Wuloru.info – Jordan, a small yet remarkable country, is renowned for its rich cultures, ancient history, and UNESCO-recognized architectural wonders. It’s often seen as an adventurous travel destination.
While Jordan is sometimes grouped with neighboring countries that experience conflict and unrest, the reality is quite different. This beautiful nation offers a warm welcome and a sense of tranquility that many may not realize.
So, don’t hesitate to grab your backpack and check out some important tips before embarking on your journey to Jordan!
1. Jordan is a safe country
Even though Jordan is located in a region often affected by conflict, it stands out as a peaceful haven amidst the chaos—a friendly oasis that warmly welcomes visitors. The culture of hospitality here is highly valued, and crime rates are quite low.
According to Travel Safe, Jordan is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East regarding terrorism and crime. Additionally, World Nomad ranks it as the safest destination in the region for solo female travelers.
That said, it's always wise to take safety precautions while traveling anywhere. This includes getting travel and health insurance, avoiding carrying large amounts of cash, and not walking alone at night. Don’t let fear hold you back from planning your trip to explore the beauty of Jordan!
2. Jordan Pass
If you're planning to visit Jordan and stay for more than three nights, it's a great idea to purchase the Jordan Pass, which costs around 70 JOD (approximately $99 USD).
The Jordan Pass can save you time by skipping the lines and money since it includes entry to over 40 attractions, along with a visa. Plus, all the information you need about these sites is conveniently available on your phone through free downloadable digital resources.
3. A land of hospitality
Jordan is widely recognized as a warm and welcoming country, where hospitality is truly a way of life. It's quite common to be offered tea, food, or even an invitation to someone's home by a stranger you meet on the street.
You’ll often encounter friendly greetings from passersby, such as “Where are you from? Welcome to Jordan!” Most Jordanians are very approachable, open-hearted, and always ready to lend a helping hand whenever possible.
4. Be mindful of greeting customs
You'll notice that same-gender individuals greet each other with handshakes, hugs, or a few air kisses on the cheeks. However, be cautious when reaching out to shake hands or hug someone of the opposite gender, as it might not be well-received.
Most Jordanians are Muslim, and they show respect for their beliefs by avoiding physical contact with those of the opposite gender unless they are family. So, when you meet someone, it's best to smile and let them take the lead. If they extend their hand or lean in for a hug, feel free to reciprocate!
5. It's not always hot and sunny
Many people often assume that Jordan is always hot and dry. While this can be true if you visit during the summer months from May to August, Jordan does experience winter as well.
From November to February, it's wintertime, and it tends to rain quite a bit during this season. Temperatures usually drop below 10 degrees Celsius, and in higher areas, you might even encounter snow or hail.
So, if you're planning a trip to Jordan during this period, be sure to pack warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, and keep an eye on the weather forecast. Sometimes, there can be flash floods, which can be quite dangerous, and Petra may close during severe weather conditions.
6. Pay attention to dress codes
Jordan is increasingly becoming a modern cultural hub, and this is reflected in the contemporary fashion choices of its residents. However, since Jordan is predominantly a Muslim country, there are some limitations on dressing styles.
While there are no laws requiring women to wear hijabs, it is generally expected that they dress modestly and respectfully. It's best to avoid sleeveless tops, short skirts, and shorts. If you plan to visit places of worship, both men and women should ensure their knees and shoulders are covered.
Women are expected to cover their hair, chest, and neck, while men should not go shirtless. That said, covering up doesn’t mean looking sloppy; most Jordanians pay attention to their appearance. Also, if you're a female traveler, it's a good idea to bring along a shawl for added coverage!
7. Smoking shisha or tobacco is common
Smoking shisha is a popular pastime among the people of Jordan, and you'll find plenty of shisha cafes all over the country. Smoking tobacco is also widely accepted in most public places, including restaurants, cafes, hotels, shops, and even taxis.
While smokers may enjoy this aspect, it can pose quite a challenge for non-smokers or those with health concerns. When booking hotels, restaurants, or transportation, it's a good idea to ask if there are any non-smoking options available!
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