The journey from Amman to Algers for the learned traveler Mr. Peter Parkerson was long and troublesome. Yes, he learnt Arabic at the University of Jordan (and in the hidden bars in the region). And yes, he acquired sufficient knowledge about peoples and countries in The Middle East to join academic discussions, with for instance diplomats, journalists and well educated academics he met on his way (for example in 5 stars hotels and embassies), although he tried to avoid such folks, because they bored him. Mr. Parkerson (even in the political red light districts in The Middle East, such as Iraq and Syria) felt more comfortable in taxis or hired cars on the roads, in company with the common man, or, as said, in the bars among other drinkers, prostitutes and coincidental acquaintances. That was Mr. Parkerson's universe, not in the reading rooms or in the studie circles, with others trying to educate themselves in the classic Arabic language, a language not necessary very difficult, but a bit time-demanding since very few words in that language correspond with European words, except from some words in Spanish as acabar (to end) and almacán (warehouse). No, Mr. Parkerson established his own university in the crowded shops, small taxis, Turkish bath houses, simple restaurants and streets filled with curious Jordanians, etc. It was some drama, and it happened in the desert areas between Amman and the Iraqi border (see pic), and Mr. Parkerson will give more details about this in the coming blog.
