Bibs, Babs, Bobs in Amman

A demonstration in Amman

2012-02-13T22:22:00.000+02:00

Saturday I ran into this with my friend as we came onto Zarhan street, after having visited Silsal, one of my favourite shops in Amman.

When we moved to Jordan 2 years ago, demonstrations were simply not permitted. Today is another matter. That is one of the things that has changed in Amman after the Arab Spring of last year. I don't really know what the demonstration were for or against - but if I should guess probably for the King.

Now we have demonstrations practically every thursday at the 4th circle.

The Birthday Cake

2012-02-12T21:58:00.003+02:00

Follow up on my post about The Cakery from the other day... Here is the promised picture of my friend's birthday cake. Good looking and absolutely gorgeous!

This cake is for 20 persons and it cost 45JD.

That's Also Amman #1

2012-02-10T09:07:00.000+02:00

I am starting a series of pictures I have called "That's Also Amman", to share all these small things I see everyday. This is all about Amman, its beauty, its contrasts.

A Bedouin Horse in Abdoun

Another cake shop in Amman: The Cakery

2012-02-09T22:17:00.002+02:00

It's my friend's birthday on saturday and I told her I would get the cake. I thought for a while where to get it from and remembered I saw a shop in Abdoun that seemed to be just perfect: The Cakery. Obviously I can't talk about the cake, because I know she'll read this... but I can certainly show you a couple of pictures of the place. They make big cakes and lovely pastries, jams, marmalades and macarons, as well as some savoury things like salmon roulade, quiches and finger foods. They caterer for parties or meetings.

Shop in Abdoun

I love macarons. However, I didn't get to taste theirs! I bought just one, pistachio flavour, and Bibs ate it all! It's a meringue based cookie with a cream inside, usually small and round. It comes in several flavours - the cakery has them in: chocolate, coffee caramel, vanilla, pistachio, green tea, mango, rose petal and raspberry. The don't look of much, but they are very difficult to make. I have looked at the recipe I don't know how many times and given up before I even started. My favourite macarons come from the Parisian pastry shop Laduree. Thanks to Bibs I have a valid reason to go back to the shop very fast. Box of 18 is sold for 14JD.

Macarons...

Pastries

Some of their cakes

Some prices....

Cookies: from 7JD / 500g

Tarts and cakes: from 20JD (12-14 pers)

Bites (sweet and savoury): 0.45JD/piece

Special orders: from 30JD

I'll share a picture of the birthday cake, I really love it!
Location updated on my map, link at the bottom of the page.

1st IWAA meeting

2012-02-06T14:44:00.004+02:00

The first International Women's Association Amman meeting took place last thursday and was clearly a success.

Over 100 hundred ladies turned up, many nationalities, including British, American, but also Indian and Norwegian, Tanzanian or Jordanian. After a cup of coffee or 2 and some pastries, we had a welcome speech by the founder.

Then Jane Taylor, the famous writer and photographer, made a presentation about her work here in Jordan. It was very interesting as she has pictures from the mid-80s and she was showing how archaeological sites, as Petra or Jerash, have evolved and changed over the past 25 years. She has published 5 books about Jordan - they are incredible material, they give another dimension and help to understand Jordan. I bought one of her books on Petra - it's a fab read and her photographies are really beautiful.

The next meeting will be held on 1st of March at the Sheraton - 10 am. The membership fees are still to be discussed so I will let you know when I know about it. There will also be a certain number of activities to which members will be able to sign up, for a fee as well.

The website is not yet up and running, but here are the contact details for the association:
email: Iwaamman@yahoo.com
Facebook page: IWAAmman
twitter: #IWAAmman

Shopping at Spinneys

2012-02-05T21:26:00.000+02:00

I like going to Spinneys. I don't really know if it is more or less expensive that Cozmo or Miles. Some of my friends find that yes, others no. So I guess it depends what you buy. There are things you can ONLY get at Spinneys as yogurts at 7JD for 4 or apples @ 10JD ++ the kilo - I know scary. But today I found one thing you can only get at Spinneys and that costs less than 1JD: a Reusable Shopping Bag. Yes.

So I bought a couple of them. I am so fed up with all these plastic bags I get every time I go shopping. I am going to drown in them. The funny thing was that it was probably the first time the guy that was packing actually had some in his hands. He looked at me and asked me very seriously if I wanted to use them. Hmmm yes! then he went completely nuts and loaded the bag so much that I could barely carry it!

Once I got home I had to get one of my plastic bags so I could transfer some stuff over. At least one of them got a second life. I know I could reuse them, but I always forget and seriously I think the supermarket staff would think I am a complete weirdo if I did.

And then I like their motto... It would be nice if it was true. Not that I have had a negative experience, in general the staff is actually very nice and helpful.

If only they hadn't run out of Ella's kitchen stuff. Talking about baby food - you can get Happytot pouches in some pharmacies now, including the pharmacy at Taj Mall and the little one in the street leading down to Mecca Street from the Four Seasons hotel.

Traffic Chaos at the 5th circle

2012-02-03T22:08:00.000+02:00

Here is the story that goes with picture...

The golden SUV on the right was blocking the white car - the guy in the white car was trying to force his way out of the roundabout and the golden SUV wouldn't let him so they were having a nice chat and blocking all the traffic. One police officer got involved, he was stuck in the traffic and got fed up. A second police officer got involved, he is the one standing the whole day in the roundabout. The 3rd car came the wrong way through the circle - thinking she would avoid the traffic jam. Typical Jordanian traffic chaos!

Love it.

Olives - The Book, The Blog

2012-02-02T20:27:00.000+02:00

I don't have much energy today... busy busy with the first IWAA meeting this morning, which was a success and I will blog about it, maybe tomorrow when the energy is back - then play time this afternoon with the kids at cutie town - an indoor playground which also needs a post.

But even without energy I had to log on to my blog to see if there was a new post on this blog: Olives. I am completely absorbed by it! I need to get myself the book so I can read it - unfortunately the author has not been able to publish in Jordan... but you can also read about that on his blog. The story takes place in Jordan and each post starts with a passage of the book.

Am sure you will love it!

http://www.olivesthebook.com/

I hope you all have a great start to your week-end.

This morning's taxi ride

2012-02-01T13:39:00.000+02:00

"Where are you from?" is such a standard question here in Jordan. I have already written about it (click here) and my first post about this question is a couple of years old. I have gone back to saying am from Denmark, because that's where I come from and I have decided I have no reason really not to say the truth.

I loved this morning small talk with the taxi driver and it started of course with "Where are you from?"...

It went like this:

Taxi driver: where are you from? America?
Me: no...
Taxi driver: England?
Me: no... I am from Denmark
Taxi driver: Ahhh! ...silence... It's very warm in the car no?
Me: yes, a bit (it must have been 35 degrees in there - and only 6 outside)
The Taxi driver opens the window
Taxi driver: more silence... and says: Too much milk!
Me: What do you mean too much milk?
Taxi driver: Too much milk in Denmark, too many cows!

I laughed so much! I thought it was sweet and funny at the same time. He obviously sat that and wondered what he could say about Denmark - where the cows come from I have no idea.

He lightened my day because it's raining again. A lot.

My missing shopping bag

2012-01-31T22:07:00.000+02:00

Have you ever wondered what happens if one of your bags goes missing at the supermarket? Well today I found out.

Weekly shopping at Cozmo today - I really go less and less to that shop, mainly because I find going to Spinneys much more convenient and it's closer to home. Today however I decided to go because I wanted to buy some of the Cow Gate cereals for Bobsy - I didn't get any because they were all expired, hmmm expired baby food? - well anyway, I get to the check out and one of the guys help me and empties the cart and for once actually listens to me when I tell him food items first. Another guy packs my shopping, with too many plastic bags, as usual, and he laughs because I repack after him and I give him some empty bags back.

With all this I forget a bag. Of all bags it had to be the baby wipes - nearly 9 JD worth of baby wipes - I know a bloody rip off. So I get home and realise that the bag is missing. I need the things so drive all the way back to Cozmo, not really believing that I will get my wipes without paying for them again.

Well, I was wrong. I go to the "customer services" counter and tell the guy behind it my little story about my missing bag, showing him my receipt. Surprise, surprise... out comes a big black notebook, he looks under today's date and says "yes madam we have them". I was stunned. Seriously, I was so surprised. Jordanian efficiency? Something new.

Queen Alia Airport: Top 10 worst airports

2012-01-30T20:54:00.000+02:00

I was not even half surprised when I read this article about the world's 10 worse airports and that Amman International Airport was also on the list.

The article talks about a few things, including the un-cleanliness of the toilets. I haven't even tried the toilets and it's still one of the worse airports I have been through. The current terminals are ugly and dark. A new terminal is in construction - by ADP (Aeroport de Paris), let's hope they make a better job than with Charles-de-Gaule, Paris' main international airport... funny enough that airport is also to be found on "the list".

Well arriving to Amman is kind of ok. You spent some time queuing, but then you do that everywhere. You queue for the visa (20JD), you queue for the passport control. When you are done with that you enter a horrible lounge to pick up your luggage. Porters are easy to find. One luggage scan and you are allowed out of the place. However, if your luggage is not there, then the fun starts, in a country where nobody knows how to queue. It happened to me once when I came on a connecting flight over Istanbul, with a very tired then under-one-year old Bibs. Not funny. There was about 100 people squeezed into a little space behind one of the belts trying to get the attention of one of the 2 agents sitting behind a counter... who didn't speak english. So imagine me, Bibs in a stroller, climbing over bags and people to get into this tiny space and trying to explain to the guy that I actually don't have a clue what my luggage looks like: Black or grey? the brand? my name on there? Yes maybe. Surprisingly enough it only took 2 days for the luggages to appear again.

But the true side of Queen Alia Airport, you see it when you leave Jordan. Once you have demonstrated to the customs guy that you are willingly walking into the airport (by showing him the flight tickets and passport), you need to have your luggage scanned. 2 or 3 belts and lots of people and lots of luggage: a few tourists, but mainly Jordanian or people from the gulf who again have no idea what queuing means. They arrive with 10 supersize luggages and just jump the queue. I don't know if they actually don't understand the concept of queueing or they just think you won't realise. I tell you it takes time and patience. A lot of patience and a bit of shoulder fighting. The ladies lane is a bit better but really not much. So through with all your luggage, your are trying to get to it. Remember the guy who jumped the queue with his 10 supersize pieces of luggage? well he is nowhere to be seen but all the suitcases are actually blocking the belt. Finally, you manage to get to the check-in counter.

Then you have to queue again: for the passport control. You have those who are standing nicely in the lanes, having no choice really and then those who are trying to discuss their way through the diplomatic lane (even though they are not much more of a diplomate than I am). It takes a good 20 minutes. They check that you haven't over stayed your visa (if you have, don't worry they will let you out - you just need to pay 1.5JD /day). Once you are done, you think it's over.

You arrive to the duty free shop which is one of the most boring ones i have been in, unless you are after really cheap cigarettes or dates. Then you need to find a counter at which you can actually pay - some are open but have no change, some are open but the cashier is busy arguing about this or that with a colleague. You can also get magazines and a little food and that's it.

Then you need to find the gate. You thought the scanning was over and done with! But no, you need to scan all the hand luggage, one more time. Once you are through there is no coming back, and beware there is not a shop, you can't even get a bottle of water. And it's depressing. Dark and gloomy with even lower ceilings - or so it feels.

A little bit more "non"-queueing and finally you are in that plane and you are happy, because it takes you away from Amman Airport.

I am maybe exaggerating a bit, but not much! There are so many things in Amman more enjoyable than the airport.

More about our new bins

2012-01-29T22:45:00.000+02:00

If you read my first post about Amman's new bins (click here to have a look), you might remember I mentioned the street cats.

Well, today I saw with great relief that our street cats have accepted the new bins.

They don't look that bothered, do they? By that strange woman taking pictures of them...

A piece of cake

2012-01-29T21:13:00.000+02:00

A year ago I had to drive all the way to City Mall to get some cake from Paul's. But that changed around Ramadan last year - some guy had the brilliant idea to open a shop in Abdoun. Life changed.

I'll go and take pics one day of the actual cafe in Abdoun, but I couldn't resist sharing today's cakes. I didn't eat them all by myself and even kept de coffee eclair for Bobs. Maybe he would have preferred the mille-feuille, but that one was too good looking! And as we say in French, absentees are also wrong!

Above... Strawberry tart, raspberry tart, lemon tart (definitely one of my favourites), banana and chocolate cake (for the kiddies, but the mummies loved it as well), strawberry mille-feuilles and the coffee eclair. Which one do you prefer?!

If you want to indulge, looking for some comfort, or simply have a sweet tooth like me and any occasion is good for cake-time (today lunch with a couple of mummy-friends) go to Paul. In my opnion, their pastries are the best in town.

