Dr. Shadi Alsmadi of Jordan discuss the unique challenges children born with cleft conditions can face when accessing care in the Middle East. The pair are longtime volunteers with our organization and with others including Doctors Without Borders and Save the Children. Watch their discussion to hear their perspectives on why the ongoing care we provide is so important in the Middle East and around the world. Watch the full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8J86K_NUDU Did you enjoy this episode? Are you enjoying our new series? Reach out an let us know what you think! The next episode features Volunteer Mangers Diana and Hedde sharing their perspectives on why volunteer managers are an essential part of Operation Smile's mission. We release a new episode every other Wednesday, the next one goes live Wednesday, November 13. For more information about our work, visit: https://www.operationsmile.org Follow Operation Smile: Blog//https://www.operationsmile.org/blog Facebook//https://www.facebook.com/operationsmile Instagram//https://www.instagram.com/operationsmile Twitter//https://twitter.com/operationsmile --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/behindthesmiles/message

After graduating college, Gaith Jann became a successful insurance risk analyst in his native Jordan. But after only a few years he became jaded by the business world, which left him hungering for a more meaningful life. Enter a love for books. Follow Gaith’s journey from a twenty something businessman to an unorthodox street librarian who sells books from his 1974 Mercedes.

Dr Clark (LaSierra, Madaba Plains Project) speaks of the issues involved in the protection of Tell 'Umeiri, a multi-period site in the Madaba region (central Jordan)

Haya Muneer Kildani is a Melbourne-based humanist and writer originally from Jordan. She spoke to Yousef about Jordan and her hometown; Madaba. Haya also shared her thoughts on issues of human rights, migration, literature and more.. 

This is The Reunion Part II! Since leaving you at a drool-soaked table at Egypt airport, The Earthbound Astronauts have ventured through ancient Jordan, taken a spontaneous detour into the religious epicentre of Israel and were unexpectedly stranded in turbulent Egypt, the very place we were attempting to avoid! We hate predictability, so what comes next will not disappoint!To listen to the Part II podcast click HERE!Jordan – Amman & Petra – October 22nd – October 29thCasey and I arrived into Amman completely exhausted after our restless night in the Cairo airport, so we headed to our prearranged hostel. This particular hostel had been so highly recommended by a multitude of people online, with all the comments including how wonderful the proprietor ‘Andrew’ was. The hostel itself was nothing special, quite rundown and minimalistic, but we did have the opportunity to meet this infamous Andrew, completely validating all the positive comments. We spent our first day in Amman recovering followed by dinner at one of the best restaurants in Amman, the Hashem restaurant. The Hashem restaurant purely served the mixed selection of falafel, pita, salad and two dips, yet it was easy to understand how it had earned such an outstanding reputation. We now have a new appreciation for falafel and hummus, and the variety of ways to consume said food, but more about that later. We spent a day exploring the Roman ruins and visiting the ruins of a citadel, which rest above the remainder of the city. It was intriguing to see the remnants of ancient civilisations that dated back over three thousand years, whilst tracing the progressive evolution of these civilisations and observing the variations in culture and religious belief over time. It was here that we started to realise how historically and culturally significant this entire area really was. We decided we wanted to visit the famed Dead Sea, so Andrew organised ‘George’ to take us on a day trip to the area. George initially took us to Madaba to see the oldest known map of the promise land, which was an intricate partially preserved mosaic on the floor of what is now a Catholic church. We then visited Mount Nebo, where it is presumed 120-year-old Moses climbed so God could show him the Promised Land before dying there. The view from the top was truly impressive allowing us to appreciate all the elaborate rock formations and the Dead Sea, which was our next destination. We paid an exuberant price to enter a complex with pools and direct access to the beach of the fabled sea. Entering the water was a surreal experience, as you expect your body to sink as in all other water, but we defiantly stayed buoyant with no effort on our behalves. As we left the water, we could feel the salt now layered on our bodies, which slowly precipitated into large salt deposits. We observed a direct contrast between effortlessly swimming in The Dead Sea and the exhausting swim in the pure water of Crater Lake in Banlung, Cambodia. Returning to Amman, after helping George out by utilising our duty free privileges, we decided it was time to head to Jordan’s main attraction, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Petra. We caught the public bus to the town Wadi Mousa, which acts as the tourist base for people visiting Petra. Andrew had suggest a hotel for us to stay in while in the area, “The Valentine Inn”… Luckily, they had a twin room available even though there were still hearts on our key...Just like Indiana Jones before us, we entered Petra through the ominous entrance, a relatively small division between two formidable walls of rock. We were humbled by this intimidating stone corridor before the channel opened onto the renowned treasury, currently the most exquisitely intricate building in Petra. It was unbelievable and almost implausible to conceive that people had built such an amazing structure into a rock face. As we continued into Petra there were numerous tombs and other buildings erratically scattered within the surrounding landscape, linked by hidden staircases leading to what were once possibly prominent areas. As we’d decided to spend two days at Petra, we used our first day to explore the major attractions such as taking the long trek to see the