The Red Sea Isn't Red

Our trip through southern Jordan ended in the beautiful port city of Aqaba.

Aqaba looks a lot like Palm Springs or Palm Desert only it's near the sea.  Cargo ships bring in goods from all over the world and it's the country's only seaport. The city has a small town atmosphere and is a popular tourist destination for divers.  It's also a great place for seafood.   We're not sure what the crap with ginger and spring onion was, but we didn't order it. 

After eating lots of shrimp and getting a good night's rest we met Amer the next day for a tour of the area.  He loves Aqaba and we can understand why. 

Beautiful fish in the Aquarium

Gorgeous beaches 

Amazing view:  Egypt and Israel across the bay

A fun boat trip out into the crystal blue waters of the Aqaba bay 

Ahhh....a beautiful spring day.

Muslim women must stay covered at all times when they are away from the home, but the men get to wear whatever they want.  So when a family goes out the men wear shorts and t-shirts and go swimming, but the women can only sit and watch . . . in a hot coat and scarf.  Grrrr.  This drives me crazy.

Dad bought "Gold Million" and "B-15" cologne from a street vendor.  It's supposed to bring world peace, cure cancer and cover up body odor.

Shopping at the Chinese market is fun and cheap.

One of the most beautiful mosques we've ever seen is in downtown Aqaba.  We couldn't help but think that with a few tweaks (angel Moroni on the top, etc)  it could become a magnificent temple.