Articles by Jason Ruffin

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Stories

Stories shared by this traveler.

A volunteer with the reforestation effort walks through a woodland near Amman. Today, only about one percent of Jordan is forested.

forests

To Resurrect Jordan's Lost Forests, Plant a Seed in Hearts and Minds

Environmentalists see small reforestation pilot sites around the capital of Amman as a first step to a greener future.

Most Circassian fare is hearty and meant to sustain energy in the cold Caucasus climate.

food

The Women Keeping Circassian Cuisine Alive in Jordan

A restaurant in Amman preserves the cooking traditions of a diaspora.

Saddam Hussein's face decorates the door of a gold shop in the Jabal Amman neighborhood of Amman. The owner, Adeeb, says his father studied in Baghdad before returning to Jordan and joining the intelligence service.

art

The Country That Still Considers Saddam Hussein a Hero

The dictator's face crops up on cars, playing cards, watches, and even Instagram.

Ali frets for the future of the age-old olive tree.

trees

In Palestine, Protecting One of the World's Oldest Olive Trees Is a 24/7 Job

Salah Abu Ali often sleeps beneath his ancient charge.

Al Nayyar and 22-year-old Dalal Mitwally (left) have collaborated on murals that address female empowerment and gender-based violence.

murals

For These Young Street Artists, Amman Is a Beige Canvas

Color, community, and empowerment are enlivening Jordan's capital.