Situated between Israel, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia, the
Kingdom of Jordan is unexpectedly peaceful amid the turmoil of its
neighbours and is a wonderful place to visit. With two of the most
magnificent sights in the Middle East, namely the ancient city of
Petra and Wadi Rum's spectacular desert scenery, it is sad that so
few people explore its rich history.
Jordan is a kingdom layered in antiquity, from the
work of Nabataean stonemasons to characters such as Moses and
Lawrence of Arabia; from ancient cities and Biblical sites to
desert castles, Crusader forts, and Byzantine mosaics.
This ancient culture belies the fact that it is also
a modern country, with good infrastructure, a thriving business and
arts scene, and first-class hotels, restaurants, and shopping
opportunities. The contrast between the old and new is
astonishing.
Jordan is a relatively small country of varied
landscapes, where the fertile Jordan Valley, bordering the entire
western side of the kingdom, is separated from the immense desert
stretching to the east by the populated highlands. As part of the
Great Rift Valley, the Jordan Valley incorporates the Dead Sea, the
lowest point on the earth's surface and most famous for its heavy
salt and mineral concentrations.
The main towns strung along the length of the
highland plateau include the capital of Amman, as well as plenty of
historical sites from ancient civilisations. Home to brilliant
deserts, colourful coral reefs that are unequalled the world over,
and sweeping vistas, Jordan is full of charismatic beauty.
Key Facts
Language:
Arabic is the official language, but English is
understood by most people involved in the tourist industry, and by
middle to upper-class Jordanians.
Passport/Visa:
All foreign passengers to Jordan must hold return or onward
tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next
destination, and most nationalities require a visa to enter Jordan,
which can be obtained on arrival, if travellers are arriving by
air. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at
least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of
departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials
often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and
official sources.
Currency:
The official currency is the dinar (JOD), which is divided into
10 dirhams, 100 piastres or 1,000 fulus. Foreign currency can be
changed at any bank or moneychanger. Banks are closed on Fridays.
Better hotels will also exchange money. American Express, Visa,
MasterCard and Diners Club are the most widely accepted credit
cards and can be used at major hotels, restaurants and tourist
shops; cash can be withdrawn from inside banks. ATMs are available
throughout Amman and in other major cities, but are harder to find
in rural areas.
Electricity:
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. European
two-pin plugs are most common, though occasionally UK flat
three-pin plugs are used.
Travel to Jordan
Overview
The quality of sightseeing opportunities in Jordan will take
visitors by surprise if they haven't done their homework, as there
is far more to see than the astonishingly beautiful desert
landscapes. Jordan is also on friendly terms with its neighbours
and is the safest destination to visit in the Middle East.
Travellers can explore fascinating desert cities, castles and
fortresses, many of which can easily be accessed from the capital
of Amman or from the lively city of Aqaba. Visitors can opt to take
these excursions by local taxi, hired car, 4x4 or atop a camel (as
native Jordanians have done for centuries).
Not merely a land of desert and camels, there are great
opportunities for visitors to get their feet wet in either the Dead
Sea or the Red Sea. While the Red Sea (situated at the very
southernmost tip of Jordan) offers up a fantastic chance to swim
and scuba in crystal clear waters that harbour some of the most
spectacular coral reefs in the world, the Dead Sea experience is
something totally different. The lowest point on earth, the Dead
Sea allows swimmers to float weightlessly in its extremely salty
waters.
Climate in Jordan
July and August are the hottest and driest months of the year,
especially in Amman and the Jordan Valley, and in the desert areas,
where temperatures can top 97F (36C). Spring and autumn are the
most pleasant times to visit, as there are clear, sunny days and
moderate temperatures. The winter months from December to March can
be very cold, particularly in Amman, where there is snow, rain and
wind, but there is little rainfall in the desert regions and in
Aqaba, which makes a pleasant wintertime resort. About 75 percent
of the country can be described as having a desert climate with
very little annual rainfall.
