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Item Description

Funds raised from this auction item will go towards financial assistance for Middle School students to go on a popular trip to Israel with Brian and Arta!

Some trips offer the chance to visit exotic locations or the most exciting corners of the world; some offer the chance to step back in history, some to gain a better perspective on current events; some offer the opportunity to take in stunning vistas, some to soak in rich cultures. This trip of a lifetime to Jordan, headed by Upper School teachers Brian Cropper and Arta Khakpour, offers all these things and more.

Over February 2019 break, 10 lucky people will be spending a week touring Jordan with Nueva history teachers Brian and Arta, former residents, historical experts, and regional specialists. Any visit to these historically and culturally rich regions has the potential to be unforgettable, but rarely do such trips offer the chance to go off the beaten path to see well beyond what the average tourist might encounter: 

• You'll visit Amman, where you'll be steeped in the political and religious history of modern Jordan from multiple perspectives. You'll witness the vibrancy of modern Jordan and its cafe culture as you gain a greater appreciation for the history of the modern state
• You'll tour the King Hussein Mosque and learn about its fascinating architecture as you gain greater insight into the significance of Islamic arts and craftsmanship
• You'll visit the King's Academy School, with which Nueva Upper School students partner in the Global Online Academy consortium
• You'll gain an intimate understanding of the refugee crises and possible volunteer opportunities when you meet with members of the Collateral Repair Project.

Brian and Arta will then lead you on tours of Madaba, or "The City of Mosaics," and Kerak Castle, a Crusader castle and fortresses. You'll also have the chance to hike and explore Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, taking in its extraordinary Monastery and Great Temple, as well as tombs from Nabatean, Greek, and Roman times. And don't forget your off-the-path day trip to Jebel Haroun, the famed tomb of the biblical Aaron!

Next, you'll have the chance to tour an archaeological dig that Arta himself has worked on, and meet Bedouin who are actively working on excavation and reconstruction.

After all this, you're sure to enjoy that glass of wine in a 2000-year-old Nabaean rock tomb called the Cave Bar, which should prepare you nicely for Brian and Arta's favorite: a donkey ride through this sprawling monument to human achievement. 

And no Nueva tour of this fascinating region would be complete without experiences of nomadic culture, military history, and the stunning natural beauty of Jordan. Star Wars fans will particularly enjoy the visit to tour Wadi Rum, but everyone will appreciate this poetic backdrop to Arab history and Bedouin culture. You'll also spend the night in a Bedouin camp and eat a traditional meal; learn about WWI history and T.E. Lawrence's military strategy; dive into the Red Sea; and spend a night in Jordan's largest nature reserve. 

This extraordinary adventure is one that will leave indelible memories and change your view of this extraordinary and poorly understood region forever.

Accommodations: Intercontinental Hotel in Amman, Movenpik Resort Petra, or similar.

Dates: February 15, 2019 to February 24, 2019

Multiple bidder item. Starting bid $2,000 per person.

Item Special Note

For Nueva students and/or parents. 10 guest spots available. Arta and Brian are hosting parents, couples, or families (students cannot attend alone without their parents).

Does not include airfare. All other expenses included such as food, lodging, ground transportation.