I went a week ago. Agreed, it is absolutely incredible. I took over 350 photos over one day. I'm already planning a return trip to see everything in detail. A one-day, all-inclusive tour from Tel Aviv is less than $300 (includes roundtrip airfare from Tel Aviv to Eilat). It only allows for about 4 hours in Petra but it is worth every penny. The next trip will be three to four days ...
We went from Jerusalem with a driver and a guide with another couple (Orthodox Jews) and had a fabulous time. Stayed at the Movenpick...BEAUTIFUL...at the opening of the SIK (sp?)....went to Amman and Jerash also. Saw wonderful sites driving. We can’t wait to go back.