Health Notes when travelling to Jordan
Proof of vaccination is required if travellers are coming from
or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow
fever occurs, and a vaccination for typhoid is recommended for most
travellers, particularly those who are venturing to rural areas,
travelling for a long time or visiting friends or relatives. It is
advisable to drink bottled water, which is cheap and widely
available, though better hotels have their own water filtering
systems. Medical facilities are basic outside of Amman and
travellers should seek treatment in Amman or Aqaba in the event of
an emergency. Adequate travel health insurance is essential and
should cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and
repatriation.
Safety Notes when travelling to Jordan
The vast majority of tourist visits to Jordan are safe and
trouble free, but there is a risk of terrorist attacks. Travellers
should maintain a degree of vigilance at all times, particularly in
public places and at tourist attractions. They should also avoid
all areas near the borders with Iraq and Syria due to military
activity, the threat of kidnapping by terrorist groups, and the
lack of emergency facilities. Public demonstrations and political
gatherings could potentially turn violent, so travellers should
steer clear. Crime levels are generally low, and incidents mostly
involve pick pocketing, bag snatching and theft from cars; visitors
should take sensible precautions to keep their money, passports and
valuables secure. Women travellers should exercise caution when
hiking in some of Jordan's more remote areas, as they may receive
unwanted attention from men or groups of men.
Customs in Jordan
Visitors should respect religious customs around eating,
drinking and smoking during daylight hours, particularly during the
month of Ramadan. The consumption of alcohol is strictly forbidden
in the streets and it is advisable to respect local Muslim
conservatism regarding dress. Women in particular will be better
received if their legs and shoulders are covered in public places.
Jordanian law doesn't explicitly prohibit homosexual acts, but
locals generally don't tolerate public displays of affection
between homosexual couples. Bedouin hospitality is genuine, though
custom requires that visitors leave some small gift in return for a
meal or a glass of tea. Bargaining is expected with merchants,
especially in the markets.
Duty Free in Jordan
Travellers to Jordan who are older than 18 years of age do not
have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, normal cigars with a value not
exceeding JOD 20, or Cuban cigars with a value not exceeding JOD
70; 1 litre of alcohol; and gifts to the value of JD200. Restricted
items include firearms, sporting guns and other weapons without
prior approval from authorities of country of origin and
destination country. Prohibited items include all narcotics and
birds or bird products.
Doing Business in Jordan
Jordanian business people generally prefer dark, conservative
suits and ties for initial meetings, though casual dress is
becoming more acceptable in certain industries. Conservative yet
stylish attire is a good choice for women. As is the case in most
Arab countries, business is very male-dominated, so women should
clarify their role early in meetings. Meetings often start very
late, but it is always advised to be punctual nonetheless. Most
business is conducted in English, though using a few words of
Arabic (particularly for titles) will be appreciated. Business
cards are often exchanged. It is common to be invited for meals by
one's host, who will usually pay the bill, though it is appreciated
if the guest pays for the final meal or gives a small gift.
Business hours are usually 9.30am to 1.30pm and 3.30pm to 6pm
Sunday to Thursday.
Communication in Jordan
The international dialling code for Jordan is +962. The outgoing
code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the
UK). Free WiFi is available in most prominent hotels and
international coffee shops; travellers can purchase prepaid SIM
cards for unlocked phones.
Tipping in Jordan
The better hotels and restaurants add a 10 percent service
charge to the bill, but smaller establishments usually expect a
tip. It is customary to round up the price of a taxi trip instead
of tipping.
Passport/Visa Note
All foreign passengers to Jordan must hold return or onward
tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next
destination, and most nationalities require a visa to enter Jordan,
which can be obtained on arrival, if travellers are arriving by
air. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at
least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of
departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials
often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and
official sources.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six
months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa is
required, and can be obtained on arrival.
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at
least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa
is required, and can be obtained on arrival.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least
six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa is
required and can be obtained on arrival.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at
least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa
is required, and can be obtained on arrival.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least
six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa is
required, and can be obtained on arrival.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at
least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa
is required, and can be obtained on arrival.
Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at
least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Jordan. A visa
is required, and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of
30 days. It is possible to apply for an extension.
Tourist Offices
Jordan Tourism Board, Amman: +96 26 5678 444 or
http://www.visitjordan.com
Jordan Embassies
In the United States:
Embassy of Jordan, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 966
2664.
In Canada:
Embassy of Jordan, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 238 8090.
In the United Kingdom:
Embassy of Jordan, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for
Ireland): +44 20 7937 3685.
In Australia:
Embassy of Jordan, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for New
Zealand): +61 2 6295 9951.
In South Africa:
Embassy of Jordan, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 346 8615.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Jordan, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Jordan. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Jordan, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to Jordan
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Jordan. The government of Jordan requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Jordan, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Jordan. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Jordan, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to Jordan
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Jordan. The government of Jordan requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Note: Since 2012, MERS (Middle East respiratory syndrome) has been identified in multiple countries in the Arabian Peninsula, including Jordan, and in travelers to the region. Please refer to the MERS in the Arabian Peninsula travel notice for more information.
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Jordan, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
Food that is cooked and served hot
Hard-cooked eggs
Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
Food served at room temperature
Food from street vendors
Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
Unpasteurized dairy products
”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
Bottled water that is sealed
Water that has been disinfected
Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
Carbonated drinks
Hot coffee or tea
Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
Tap or well water
Ice made with tap or well water
Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Jordan. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
If your travel plans in Jordan include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Jordan. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Jordan’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Jordan may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Jordan, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Jordan for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
Be aware of current health issues in Jordan. Learn how to protect yourself.
Alert Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions
MERS in the Arabian PeninsulaJune 28, 2017The following countries in or near the Arabian Peninsula have confirmed MERS: Bahrain, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudia Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Neighboring countries where precautions are recommended: Iraq, Israel, including the West Bank and Gaza, and Syria.
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The official currency is the dinar (JOD), which is divided into
10 dirhams, 100 piastres or 1,000 fulus. Foreign currency can be
changed at any bank or moneychanger. Banks are closed on Fridays.
Better hotels will also exchange money. American Express, Visa,
MasterCard and Diners Club are the most widely accepted credit
cards and can be used at major hotels, restaurants and tourist
shops; cash can be withdrawn from inside banks. ATMs are available
throughout Amman and in other major cities, but are harder to find
in rural areas.
Exchange rate for 1 JOD - Jordanian Dinar
0.00BMD Bermudan Dollar
1.41EUR Euro
1.41USD U.S. Dollar
1.23GBP U.K. Pound Sterling
202.42JPY Japanese Yen
1.86CAD Canadian Dollar
1.35CHF Swiss Franc