And because Bobs is still not home, I might just go and suck out a bit of cream of that coffee eclair!

The donkey-man

2012-01-28T19:07:00.000+02:00

In West Amman, we have...

... nice cars...

... and huge houses...

large hotels...

Sheraton Hotel

Then we have sheep and goats...

...and also the Donkey-man.

thx my norwegian friend for this pic :)

I love the contrasts of Amman.

on a cold cold friday...

2012-01-27T22:54:00.000+02:00

... today has been a very. very. cold day in Amman. How cold I don't know because I actually haven't been outside. It started with wind, lots and lots of it. More and more clouds came and the rain came, lots and lots of it. We stayed at home.

I started my day with a good cup of coffee and the Jordan Times, while the rest of the house was still asleep. There were a couple of interesting articles. One about Jordanian Politics, this one about water conservation (it made me smile) and an other one about press freedom in the Kingdom, among others.

Then as the weather went from bad (wind) to worse (rain), I cut vegetables, I steamed vegetables and I pureed vegetables for my ever hungry growing Bobsy. And now it is dark and still wet outside I decided to brighten my mood with some holiday pictures. I love holiday pictures on such a day... and of course they are from Mauritius! I needed some pictures that reminded me of summer.

Beach - I love this panoramic feature on my new camera... a Sony nex-5

end of the day...

Bibs...

Sunset and the fisherman finishing his day

and the night pics as well... without a tripod!

I can't wait for spring to arrive. I know that we need water in Jordan and it's good that it is raining - but I miss the sun already!

New bins in Amman

2012-01-26T10:15:00.001+02:00

Look at that! Brand new green bins, with a lit to close them and the Amman Municipality Logo on and the whole lot!

At the beginning of my street I was wondering what was going on... 8 men were taking the old metal bins away - yes 8. But then they are heavy I suppose, especialy if they don't empty the bins first... I really wanted to take a picture but there was this car behind me... Then I saw one of the street cats looking bemused on the bins where it usually looks for its food and I understood: an old and a new one!

Let's hope the new bins look new for a while... I mean have they also invested in the lorries that go with them?!

A little post about medical

2012-01-25T10:49:00.004+02:00

So came then day when I got mastitis. Am breastfeeding Bobsy and it just came out of the blue! For those who don't know what mastitis is, it's a breast infection and to say it hurts is an understatement. I am not the kind of person who runs to the doc because of a cough or a fever - but this time there was simply no way around it. And let's say it as it is: as long as you pay (or your insurance does) there is no problem and they are very thorough.

There is a street between 4th and 3rd circles: it's a doctor's street. Only doctors, hospitals, clinics of all kinds. and it's a long street! So I got an appointment with a general physician and off I went to the dreaded doctor. There is a reason why I don't go to doctors: I don't like them. I don't like them and their white overall. He was ok though - there was only a doctor part. Either he forgot the white thing at home or he doesn't like it either.

And this is what happens when you go private here: the doctor checks on you and then picks up the phone to his very good acquaintance who happens to be the head of the x-ray department of the hospital within walking distance. I get to the hospital, find the x-ray department and the receptionist that goes with it, wait for a little while and get to register, pay 30JD at the "accounting department", also called a cashier, and the head of the x-ray department is already waiting for me.

All in all I spent maybe 30 minutes at the hospital and that includes a good 5 minutes in finding the right department, at least 5 minutes to pay at the cashier and 10 minutes at the pharmacy to get the antibiotics. And this is good, because if there is one thing I dislike even more than doctors: it's hospitals. And dentists, but that's another story.

I have had a couple of other experiences with hospitals here in Jordan and it has been like that: very effective really. That is if you pay and go to the right doctors. Of course. I wonder how long one should wait in Europe to get an x-ray done at a hospital.

They can get a little overzealous as well: the doctor wanted me to get intravenous antibiotics. I told him that I was sure the oral ones were fine!

Another example is the kids' paediatrician. When I went to the hospital to give birth I was asked who my paediatrician was. I gave the name and I was so surprised when I saw her 2 hours after Bobsy was born for a complete check up. If you don't have one, of course the hospital do the check ups, but otherwise your own one comes. She came twice in 24 hours (because I am a bit hardcore and left the hospital the day after) - so she came the next day just to see him. Of course you pay for all this, but it's not that expensive. I think we paid her 70JD for both visits and the second visit was friday morning, so technically her weekend day. I have her mobile number and can call her 24/7. That kind of service simply does not exist in Europe in my experience, even if you pay for it.

Jordan is trying to become (or is becoming?) a medical tourism destination and I think it probably has the best medical in the region. People are coming from neighbouring countries to Jordan. The prices are very competitive compared to Europe and the service really much much better.

Very dull day in Amman!

2012-01-23T10:05:00.001+02:00

Look at that weather...

I took the photos from the taxi! By the way why do I Always get a driver who smokes on rainy days??!

The Sheraton Amman, 5th Circle

A little more visible

Four Seasons Hotel Amman hidden in the clouds

And with this weather I discovered something missing on our car. Well I thought it wasn't optional really: fog lights! We have no fog lights on our car.

IWAA - International Women's Association Amman

2012-01-22T21:53:00.000+02:00

The IWAA, The International Women's Association Amman will hold its first meeting at the Sheraton Hotel (5th Circle) on thursday 2nd February at 10am and after that on every first thursday of the month.

"The aim of the IWAA is to provide a connection point for new comers to the city with emphasis on those ladies that may only be here for a short time, to enable them to integrate into their new lives as quickly as possible, through meeting people, being able to access information and join established groups and activities. IWAA meetings will be on every first Thursday of the month, and will provide a venue for women to meet and network, connecting with friends new and old, and join activities and events that they find interesting" says Sue, the founder of IWAA. The Facebook page is up an running already, IWAA Facebook.

The first guest speaker is Jane Taylor, famous photographer and writer. Jane has lived in Jordan since 1989 and has recently published her 5th book on Jordan: "Beyond the Jordan".

I am really excited about this association. I found it a bit difficult to find my way around town when I first arrived in Amman and if it hadn't been for the Danish Embassy and one of its staff I wouldn't have settled in so fast or so well: that's why I created this blog to start with - after that I discovered that I actually liked blogging, but that's something else... So yes very excited indeed, because I feel there is a real need for this association.

IWAA International Women’s Association Amman

The International Women’s Association Amman cordially invites you to the first monthly meeting on

Thursday 2^nd February 2012

The Sheraton Hotel

from 10am

Guest Speaker: Jane Taylor

"Flying on the wings of the wind... dancing on the earth".

Waffles and Art in Jabal Amman

2012-01-20T23:14:00.001+02:00

This afternoon I met with a couple of friends and their kiddies - first we went for waffles, then for a little bit of art.

For the waffles we went to Wild Jordan - I have already mentioned this place in my blog - I think it was the first cafe I went to when we first arrived. Well in 2 years it hasn't changed one bit. The view is still as amazing, the little shop full of great present ideas (for others or yourself!) and the cafe full of goodies!

Outside Wild Jordan

View from the terrace over downtown Amman and the Citadel (I really like this pic!)

Bibs' waffle - Well Bibs had the ice cream and I had the waffle

And some pics from the shop... Lots of jewellery, decoration items, soaps and a few items for the kitchen, puzzles or teas - the best: a little bit for each purse.

We then walked a little bit up the street to Nabad gallery. I forgot to write down the opening hours, but it closes for lunch and then is supposed to open at 3.30 to 7pm. I say suppose because we went at 3.30 but it was still closed... so went for the waffles instead. I am sure I had a picture of the entrance some where but I can't find it. But the doors open on a lovely small courtyard, with orange, pomelos and lemon trees. Bibs and her friends loved running around out there.

Until the 8th of February there is an exhibition named The Tenth Maqama - Paper, Clay & Memory IV - by Mahmoud Taha.

I found the exposition really interesting. A couple of examples of his work.

On the gallery's facebook page you can be kept up to date with the current and future expositions and the gallery also offers drawing and painting classes.

-------
Update: an article in Jordan Times about the artist's work (29/01/12) - http://jordantimes.com/reflections-of-the-palestinian-quest-for-freedom

A visit to the flower market in Amman

2012-01-18T20:29:00.000+02:00

One day a friend asked me if I had been to the flower market in shmeisani. A flower market? in Amman? Where? I have been buying my flowers of the street and have always found that it was actually quite cheap and fairly good quality depending on what you buy; we went this morning and it is like a small heaven, well if you are into fresh flowers obviously!

It is located on the continuation of Wadi Saqra going into shmeisani, behind the sixt rent a car - probably 200-300m up the road (it's on my map and the link at the bottom of the page).

Outside the market

Man arriving with fresh flowers

Opposite the entrance to the market there is a small shop where they sell vases and baskets, ribbons and a small (tiny tiny) selection of cards. There are also other things, quite indescribable... Vases cost 5JD, baskets 7JD.

Vases and baskets

Bric-a-Brac, as we say in French

The small cards...

The much larger ribbon selection

You enter the hall and lots of different vendors selling mainly to flower shops and other professionals, but you don't need to be in bulk, one bunch at one stall and one at an other is fine as well. Then you walk around and ask for the prices. Today a bunch of lilies was sold for 5JD, gerberas for 3JD, roses from 3JD for second class to 12JD the bunch imported from South America.

Once you have decided on what you want from one vendor you can leave your flowers on the floor in front of the stall, it means they are "sold".

When you need to pay you get a receipt from each stall from where you have taken some flowers - for most of them you pay at the central cashier and they hand you a receipt. I think a couple of them you pay direct - but you should always get a receipt as it is needed when you exit for one last stamp! Even at the flower market you can feel the Jordanian bureaucracy! One think I forgot to ask about are the opening hours; i know it is closed on fridays - a part from that, we went at 9am and lots of flowers were still coming in. Well ask about it next time I go.

The central cashier in the middle of the hall and to the right the men with the last stamp...

The bill (and the stamps!)

some more pictures from the market

And my flowers at home. I love fresh flowers and I think that we will have some more often now!

2 decade master plan for Petra rewarded

2012-01-15T15:44:00.000+02:00

In today's JT you can read about the Pierre l'Enfant International Planning award which this year has gone to the strategic master plan for Petra.

The Sanctuary

The Pierre l'Enfant International Planning award is an award that recognises planning practices and efforts (outside the US) to promote communities of lasting value. Read more about it on APA's (American Planning Association) website. In Petra's case it has been awarded "to the Petra strategic plan in recognition of its balancing the need for the preservation of important archaeological resources with the need for increased tourism and economic growth" (JT).

Petra is a UNESCO archaeological site and has seen in the past years a was-to-be-expected but unplanned for rise in tourist visits. Such an exterior support is in my opinion a great and very welcomed help for Jordan. Tourism in Jordan represents today one of the economy's major components and most of the sites in Jordan are facing big challenges, including environmental degradation, limited water availability and unplanned tourism growth, to name a few. This is clearly putting a site as Petra at risk.

Notice the horse/donkey stables in the back

The Jordanian government has established the Petra Development and Tourism Regional Authority, this is in charge over the region as well as the entire archaeological site. A multidisciplinary team had been created and they have received input from local leaders and groups in order to create the mentioned master plan. This plan will be implemented over the next 2 decades and will help with "attracting investment, developing infrastructure, diversifying and enhancing tourism services and facilities..." (Mohammad Farajat in the JT).

In 2010, Petra welcomed a little short of 1 Million visitors according to this article from the Jordan Tourism Board website, that's a 68% increase to 2009. I wasn't able to find official figures for 2011, maybe because the figures show a decline in tourists because of the Arab Spring. In the coming years the number of visitors to Petra will continue to rise - even with the very expensive entrance fee of 50JD/person for 1 day - so investments and environmental management is a big must for the site and for Jordan. Petra, and it's amazing beauty, need to be protected and fast.

The Siq - the walk down to the Sanctuary

The award will be handed out in April during the APA's national conference and later the master plan will be featured in their magazine.

Another year has gone by...

2012-01-13T21:56:00.001+02:00

... and today marks the second anniversary of our arrival in Amman. Like last year, today is a rainy day, there has even been some snow in the air. Like last year Jordan needs the water desperately.

