10 things I wish I knew before going to Jordan

Amman is indeed a good choice. But wait, before you pack your bags and get going, there are certain things to keep in mind before traveling there. After all, thorough research can only add up to your experience, as you can be more prepared! So, hang in there as we tell you some interesting facts that travelers say they wish they knew before their travel to Jordan. Also, we give you some details of what to do in Jordan, and what not to!

1. There is a lot to see in Petra but…

The city of Petra is synonymous with Jordan, and hence, it is most likely that all your travel plans might be dedicated to this one place. What is Jordan famous for is undoubtedly related to the famous entities in Petra like the treasury, the street of facades, the monastery, and many more. But what’s more interesting is that you can see the entire country of Jordan in a matter of a few days as it is only about 90,000 sq. km in the total area! Thinking about what to do in Jordan beyond Petra? Hiking through Wadi Mujib in Amman, camping in Wadi Rum, visit the Dead Sea are but only a few options to having your best time in Jordan.

2. Driving around in Jordan is fun but…

One of the best ways to travel around Jordan is by renting a car, as public transport is limited to only a few places here and is time-consuming indeed. You can rent economic and mini cars like a sedan or hatchback for about $30 to $40. SUV and other premium varieties may cost around $60 to $ 80. But before you hit the road, always try to avoid the rush hour from 2 pm to 5 pm. The traffic is crazy during these times, and a lot lesser but definitely heavy throughout the day. Driving between cities in Jordan is quite manageable thanks to the well-maintained highways, but be wary of fellow drivers who are not bothered by speed limits!

3. The food is yummy but…

What is Jordan famous for is its diverse and delicious food. The crossroads of trade and the different cultures prevalent here for thousands of years have contributed towards the sophistication and elegance in the dishes. Even though generally considered a dry desert, the northern parts of Jordan are lush with homegrown vegetation that constitutes a significant portion of the diet. If you are a vegetarian, then you must note how much Jordanians love their proteins in the diet! Meat is an inevitable ingredient in all their meals, and so, you might find yourself enjoying the very last bite (provided you are a meat lover!). There are a handful of vegan options that are very limited in choices but extraordinary in taste!

4. Jordanians are very loving but…

Jordanians are probably the most generous and loving hosts ever. You could see yourself being invited for tea or lunch, within minutes of breaking conversation with a local. They are incredibly friendly, welcoming, kind, and always ready to help. Jordanians are great as local guides too. But, while you might be having your best time in Jordan, it is always best to keep your love and affection for your partner away from the public. The locals totally despise public display of affection and consider this as socially unacceptable. Also, better to keep in mind that the concept of homosexuality isn’t much welcomed here. Nevertheless, the locals are very friendly people who are just happy to help you around in the place.

5. Jordan is gradually becoming a modern cultural hub but…

Jordan is primarily a Muslim country but is gradually making way towards more modern culture. You might see locals (though very few) dressed up in very liberal clothing. Nonetheless, it is noticeable that most Jordanians still wear traditional clothes like daily or occasional wear. But they mostly detest show of skin, so might not flaunt your miniskirts or off-shoulder tops while here in Jordan. And men should not walk around the bare top in any of the public places.

6. You will see yourself drinking more water but…

Jordan is primarily a dry country with a hot and humid climate throughout the year. You are definitely going to need lots of water to replenish all the lost energy while enjoying the things to do in Jordan. But, did you know that Jordan has one of the lowest water resources available per capita in the world? As a result, water is often seen as a precious resource here, and priced higher than food! Although you can find tap water flowing freely, it is not fit for drinking and is primarily used for washing things. Nonetheless, bottled drinking water is easily available in any nearby shop.

7. Jordan is a very safe country to travel to but…

Are you wondering is it safe to travel to Jordan? Sharing borders with countries like Syria, Iraq, Israel, Palestine, and Saudi Arabia, one may think that the country of Jordan is unsafe for travelers. However, it may come as a surprise to many to know that Jordan is otherwise known as the "Switzerland of the Middle East", and a very safe place for tourists. What is Jordan famous for is the number of offbeat track rides, which you can explore with no fear at all. The incidents of terror and crime rates are relatively low. But Israel is a sensitive subject. Even if you have differing thoughts on the topic, it is best advised not to participate in discussions relating to it.

8. The Jordan Pass is most essential to be bought but…

The Jordan Pass is one of the most important necessities that is needed while visiting Jordan. This ticket or pass can be used at any of the 40 attractions covered in the country, including Petra. You can save massively on entrance costs throughout Jordan and also cover the cost of your entry visit to Jordan (if you are staying for more than three nights). But you have to know that the Jordan Pass is not a physical card or ticket that can be purchased at the first entry to the country- the airport. It is best advised to purchase the Jordan pass for 70 Jordanian dinars online ahead of your trip. A PDF containing the QR code is emailed to you, which can be used while having your best time in Jordan. Nonetheless, you can buy the Jordan pass from outside the airport; but might cost you more.

9. Jordanians are very particular about the month of Ramadan but…

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. They prohibit themselves from eating and even drinking water during this time. But, if you are travel to Jordan during this time, your travel plans are not likely to be affected much except for a few exceptions. The tourist sites, banks, shops, and other commercial spots may change their operating hours slightly. You can still find plenty of things to do in Jordan during the Ramadan season, though, as a sign of respect, you can avoid drinking and eating in public. But, being the most hospitable of hosts, Jordanians would not feel offended in case you do!

10. Jordan has many luxurious hotels for a stay but…

Jordan has some of the best luxury hotels stays that could enthrall any convenience-seeking traveler. From the uber-stylish Amman Rotana to the classic and elegant Petra Marriott, Jordan has innumerable options for luxury hotels with incredible panoramic views. But the comfortable stay also comes with a pretentious price tag that could defy all your budget plans. Additionally, most hotels in Jordan also tack in an additional 17 percent in tax and service charge. So, if you don't give due thought to your booking plans and adjust your travel expenses accordingly, you could likely be landing in a costly affair while having a good time in Jordan! So, if you are planning a visit to Jordan, I must tell you that you are going to have a wonderful time in Jordan. Why? Because there are simply so many things to do in Jordan! If you are a culture buff or a heritage aspirant, you are particularly in for some adventurous fun because that is mainly what Jordan is famous for! But before you hop on to dreaming about your travel to Jordan, I have to warn you to keep a check on your spending spree here because Jordan is indeed an expensive country for tourists! But ultimately, what counts more are always the wonderful moments you can create, right? In that case, Jordan is never going to upset you!