2.10AUD Australian Dollar
51.73UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
671.07KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
2,127.56LBP Lebanese Pound
6.96LYD Libyan Dinar
9.72BOB Bolivian Boliviano
179.26NPR Nepalese Rupee
0.54OMR Omani Rial
5.19QAR Qatari Rial
1.99SGD Singapore Dollar
15.11SEK Swedish Krona
9.57TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
0.00VEF Venezuelan Bolivar
74.68DOP Dominican Peso
10.63HRK Croatian Kuna
28.27MXN Mexican Peso
925.63XOF West African CFA Franc
4.97PGK Papua New Guinean kina
1.41BSD Bahamian Dollar
3.16FJD Fiji Dollar
34.75HNL Honduran Lempira
198.25DZD Algerian Dinar
2,959.50MMK Myanma Kyat
18.35BWP Botswana Pula
5.47PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
1,300.51CLP Chilean Peso
570.98AMD Armenia Dram
34.62CZK Czech Koruna
27.26MDL Moldova Lei
195.86ISK Icelandic Krona
15,418.70UZS Uzbekistan Sum
4.85ILS Israeli New Sheqel
0.44KWD Kuwaiti Dinar
57.45UYU Uruguayan Peso
63.66MUR Mauritian Rupee
50.64NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba
14.30NOK Norwegian Krone
6.68PLN Polish Zloty
5.30SAR Saudi Riyal
513.77LKR Sri Lanka Rupee
51.82THB Thai Baht
5.18AED U.A.E Dirham
7.35BRL Brazilian Real
6.95RON Romanian New Leu
11.07HKD Hong Kong Dollar
927.29XAF Central African CFA Franc
33,202.89VND Vietnamese Dong
201.58ARS Argentine Peso
3.82XCD East Caribbean Dollar
10.99GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal
14.99MAD Moroccan Dirham
0.53BHD Bahrain Dinar
1.41PAB Panamanian Balboa
2.39AZN Azerbaijan Manat
6,230.48COP Colombian Peso
113.98KGS Kyrgyzstan Som
574.82HUF Hungarian Forint
14.44TJS Tajikistan Ruble
20,961.54IDR Indonesian Rupiah
27.39EGP Egyptian Pound
1,971.69KRW South Korean Won
9,833.73PYG Paraguayan Guaraní
6.38MYR Malaysian Ringgit
892.33CRC Costa Rican Colón
2.36NZD New Zealand Dollar
315.30PKR Pakistani Rupee
84.94RUB Russian Rouble
24.74ZAR South African Rand
4.53TND Tunisian Dinar
2.85BBD Barbadian Dollar
2.76BGN Bulgarian Lev
25.76TRY Turkish Lira
80.81PHP Philippine Peso
43.95TWD New Taiwan Dollar
604.12NGN Nigerian Naira
168.39XPF CFP Franc
14.16GHS Ghanaian Cedi
214.80JMD Jamaican Dollar
2.53ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder
1.98BND Brunei Dollar
165.54RSD Serbian Dinar
9.86CNY Chinese Yuan
10.50DKK Danish Krone
4.94TMT New Turkmenistan Manat
112.54INR Indian Rupee
Exchange Rate for U.S. Dollar to Jordanian Dinar
1 USD = 0.71 JOD
Exchange Rate for Euro to Jordanian Dinar
1 EUR = 0.71 JOD
Exchange Rate for Canadian Dollar to Jordanian Dinar
1 CAD = 0.54 JOD
Exchange Rate for U.K. Pound Sterling to Jordanian Dinar
1 GBP = 0.81 JOD
Exchange Rate for Australian Dollar to Jordanian Dinar
1 AUD = 0.48 JOD
Exchange Rate for New Zealand Dollar to Jordanian Dinar
1 NZD = 0.42 JOD
Exchange Rate for South African Rand to Jordanian Dinar
1 ZAR = 0.04 JOD
Amman Airport (AMM) Queen Alia International Airport http://www.amman-airport.com
Location: Amman The airport is situated 20 miles (32km) south of
Amman.
Time: Local time is GMT +2 (GMT +3, from the last Friday
in March to the last Friday in October)
Contacts:
Tel: +96 26 500 2777
Getting to the city:
Local buses and an airport express bus offer transfer options to
the city.
Car rental:
Car rental is available through companies such as Budget and
Hertz.
Airport Taxis:
Airport taxis are available and prices are fixed.
Facilities:
Facilities include banks and bureaux de change, duty-free
shopping, bars and restaurants, a medical centrel, as well as VIP
and business lounges. A tourist help desk is available and
facilities for the disabled are good.
Parking:
Parking is available and costs vary depending on the parking
lot.
Overview of the Attractions in Jordan
The quality of sightseeing opportunities in Jordan will take
visitors by surprise if they haven't done their homework, as there
is far more to see than the astonishingly beautiful desert
landscapes. Jordan is also on friendly terms with its neighbours
and is the safest destination to visit in the Middle East.
Travellers can explore fascinating desert cities, castles and
fortresses, many of which can easily be accessed from the capital
of Amman or from the lively city of Aqaba. Visitors can opt to take
these excursions by local taxi, hired car, 4x4 or atop a camel (as
native Jordanians have done for centuries).