astonishing monastery (seen in Transformers 2), which rivals the treasury in its grandeur, and used our second day to go off the beaten track and find a great location to watch sunset. Whilst at Petra, we were completely at the mercy of the sun, so we tried to track shade at any opportunity. Even when we left the main trail, we were still coming across the remnants of life in the form of carvings, stairs and buildings. We were, and continue to be, completely in awe of Petra and the amazing artistry the founding civilization had masterfully utilised to create this former epicentre of trade. After immensely enjoying Petra, we headed to Wadi Rum, an arid nature reserve approximately two hours south of Wadi Mousa, where we’d organised a tour for one day and a night. Jumping into the back of a ute, we were chauffeured around the reserve to various impressive naturally occurring springs and rock formations before we were taken to a Bedouin camp to enjoy the remarkable desert sunset. Having decided to avoid Egypt due to the enduring civil unrest, we had intended staying in Jordan for two weeks. However, whilst in Amman, the seed had been planted to visit Israel and Palestine. Catching a taxi from Wadi Rum to a town on the Jordanian-Israeli border, Aqaba, where we nervously prepared to cross this precarious border.Israel & Palestine – Jerusalem – October 31st – November 3rdWe anxiously crossed the border by foot, passing the armed guards on either side. As we crossed into the Israeli immigration area we were welcomed by what seemed like endless photos of Bill Clinton… We were heavily questioned by immigration officials about where we’d been, how and for how long we’d known each other and our intentions in Israel. After being allowed to enter the country, we walked to the city, allowing us to observe the stark contrast between the small town of Aqaba in Jordan and the heavily westernized city of Eilat, where we saw a dramatic increase in infrastructure and overall wealth. From Eilat we organised a bus to Jerusalem, but not before we went to an upmarket shopping centre where Casey purchased an iPad to replace his water damaged iPhone.Arriving into Jerusalem was a surreal experience, a city that has consistently been at the focal point of history and contributed to the evolution of countless religions. The city was such a blend of culture, with an obvious division demonstrated through something as simple as the architecture in differing districts. We had organised to stay at a hostel within the walls of the historical old city, near the Jaffa Gate. Joining a “Holy city” tour we were taken to the main attractions that have importance to the differing faiths. Initially, we were taken to the Temple Mount, which is now also the location of the building with the iconic golden dome and adjacent to the Western or ‘Wailing’ Wall. The Temple Mount is only open to tourists for a single hour everyday, and when we arrived people had already been waiting for hours. Luckily, our tour group was able to join the line with another tour group, which saw us clearing security within the allocated time. We had been in the site no more then ten minutes before they started aggressively ushering us out. We had been lucky to visit this site, but we did feel a twang of guilt for pushing our way into the line and robbing people of this rare opportunity. We later learnt (after continuously interrogating our guide) that the Temple Mount was part of the area controlled by Palestine and an ‘incident’ between Israel and Syria at the precise time we had entered the area partially explained our rapid expulsion. The presence of police and army members at various points through out the city really does contribute to the already prominent tension we were feeling.After visiting the Temple Mount, we headed to a small portion of the Western Wall where we were able to write a ‘wish’ and place it into the cracks of the wall, replicating a Jewish practice. The remained of the tour predominately followed the assumed stages of Jesus’ crucifixion. As we walked the small alleyways, we were shown locations that coincided with events that were referenced within the Christian New Testament before we reached the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This church, which is owned by all the major denominations of Christianity, housed the proposed location of Jesus’ crucifixion (Golgotha), the place of his anointment and the place of his burial. The people that were there on spiritual pilgrimages greatly contributed to the ambience and authenticity of the site. We then headed to the proposed location of the Last Supper, which, like the majority of sites in Jerusalem, had been in the possession of, and therefore influence by, one of the three main religious groups at one time or another. The tour was quite overwhelming in a way as were taken to sites that are considered sacred to differing people for a multitude of differing reasons. Walking through the four quarters (Armenian, Christian, Jewish and Muslim) of the old town was really an experience in itself, but it was fantastic to see such diversity within the small area. The following day, Casey and I headed up to the Mount of Olives; where in Judaism it is said the prophet will descend and walk to the Temple Mount. Many cemeteries rest on this mountain for this very reason with their feet facing the summit as we were told, “people don’t want to miss the show”. Other prominent sites that rest on this mountain are the Garden of Olives, where it is assumed Judas betrayed Jesus, and the tomb of Mary, mother of Jesus. We also got an amazing view from the top over the city.Jerusalem, on a whole, was quite an expensive city, which made eating extravagantly difficult. We found a tiny restaurant next to our hostel that made the most amazing falafel sandwiches, so amazing (and cheap) that it became our staple food whilst in Jerusalem, so much so that we were consuming two on each occasion… We were originally so apprehensive when it came to visiting Israel and Jerusalem, yet we were shocked by how Westernized the city was in parts and how isolated, yet apparent, the ongoing battle for territory really is between the conflicting sides. As we headed to the bus station to leave Jerusalem and Israel, we were shocked by the presence of a metal detector at the bus interchange, yet the large number of 18 to 20 year olds on their military service arbitrarily walking around with assault rifles seemed to make this somewhat redundant. We headed north to a border crossing we were assured would not be an issue to cross and returned back to Amman where we were catching our flight to Egypt and then Argentina the following day.  