Of course the arrival of our little Bobsy was the highlight of 2011! When we found out we were pregnant, we talked a lot about where I would deliver - should I stay here, go back to Europe? After talking a bit to friends here and there, I decided that staying here was the best for all of us. It wouldn't have been fair on Bibs to take her away from her daddy, her friends and playgroups when her life was going to change so much already. It must be a little traumatising to suddenly have to share mum and dad! However Bibs loves her little brother - cuddles and kisses him all day long. Wouldn't have been fair on the daddy either for that matter. Anyway, I started to look for an obstetrician and found a really nice one, I trusted him immediately. The great thing here is that the obstetrician does also the ultrasounds, so unlike in Europe, you get to see your little bean grow every time you have an appointment. I have not one bad thing to say about my experience, a part from the fact that there are 2 rates when you go to the doctor here: one for the Jordanians and one for the expats! I delivered at Farah Hospital which really reminds one more of a hotel with its single rooms, suites and even royal suite (2 bedrooms and a huge reception area! I just visited it, didn't "stay" there!). Of course a delivery room is what it is, but you do have the most amazing view over Amman - so while I was laying there and wondering why oh why I had said "no" to the epidural, I was also admiring the sunrise over Amman.

The View from my room @ Farah Hospital

And we got flowers and flowers and more balloons, here are a few! A speciality here.

And our Bobsy was born and now I can't remember what life was before he joined us.

The Arab Spring came and went (while the storm still blows in Syria and Yemen) and Jordan, well, I guess remained the same. I never felt the protests and never thought that it could become a problem. Business in Jordan was hit though - tourism declined as western tourists chose other destinations, one Prime Minister succeeded the other and Amman's former mayor got released this morning after one month's detention over corruption allegations - bail: 300'000 JD, rich mayor.

When I re-read last years post, One year in Amman!, nothing much have changed: I still like the same things and the things I didn't enjoy as much, well to be honest I like them even less now - but I have decided not to get upset anymore by unconscious drivers (private or taxi drivers, male or female, Jordanians or expats) or by male chauvinistic behaviours! Kind of New Year resolution.

We still have many things to do here in Jordan, I can't believe we haven't made it to Aqaba yet and I would love to go to Wadi Rum - but life with a tiny one is not always easy to plan! So here is to more time in an amazing country.

Play-date morning at J'Imagine

2012-01-12T22:36:00.000+02:00

J'imagine is the name of a indoor play area, it opened a few months back. Bibs and her friends absolutely love going there.

As every thing in Amman, you need to find it first. It is located on Princess Basma street in Abdoun, on the first floor of a bank building (opposite MyGym, another indoor play area, if that helps!) - I have updated my map so you can find it there as well. I think I drove past it 10 times before i finally saw a small tiny sign in one of the windows. There is a empty land next to it where you can park. The entrance is 8JD (in my opinion a bit too much) and the kids get access to a little world full of pretend areas, a toddler heaven, an arts and crafts activity room as well a room with sand and water tables (a favorite!).

I really like the set up of the place and it is safe - the kiddies can run around and play.

PRETEND CITY... It's lovely really. All possible costumes, followed by a kitchen, a supermarket, a vet, a little nursery just to name a few.

This is the water table where the kids can fish, as you can see there are small fountains. There is also a sand pit.

Then the toddler area - only for the small ones under 3. Bibs and Bobsy love it in there - so much to play with - even though most of the things we have at home or very similar! - But toys are like food in a toddlers world... always more interesting when not at home.

And because they think about the kids but also the parents - there is a nice cafe. A little selection of coffees and cakes, water, flavoured milk and small snack bags. I love the snack bags, it's a brilliant idea: a few smarties, some biscuits, raisins and dry apricots along with a few light salted items.

Cafe Counter: Notice the small snack bags.

They host birthday parties so better check with them before you go.I think that Bibs and her friend could have stayed all day. The mummies as well, if only they would offer a free coffee refill...

Ah I nearly forgot, the arts and crafts... I have to share my daughters piece of art! Brought home for her daddy of course - yes, she is still daddy's girl!

Christmas 2011 in snapshots

2012-01-10T18:59:00.001+02:00

Am sitting and feeding Bobsy so i thought i'd give this phone-blogger-posting-thinger a try! And i actually managed to get to the "new post page"!

So here are a few pics from this past Christmas, including my first ever gingerbread house, thanks to my Norvegian friend who moved to Amman last summer... I am very proud!

There is also my cranberry bread made with fresh cranberries - very nice! And the Christmas biscotti - with Pistaccios and Cranberries - i will post the link to the website i use later.

Oh and my Australian potatoes... Haha that really made me laugh!

I hope you all had a happy and merry Christmas.

Back to blogging... one more try!

2012-01-10T18:15:00.000+02:00

Well let's start by saying Happy New Year 2012 cause it's that time of the year. I can not believe that I have been away from my blog for 7 months. Please don't think that I have been doing nothing in these last months!... an extra pair of little feet have joined the family and I should really change the name of my blog to "Bibs, Babs, Bobs and Bobsy in Amman". 2011 blessed us with the arrival of a gorgeous little man. And for those with kids, you know how tired you get at the end of the pregnancy (a lot of sleep when Bibs was napping...) and how much your life changes with a newborn in the house: feeding, sleeping, changing nappies, ah and feeding again and again and again... but there is something very refreshing about having a newborn.

So I haven't really had time to discover much, but a few things have changed in Amman! Like the opening of Taj Mall in Abdoun and the arrival of H&M, Spinneys (and baby food, like Ella's Kitchen) and many other shops. But I will get back to all that.

The other thing new is my IPhone 4 which I absolutely adore! (not the 4s, but one can't have everything in life!)) - so while I might not be able to write as much I would like, I have installed blogger on my phone so will be posting pictures as well! Amazing thing technology... well that is when i have been able to switch my app from Arabic to English... because that's one thing that hasn't changed: my level of Arabic - not that I am particularly proud of it...

Once again Happy New Year, hope it will be a good one!

My Bobsy is 5 months tomorrow!

A small thing I love about springtime in Amman

2011-05-02T14:11:00.000+03:00

These last couple of weeks we have had lots of sheep in the empty lot opposite our building. Bibs loves seeing them and wants to go and play with them!

I do wonder how much they block the traffic when they come and go though! Just adding a bit more of mess, to the already messy Amman traffic situation.

French diner at the Hyatt Amman

2011-04-10T16:32:00.000+03:00

So last week we went to the Grand Hyatt Hotel to have some good French food, made by the Michelin Star Chef Lionel Levy, on the occasion of the French cultural week.

The food was lovely, you can feel that the chef didn't have access to the same kind of produce as what he is used to back in Marseille - but still he made a great job! So here is what we had, in pictures. Am so sorry cause I forgot the titles of the dishes, not very good - but you'll still get the idea of what we had.

To start with, we had snails - I don't think it sounds very appetizing to eat snails haha and I prefer the French term Escargot. So we had escargot in a kind of falafel with a persillade sauce (parsley and garlic).

We then had some more starters... Bobs had a tartar of saumon, which was yummy and I had squid stuffed with foie gras and beef, miam miam.

Oh! and one more starter... just to make sure that we don't go hungry home! The last one was scallops with artichoke. Bibs just said WOW to the picture - she is as interested in food as her parents are.

Then to the main courses. We had a different one each: I had sea bass with asparagus, served with a lemon grass and asparagus sauce. Bobs had lamb served in 2 ways: a confit and pan-cooked rack. Both these dishes were really good.

Then to the deserts - which was not his best point! But then I am sure that he probably has a pastry chef to do them back in his own kitchen! Bobs had a creme brulee with black olives and anis as well as an oil olive ice cream (I was surprised, I really liked the ice cream) - I had a revisited strawberry tart - but it wasn't very "tarty" so was a bit disappointed, the taste was good, but not what I expected.

We had a lovely evening. I hope that they will do the same thing next year, maybe with more venues? It is a great idea and I think sharing through food is excellent.

You know you are back when... and French cooking in Amman

2011-04-05T19:47:00.001+03:00

I simply cannot believe that I have neglected my blog like this! But for my defence we have been quite busy: and no don't worry I have been sitting in Dubai airport all this time... A week after we came back from the Emirates, we suddenly had to leave for the UK and that was that month on March. Pouf, gone! While in the UK, I could have found time to write, but we did not have internet. It's amazing how addicted you get to that stuff, but having said that an internet break is not a bad thing.

To celebrate my return to blogging, I thought I would make a little post about the small things that I rediscover!

So I know I am back in Amman when...

- you loose 15 degrees temperature wise, going from huge sunshine and 26 degrees to 11 and rain in 2 days! Spring time in Amman;
- I can get a couple of huge bunch of lilies at the traffic lights for a tenner;
- I get into Cozmo supermarket where they are renovating and I can walk on the newly laid floor tiles;
- or drive on a brand new layer of asphalt still warm (no wonder the streets are in a poor state);
- I can get tasty strawberries for 250 fils (or a little more) all year around;
- have to get used, yet again, to the non existence of traffic rules in the circles, are so-called roundabouts;
- The kilo of imported papaya reach 20JD or avocados cost 10JD per kilo - that's called extortion, in my opinion;
- when I watch Masterchef Australia and the word "pork" is censured;
- the internet connection is rubbish - one moment fine, the next soooo slow;
- I suddenly discover a German bakery on the parking level of Baraka Mall - where has that come from?? Yummy brown bread.

Then I wanted to share the initiative taken by the French Cultural Centre: 5 French chefs are in Amman this week at the following participating venues: The Grand Hyatt, The Intercontinental, The Sheraton and at Le Notre in Abdoun. We had the chance to try the diner at EVOO @ the Sheraton already, and let me tell you: best food I had in a very long time. Unfortunately I didn't have my camera with me so pics available, but as entree we had an asparagus broth with scallops, followed by lamb saddle. That was only 2 dishes of the menu degustation - which is 5 dishes served at the competitive price of 37JD (+ tax & service charge) - the menu also comes with a choice of wines to accompany each dish, the price is then 55JD, still not bad in my opinion. They also offer a few a la carte items. The chef cooking at the Sheraton this week is Bruno Doucet. Tonight we have decided to go and try the Southern kitchen at the Hyatt with chef Lionel Levy and this time I take my camera! If you have some extra cash for a good meal out I think it's the week to use it.

Away from Amman: Sitting in Dubai Airport

2011-02-24T15:15:00.001+02:00

So this week end we have left for a little break in Dubai... And right now 8 am still at the airport. You see, there are a couple of things you got to Love about Dubai Airport, specially when you are a mum and you have a tired toddler!

The first thing is called a stroller. Yes yes, courtesy of Emirates you have a stroller at your disposition as you exit the plane. No waiting for your own, or carrying your tired baby. You get a beautiful red Maclaren till you reach the arrival hall and pick up yours. Well Bibs today decided not to sleep during the flight (very long flight for mummy here) but as soon as she sat in the stroller she fell asleep.

The second thing is a Costa Coffee cafe in the arrival hall: mummy is relaxing with a nice latte and Bibs is napping peacefully in the stroller. Bliss.

Third thing: free internet for the blogging mummy.

Enjoy your week-end, wherever you are - am going to enjoy time with my little family, fab food , meet ups with friends and very importantly the +25 degrees and sunshine waiting for me as soon as I get to leave the airport.

Amazing Petra - A visit to Little Petra

2011-02-22T22:07:00.001+02:00

Located out of town, away from the main site of Petra, is Little Petra, also known as Al-Beidha - a much smaller version of the famous Nabateaen city. There is no entrance fee, which is nice compared to the 50JD asked, but you can't really compared the sites either. However for those who cannot afford the above price it is a nice little compromise to get the feel of Petra.

Entrance to Little Petra

Basically the site is a small siq (natural cleft in the rock) - with a complex of cisterns, dams and dining halls located in 3 small natural courtyards. The interesting thing is that there are barely any tourists and it is possible to walk in and out of the halls as you wish.

The site was a halting station and also one of the main commercial areas of Petra, passage point for the caravans on the trade route to the north and north-west. The traders would stop here and settle so they could engage in trade.

Here are a couple of links to web-sites:
http://nabataea.net/beidha.html
http://www.grandview.com.jo/little_petra.html - I like this one a lot - it is extracts from a book, called "Petra Book", by Jane Taylor.

How is it going in Jordan?

2011-02-18T10:26:00.001+02:00

Everyday or so I get an e-mail from back home, family, friends, friends of parents asking how things are in Jordan? Well as the "Arabic Spring" and its revolutions continue to sweep over the Middle East, I thought I would just reassure everybody, Jordan is quiet. Yes, there are problems in Jordan: the country is not escaping the economic problems, inflation is hitting hard, the income gap in between rich and poor is growing, the unemployment rate reaches 12% and let's not forget the public deficit which has never been so high. We have had protests every Friday for the past month or so, mainly in Amman.