Not merely a land of desert and camels, there are great
opportunities for visitors to get their feet wet in either the Dead
Sea or the Red Sea. While the Red Sea (situated at the very
southernmost tip of Jordan) offers up a fantastic chance to swim
and scuba in crystal clear waters that harbour some of the most
spectacular coral reefs in the world, the Dead Sea experience is
something totally different. The lowest point on earth, the Dead
Sea allows swimmers to float weightlessly in its extremely salty
waters.
Citadel Hill Amman
From its position on top of a hill overlooking the city, the
Citadel (known locally as Jabal al-Qal'a) stands testament to the
history of Amman, with its ancient ruins and excavated relics. It
is the site of the ancient capital Rabbath-Ammon and numerous
excavations have revealed Stone Age remains as well as those from
the Roman to the Islamic periods. Other items from throughout the
country are housed in the Jordan Archaeological Museum. The site
contains several structures, including the impressive Omayyad
Palace (al-Qasr), a small Byzantine basilica and what was once the
Temple of Hercules, the Great Temple of Amman. Also on the site is
the Jordan Archaeological Museum, which has an excellent collection
of artefacts from Jordan dating back to the earliest settlement in
the region over 700,000 years ago. The Dead Sea Scrolls, Iron Age
sarcophagi, and a copy of the Mesha Stele are its most important
exhibits.
Roman Theatre Amman
Below the Citadel is the magnificent Roman amphitheatre, an
impressive relic from ancient Philadelphia that is cut into the
hill and can seat up to 6,000 people. The theatre is still used
occasionally for events today. Two cultural museums form part of
the complex: the Jordan Folklore Museum, which has exhibits on
traditional life, and the Museum of Popular Traditions, which
covers traditional costumes and mosaics from 4th to 6th century
Jordanian churches. The theatre was built during the reign of
Antonius Pius (138 to 161 CE) and is today a famous landmark in
Amman and, of course, the ancient Roman city Philadelphia. It
surrounds the Hashemite Plaza, Odeon Theatre, and the
Nymphaeum.
Jerash Amman
Situated about 31 miles (50km) north of Amman is one of the top
attractions in Jordan: the ancient city of Jerash. Considered to be
one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world, its exceptional
preservation is due to it being buried in sand for centuries, and
the magnificent baths, theatres, temples, arches, columns and stone
chariot-rutted streets have long attracted scholars and tourists
from across the world to admire the most complete city in the Roman
Decapolis. Excavations dating to the Neolithic Age have indicated
that Jerash was continuously occupied for more than 6,500 years.
Today visitors can marvel as the ancient amphitheatre comes to life
at the annual Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, where artists
from around the globe sing, dance, act, and play music on stage in
a celebration of Jordanian and international culture.
Desert Castle Loop Amman
Stretching to the east of Amman towards Saudi Arabia and Iraq is
a vast desert plain where a cluster of historic castle, fort, bath,
and palace ruins has been preserved. Collectively known as the
Desert Castles, their purpose is largely unknown, but most are
thought to have been built as recreational retreats by the Umayyad
caliphs during the early Islamic Period (7th to 8th centuries AD).
Qasr Mushatta is the biggest and most elaborate of the castles, and
is a fine example of Umayyad architecture despite never being
completed. The best preserved and most enchanting is the luxurious
bathhouse of Qusayr Amra, with its domed ceiling, colourful
interior frescoes, and mosaics. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage
Site. Other desert castles include the black rock fortress at
Azraq, which was the desert headquarters of Lawrence of Arabia
during the Great Arab Revolt in 1917, the mysterious Qasr
al-Kharrana, and Qasr al-Hallabat's crumbling remains.
The Dead Sea Amman
Situated about 28 miles (45km) from Amman, lies the famous
attraction of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth at 1,335 feet
(407m) below sea level. Devoid of plant or animal life due to the
high salt concentration (four times saltier than normal), it is the
incredible mineral rich water that has made it an internationally
sought-after destination since ancient times, popular for its
curative properties as well as for the experience of floating
effortlessly on its surface. Most holidaymakers go to the main
resort area on the northern shore at Sweimeh, where they will find
showers, restaurants, a beach, and the opportunity to smother
themselves in the mineral-rich black mud. Accommodation is
available at the Dead Sea Spa Hotel, where various medical
treatments are also on offer.
