As exciting as it is to jet off to Jordan with only a passport in hand and stars in your eyes, it’s always best to not wade into a new country and culture completely blind. So, we’ve gathered essential information you should know before you travel to Jordan, to help you immerse yourself in local life — and avoid getting arrested (by the way, we are experts in leading trips to Jordan).
1) Where exactly is Jordan?
The world’s a big place, after all.
2) Is it a safe place to visit?
Yes, it is. Although mainstream reporting on conflicts in the region can make travelers apprehensive, Jordan is the safest country in the Middle East. Read more to rest assured.
3) What’s the dress code?
Men can wear long trousers with tees (with non-offensive slogans or pictures), tunics or shirts, while loose-fitting, opaque clothes that cover your legs, arms and chest are recommended for women. Both genders should also remember to pack comfortable, sturdy shoes you’re happy to walk around in all day, as well as a hat and sunglasses. Cultural sensitivity is the best accessory.
4) What’s the food like?
Seriously tasty. From Mansaf, a traditional dish of lamb, aromatic herbs, yogurt and rice to hummus, a smooth chickpea dip, whether you’re non-vegetarian or vegetarian, everyone’s going to eat well in Jordan.
And here’s something that might interest you- our travellers get to eat authentic, home-cooked dinners with a Jordanian family.
5) What are the top sites to see?
There are plenty of cultural and natural riches to explore in Jordan, but don’t leave the country without exploring the rose-red city of Petra, climbing to the summit of Mount Nebo, discovering the beauty of the Wadi Rum desert and soaking in the Dead Sea.
6) How can you avoid getting into trouble in Jordan?
- Don’t take photos of locals, particularly women, without permission. Don’t take pictures of government and military buildings at all, as it’s forbidden.
- Leave the recreational substances at home to avoid fines.
- Tone down the PDA – Put simply, cuddling or kissing in public – even if you’re married – although not illegal, is not socially acceptable.
It’s as simple as that.
7) What are essential words and phrases to know?
English Arabic
Hello Salam – Marhaba
I don’t speak Arabic Ana ma ba’aref ahkee Arabee
Thank you Shukran
Help me Sa’adni (m) Sa’adini (f)
Sorry Aasif
Passport El-Jawaz
How much is this? Bekam Hada? / Addesh Hada?
English is widely spoken but learning a few phrases will endear you to the locals.
8) What’s the currency?
The Dinar is the currency of Jordan. It is divided into 10 dirham, 100 qirsh (also called piastres) or 1000 fulus. Currently, 1 Jordanian Dinar equals 89.65 Indian Rupees.
9) Trivia you probably didn’t know
a) In Jordan, it is considered polite to refuse a meal three times before accepting it.
b) The Dead Sea, also known as the Salt Sea, is the lowest place on Earth.
c) Jordanian camels can drink from water bottles.
With these details in mind, you should have a trouble-free trip, but if there’s anything else you’d like to know, just sound off in the comments below, and we’ll make sure you’re well prepared for your Jordan getaway.
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