Compared with Ben Ali or Mubarak, the street is not asking for the King to go. What they want is a change of Prime Minister (though he had only been here a few months), freer elections and parliamentary reforms. Well the sacking of the Prime Minister they got it: our King dismissed Rifai and his cabinet in the beginning of February. He was replaced by Al-Bakhit, who is seen as stable, but also conservative figure. Al-Bakhit is the man that came in after the 2005 deadly hotel bombings, he was also very much involved in the peace treaty with Israel. Will he be able to bring the reforms need in Jordan for things to become better? I don't know but the guy has a huge task ahead of him. Is the stability of Jordan on his shoulders? Maybe, probably. Al-Bakhit is Jordanian, as opposed to two thirds of the Jordanian population who are Palestinian. Without classifying anybody I think that the first group tends to be better off than the second.
The King certainly "bought time" when he replaced the PM but all the reforms that are needed will take a long, long time to implement and it will take even more time to see some results. For me one of the biggest problems is corruption, it cripples the country: from the elections to the decisions as to where money needs to be spend and for whom. Let's hope that Al-Bakhit and his cabinet will be able to stay far away from corruption.

The unrests are far to be over in the Middle East: yesterday it was Tunisia and Egypt, today Libya, Yemen or Bahrain and tomorrow? well only the future will say. For all these countries it is just the start. In the countries where the people got what they wanted: they need to learn about democracy, and that's not an easy task. How long did it take France after 1789? A century? more? Ok that's far away in history. What about the former east block in Europe? some states are still fighting high unemployment rates, low salaries and corruption - the older generation would argue that "under the old regime" at least they had a job and food on the table. I guess what I am trying to say is that unfortunately it's not because Ben Ali or Mubarak are gone that all his perfect - far from it. These populations will need a lot of time, a lot of support to get to where they want and it'll be a bumpy ride. The whole political system needs to be constructed - they have no real opposition, no political programs, not many political leaders.

Back to Jordan. Will the protests continue - it is possible, though I believe they will remain peaceful. I think it is more a crisis of confidence in between the people and the power, than a need of radical change. I believe it all depends on the speed with which al Bakhit and King Abdullah II will take steps toward reforms. But I want to stress, that I feel that Jordan is not like the other countries in the region, nor can you compare the King to other rulers in the area.

I thought this was an interesting article: Jordanian demand change - just don't touch the King.

Visit to Umm Qais

2011-02-17T22:51:00.001+02:00

I have been away from my blog for ages, and I am so happy that I can finally sit down and write again! There are always lots of reasons why one can't blog, but my main reason (a part from having visitors for quite some time) is that Bibs kind of took over my laptop when the tv suddenly went funny. The only time during the day I can write is when she quietly sits and watches her favourite program "Peppa Pig". So you got it, TV is working again: Bibs can have her screen and I can have mine.

Have so much to tell as we have done quite a few things in the last month; and I have decided to start with the last thing we did: a visit to Umm Qais.

Umm Qais is located in the North Westerly corner of Jordan, just at the border with Israel and Syria; the site overlooks Lake Tiberias, aka Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights and the Jordan Valley. It was a member of the Decapolis (during the Roman Empire) and was then known as Gadara. The city was then a cultural centre and was home to many poets and philosophers.

I found the site very beautiful, specially because it is so green there. Unfortunately it takes nearly 2 hours to get there from Amman - the drive goes through Irbid, the second largest city in Jordan and that means that you waste a lot of time.

Entrance to the site

It is fairly easy to get to Umm Qais, there are signs the whole way (this is worth mentioning as: 1. it is very rare in Jordan - 2. it is not the case when you need to go back to Amman!). The entrance is free for the residents and tourists need to pay 3JD.

View of the theatre

The theatre was built in the 2nd century AD against the western slope of the Acropolis. It could host around 3000 visitors and is built entirely in basalt. It was destroyed by an earthquake in the 8th century.
There are many things to look at on the site:

The main road in Gadara

The Nymphaeum

Archaeological museum (closed on Tuesday)

The site is also known for a biblical event: this is thought to be the place where Jesus cast devils into swine, which then drowned in the waters of Lake Tiberias.

View of the Lake Tiberias or Sea of Galilee (and the Nymphaeum)

If you schedule your visit over lunch I have heard that the guesthouse, located just across the road from the entrance should be rather good - not a bad idea before a long drive back. The views are surely stunning.

Jordan Valley

The other attraction of the area is Al-Himma - therapeutical hot springs located about 10 kilometres north of Umm Qais, they were already in use by the Romans, whom apparently regarded them highly. Today there are both a privately run bath and a public one (with separate timetables for men and women).

As I have already said it is a bit far away, which is unfortunate because I don't think I will go again. It is the kind of place you visit once. Yes, the views are amazing, the biblical reference interesting, but it is just too far from Amman. I wouldn't recommend to go to Jerash and then Umm Qais, I think it is too much to do in one day. One last thing it is not a stroller friendly site!

Here is a link to more pictures.

2011: International year of forests? Sadly not in Jordan?

2011-01-17T22:00:00.001+02:00

The United Nation has declared 2011 the International year of forests.

North of Amman is Ajloun Forest, home to more than 100 plant species, animals and birds. A deforestation program has just started in a part of the forest in order to built a military academy. I wonder how much clear land there is in Jordan? What is the need to actually destroy the forest so that we can get some more clear land? Well apparently there is 1% of forested land in Jordan.

In one of the most water deprived countries of the world, I think it is nothing less than a scandal.

A petition is currently being circulated on the net, to be presented tomorrow to parliament - you can show your support and sign it here. This is also a link to much more information about this case.

Visit to Umm Ar-Rasas

2011-01-16T20:51:00.002+02:00

I have been quiet this last month but it doesn't mean that I haven't been doing stuff. Still so much to see in Jordan. I started off the new year with a visit to Umm Ar-Rasas (also known as Um Er-Rasas, Kastrom Mefa'a). The site is located 30 kilometres south-east of Madaba and it makes it a perfect afternoon trip from Amman. We had lunch at Haret Jdoudna in Madaba and then continued to Umm Ar-Rasas. I wrote about that restaurant a year ago, after our first visit to Madaba, and their website was under construction... well it still is! But the food is still great, their hummus is yummy, my favourite is their lamb sausages in a tomato sauce, delicious.

Umm Ar-Rasas has been a world heritage site since 2004 - it started as a Roman garnisson, became a town in the 5th century. Most of the site has not (yet?) been excavated - the highlight is definitely one of the 16 discovered churches: Saint Stephens Church (AD 785) with its very well preserved mosaics.

St Stephens Church

It is easy to see that it was a big church, with several chapels. As I said the mosaics are very well preserved: the ones on the right underneath show the cities of the region (Palestine, Jordan or Egypt) written in Greek script.

In the top right corner, you can see an Icon, the only one there I believe

This section shows: Kastrom Mefa'a, Philadelphia (Amman) and Madaba.

Underneath a couple of pictures from the Church of the Lions - called so because of the mosaics found. It is not possible to see the mosaics as they are covered by plastic and sand for protection. I can only guess that this is a temporary solution until a more suitable one is found.

Like all sites in Jordan, there wasn't much information available, so do some research before you go if you want to enjoy it fully. There is a visitor centre but apart from the tourist police, everything was closed. We didn't pay an entrance fee, but had the pleasure of a escort by one of the police officers, who didn't speak much English, we still gave him a tip at the end of the tour. If you have a stroller it is possible to walk around with it on the major track.

Some more pictures...

One year in Amman!

2011-01-13T19:11:00.001+02:00

Waow!, as Bibs would say. One year already, time has just disappeared. A year ago, we were packing the last pieces of luggage and preparing our flight to an unknown country.

I took a little bit of time to get used to this new and a bit strange city, learning to drive around - can't say without getting lost because it still happens - finding an apartment and settling in. But then one day I woke up, only to realise that I actually thought about Amman as "home" - as much as London, Geneva or Paris before.

After a year what are the things that I like about being in Amman? no doubt I like being here...

1. number 1 has to go to the British club - not because I am a member or go their often - but because it is through the British Club that I have met my friends and Bibs' hers.

2. the weather - ok not the best this evening, looks like it's going to rain (but we need it desperately) or maybe there is a sandstorm on the way - but let's be honest, I don't have much to complain about on the weather side - love the sun.

3. the kindness of the Jordanian people - ok some are a bit piss-takers - excuse my French, but others are really helpful and nice.

4. the things you only do/have as an expat: massage at home, for example, or having a (more or less full time) housekeeper, or our apartment building's harris.

5. the historical / biblical sites to visit in Jordan - there is always, something, somewhere to visit (not only Petra or Jerash).

6. ice cream at Gerard's (am writing a post about those ice creams!).

7. hearing small birdies as I wake up in the morning, not something you would have in a large city in Europe.

8. walking around in Sweifieh - I just love that area - all the small shops, my favorite sharwama, Juicebangbang, the only bubble-tea tea-house in Amman and of course Istiklal (stationary and toy shop).

9. local fruit and veg, that costs absolutely nothing (as opposed to imported papaya for example @ JD10 the kilo!!).

10. last, but certainly not the least important, I can stay at home with my gorgeous Bibs and watch her grow every day.

Not everything is perfect when you live in Amman:
- Absolute rip off when you go to Mothercare or ELC and buy something imported
- The fact that you can never be sure you can get something in the supermarket: it is not because there has been a produce for weeks that it will be there today... like Tropicana fresh juice or my usual yogurt...
- probably what disturbs me the most: this is a man's world and sometimes you can feel looled down at as a woman.
- ha nearly forgot, traffic on Thursday afternoon - horrid.

But hey, no world is perfect - and Amman is a nice city to live in. Happy we are here for another year - so many things to still to discover.

Saved dolmen field in Jordan - a new tourism attraction for 2011

2010-12-21T11:07:00.000+02:00

For at least the past 2 years a Dolmen field near Damiyah, a village located north of Salt, in the Jordan Valley, has been on the World Monuments Watch list. According to an article in the Jordan Times of today, the site has been saved from destruction. A new archaeological site has been created, the DoA (Department of Antiquities) has made a deal with the mining company exploiting the area and a piece of land has been protected. It means that some of the dolmen will have to be moved to that specific site.

Pictures from the World Monument Site

The dolmen site should open sometime next year to the public. This is great as it adds one more interesting site to visit to Jordan's already quite extensive list. Dolmens are from the Early Bronze age (3600-3000 BC) and some experts say they could be even older, from the Chalcolithic era (that's 4500-3500 BC). There are around 300 dolmens on site, so it should become an interesting park to visit. This is one of the things I particularly enjoy about Jordan: there are so many things to look at from so many different times.

The other thing that is nice to notice is that there are no other sites currently on the watch list.

Crafts @ the 2nd circle

2010-12-18T21:36:00.001+02:00

Today I went to visit 2 different shops, one very exciting, the other a bit less. They are located not far from each other just next to the Intercontinental hotel and behind Reems, our famous sharwama stand at the second circle.

The first one, the "exciting one" is Alaydi, the Jordan Craft Development Centre. It is hidden in a private villa.

So what do they sell? Rugs and carpets, a great display of old bedouin rugs, kilims and cushions. There is jewellery, embroidery, pottery and much more. You will find small souvenirs and furniture. I really fell for this place, it's great. My friend who recommended it, asked me if I needed to spend money and that it shouldn't be any problem as they accept Visa! I did buy a few things, including some last Christmas decorations. It is well worth a visit.

The other shop, much smaller, is located a bit further down the road. It is called Alburgan.

You will find some nice things here as well, most decorations, cushions...

More tourists to Jordan with Easyjet

2010-12-16T08:38:00.000+02:00

As of end of March 2011 it will be a bit cheaper to fly from Amman to London (and vice versa) as Easyjet is opening a new route to Amman. I find that quite exciting. Not that I am a big fan of Easyjet, but more because it should make RJ and BMI lower their rates as well, and that's great news!

A return trip from London will apparently start at £106 inc taxes (according to this website) - the tickets should be going on sale today but I can't find the route on easyjet's website. It's a huge difference with the £500 + it costs on the 2 other airlines operating on this route.

Apart from the obvious advantage for little me, it is fantastic for Jordan - it will help boosts tourism even more. Every month there are reports in the papers about the rise in tourist visits to our little Kingdom, the construction of a new terminal and the opening of such routes by Easyjet can only be good news for Jordan.

Now that means as well, that the authorities need to step up to it. Some of our tourism site are quite nice in terms of orientation - like the Citadel for example. But others like Petra have tons of work to do to greet more visitors. Some sites have been bumping up their prices these lasts months, it's the case of Petra or the Baptism site, but these sites also lack of infrastructure and serious money needs to be invested.

Hot chocolate and Christmas goodies at the Sheraton Amman

2010-12-15T16:31:00.001+02:00

X-mas tree in the Green Lounge

Yesterday I indulged myself. I took Bibs to the Sheraton for a hot chocolate. It was yummy, make that Yummy with a capital Y. For 7JD you get a peek in heaven for a little time. If you are into hot chocolate of course.

It comes with marshmallows, whipped cream, strawberries and chocolate sauce; you can have it with Baileys, if you are really naughty.

