On my journey to Petra, I took a short flight from Cairo to Aqaba, a peaceful coastal city on the Red Sea. Aqaba, though small, offered a unique blend of history and modernity with its relaxed seaside atmosphere. I explored the remains of a church from the Late Byzantine period, one of the oldest known in the region, offering a quiet yet powerful glimpse into early Christian history. A scenic walk along the beach led me to the towering Arab Revolt Flagpole, a national symbol commemorating Jordan’s fight for independence. I also visited the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, a beautifully designed modern mosque reflecting Islamic art and spirituality. Aqaba turned out to be a serene and culturally rich stop before heading inland to the wonders of Petra. (30 photos)