Mount Nebo Amman
The most sacred site in Jordan, Mount Nebo is
believed to be the burial site of Moses who climbed the hill in
order to survey the Promised Land that he would never enter.
Situated on the edge of a plateau about six miles (10km) from
Madaba, Mount Nebo affords spectacular views towards Jerusalem,
whose spires are visible on a clear day, and across the Jordan
Valley and the Dead Sea. A modern day shrine sits on the ruins of a
6th-century Byzantine monastery, and affords protection to the
original floor mosaics, while in the grounds stands the symbolic
Serpentine Cross.
Wadi Rum
Lying 42 miles (68km) north of Aqaba, Wadi Rum is acclaimed as
one of the most stunningly beautiful desert landscapes in the world
and is a major tourist destination in Jordan. Towering mountains of
weathered sandstone rise from the pink desert sands, where the vast
emptiness and silence takes the breath away. There are many ways to
explore the vast desert interior, where the likes of Lawrence of
Arabia once rode. Serious mountaineers and climbers relish the
challenge of its high peaks, particularly the highest in the area,
Jabal Rum, and the remarkable Rock Bridge, while hikers can enjoy
the grandeur of the interior by walking out into the wilderness and
camping alone under the stars. Camel trips and 4x4 vehicle tours
can also be arranged. Wadi Rum is home to several nomadic Bedouin
families who are famous for their hospitality, and visitors are
often invited to share mint tea with them inside their goat-hair
tents or beside the fire under the starry sky.
Website: http://www.wadirum.jo
Madaba Amman
Madaba is most famous for its spectacular Byzantine and Umayyad
mosaics from the 5th to 7th centuries, which are scattered
throughout the town's homes and churches. Located just 19 miles
(30km) south of Amman, Madaba is also home to the famous
6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land, in which Jerusalem and its
surrounding regions are depicted. One of the town's most beautiful
mosaics covers the floor of the Byzantine Church of the Apostles,
and the Archaeological Park features an impressive collection of
mosaic collages, where a series of ramps has been built over
excavated mosaics to allow people to view them from above. The
Greek Orthodox Church of St George is home to Madaba's main
attraction and most famous mosaic: the 6th-century Madaba Map.
Millions of pieces of coloured stone embedded on the church floor
create a vivid picture of Jerusalem and its holy sites, including
the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Dead Sea, Jericho, and the
Jordan River. It is the earliest surviving original map of the
region and was laid around 560 AD.
Amman
Amman is one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the
world, and is today a thriving commercial and administrative
centre, where travellers will find modern facilities, historical
attractions and a longstanding tradition of hospitality. Faded
minarets, pavement markets, Arabian sweet shops, and the crumbling
remains of ancient civilisations contrast wonderfully with the
contemporary edifices, fashionable boutiques and international
restaurants, creating a spellbinding blend of old and new. The city
is also an excellent base for visitors, as it's no more than five
hours drive from anywhere in the country.
Petra
Carved into the rock and protected by rugged mountains on all
sides is Jordan's most famous attraction, the ancient city of
Petra. One of the world's most spectacular ruins, it is set within
a canyon near the town of Wadi Musa (Valley of Moses), which was
once the name of the valley and not just the small tourist town
along the sides of the valley leading down to Petra. The town's
existence is primarily to service the tourist industry as the
gateway to Petra. More than 2,000 years ago, a nomadic tribe from
Arabia settled in the area and these Nabateans established Petra as
their capital. It became a powerful fortress city that controlled
the passage of traders, and grew prosperous from the caravans
crossing their land carrying spices and riches from India and
Arabia. An astonishing city of monumental tombs, temples and
decorative buildings carved from the solid rock was created from
this wealth, which still stands as a testament to the remarkable
creativity and engineering prowess of the Nabateans. Today's Petra
is a staggering landscape of rock-hewn monuments, amphitheatres,
palaces, arched gateways, water channels, and detailed carvings
spread over a vast area. Dramatic tombs and temples unfold with
each step taken further into the winding canyon.