They also sell Christmas biscuits which are really nice. Bibs had the small bag on the right and she devoured them. The bags come in 3 sizes.

I love these houses! I don't think they sell those though.

Tomorrow and next Monday they have live Christmas carols in the Green Lounge at 7pm... might go back for some more hot chocolate. Yummy! They have a special Christmas menu as well with smoked salmon bagels or apple and raisin strudel. I love Christmas!

After the sand and the snow, Amman is clean again?!

2010-12-14T12:25:00.000+02:00

I think the entrance to my building is cleaner that court yard of Buckingham Palace, and I am sure Queen Elisabeth II likes her environment to be spotless.

I know, snow makes things look dirty when it disappears - but this for me is beyond believe. As I took a cab this morning in my street, I realised that all the Harris' have been very busy cleaning, not only the entrances to the building and houses, but also the pavements, there is water absolutely everywhere.

Then as I change neighbourhood, I realise that shops, fast-food restaurants are doing the same. So everybody is praying and crying out for rain. And when it comes we use the water to clean the streets and the cars with? This is something I just cannot understand. There is really a huge education problem here. Or do people simply not care? Is it more important that the city is clean after a snowy day or that those living in areas where there are water shortages actually have some water?

Water preservation needs to be built into people's livestyle. The government, but also schools need to step in for kids to understand how important water is. For the parents and the older generations I fear it is too late: what I see in the streets around here show that to me.

And it snowed in Amman

2010-12-13T08:28:00.000+02:00

I have to admit, yesterday when my housekeeper told me someone had told her it would snow today, I smiled. Well it happened. Not a lot, just a bit and at 7 o'clock it was nearly all gone again. But still snow it is. Schools are closed, Bobs was wondering how many had not shown up for work this morning and I'll be an Ammanite and stay at home today, not so much because of the cold, but more because I really don't trust the drivers out there!

can you see it?

Winter in Amman and a Christmas Bazaar

2010-12-12T21:24:00.000+02:00

One good thing rarely arrives alone: winter has arrived in Amman and with it some long wanted rain. Today has been a real winter day: cold, rain, hail and wind, a strong and cold and sandy wind. I am glad for the rain, not because I like it, but because we need it, still I admit I am happy because tomorrow afternoon it should be over and done with: back to sunshine and warmer temperature. Yet we need more rain, it has barely rained this autumn - I can count the days on one hand - and Jordan desperately needs water.

So with the winter weather, came my first visit to a Ammani Christmas Bazaar this week-end. Organised under the patronage of HRH Prince Raad Bin Zeid and Al-Hussein Society and in cooperation with the diplomats and the different ladies clubs in Amman it was a well organised event. It opened at 11am, I was there at 11 and it was absolutely packed: Jordanians and expats.

There were stands from many many countries: including all Scandinavian countries. I bought myself a lovely Finnish table-cloth for Christmas, as well as some red candles and other small hand-made things.

The French stand, on the right above, was very very busy. They were selling all kind of French food that is impossible to get here: rillette, foie gras, sausages or Calisson d'Aix, a French almond sweet. I was told that I managed to miss the Malay food however, didn't see their stand, I won't forget next year!

Breakfast Review II: Le Royal Amman

2010-12-08T14:17:00.002+02:00

While I was still in the middle of packing for our holidays, I still managed to enjoy one more breakfast with the other mums and babies. We decided to try out the breakfast at Le Royal Hotel.

View of the hotel from Zahran Street

The hotel is located on 3rd circle, very impressive with its 31 floors and 13 food & beverage outlets. We had our breakfast high up, sorry I can't remember what floor, but to be honest it doesn't matter cause the restaurant is located in the middle of the building so there is no fancy view! A shame it would have added to the experience.

The breakfast was average. The pastries were nice, Bibs loved them and swallowed 2 mini croissants in an eye beat. I didn't like the omelette, the pancakes were fluffy but just common. The greeting was nice and the waiters looked after us, however I needed to leave before my friends because Bibs was too tired and me thinking about my luggage: I left my 16JDs on the table with my friends. One of the waiters actually stopped me and asked if I had paid as I was leaving the restaurant. hmm not my idea of service when there are still people sitting at my table.

So, not the best in town, probably the least interesting we have had so far.

From our Kitchen: Babs' yummy gingerbread cakes

2010-12-07T21:34:00.000+02:00

Today I had Bobs at home as it was a holiday, Islamic New Year, so I decided to start my Christmas bakes.

It is a classic, Gingerbread cake, but instead of doing one big cake from which I slice, I prefer to make them in smaller versions...

What you need:

260 gr all purpose flour
1 tsp (5gr) baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
1/8 ground cloves
115 gr unsalted butter @ room temp
100 gr light brown sugar
2 large eggs
Zest of an orange
120ml molasses
240ml milk

Orange icing (optional)
150 gr sifted icing sugar
2 tbsp fresh orange juice

How to make them:

Preheat the oven at 175 degrees C (350 F) with the rack in the centre. Butter and flour the form or a 23cm round/square cake pan. The sides have to be high.

In a bowl mix the flour, baking soda and spices.
In a second bowl, beat the butter and sugar till light and well blended (about 2-3 minutes). Add the eggs, one at the time and beat well in between. Continue to beat and add the orange zest and the molasses. Add the dry mixture and the milk, alternating, starting and finishing with the flour mixture.

Add the mixture in the form or the cake pan, leaving a bit of space for the mixture to rise while baking. The small cakes will take about 12-15 minutes, one large one about 40-45 minutes. To check if the cakes are done insert a tooth-stick, if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Let cool off in form for about 10 minutes, before removing it and leaving it to cool off completely.

Icing - optional, but gives a nice touch. Better on a large cake.
Mix the icing sugar and juice until smooth, the icing is thick but can be spread.
You can also add minced fresh ginger, nuts or use lemon instead of the orange...

I found the form with the small men and Christmas trees at Istiklal in Sweiffeh.

The Ultimate Christmas Shop! and a little bit of art

2010-12-02T18:09:00.000+02:00

Yesterday I was walking with Bibs around in Sweffieh. It's really an area that is worth exploring and I need to do some posts about it. Anyway, I had seen this Christmas shop that I wanted to check out. This is the place to go if you need golden balls for your tree, Christmas napkins, candles (you know the ones that smell of X-mas) or other decorations. The Ultimate Christmas Shop.

You love Christmas? You need that shop. The napkins are only 1 or 2JD max and he has lots of different ones. The decorations are not expensive either. Oh and he plays Christmas carols!

The reason I went to Sweffieh in the first place was to pick up some prints we wanted to get framed. There is a shop called Top Art, the guy is very good and we got 12 prints and paintings framed in only 5 days! It is also a gallery and they sell lots of different kind of paintings, they have something like 4 or 5 floors only with art. When we went last week I noticed two paintings by a Jordanian artist and I really liked them, yesterday they were still there so I decided that that meant I should buy them!

They represents scenes of life as they can be found in caves in Wadi Rum. I don't really know from what era, but my guess is that it is a very long time ago! The one on the left represents a woman putting her child to sleep and the one on the right a person harvesting in the top corner and one making fire underneath.

Prepare yourselves for some more posts about Christmas, it's my favourite season of the year and I must admit, it's a bit difficult to know that I won't be with my parents, sis and her kids this year! But not all is bad: Bobs' parents are coming so that's good.

Happy Christmas Preparations!

Back in Amman 2: Karak Castle

2010-11-27T14:36:00.001+02:00

To get to Karak you can take the Dead sea highway or the King's highway (through Wadi Mujib) where the scenery is much more exciting, but it would be a bit too long for Bibs - she tends to get very bored in the car. So we took the Desert highway, the fastest way to get there. We managed to find Karak and the castle without getting lost, not thanks to the signs though...

a sign, with some remains from the elections

view of the castle

The castle, probably the largest in Jordan, from the Crusaders' time, was built in 20 years and finished in 1161, when it became the residence of the lord of Transjordan (the most important fief of the Crusader kingdom, as it was rich in both produce and tax revenues). But long before the crusaders arrived in the region (some 29 centuries ago), the fortress of Kir Heres (or Kir-Haresesth) is mentionned several times in the Bible, like in the Book of Kings (2 King 3:25): "In the end, there was only Kir-hareseth left, which the slingers surrounded and battled." - a descritpion of the Israelites assaulting Moab and taking the fortress. There is also another version of this event: which is the famous Mesha Stele or Moabite Stone. The site being this old came obviously also in the hands of the Nabateans (the ones from Petra). There is one small remain from the 2nd century AD.

Nabataean Relief

It is the bust of a man - unfortunately he has lost his head, but it has been identified as a funerary monument of a Nabataean cavalryman.

View towards the Dead Sea and Israel

View South towards the Lower Court

The views are spectacular. It is said that on a clear day you can see as far as the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem.

There is a small museum presenting findings from Karak and the Moab region.


Entrance to the Museum (lower court)

There is a small leaflet availbale at the visitor's center. It is well made with lots of information. The trouble is only that it is not that easy to know exactly where you are in the castle, so it is good to have the leaflet at all times and follow the small plan. A guide kind of just took us along (we paid him 2jd) and he showed us some of the things. It is also possible to rent audio equipment for 5jd. Depending on how much you want to know about the site. As usual I feel that I don't know enough, so when my parents come next year I'll probably go back for a second round.

The castle is built in 2 levels (upper court and lower court), as can be seen clearly on the pictures beneath. There are 2 main periods: the Crusaders, late 12 century and the Mamluk, 13th to 15th century.

Crusader Galleries

Upper court - inside view of the Crusader Gate

You can walk around completely freely in the castle. There are a few signs along the way, but there are places where we wouldn't have gone without the guide, like the prison or the dormitories. The entry to the castle is 1JD for tourists and 150fils for residents. It is not a stroller friendly site, there are steps everywhere. Bibs enjoyed walking around, picking up stones and being carried a little bit as well, when down in the prison cells. There are no lights whatsoever in the underground vaults, only small openings here and there in the ceiling or the walls so the guide was walking around with a flash-light.

The castle is a must visit in Jordan. Then there is also the city of Karak. It used to be completely fortified and there are still towers and hidden entrances to the castle around the city. There are plenty places to eat and drink around the castle should it be lunch time.

Back in Amman 1: a French Breakfast @ Paul's

2010-11-27T14:22:00.000+02:00

So we are back! Back from our fab holidays. Yesterday we decided to use a little bit of our stored energy and make the drive to Karak to visit its castle.

We started with a stop at Paul's for a French breakfast. The croissant was soft and warm and yummy. The baguette, the closest you get to a very good bread in Amman. Even if it is located in a mall, the atmosphere is quite nice, nearly French. They have several options for breakfast (healthy, continental, rich in fiber, low in salt...). We both took the continental, which includes: a warm drink, fresh orange juice, a pastry, a half baguette with jams and butter, for a total of 7JD (inc tax) / per person. Even the coffee is good.

Bibs was a bit hungry, she got a hand on my croissant before the picture!

We then started the drive southwards, about an hour and a half on the desert highway.

Away From Amman: a postcard from Reunion Island

2010-11-17T10:46:00.000+02:00

So I lied... I thought my post would be from Mauritius but it is from Reunion Island. As usual holidays go way too fast. What have we been up too: a small stay at The Residence and one at the Grand Mauritian; lots of food, scuba diving and now a trip to Reunion Island, with more food, more sun and good times with family and friends.

It is the first time I come to Reunion Island and it is beautiful.

In the South of the Island, not far from St Pierre

Lava from the big Volcano eruption

Anse des Cascades - Ste Rose

Market this morning in St Denis

Lots and lots of things to write about and some amazing pics to come...

Away from Amman: The Blue Penny and the Waterfront

2010-11-10T21:52:00.001+02:00

The Caudan Waterfront has become over the years a tourist hot spot in Port Louis. It is a large shopping area, with restaurants, cafes, a cinema and even a casino. Obviously it is located by the water so it makes it perfect just to take a walk as well.

The shopping area is very large with both international brands and more local things. Pardon, a brand from Reunion Island is worth the visit. There is also a nice crafts market on 2 floors.

There are a few historical things to look at, as the Postal Museum or The Observatory.

The Observatory was built in the beginning of the 1830's and was the first of its kind in the Indian Ocean, used mainly for cyclone warnings and astronomic views helping the weather forecast in the harbour. It had a short life as it stopped operating in 1866 and the tower was brought down in 1880. The main building is still there, showing the architecture of the time and of course the evolution of the Caudan.

In the Caudan, you will also find the Blue Penny Museum - the museum is named after the legendary and very rare 2 pence blue stamp. There are the first stamps of the British Empire to be printed outside the United Kingdom, in 1847. One of these can be seen in this small museum.

Blue Penny Museum

The particularity of this stamp is that it says "Post Office" instead of "Post Paid" and about 240 pieces were sold before the mistake was noticed. The little story says that most of these stamps were used to send out invitations to the Mauritian Governor's wife ball.