We also had the pleasure of seeing Andrew again, who graciously sorted us out with a private room at a discounted price because “we were friends”.Egypt – Cairo – November 4th – November 6thAs we were attempting to avoid entering Egypt, we had booked a flight to Cairo on the day of our flight from Cairo to Argentina. To avoid paying for an Egyptian visa to enter the country just to pick up our bags and check-in once more when we arrived in Cairo, we arrange to have our bags directly placed on our next flight. All smooth and seemingly easy... As we arrived into Cairo, we were ferried off to a room or ‘holding area’ used for transit passengers, having our passports confiscated. Feeling like were captives in this highly secured room, we waited for three hours to be presented with our connecting boarding passes, yet, we were ignored. Eventually, a man approached Casey and started asking about our visa receipt number. As Casey had travelled to Argentina before, where he had paid a reciprocity fee at the border, we were convinced that a prearranged payment was unnecessary. This situation continued, as we thought this seemingly less-then-official airport employee was taking us for a ride, before the man escorted Casey to the Qatar Airways desk. Casey then returned to the transit lounge, shockingly accompanied by our luggage. Unbeknown to us both, as of July, this fee must be paid online before departure to Argentina. They had refused to let us board the plane because we had not paid the fee, a fee that can be paid within minutes. I was also erroneously denied using my EU passport that doesn’t require a fee payment; we had been officially rejected from boarding the flight. We were escorted back to the original terminal, Qatar Airways washing their hands of us, after what was quite appalling handling of the situation on their behalves. Unfortunately, the blame rests solely with us, yet I do not hesitate to partially condemn the airline for their disorganization and lack of knowledge and assistance in what should have been a recoverable situation. Being told we could pay to return to Jordan or enter Egypt, we, still in shock from our shattered reality, reluctantly decided to stay in Cairo. Our presumption of being in South America within 48-hours had been crushed in the space of minutes. We had arrived into Cairo on the day of the Morsi trial, so tanks and other armoured vehicles littered the streets. We had found a hotel, which, like many of the tourist-centric businesses, was feeling the effect of numerous governments condemning travel to this politically unstable country. We had to determine our next move.As we were in Egypt, we figured that we should at least try to see the sights we could in the short time we were here. Fortunately, Casey had made a friend who lived in Cairo whilst on his course in Germany, Naggar. Naggar came to meet us, acting as our more then capable guide through Cairo, organising a cruise on the infamous Nile River, taking us to an authentic Egyptian restaurant before taking us to a hotel where we could look over the city by night. Telling Naggar we had decided to visit the Pyramids of Giza seemed to fill him with slight concern and he decided to escort us there the following day, which we were more then grateful, yet perplexed by his concern. We fought through the incomprehensible Cairo traffic before we started approaching the ancient pyramids. The final approach to the pyramids was one of the most stressful situations we’d been involved in thus far. As we drove, people started to approach the car trying to secure employment as a tour guide. We initially experienced a man being denied by Naggar, yet he desperately continued to run next to the car as traffic progressed before he collided with a turning bus. We then came to an area where people were trying to jump in front of the car to the shock of Naggar, who was evasively able to avoid them. We arrived at the pyramids where Naggar secured our tickets and a guide, who was employed purely to prevent unwanted advances. The pyramids and sphinx were formidably standing before us, and it was more then obvious why the pyramids were considered an ancient wonder and also an honoury member of the current Seven Wonders of the World. Yet, it was hard to fully enjoy the experience, as we were the only tourists present, we were continuously harassed by people wanting money. Having Naggar with us to both drive and organise everything for us was amazing. We now know why he hesitated when we told him about our plans to visit the pyramids solo, and I think even he was shocked by the conditions we encountered. We are incredibly grateful he was willing to accompany us during our time in Egypt. The entire experience of visiting the pyramids really did reiterate the pressure the entire country has been feeling during this incredibly turbulent time, unfortunately it was evident that the country was struggling.The main question we had to answer was, ‘What do we do next?’. Do we pay for a new ticket to Argentina? Do we choose a new destination? And if so, where? This debate continued as we frantically searched Skyscanner for the cheapest destination that would partially coincide with our already booked flights. I’m sad to say to all our diehard fans out that there that Casey and I chose differing destinations. The Earthbound Astronauts are splitting once more! I had found an incredibly cheap ticket to Toronto, Canada, so thought I would go on a journey to find a polar bear. Casey, thought completely outside of the box, and decided to head to Tanzania where he’d organised a work away! Planning to meet up in the US in about a month, we said our goodbyes and farewelled each other once more. We truly are unpredictably earthbound after all. Keep posted.