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Petra flourished more than 2,000 years ago, trading with Rome as an equal before being abandoned after a series of earthquakes in the 4th and 6th centuries C.E. It wasn’t until the 19th century, when European explorers “rediscovered” it, that the ancient city returned to the public consciousness. Now, visitors can walk down the narrow canyon of the siq to the city entrance—as dramatic an approach as any to a tourist attraction on the planet. The canyon opens up onto the carved facade of the Treasury, Petra’s most iconic site. From there, you can explore the cliffside tombs with their colorful bands of sandstone, the Street of Facades, and the amphitheater hewn from living rock. The ancient center lies some distance off, along with the splendid old Monastery, which sits at the top of a steep but rewarding climb. Consider buying a three-day ticket and visiting at different times of day to enjoy the changing light—early in the morning is best for the Treasury, while late afternoon is better for the Royal Tombs.

Crowds may swarm upon it daily from sunrise onwards, but exposure hasn’t dulled the impact of the largest religious monument in the world. Commissioned by King Suryavarman II in the 12th century as the centerpiece of the mighty Khmer empire, the structure is inspired by Hindu sacred design and is estimated to have taken around 30 years to build. The biggest surprise upon visiting might be learning that the vast complex of spires, moats, frescoes, cloisters, and balustrades was constructed in such speedy fashion. You won’t be alone while witnessing it, but sunrise over the iconic temple remains one of the essential experiences in Southeast Asia. A return in the afternoon when the camera-toting hordes have dispersed is also advisable.

On this “Feel-Good Friday” road trip episode of Unpacked by Afar, Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland debate the one song that defined the millennial generation—and make a strong case for SPF.

Embark on an adventure through Bermuda and discover a country full of exhilarating experiences, stunning beauty, and rich culture.

On this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene travels to Charleston and discovers how the city’s soul lives in its tidal creeks, not just in its historic streets.

A four-day guide to Asheville’s venues, vinyl, and local talent.

You’ll leave this mountain town more rested and more balanced than when you arrived.

On this week’s episode of Travel Tales by AFAR, a traveler and his teen daughter embrace the trancelike nature of the Coast Starlight train.

Get outdoors with recommendations from hiker, mountain biker, and novelist Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle and her favorite adventures for five days in and around this North Carolina city.

Reconnect with nature (and yourself) through meditation, hiking, beach yoga, and spa treatments on this six-day travel itinerary.

This week on Travel Tales by Afar, a young traveler moves to Mumbai and falls in love with the city—and a new way of looking at the world.

This week on Travel Tales by Afar, we venture into a remote area of Nunavik, Québec to meet the people who are reviving their roots.

Learn more about AFAR’s editorial team, standards, fact checking practices, affiliate disclosure, and more.

On this episode of Unpacked, host Aislyn Greene explores Eleuthera with travel writer Terry Ward and discovers a Bahamas island full of surprises—far from the crowds of Nassau.