The museum displays a collection of boat models, the postal story of Mauritius as well as a whole section on "Paul & Virginie", the famous book by Bernardin de St Pierre. It is the story of 2 young people who know each other since birth, fall in love and die on the wreckage of the Saint Geran. For those interested it is possible to dive and see the wreck.

Opposite the museum there is a small art gallery, where we bought some lovely prints from Mauritian artists, worth a visit if one is looking for a small souvenir.

Some more pictures of the Caudan...

Away from Amman: a couple of days at the Residence

2010-11-10T10:12:00.000+02:00

We had the pleasure to spend two nights at the Residence Hotel in Mauritius. It was a pure pleasure, we had an amazing time. The hotel is located about 45minutes from Port Louis, on the East cost. Now the only real problem with that coast is the wind. There is always wind, all year around - during the summer month it doesn't matter, but the rest of the year it can get a bit chilly when the sun is not out and shinning. Having said that, it was still a fabulous stay.

The hotel has a lovely colony style and the feeling in the hotel is great. We were upgraded to a gorgeous junior suite and got some really nice amenities as well, including a bottle of Champagne, fresh fruit and some small almond muffins with banana compote. There is also a butler available, he can come an help you unpack your luggage, get your trouser pressed or anything else you can think of.

The pool and the beach now: the pictures speak for themselves. The beach is amazing, I guess it's about 1km long, and it is wonderful to walk by. The tides are quite strong and when it is low it is possible to walk really far out or stay by the rocks and find small crabs.

The sea...

And more sea...

The pool area is not so big and can get fairly crowded in the early afternoon. We were told it is heated, so the temperature of the pool should also be nice during the winter months. There is an outdoor jacuzzi as well.

The pool area

The hotel as a very nice garden as well, as well as a kids club and of course a boat house where you can book snorkelling, glass bottom for free or scuba diving for a fee.

Kids Club

@ the boat house

I think the only thing the hotel is lacking is the sunset - but there isn't anything they can do about that, since they are on the wrong side of the island. But then, I love to walk on the beach at sunrise as well, so quiet. The service was terrific, all staff very helpful and friendly. We have stayed at quite a few hotels in Mauritius and I have to say that this one is one of our favourites so far.

Away from Amman: a view of Port Louis, Mauritius

2010-11-08T13:35:00.000+02:00

When we are in Mauritius we live just north of the capital Port Louis. It is a very busy city, where Creoles, Chinese, Indians, Christians, Muslims or Buddhists live together.

There are a few things to look at in Port Louis, of course the Bazaar, the Waterfront, Aapravasit Ghat (world heristage site), the Citadel, to name a few.

Entrance to the Central Market, or Bazaar of Port Louis

The Bazaar: you will find everything here: Fruit, vegetables, meat, poultry and fish; then there is the more "tourist" side with all kind of souvenirs (t-shirts, crafts...), but also vanilla, spices or herbs. All prices in the later part are discussed - one small tip for the vanilla pods : some not so honest sellers soak the pods in water so they look more attractive, but a pod should be more on the dry side. This time I paid 200 rupees for 10 pods - they are now in a glass with a bit of sugar waiting to be used in Christmas goodies or in other "canard a la vanille".

Some examples of the different religions present on the island: the entrance to a Chinese Temple, the Mosque, the Cathedral and a Hindi temple. I admit the temple is from another city, not far from Port Louis.

And some other views of Port Louis...

Packed, ready to go and the fishmonger!

2010-11-04T23:22:00.000+02:00

Once again, it seems I have succeeded: the suitcases are nearly closed, we are checked in on our flight and the passport are in my handbag. So my next post will be from Mauritius and am so excited about it. There are so many things that I am looking forward to sharing about this lovely island.

Just wanted to tell you quickly about a great fishmonger I have been recommended. Just off the 7th circle in the direction of Mecca Street. Lots of fresh fish, got mine very nicely clean and the prices are very reasonable as well: a had 2 beautiful sea-breams (about 1.3kg) for 10JD.

Sorry this is a short one, but am tired and off to bed before a long day tomorrow!

A visit to the Blue Mosque

2010-11-03T20:53:00.001+02:00

View of the Blue Mosque

This week I visited the Mosque of the Martyr King Abdullah bin Al-Hussein, also known as the Blue Mosque because of the beautiful blue dome.

As tourist (non-Muslim), you are not allowed in through the main gate. There is a complete separate entrance, located "underneath" the Mosque. You have big signs so you cannot really miss it. We went through a typical bazaar (also doind charity work) with all kind of Jordanian souvenirs and handcrafts. This is where you pay the entrance fee (2JD - resident or not) and where women can borrow and put on the Abaya (traditional black clothing that women wear over their clothes). Note that this is not optional - as women (I was with other female friends) we needed to put it on. I will also say that it is synthetic and it's very very hot to wear - so I cannot imagine what it is like in the summer.

We went up the stairs and arrive in the Gallery.

Main Entrance to the Mosque

This is an open yeard that has a capacity of 6000 worshippers. The floor is covered with octogonal tiles forming lines that direct worshippers toward the Kiblah (direction of Mecca, towards which Muslims turn in prayer). Engraved as well on the external walls are Quranic Verses.

We first visited the Women's Place of Worship - we were not sure that we were allowed into the Men's, but yes we were. The Women's area is quite small and can house 500 worshippers.

To the right the Mihrab - niche that turns toward Mecca

We then went to the Mosque's Nave (Men's area). It can host 3000 worshippers and is very impressive.

I could't take many pictures, because there were men praying, sleeping, sitting and talking and there was also a lecture going on. I didn't want to seem intrusive. You can notice the same kind of patern on the carpet that shows the prayer direction as outside.

Sorry about the quality of some of the pictures, but I was taking without flash (to not disturbe) and with Bibs wanting to run around it wasn't that easy!

When we bought our ticket we were given a very nice booklet that explains all there is to know about the Mosque and its construction (that is where I have taken most of the info from).

The last thing we visited was the Islamic Museum. There are other places to see like the Conference Hall or the Library, but Bibs was a bit fed up and hungry so we had to hurry.

Can anybody tell me what this is??

It is a small museum, where there are antics, coins, stone engravings etc. all in relation to Islam.

It is an interesting visit to make, and I believe the only Mosque in Amman that can be visited by non-muslims. As usual I have more things to visit - a trend in Jordan for me - so I'll go back and look out for some more. I hope I haven't made any mistakes with the translations and meanings - if I have please let me know!

One last thing, opening times: we visited between 12:30 and 2pm, and I know it opens in the morning (8am-11am, if not mistaken) - but I don't know if this changes during the year, as I doubt that one can visit during prayer times. Not really sure of this.

Breakfast from Crumz and a Chinese for lunch

2010-10-30T12:31:00.001+02:00

Yesterday morning I decided to treat Bobs with a nice breakfast; I took Bibs and off we went to Crumz, to get fresh bread and croissants. Crumz is located in Abdoun, not far from Abdoun mall or fitness first. The bread is nice and soft and the croissants not bad at all! There is also a large in-door sitting area to enjoy breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea or dinner.

Entrance & out door terrace at Crumz

They even have special Halloween cup cakes, donuts and other cookies.

I then stopped at Starbucks for a coffee. This Starbucks drive through is just so handy, with Bibs in the car!

After a little swim - in-door now - as all the out-door pools are closed till next summer, we decided to try another Chinese restaurant, and we went to Chop Sticks in Swefeih, not far from Cozmo. Actually they serve Indian and Chinese food. Amazingly we haven't really given up finding somewhere to get our Chinese fix, but of course we were disappointed once more.

We had some dumplings, as usual made with chicken, they have a vegetable version as well. Then crispy chicken, which was indeed crispy, but hard as well, not that exciting. The best was probably the fried noodles, you can taste it was not a Chinese who had made them, but they were okay. The bill was 20JD. I guess it is the best we have tasted in Amman, but I doubt we will go back. Maybe the Indian food is better...

A week to go and we will have top Chinese food in Mauritius! So excited!
As usual, I have put the places on my map, the link is at the bottom of the page.

a shop in downtown: it's all about Christmas decorations

2010-10-28T22:04:00.000+03:00

So today, we took a small trip to downtown Amman. I don't go to downtown as much I would like. It is always so hot, so crowded, dirty - so, I feel not really a place for Bibs. My Australian friend (yes her again) told me about this little shop where she ordered Christmas decoration; she needed to go back to pick up her order so she took me along, with one of the other mums but without Bibs. Located on King Talal street, it is a tiny place, but we received such a warm welcome by the Armenian owner, Mr. Kokozian.

The Shop

The owner and artist, Mr Kokozian

The paint

Work in progress

He blows the glass and does all the painting himself. It is possible to buy the things exposed in the shop or to make an order. Obviously for Christmas he is very busy, but he works all year round. I ordered some balls for the tree, one with Bibs' name on. Price-wise the small balls are 7JD, the bigger ones 15JD and the biggest candle holder is 30JD.

Some of the decorations below

This one is a gift from the owner, I love it!

I am sure that the decorations will look beautiful on our tree!

The Ammani Guide

2010-10-26T11:12:00.000+03:00

One of my Australian friends passed me this guide about Amman, and in a way it's really great. There is tons of very useful info about the city if you are new here but also good for those you have been in Amman for a while and are still trying to figure out where you can get this or that brand or what the emergency numbers are.

It is divided in sections - like fashion, home, maps, shopping malls, services and even take away menus. It is renewed twice a year I guess and costs JD2.50/copy. You have the number to order on the picture above on the left - am going to order one today!

The city is divided up in some small but useful maps

Map of Mecca Mall - quite handy!

It is only made of ads and lists of shops but one of the difficult things about Amman is that you don't just go to one area and find all the shops that you need/are looking for - like in London if you go to Oxford Street well you spend the day and know that you have all the shops you need. Here you'll have one shop on this corner and one shop on that corner, and you have to drive in between - so unless I know that there is something to stop for I rarely go and discover shops - it is nearly mission impossible with a baby and stroller. I found shops in this guide I didn't know existed and I love it! For a Jordanian guide it's not bad at all.

Some beautiful Art: a visit to Silsal

2010-10-23T22:03:00.000+03:00

Next week my really good Danish friend is heading home to the cold, home to Denmark for good with Bibs' best friend. We (the mums from our baby group) wanted her to have something spacial and Jordanian to take with her, so she doesn't forget us that fast. Upon recommendation I went to Silsal. It is such a surprising place, with the most tasteful and modern ceramics. It is nested between the 4th and 5th circles.

You will find everything there and for most budgets as well (don't be fooled by the prices you see on their web page). Beautiful vases, salad bowls, lamps, coffee sets - they even have a Christmas collection.

If you are looking for a little something (or a bigger something) to decorate your home in Amman or for a gift to bring back "home" this is really a place in Amman to consider going.

My salad bowl... I love it!

This is my first buy at Silsal and definitely not the last. I absolutely adore this shop. I read in their small leaflet that you can also see the "atelier",will do that when I go without Bibs. She thinks this place is a bit too interesting.

2 years ago...

2010-10-23T14:18:00.000+03:00

we got married...

the best day in our life... before the arrival of our princess of course!

She makes me smile

2010-10-19T21:04:00.001+03:00

Bibs is growing so fast. 14 months and a bit already! She has just started to walk and is so proud; she giggles all the time. Last week we were in a hotel lobby, she was walking holding my hand and screaming "haaaa" "hooo" all the time. She got all the attention from every single person, and was so happy about it.
Since she has started to toddle a bit around she started to wear shoes - now she always wants them on, well not exactly: we put on socks and shoes - we take off socks and shoes. Dozen of times during the day. Every time she laugh - she thinks it's hilarious.

Since she was a tiny baby, I have been reading for her and she adores books. Her new passion is for my recipe books. She'll sit and look very seriously at a recipe, get my attention and say "hmmm hmmm" pointing at a picture with a dish on. The best books are those with animals though, she listens carefully to all the sounds I can make and then sometimes she tries to repeat what I say.

Bibs loves when I cut her nails, specially the toe nails. She'll find my nail file and come with it, sit down and point on her toes - I know that means "mum get the nail clippers will you!" - and then we need to put a bit of cream on as well. She copies everything she sees us do. Daddy puts hair gel on in the morning and she sees it, at some point during the day she'll grab a tube of cream and pretend she does her hair.

The way she cuddles her soft toys, specially the last one. A true daddy present! She'll sit on him, lay on him, give him cuddles and kisses.

She couldn't stop laughing when she saw her new friend sitting in her stroller.

