M3r7ba, ya isdiqa-ee

Ahlan wa Sahlan,

I have arrived in Jordan, safe and sound, without any trouble. Right now I can hear traffic and desert winds outside my window. It is about 50 degrees Fahrenheit right now. For the next few days I will be in a hotel doing orientation. Since I have arrived early, tomorrow I will maybe do some exploring. I do not suffer jet lag too terribly and my cold seems to be on the mend.

During the flight, there were two meals-nothing too spectacular, just standard food. I did not watch the film. They also projected where the plane was in relation to the Ka'aba, towards which Muslims pray.

Landing itself was an amazing feet. In fact, the airplane occupants clapped. As we descended through the clouds, I saw magnificent coast lines and small homes.The vast expanse of mountains and deserts lay before my eyes, promising many adventures. Once we landed, I took a taxi...which proceeded to take me to the wrong hotel. Then I took another taxi, the driver of which told me he would take me anywhere I needed to go and insisted on calling me Jessica. Even when I told him my name was Elizabeth, he just nodded and said, "Yes, Jessica. So nice to meet you." He gave me his card and said he hoped to see me soon.

On the way to BOTH the hotels, I saw many mosques, as well as a McDonalds, a Pizza Hut, and other fast food chains. But I also zoomed by some interesting shops and universities. It is hard to make everything out in the dark (it was already dark by 5:00 pm). I have met a few of the students and am rooming with one right now. I do not plan on going out tonight, I am far too tired.

Salam,

Liz