22 Apr 2023
Ismael Nas met us at the Allenby crossing from Israel to Jordan for a two-day tour of Jordan and Petra. From the minute we met him he was incredibly warm and friendly and very easy to talk to. He parked just outside the Jordanian crossing station parking and walked in, and found us as we exited the crossing bus. We were driving in minutes, and it was a pleasure to discover that Ismael spoke very solid English and had a lovely style of offering information. His rich descriptions at specific times as we were passing noteworthy sites -- he was aware of a plethora of sites and knew a great deal about them - were delivered in packaged moments so that the rest of the drive was relaxed and free for questions or relaxation. We passed amazing rock formations as we headed South along the Dead Sea. Immediately we were happy to have his expertise as it had rained and he knew what was safe to walk on as we accessed the sea. He gave us insights about Petra that I did not hear even from YouTube films that I watched when we returned, including where to see the eyes on the second Duchara God statue in Petra. Isamel's rapport with locals smoothed our way. He helped us check into our hotel (Bedoin upscale yurt) and came to get us there the next morning. He drove us a scenic route to Petra so that we saw amazing mountains with pigmy trees, Bedouin tents in outlandish places, and even baby camels. He took us to good food stops and also the best gift shop where we wouldn't be ripped off. If you're looking for a private tour guide in Petra and beyond, Ismael is the best and we are very grateful to him for making our trip amazing and smooth!