GX Jordan through our eyes: a journey of connection

Smiles greeted us everywhere. Tea appeared before we even asked. "Welcome to Jordan" wasn’t just a greeting — it set the tone for the genuine warmth that followed us everywhere as soon as we stepped off the plane. Jordan is a country that surprises you in the best ways: safe, deeply hospitable, and overflowing with stories waiting to be shared. Over just a few days, our team felt its magic through floating in the Dead Sea, exploring the hidden paths of Petra, and gazing at the stars in Wadi Rum.

We asked a few of our G team members to share what makes GX Jordan so great and why they still can’t stop talking about it.

What is GX Jordan?

Each year, G Adventures brings together staff and community partners from around the world for GX — the G Adventures Experience — a celebration of connection, culture, and purpose-driven travel with talks from our founder Bruce Poon-Tip and others peppered throughout.

In 2025, GX landed in Jordan, a destination that perfectly reflects everything we stand for: safety, hospitality, and travel that gives back. From the bustling markets of Amman to the silence of Wadi Rum, GX Jordan wasn’t just a gathering — it was an opportunity to experience firsthand the impact of community tourism in one of the most inspiring and scenic countries on Earth.

First impressions of Jordan

Before arriving, a few of us weren’t sure what to expect. Jordan sits in a region often misunderstood and close to conflict — but the moment we touched down, that perception flipped.

“I heard it over and over before the trip: ‘Is Jordan safe?’” says Leah Whitfield, G Adventures’ Global Communications Lead. “From the moment we landed, we felt nothing but warmth. People smiled, waved, and said, ‘Welcome to Jordan!’ everywhere we went.”

“The upbeat, positive, and open-minded attitude of every Jordanian we met really stood out,” adds Sarah Doherty, Manager of Culture & Engagement. “They’ve faced instability, yet their optimism and generosity were contagious.”

That generosity came through in powerful ways. When the team’s bus broke down, a café owner handed over his car keys so they could get fuel — no questions, no payment, just kindness.

“I also experienced something deeply personal,” says Erwin Sasmito, Manager of Learning Systems & Technology. “A café owner I visited often took care of me and, when I left for Toronto, gave me a big hug. It was a small but unforgettable gesture.” Moments like that captured why we travel — to see the good that connects us all.

Desmond Yu, Global Operations Support Coordinator, was also struck by how Jordan defied expectations. “I was surprised by the vegetation,” he says. “I could pick jasmine, pacay pods, and basil along the streets — not what I imagined a desert to be.”

He also noticed the deep trust among locals. “People leave their phones and wallets on tables without worry. Despite high unemployment, there are no unhoused individuals — families take care of each other, and everyone has a home.”

Experience Jordan for yourself on: Highlights of Jordan

Freedom, discovery, and the joys of Jordan

Jordan’s magic isn’t just in its landmarks — it’s in the sense of freedom it gives you.

“I never once felt unsafe at all,” says Leah Shelley, our VP of People & Community Operations. “At Petra, we could explore the site freely — no blocked paths, no rush. It felt like being trusted with history itself.”

For Sarah Mainprize, our VP of Global Marketing & E-Commerce, it was the stillness of the desert that made an impression. “Standing at the top of Petra watching the light shift across the stone felt almost spiritual. I expected to be impressed, and instead, I was deeply moved. Jordan slows you down in all the right ways.”

There were the laughs, too, of course, like when Leah S. tried to sink below the surface of the Dead Sea. “You just can’t do it! I was laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes. It’s such a weird, wonderful sensation.”

“And the surprises didn’t stop there,” laughs Sarah M. “The bagpipes! Who knew Jordan had bagpipes? There's joy and pride in every tradition you discover.”

Experience Jordan for yourself on: Egypt & Jordan Adventure

The people behind the magic

One of the most special parts of GX Jordan was meeting the people who make responsible travel possible.

“At Beit Al Ward, one of our community tourism partners, the women welcomed us like family,” says Sarah D. “They told us the stories behind every handmade piece in their shop and then served us a home-cooked meal I’m still dreaming about. That connection — that’s what travel is all about.”