Her 2 other favorite soft toys: Peter Rabbit and little Rabbit

And then I love... the way she empties all the kitchen cupboards, and sometimes a pack of spaghetti as well; the way she laughs when she knows she is going to take her bath or the way she whinges when I don't quickly understand what it is she wants. The way she "dances" in her car seat or "sings" along to a song.

And I could go on and on...

Suddenly she is not our little baby anymore... she has transformed into this little girl, with so much personality. I love being mum. I love spending my days with her. I feel so fortunate to be able to stay at home and see her grow.

Water - Blog Action Day 2010

2010-10-15T21:56:00.001+03:00

A few months ago, there was a series of articles in the Jordan Times concerning water problems in Jordan. I started a post that unfortunately I never finished. Today is Blog Action Day - an event held every 15th October - and this year's topic is water. Today is time for me to finish my post.

Jordan is the 4th most water deprived country in the world. I was actually very surprised to learn that. Obviously I knew it was bad but I didn't think it was that bad. The water distribution per capita in Jordan is 150 cubic metres. The international poverty line is of 1'000 cubic metres per capita. So as you can see we have a huge problem in Jordan.

One of the main sources of Amman's drinking water come from the wells in the south of the capital, and in June there were some serious cases of water theft. People have being pumping 100s of cubic meter per day over the last 6 months. The water is then used to irrigate farms, greenhouses (a greenhouse needs 800 cm/day and the thief in question had 40 of them) and of course filling swimming pools. The water company estimates that 7% of the capital's water is lost due to theft. In the whole of Amman, 700 violations are recorded monthly!
But then there are things I don't understand, and as for many things the Jordanian people need to be educated - well for those who have water because I am sure that in other areas of Amman you don't see what I see everyday: misuse of water. Every morning when I walk with Bibs I see some example of how much people don't care, the water is there no? So why not wash the pavement in front of the buildings? It's so useful isn't it? the sand will only be back in a couple of minutes! or the immaculate green grass, or the really lush gardens with beautiful flowers, even in August when it is 45 degrees outside and the sun is burning, or the burst water pipes you see here or there.

I have always been very careful with the use of water. I come from a "non-bathtub" family haha - my mum got rid of them as soon as we moved into our house in Callas, France. When I was kid, we could go for weeks during the summer without water for most of the hours of the day. Of course today the problems don't exist anymore (the region is now linked up to a water canal), but during the summer it is still forbidden to fill swimming pools or to water gardens. Small things can make a big difference: stop the running water when brushing the teeth/washing hands, keep the water from the sink (when washing vegetables for example) to water the plants, forget the baths obviously and make the shower short. Here is a link for water preservation tips.

A very bad habit

2010-10-15T12:05:00.000+03:00

We all have bad habits. The Jordanians street cleaners have one that really annoys me. Actually no, it scares me. Let me explain.

We have a clear land on the other side of the street. All the Egyptians (read the guys looking after the buildings) up and down the street put all type of stuff there: dead leafs, cut grass... Others stop with garbage as well, but it's not too bad really. But once in a while comes a guy from Amman Municipality, starts to clean whatever there is to clean and instead of putting it into a van or something, well they use a much easier solution: fire.

I hate fire. Really, I do. You might, or not, know that I grew up in south of France and there we respect fire. Most of the forests around the village where my parents live, have at some point been eaten by fire. Nearly all my male friends when I grew up were volunteer firefighters. That's what you do, when you are a guy in South of France: you risk your life for 7Euros (or how much it is) per hour during your week-end and holidays to save the fabulous environment in which they have the chance to live.

A small reminder of how beautiful it is

So, yeah that's what the street cleaners do: they burn. It doesn't matter that it hasn't rained in 4 full months. It doesn't matter that there is a bit of wind. The other day I came out of the shower and I smelled it instantly: fire. We are not talking big here, but that doesn't matter. The fire was slowly making its way under the olive trees and other pines that I have across the road.

With this I realised that I don't even know the emergency number in Jordan, I need to check that out. But apparently I was not the only one who thought that this was a bad idea as a little later there was a fire truck.

This is just again an example of lack of common sense. fire + wind + dry leaves and trees don't make a good mixture. There are plenty of areas in Amman where you can see that there has been a fire, and I suspect it's exactly the same as what happens in my street. This is not the first time i see it since we are here, at least this time I knew where the smell was coming from.

You can see how the fire has heated the trees...

Fancy some spare ribs?

2010-10-10T20:47:00.000+03:00

I had heard that there was a pork butcher in Amman, but didn't have a clue where he was hiding: until one of my Japanese friends told me she was going: please please take me along, and she did! It is located off Mecca Street at the level of 7th circle (it's on my map!)

Obviously he doesn't have lots of cuts, but he does fresh minced pork (great for won-tons or meatballs), he has some sausages (the same as what you can find in Cozmo), bacon and then some frozen things as well, including racks of spare ribs! The area where it is located there is also a small supermarket and other shops (including a liquor store).

These are the meatballs we make in Denmark, called frikadeller. I just love them and Bibs as well!

Frikadeller

And then we had sweet-and sour pork, Mauritian style. Made with spare-ribs. It is very easy to make and so delicious. Here is the recipe:

500g of spare-ribs (cut in 5cm pieces)

2 onions - chopped

3-4 cloves of garlic - chopped

1 nice piece of ginger - sliced - I put lots!

1 chili - optional

3 tomatoes

ketchup

concentrated tomato sauce/paste

white vinegar - in Mauritius you use sugar cane vinegar

sugar

salt and pepper

fresh coriander

You start with frying the spare ribs in oil until golden, add onions, garlic, chili and ginger. Let it fry for 3-4 minutes. Add the tomatoes, the ketchup, tomato concentrate, 1 table spoon of vinegar, 1 tea spoon of sugar, the salt and pepper. Add a little water, reduce the heat, cover and leave for an hour - checking that it doesn't stick to the pot from time to time. Add more water if needed. The pork should get of the bone very easily. Taste the sauce and correct with more vinegar and sugar as wanted. Serve with rice and coriander leaves. You can also add vegetables in the dish: carrots for example.

Sweet and Sour pork - Mauritian style

Bon Appetit!

Amman's Bird park

2010-10-06T21:00:00.000+03:00

View of the Bird Park

Yes, Amman has a bird park. A friend of mine had told me about it before I arrived to Amman, but I had completely forgotten about it until a taxi driver mentioned that he had taken his kids to it. I decided to take Bibs straight away! She loves animals, so I thought it would be a good idea. Yesterday, I picked up my friend and her daughter and went to the park: it was closed, it was Tuesday. I returned today, and yes it was a success.

The park is located in Shmeisani. It is very small, not many exotic birds to look at, but for Bibs it was perfect: ducks, geese, chicken of all sorts or peacocks...

Look at the size of their feet!

Demoiselle crane

More than that it is a nice place to walk around with a stroller, there are benches everywhere, shade.

And there is a very nice playground area. It is really big. The only problem is that it is mostly in the sun. But then the days are beginning to be a bit cooler (only 30 degrees today) - soon it won't matter that much.

Entrance fee: 20 piastres or 200 fils (for those who are more comfortable with old currency!). So really not much. There is a small parking place next to the entrance, otherwise it is not that difficult to park in the area. As usual it is on my map. It is not that difficult to find, between 5 and 10 minutes from the 5th circle.

Denmark-sick!

2010-10-04T11:34:00.000+03:00

This morning on Facebook I was looking at some pictures posted by a friend of mine who has just returned to Copenhagen and suddenly I find that I am "home"sick... Well not exactly, I am Denmark sick! So here are some pictures of my homeland.

Last two times we were in Copenhagen it was in november... that's why it looks so cold and there are Christmas decorations everywhere. I really need to take Bobs in summer, cause all he knows of Denmark is cold, snow and wind - there is actually also a bit of sunshine and warmth. Copenhagen is wonderfull during summer-time.

Finally! Some planning to do

2010-10-02T14:37:00.001+03:00

Arriving over Mauritius

I cannot tell you how much I look forward to seeing that again! I have been waiting and waiting, done some more waiting and finally I can write this post: our holidays are nearly booked: Mauritius here we come, beginning of November: off we are for a little over 2 weeks of sun (oh we have that here), okay then, the sea at 5 minutes from home, gorgeous food... Creole, Indian, Chinese... Trees, big public gardens where we can take Bibs for a walk, to feed the fish or the deers or sit on the tortoise. And of course the most important the family. My little princess is going to spend time with her 2 sets of grand-parents and that's really something I am looking forward to. My parents have decided to come as well. It is going to be a small family reunion.

don't really think that Bibs can sit on one of them!

but surely she can try to feed the deers

We are so excited about going. We haven't been to Mauritius for 2 years now and we both miss it a lot. Then of course the planning of the holidays... what are we going to do, where are we going to eat, what hotel should we treat ourselves to? The hotels in Mauritius are amazing and generally the service is really good, so we always spend a bit of time in a hotel. The Mauritian people are very nice - and I am not only saying that cause I am married to one of them!

Grand Baie, village in the North of the Island

Very old tree in the Jardin des Pamplemousse

33 days to go!

Breakfast Review I: the Four Seasons Hotel

2010-09-30T21:50:00.000+03:00

We, by that I mean a few mums from our group, have decided to meet up once a week for a breakfast. A way to have a good time together and also an opportunity for the kiddies to get used to the idea of spending time at a table and maybe learn how to behave as well. Well, that's my theory, because Bibs is just crawling around the table, emptying my handbag and tries to open the cupboards in the restaurant. The other kiddies are sitting nicely and enjoying their breakfast!

Breakfast room

The Four Seasons Hotel is very beautiful. It is located at the 5th circle, and if you are looking for the entrance it is behind the hotel! From 5th circle take towards the 6th at the first street take right and right again. It's at the end of the road. It's a bit hidden and no signs either. The breakfast area is on the lower lobby level. The room is not that attractive: it looks very much like a hotel restaurant, if that makes sense. Not much charm. Just a big room, with lots of tables. Just as we left I noticed an outside area, which was probably closed though, it was 30 degrees outside today so lovely weather, a bit of a shame really.

The buffet however was very nice: there is the usual pancake/waffle/egg station, then fruits, cereals, meat cuts and cheese, bread selection etc.There is also an Arabic breakfast section, with falafel, fried halloumi and other goodies. The orange juice, they say it's fresh, but am not that sure, seemed a bit concentrated to me, maybe I am mistaken.

The Buffet Area

The Arabic Breakfast section

Price-wise, we paid 16JD + taxes (so more or less 21JD), which I find a bit stiff really - I don't think it was that good. The service was nice, every baby had a high chair, however I asked for the front table that goes with the high chair it never came. We did get some cookies though. That's the thing when you are with babies... you do get some extra attention.

Visit to Canvas and the National Gallery park

2010-09-28T07:33:00.000+03:00

The gallery's two buildings are surrounding a small sculpture park and Canvas, a restaurant/coffee shop. The coffee shop is nice, will have to go back for lunch. We just had a cup of coffee and my friend's daughter a big chocolate sunday. Well to be exact we ordered a ice coffee, but first then came with a ice tea which we sent back and then they came a ice coffee without coffee. There was ice cream, chocolate, milk and cream. We kept it that way! But it is a nice place to stop after the museum visit.

There are some paintings exposed inside and a very nice terrace outside overlooking the small park.

We then for a small walk in the park. It is water conservation project developed with governmental and local support as well as USAID. It is a sculpture park, there is a children's playground and is a very pleasant place to walk with a stroller, kids can play, young people meet on dates.

National Gallery of Fine Arts

2010-09-26T21:05:00.002+03:00

This has been on my to-do-list for a little while, and yesterday I finally made it: to the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts.

The gallery is located in 2 different buildings, on each side of a small park and houses a permanent collection of contemporary art from Jordan, the Arab world and other developing countries, mainly Africa and Asia.

Building number 1 as it is called, the one with the terrace on the top on the picture, is definitely the most interesting out of the 2. It is much bigger and the collection, I found, easier to understand and more approachable. I thought this one was impressive: it is views of street walls in Palestine.

On the 2nd floor there is a small library, specialised in arts of course. They have a small selection is Arabic, English and French.

There is also a small cafe, unfortunately closed when we were there. And then a small terrace with an amazing view over Amman and the Blue Mosque.

I found this picture very interesting. You can see the King Abdullah Mosque, aka the Blue Mosque, recognisable with its blue dome. It was built as memorial to the late King Hussein's grandfather. It is possible to visit it, so I really want to go. Just in front there is a church, other mosques around and then of course the building sites, squattered across Amman.

In the second building there is a small souk Zara outlet. It is handcrafts type of shop which can also be found mainly in hotels in Amman (Grand Hyatt, Intercontinental) but also in other hotels across the kingdom (Dead Sea, Petra, Aqaba). They offer jewelry, ceramics, postcards, woodwork, mosaics... Unfortunately it was closed in the middle of the afternoon... The entrance is 5JD per person (we didn't pay for my friend's daughter who is 10).

