Two volunteers from Desert Bloom, Patryk Pacana and Krzysztof Czarski, recently embarked on an immersive journey to explore the Bedouin heritage of southern Jordan. They were hosted in Udruh, a village in the Badia region, where they were given a unique glimpse into the daily life and traditions of the Bedouin community. The trip was a chance for the volunteers to experience the Bedouins’ deep connection to their desert home firsthand. The Badia, a stunning desert crossroads for ancient civilizations, provided the perfect backdrop for their visit. There, they learned how the environment has shaped the community’s incredible resilience and traditional way of life. At the heart of Bedouin culture is karam, or generosity, and the volunteers were treated with immense warmth and respect. Patryk shared his personal reflections on this experience: “Staying with Bedouins in southern Jordan is a profound immersion into raw hospitality and ancient desert traditions. From the moment of arrival, we were welcomed with sweet tea and gahwa in woven tents, sharing stories under endless starry skies. Nights echo with music and tales of nomadic life. The experience strips away modern distractions, leaving a deep appreciation for the Bedouins’ generosity, resilience, and connection to the stark beauty of the desert. Departing feels like leaving family, with an enduring sense of timelessness and human warmth.” A significant part of their journey was a deep dive into the Bedouin relationship with their livestock, particularly camels. They learned how these animals are central to Bedouin culture and are cared for as vital resources for transportation and livelihood. They were also astonished by the Bedouins’ vast knowledge of the desert, as they navigate the endless sands with a deep, inherited understanding of the land. Beyond their time in the desert, Patryk and Krzysztof also connected with the broader community, visiting local organizations like the Crown Prince Foundation branch in Maan, the Maan Heritage Museum, and King Hussein University. These visits provided a broader context for the region’s rich history and modern development.
