First Journey Day 18: Tales in a Teacup
Date: September 11, 2023
Location: Amman, Jordan
In Amman, Jordan, coffee is a language of welcome. Cardamom rides the steam, conversation slows, and hospitality becomes a ritual that lingers long after the last sip.
Stepping Into Amman’s Coffee Ritual
Today, I found myself enveloped in the aromatic world of Jordanian coffee. The streets of Amman buzzed with life, but amidst the hustle, I discovered a quaint coffee shop that promised a traditional Jordanian coffee-making session. The owner, a kind gentleman named Malik, welcomed me with a warm smile. He shared tales of his ancestors, emphasizing the significance of coffee in Jordanian culture. It's not just a beverage; it's an experience, a ritual, and a symbol of hospitality.
From Dallah to Cup
Malik demonstrated the meticulous process, from selecting the beans to the final pour. The beans, he explained, were lightly roasted, ground to a fine powder, and then brewed in a special pot called a “dallah.” The aroma was intoxicating, a blend of coffee with hints of cardamom. As the coffee simmered, Malik spoke of the etiquette of serving and consuming this cherished drink. The first cup, he said, is the taste of life, the second the taste of love, and the third the taste of death — a poetic way to describe the strength and flavor of each subsequent pour.
Quiet Conversations with Malik
As I sipped the rich brew, I felt an overwhelming sense of connection. Not just to Malik or the coffee shop, but to generations of Jordanians who have shared stories, laughter, and moments of reflection over countless cups of coffee.
Choosing Stillness Over Sketching
Today wasn't about sightseeing or ticking off tourist spots; it was about immersing myself in a centuries-old tradition and feeling the heartbeat of Amman. I let the steam and script of the cups become the day’s canvas, a quiet study in warmth and welcome.
A City in Sync with Aroma
As the sun set, casting a golden hue over the city, I left the coffee shop with a heart full of gratitude and a newfound appreciation for the simple yet profound joys of travel.
Travel Notes
- Weather: Clear skies, about 20–31°C; dry breeze by day, a soft golden light at dusk.
- Scents: Freshly roasted beans braided with cardamom; a whisper of sugar and smoke from nearby stalls.
- Sounds: Clink of porcelain, a low murmur of stories, street traffic fading in and out like waves.
- Reflection: Hospitality brewed slowly; each cup an invitation to listen more closely.
Continue the Journey
You may also enjoy reading about yesterday’s quiet reflections in Cairo or wandering to the next day’s rose-red reverie in Petra.