“There was a moment in Wadi Rum during a barbecue where everyone — our hosts, our team, the Bedouin dancers — were just smiling and sharing joy," recalls Sarah M. "It was pure connection. You could feel the pride and happiness radiating from everyone there.”

Moments like these are what make G Adventures’ community tourism model so powerful. When we visit places like Beit Al Ward or spend time with Bedouin hosts in places like Wadi Rum, we’re not just seeing a destination — we’re helping sustain it.

Experience Jordan for yourself on: Ultimate Active Jordan

Food, flavour, and a whole lot of hummus

Ask anyone from GX Jordan, and they’ll tell you that the food was next level.

“Every meal was fresh, colourful, and full of veggies,” says Leah S. “I never had to worry about food safety or water — just delicious dishes and endless plates of hummus.”

“That hummus!” adds Sarah D. with a laugh. “I need to learn how to make it at home.”

“My only challenge?” says Leah S. “Staying hydrated! The desert heat is no joke — keep that water bottle filled!”

From mezze spreads to perfectly grilled meats, every meal was an invitation to slow down, share stories, and connect, the whole purpose of GX.

Experience Jordan for yourself on: Journeys: Explore Jordan

Jordan’s soul: grounded and generous

When asked to describe Jordan in one word, our team had plenty: grounded, warm, misunderstood, hospitable. But every response pointed to the same truth: Jordan has a way of staying with you.

“The word for me is grounded,” says Leah S. “In Wadi Rum, watching the sun rise over the desert, I felt this deep peace and connection. It’s a place that humbles you in the best possible way.”

“For me, it’s hospitality,” says Sarah M. “From the airport to every tea break, you feel the care and pride in every interaction. Jordan’s beauty isn’t just in its sights. It’s in its people. I expected to be impressed, but instead I was moved. I thought I’d see beautiful sites; instead, I found a country that invites you to slow down, listen, and be changed by its rhythm.”

“The first word that comes to mind when you think of Jordan is yalla (let's go)," says Erwin. "As a visitor, Jordan pulled me to many interesting aspects of its history, culture, food, and people. That’s how I felt throughout my whole time there."

Experience Jordan for yourself on: Solo-ish Jordan

Why you should visit Jordan

Jordan is a country that surprises you with its openness, moves you with its landscapes, and welcomes you with its heart. It’s also one of the safest and most stable countries in the Middle East and an essential destination for anyone who loves history, community, and connection.

When you travel to Jordan with G Adventures, you’re not just visiting Petra or Wadi Rum. You’re supporting the people who call these places home, from Bedouin guides to local artisans and women-led cooperatives.

“Jordan radiates a deep, genuine warmth that’s hard to put into words,” says Sarah D. “It’s pride, tradition, and humanity all wrapped into one."

Will Matthews, VP of Global Sales, agrees. “This was actually my second trip to Jordan, so no surprises for me — I already knew how welcoming the people are and what a great destination it is. And it was worth visiting Petra again!”

“From the moment I was picked up by our friendly transfer driver, I felt welcomed and safe,” he adds. “But what really stood out was seeing more than 600 agents, travellers, and suppliers cheering for Jordan during the WCTS day. With everything happening in the region, the fact that everyone showed up — that sense of community was so powerful.”

And when asked for his one-word summary? “Fattoush,” he laughs. “I had it with virtually every meal — and I’m still craving more! Oh, and Jordanian wine deserves some love too — there are some real unsung heroes there.”

“Travel isn’t about escape,” says Sarah M. “It’s about return. You leave Jordan with something you didn’t know you were missing: a sense of belonging.”

Experience Jordan for yourself on: Jordan: Petra, Wadi Rum & the Life of the Bedouin

Ready to visit Jordan?

If GX Jordan taught us anything, it’s that this country has a rare kind of magic, one that welcomes you in, fills you up, and sends you home changed.

Experience the magic of Jordan on a G Adventures tour.