We had a nice afternoon. It is a small but interesting museum. There is access to strollers, wheelchairs... A good point as it is rare in this country.

There is also a nice garden and a cafe, will talk about that in a separate post. I took also plenty of pictures of the area, because the architecture is very different to the part of Amman where we live. All to come...

After the rain, came the sandstorm

2010-09-23T12:19:00.001+03:00

So yesterday we had the first autumn rain. Let's be honest, it didn't clean the air as it can do in Europe. When you looked at the cars afterwards they were more dirty with sand that when the rain started! But less than they were this morning after last night sandstorm. It started when it was dark and I missed the beginning. So at a moment a walked into my kitchen, and hmm, it wasn't as clean as the last time I had been there. There was just dust everywhere. The air was full of sand and it took quite some time for it to settle, even after the storm was over.

Sandstorm to hit Amman

This picture was taken from my balcony, just before the storm hit Amman. Only I didn't realise that there was a storm on the way! I will know for next time. I don't think it happens so often though. The sun was going down and the light was amazing. You can barely see the sun on the picture, just above the trees on the left. Today the weather forecast says "Widespread Dust"! And though the blue sky is back over Amman, you can see the dust in the horizon.

A little drizzle and a cup of coffee

2010-09-22T14:16:00.001+03:00

This morning we woke up to big and very grey clouds in Amman and we got the first rain since I guess mid-may. The funny thing is that I read in the newspaper last week that as of the 21st September it starts to rain again in our little Kingdom - well for once the meteorologist were right! Would be good if they could master that... Rain, a little bit of rain and still 28 degrees. So it's nice, it cools the air but you can still sit outside and enjoy it.

With my friend N and her little boy we had decided to do a little walk this morning and then have a nice well deserved cup of coffee - and for that we went for Second Cup in Abdoun. It's quite handy cause it is close to the park where we go with our little ones, but the downside is that we need to cross a busy road; as usual in Amman, not very walk-friendly. But we didn't let us stop by that and waited patiently for all cars to have passed and crossed the road. For the little story on the way back, 2 cars just stopped the traffic so that we could cross the road, much appreciated.

So, to Second Cup. It's a nice little coffee shop - with a non-smoking section, completely separated from the smoking one, on the ground floor. I like the coffee, and their cakes look yummy too. Didn't have any though - next time. They do all kind of cold and hot drinks. I had a hazelnut mokka late, yum yum.

Specially these ones: I love Oreo - I just discovered them a couple of years ago. I know, 30-something years without Oreo, don't know how I made it! Had my revenge during my pregnancy though.

Their muffins don't look bad either!

And then if you are looking for a place to buy cacti, well there is one next door. They have some really pretty ones.

No need to be like us and walk and cross roads, there is a parking lot next door, so the access is easy. As usual, I have located it on my map.

What's so funny?

2010-09-17T14:14:00.000+03:00

Yesterday, I was at the petrol station and while I was sitting there waiting for my tank to be filled up, I am looking at the cars around me. Arrives a taxi, which stops next to me. And what is the guy doing? Having a fag. Right there, in the middle of a petrol station while he gets his gas in the car. The guy who serves the petrol apparently doesn't mind putting his life in danger, the taxi driver either. I try to get his attention and when it finally happens, I say something like: cigarette, gas, boom. He just looks at the his fag and half-smile, half-laugh to me. What's so bloody funny? I don't really fancy dying while I am tanking up.

That's the type of thing that really annoys me. Why is it that certain people can't use their brain? Cause even if the brain is really small, well it still understands the concept of fire + petrol = not good. The guy just doesn't care. Neither does the guy filling up the petrol (that's a really nice thing here, that you don't have to get out of the car to do it yourself...). He could just tell him to put it out or no fuel, easy. But no, helas! So I know I won't go to that petrol station any more. Of course it happens in many other stations in Amman, but what I don't know, I can't do anything about!

Old petrol station in Madaba

Back to Normal... with some bubbles!

2010-09-15T11:39:00.001+03:00

So everything is back to normal after Eid and it's quietness. By that I mean the traffic, the shops are open, people are smoking in the malls again (I think that Ramadan has made them forget about the smoking ban) and of course the restaurants and food courts are all business again.

Juicebangbang, located in Sweifieh Mall, 3rd Floor

And there has been this place I have been wanting to go to for a long time, well before Ramadan - and now I have finally made it. juicebangbang! It's a bubble tea house. Yes, you can get bubble tea in Amman. Apparently it is originally from Taiwan, but I discovered it in Singapore, where it is widely available as well. The original is cold tea with milk and tapioca pearls. The pearls are obviously the bubble part. Yum! It's the kind of stuff either you find it of no interest at all or you get instantly addicted to it. You guessed, I am part of the 2nd group. The fun thing is I have never been able to drink milk in my tea - never. But this is just soo yummy!

So they are offering the standard bubble tea and then you can also create your own drink: flavoured with crushed ice and bubbles, you can add milk or you can add yogurt. I think the concept is great and very refreshing compared to other stuff that you can find in Amman. Price: between JD2 and JD3.50.

I have been twice since the beginning of the week. The first time, I got vanilla tea and yesterday I tried it with Jasmine tea. The second one is a great lighter option with no milk and just as good with those bubbles

The black in the bottom are the tapioca pearls

So you got it, a great drink! but more to it: the place is really clean, which is a big thumbs up for me and then the guy who is there (i guess the owner? - but am not sure) is really a nice guy. He recognised me instantly second time I came and thanked me for my tweet on twitter, not so common in Amman, that somebody actually says thanks you for something. So: if you know bubble tea, am sure you are a fan and are now happy to know that you can get it in Amman (if you didn't already know!) - if you don't know Bubble tea, really you should go and try it out. Enjoy!

Eid Mubarak! and some childhood memories

2010-09-11T09:18:00.000+03:00

All my best wishes for Eid Al-Fitr!

This week-end Muslims around the world will visit their families to share food and gifts - show their solidarity, respect to their loved ones. It reminds of when I was kid: when my grand parents were still alive we would drive to Denmark every Christmas to celebrate with our family. We were living 2000km away and it was just the way it was. I loved it: packing the car, taking my pillow and getting settled in the back of the car. Before we were out of the village we usually had to drive back to the house to check if the iron was unplugged or because we had forgotten this or that. Then the whole drive through France, Germany, take the boat and arrive in a very cold Denmark, but full of Christmas spirit! We used to live with my grand parents in their apartment. Christmas Eve Day, my grand dad wanted me to come with him and I had to visit all the other "old" people in the building. It was very important for him that I went with him and even though it was boring and that I couldn't really see the point I still went, for him. Years later, after my grand-dad had passed away of course I could see the point - and as I was usually away from the family or my parents friends, for years I wrote Christmas cards and send my wishes: away for me to show my love and respect.

You might wonder why I talk about this: well first of all I believe that all "our religions" are not that different from each other - we might honour our God in different ways but when it comes to festive seasons all the traditions are the same and made for the same reasons: honour God and keep families close together. Then there is an article in the paper today about this Eid tradition of paying visits and the fact that the younger generation are less interested in the traditions, when they are "forced" visits. I think it's a shame that younger generations tend to forget traditions or can't be bothered with them. I don't know if it's education or just our society that changes so much. Maybe it's because we knew that we didn't have a choice and nowadays everything is just open for discussion. Whatever it is I hope that I will be able to transmit to Bibs the importance of traditions.

Well, well. Yesterday we went to do some shopping an apart from food outlets and supermarkets everything was closed to celebrate Eid. The streets were quiet. We saw people nicely dressed going to visit their families and big reunions on the terraces.

Once again, Eid Mubarak!

Iftar @ the Sheraton Amman

2010-09-09T19:51:00.000+03:00

So last night we finally made it for Iftar - quite good considering it was the last night! Ramadan ends tonight. We had a nice evening - with good food and loud music. It started at 7pm, and we were there at 7.05 and most tables were already in full swing eating enormous plates from the buffet.

The dinner started with a lentil soup - that was already on the table. And then food from the buffet. I thought the buffet was really nice... As you can see not many people there considering that there were seats for 350 people and all tables were full! They were all busy eating.

The Buffet

I thought the buffet had a very nice layout. Pricewise it was 26JD plus tax and service charge.

There was also a music band, playing traditional music and loud, but that is part of the ambiance. Unfortunately the picture I took was not that good, so we will have to pass on that!

My other Ramadan discoveries...

2010-09-06T20:22:00.000+03:00

Well, well everything comes to an end and we are nearly there: the end of Ramadan. So what have I discovered? Well not much. I think what surprises me the most is that I haven't really felt it was Ramadan. Of course there are small things here and there - but in my daily life, there hasn't been anything that really stuck out. I don't know why I expected it to be so different... that's the way it is when you discover a new culture, isn't it? Surprises.

For one thing, I am happy that it is coming to an end: the traffic has become horrendous. I have the impression that people are even more aggressive than usual. People are just doing dummer and dummer things.

Check that out... one way street? no! they just can't be bothered waiting, even though the traffic is not moving on the other road either. I usually see smaller versions of this, but there were 4 lanes created today! - good that nobody wanted to go in the other direction.
One of the things that I have noticed is the number of poor people whom have been in West Amman during Ramadan. The rest of the year there aren't really any poor on the streets, begging for food or money - but during the Holly month it has been much more noticeable. I guess they are coming here because of the more charitable spirit there is during this period.

Something I knew but that I just didn't think to do anything about: stock up on some wine! I will remember next year. I have lived with gin and tonic for the past month. Not the worse that could happen, but let's be honest it has its limitations and doesn't go that well with food. And I who could finally enjoy a small glass of wine since I have stopped breastfeeding. Yep all liquor stores are completely shut - the one in Cozmo is even hidden behind shelves.

Usually kids have been playing during the night outside, but this morning I saw them running around and playing football at 5:45 when Bibs got me out of bed.

To some more serious stuff. All days during Ramadan are Holy and out of all days during this month (and the rest of the year) yesterday was the holiest of all. It was Laylat Al Qadr (the Night of Power): the revelation of the Koran to the Prophet Mohammed - it is celebrated on the eve of the 27th day of Ramadan. Well, it could be any odd night in the last ten days of Ramadan - but the 27th id even more likely than the other dates - I think have understood that correctly. So there are even more prayers on this night and the prayers are for the forgiveness of sins.

And then comes Eid Al Fatr, the Festival of Fast-breaking: it is probably Thursday - it depends again of the sighting of the crescent moon, like the beginning of Ramadan. So what happens? Well, there are 3 days of celebration and these are public holidays. Apart from that I don't really know, I have to discover... alone because ohh Bobs is working, as usual. You gotta love this Hotel business.

Tomorrow we are going for Iftar - finally, Bobs had promised to take me (he couldn't really wait any longer!!), so I'll bring back some pictures and a story about that...

The Eiffel Tower in Amman!

2010-09-01T19:53:00.000+03:00

I giggle everytime I see one of them. Yes, we also have an Eiffel tower in Amman, we have many actually.

I know, they are not as high, or nearly as beautiful as the real one in Paris.

And they don't have quite the same use either. Though I am sure that there must be antennas on the top of the old Lady as well!

And then I saw this one. No, it is not an Eiffel tower, but it did make me laugh.

I know, I don't need much to make me smile... I love the roofs in Amman!

Attention! Rant! This is a supermarket rant!

2010-08-31T21:34:00.001+03:00

Since Saturday I was the most happy juice drinker in Amman, no Jordan. I don't drink a lot of juice, but once in a while a like a glass of juice - and when I say juice, I mean NOT FROM CONCENTRATE juice.

Cozmo

This is a very quick shot of Cozmo's juice stand - well no this is maybe not even half of the juice stand they have. And all these - except one maybe - are all juice made from concentrate. And not only that but they are so sweet it is unbelievable. I could go to Miles in Mecca Mall and buy fresh squeezed orange juice, but I make that everyday at home so no need... No, I long for M&S fresh juices or from Waitrose...

And then last Saturday I found this:

The reason for my rant. Seriously, they spoiled everything. I was so excited and said to Bobs, look Apple Juice, Not From Concentrate - and he went "am sure it's the same as the others" - but I persevered I bought 1 carton. And guess what? The best apple juice I have had since we moved. 4 days later I go back to Cozmo, and guess what? No more apple juice.

That's the really annoying thing here: it's the same with yogurts, for a couple of months they have had Activia yogurts: mango, peach and apricots... and now we are back to square one with only strawberry and nature. why? They used to have another type of yogurts that Bibs loved, suddenly you can't get them anymore. why? Looking for creme fraiche: you can get it once in a while. and i could go on and on. sigh!

and sigh! so next time (if there is a next time) that they have my apple juice, i'll buy all of them!!