Travelers are running out of new places to discover, but there could be one treasure hidden in plain sight. Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast stretches for more than a thousand miles, from the northern border with Jordan in the Gulf of Aqaba to Yemen in the far south. Much of that
"Welcome to Jordan!" a group of kids shouted excitedly, as I stepped out of the car to admire the sun setting over the vast sandstone canyon of Wadi Mujib. While I stood on the cliff's edge, awestruck by the mountain ranges stretching to the Dead Sea, a black-and-white hooded wheatear
Jordan is a small country largely covered by desert, but the weather is not uniform and varies depending on altitude, location, and season. When choosing the best time to visit Jordan, you’ll need to first decide what’s most important to you. Two of the biggest factors to consider
A popular Middle Eastern destination and a tiny Dutch Caribbean island were added to the CDC's "high" risk category for travel on Monday. Jordan and Sint Eustatius were the only two additions to the Level 3, "high" risk category. Jordan is home to relics of many
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When it comes to a hotel-room upgrade, ask and you shall receive. That’s right, a polite request can sometimes do the trick, which surprises frequent guests like Allan Jordan. It might surprise you, too. After all, for years everyone thought the color of your loyalty card determined the chance of a hotel-room upgrade. And while status still can make a difference, there’s a new
Three Carnival passengers who say they were injured when their ship listed suddenly near Port Canaveral in October filed a federal lawsuit this week against the cruise line. Susan and Charles Orgbon of Georgia and Aleveta Jordan of North Carolina filed a suit on Tuesday against Carnival Cruise Line, claiming they suffered injuries when the Carnival Sunshine cruise ship
When it comes to a hotel room upgrade, ask and you shall receive. That's right, a polite request can sometimes do the trick, which surprises frequent guests like Allan Jordan. It might surprise you, too. After all, for years everyone thought the color of your loyalty card determined the chance of a hotel room upgrade. And while status still can make a difference
A live-action remake of Aladdin, directed by Guy Ritchie, comes to the big screen next year, with Mena Massoud as Aladdin and Will Smith as the Genie. It is set in the fictional kingdom of Agrabah, and was filmed in Wadi Rum in Jordan, where the protected desert landscape, sandstone and basalt mountains
They report that the Middle East and North Africa is surging in popularity, and have added five new itineraries because of the increased demand. Turkey and Egypt saw the largest number of bookings (up by 197% and 150% respectively). Jordan (146%) and Israel (101%) have also seen
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Picture the Appalachian Trail in California, or the Camino de Santiago in Spain.
Then draw a route through more than 10,000 years of history, covering Neolithic ruins, Biblical sites, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, and russet landscapes that wouldn't look out of place on Mars
"As threats change,” says the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA), “so too will TSA’s security requirements”. Reports suggest that those requirements are about to get much tougher for European airline passengers wanting to fly to the US. In March, the Department of Homeland Security rushed out a ban on electronic devices in hand luggage on flights from eight countries in North Africa and the Middle East. Anything bigger than a mobile phone cannot be carried into the cabin of an aircraft flying from Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Morocco, Qatar and the UAE
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He had taken a few hard hits as a quarterback for the Ottawa Rough Riders of the Canadian Football League. But when his American Airlines flight on Jan. 25 from Miami to Milan, a Boeing 767 carrying 192 passengers, blew sideways, Jordan Case thought that was it
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Jordan Axani’s round-the-world trip, planned long in advance with his girlfriend, hit a snag when they broke up. Rather than wasting the extra ticket, Axani turned to Reddit and Imgur in an effort to find a "Canadian named Elizabeth Gallagher" who can travel in his ex-girlfriend’s place