Thursday, December 9, 2021

It's Quiet, Too Quiet

 Just as it's amazing that in all the times I've been to Jordan I had somehow never visited Aqaba, I suppose it's equally amazing that I've not searched out more Lawrence of Arabia themed events or moments. Partially, as you might expect, Arabs have a somewhat complicated relationship with T.E. Lawrence, both appreciating his accomplishments - and his tourism value - but also fearing, quite rightly, that his legend diminishes their own role in the eyes of the non-Arab world. As we were leaving the Wadi Rum we stopped by to visit an actual Turkish train dating back to the Lawrence days. Apparently on Thursdays they reenact the attack on the train, which may have to be part of the planning for the student trips.


"So, do you think everyone yelling 'No prisoners!!' is a good or bad thing? Do you think that means they're just going to let us go, or . . .?"



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