Discovering Local Flavors at the Market
Our adventure began in the bustling local market of Aqaba, where we were fortunate enough to meet with the chef from Berenice Beach Club. Our chef was there to guide us through the vibrant stalls. He helped us pick out the freshest ingredients for our upcoming cooking class. We selected a variety of local spices, fresh fish, and an assortment of vegetables. Our fresh ingredients promised to make our meal both authentic and delicious.
Berenice Beach Club: Cooking Class with a View
Upon arriving at Berenice Beach Club, the private beach resort on the Red Sea, we were immediately struck by its beauty. The club, stretching over 500 meters of coastline, offered a perfect setting for our culinary adventure. We embarked on a cooking class right below one of the pools. The class was not just about learning to cook but also about appreciating the cultural significance of Jordanian cuisine. We learned how to prepare traditional dishes like Sayadieh, a flavorful fish with rice, right where the ingredients were sourced.
The experience was interactive and fun, with everyone in our group getting hands-on with the ingredients. Our chef shared stories and techniques passed down through generations, adding a personal touch to the cooking session. The joy of cooking together in such an idyllic setting was truly memorable.
Snorkeling in the Crystal-Clear Waters of the Red Sea
After our culinary lesson, we transitioned to the marine wonders of the Red Sea. Berenice Beach Club is renowned for its excellent snorkeling spots. The coral reefs here are teeming with vibrant marine life – from clownfish to moray eels and even the occasional turtle. The water was clear, allowing us to see the underwater world in all its glory. The water in February was chilly, but we quickly adapted to the cold.
We donned our snorkeling gear, provided by the club, and ventured into the sea. The visibility was exceptional, and the variety of fish was astonishing. It was an educational dive into marine biology, right in the heart of Aqaba’s Marine Park. We were able to snorkel on both sides of the dock, exploring all wonders of the reef.
Lunch with a View
Perhaps one of the highlights of our day was the lunch we enjoyed under a tent, which offered panoramic views of the Red Sea. The meal we had just helped prepare was served, and it tasted even better knowing our effort had gone into it. The combination of the sea breeze, the sound of gentle waves, and the spectacular scenery made the lunch not just a meal, but an experience.
The dishes were beautifully presented, showcasing the freshness of the ingredients we had picked out earlier. From the perfectly cooked fish to the aromatic rice, every bite was a testament to the culinary skills we had just begun to learn.
Final Thoughts on Berenice Beach Club
Our day at Berenice Beach Club was a blend of cultural immersion, culinary education, and natural exploration. From the market to the cooking class, from snorkeling to enjoying a lunch that overlooked one of the world’s most beautiful seas, each moment was crafted to offer a unique and memorable experience.
If you find yourself in Aqaba, make sure to visit Berenice Beach Club for a day that combines the joy of cooking with the thrill of exploring the Red Sea’s underwater wonders. It’s an experience that feeds both the soul and the palate.
