A country that’s big on hospitality, ancient history and culture – with numerous Unesco World Heritage sites – Jordan offers endless opportunities for adrenaline-fuelled adventures.
1. Safety first
Despite being located in a region with a history of conflict, Jordan is the “quiet house in the noisy neighborhood,” a friendly oasis that’s open and inviting to visitors.
Jordan ranks in top position for countries where people feel safe walking alone at night. While you should take the usual precautions you would anywhere – purchase travel and health insurance, don’t carry large sums of cash, keep valuables locked in a safe – fear should not be a factor in planning a trip to Jordan.
2. Diverse landscape
From the Dead Sea (the lowest point on the surface of earth -480 metres), to the beaches of Aqaba and the Wadi Rum Desert, there’s a lot to see and experience in Jordan.
Our favourite place in the entire country is Wadi Rum. The landscape here looks like you stepped on Mars.
Just a short drive away from Wadi Rum is Aqaba, a modern city with stunning beaches and a great place for snorkeling. Can you imagine visiting a desert and going snorkeling on the same day?
3. Petra, one of the seven wonders of the world
This ancient city was carved into the rose-red rocks of Petra and is incredibly preserved. Nothing will prepare you for your first glimpse of the 2,000-year-old Treasury building, which comes into view after you walk through a narrow entrance pathway. While breathtaking, it’s just the first of many amazing buildings, amphitheatres, and caves in the massive Petra complex.
4. Food, Food, Food
Anyone would agree that food plays a very important role in the travelling experience. Well those of us with a passion for eating will not be disappointed in Jordan.
Food in Jordan is based on a social experience and many restaurants showcase this with sharing plates which is ideal for families and larger groups. The nation caters very well for vegetarians with locally sourced produce and family recipes. From extravagant dining experiences to local favourites at a street food market, visitors are guaranteed the very best of Arab cuisine.
5. Jordanians are kind and welcoming
We all know that people make or break a trip. No matter how beautiful the destination is, if the locals are not welcoming or try to scam you, you can’t fully enjoy your vacation.
However, we can’t speak highly enough about the people in Jordan, who not only welcome you with open arms, but also provide some of the finest hospitality you’ll likely to find anywhere in the world.
6. TRAVELLING TIPS
- A valid passport for at least six months is required to enter Jordan (more info here).
- A visa is required which before entering the country. You can get this on arrival at the airport, or alternatively, you can get a Jordan Pass, which includes your visa, as well as access to most destinations you will want to visit in Jordan. There are three different passes and their price varies, depending on how many days you want to spend in Petra. (more info here)
- The official Currency is Jordanian Dinar (JOD). 1EUR = 1.30JOD (rate today)
- If you head to the Wadi Rum desert or Petra, make sure you have cash with you because you will struggle to find an ATM.
- Arabic is the official language of Jordan however, the English language is widely used.
