Jordan: A Warm Welcome in Middle East 28/10/2023


JORDAN INFORMATION
 
  • Capital: Amman
  • Population: 11,351,317
  • Currency: The Jordanian dinar (JOD) at the rate of 0.7090 per 1$ and has been so since 1995.
  • Time: GMT+3 as Jordan at Lat/Long 31°57'N / 35°55'E
  • Jordan: is home to more than 100,000 archaeological, religious and tourist sights. Like Petra, Dead Sea, Wadi Rum and Jerash, only to name a few. Jordan is rich in history and culture; it is a great holiday destination to enjoy your time and educate yourself on Middle Eastern heritage. Is an Arab Muslim country, located in the north of the Arabian Peninsula and in West Asia. Bordered by Syria to the north, Iraq to the east, Saudi Arabia to the south and south-east, and Palestine (the West Bank) to the west. Jordan is named to the Jordan River, which passes on its western border, and Amman is capital.  It’s home to the famed archaeological site of Petra, the Nabatean capital dating to around 300 B.C. Set in a narrow valley with tombs, temples and monuments carved into the surrounding pink sandstone cliffs, Petra earns its nickname, the "Rose City." Glorious ancient architecture, desert adventures, deep sea diving, local homestays, delicious Jordanian cooking, spectacular holy sites, the Red Sea and the Dead Sea are just some of the reasons to visit Jordan. It is a country of hikers and historians, scientists and artists, foodies and yoga-fiends.
  • Weather: Jordan has hot, dry summers, and wet, relatively cold winters. The peak season is between March till May, and from September to November, though summers are nowhere as hot as in the Gulf. Jordan's climate ranges between a more Mediterranean climate to a desert climate, but the land is generally very arid. Winter temperatures in the southern and northern highlands range between 9-13°C, while the deserts regions range from 19-22°C.
 
JORDAN LOCAL CUISINE
 
One of the best parts of traveling is eating local food and the best way to celebrate holidays is with some delicious food. Buckle up and let me take you on a mouth-watering journey through 100 years of Jordanian cuisine.
  • Mansaf: The most distinctive Jordanian dish and the national dish of Jordan. The dish is a symbol for Jordanian hospitality and is influenced by the Bedouin culture. Mansaf is eaten on different occasions such as funerals, weddings and on religious holidays. It consists of a plate of rice with meat that was boiled in thick yogurt, sprayed with pine nuts and sometimes herbs. As an old tradition, the dish is eaten using one's hands.
  • Makloubeh: This hearty dish of rice, vegetables, and cuts of lamb or chicken is a homemade specialty. While there are many variations of which vegetables are used, most feature potatoes, cauliflower, and eggplants. The spicy rice dish is a tasty feast. The name which means “upside down” comes from the flipping of the cooking pot contents onto the serving tray. A side of yogurt salad adds the creamy flavor as well.
  • Musakhan: Originally from Palestine, this chicken dish has the unique flavor due to its seasoning marinade of the special spice Summaq, onions, and the high quality olive oil that is indigenous to the region. Served over traditional Taboun Bread which is baked in stone lined ovens, and acts as a great vehicle to absorb the total flavor
  • Zarb: is an ancient technique of preparing food in underground pits. The food is placed on metal racks and it's then slowly roasted in coal-filled pits that are carefully covered with blankets.
  • Shawarma: It is a local dish, originally it is a Turkish dish, opinions change from person to another, but you cannot find anybody who says that the “shawarma” is not delicious, all the people who tried the “Shawarma” agreed that it is very delicious, it is prepared as a wrap inside of a flat bread. It has two types, beef meet and chicken, it is served hot, with a garlic sauce, pickles and vegetables, usually people drink carbonated water or buttermilk with it.
 
Starting the day mindfully with a breakfast that fuels both body and mind “Good Food, Good Mood” and start at breakfast! Enjoy the savor of Jordanian delicious breakfast.
  • Foul Falafel and Hummus: are a classic combination that is often served for breakfast in Jordan. Foul is made of fava beans and is similar to hummus, while falafel is a fried ball made of chickpeas. These dishes are typically served with pita bread and pickled vegetables.
  • Manakeesh: that is often compared to pizza. It is typically topped with za’atar (a spice mix of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac), cheese, or ground meat, then baked until crispy. Manakeesh is a popular breakfast item in Amman and can be found at most local bakeries.
  • Labneh: is a creamy, tangy cheese made from strained yogurt, labneh is another breakfast staple. It is often served with fresh bread, olives, and vegetables, or used as a spread on sandwiches.
  • Galayet Bandora: is basically sautéed tomatoes stewed with garlic, olive oil, pepper, and salt! It can be either cooked plain, just tomatoes, or it can be cooked with minced meat or with eggs. Either way, it is very delicious! Oh and super healthy.
  • Coffee / Mint tea: Turkish coffee, which is served thick and muddy, is spiced with cardamom and you’ll find it at restaurants, street food stalls, and gas stations. There’s also Arabic coffee, but Turkish style coffee seems more common. Mint tea, which is often just black tea poured into a cup with a few fresh mint leaves in the bottom, is a typical after meal drink.
 
Food is the primitive form of comfort and taste of sweetness calms our soul. Jordanian desserts are not only delicious but share a story of the country and its place in the Middle East.
  • Kanafeh: Also spelled Kanafeh, Kanafah, Kunafeh or Kunafah is an Arabic cheese pastry drenched in sweet sugar based syrup. Kanafeh main ingredients are sugar, cheese, pistachio, rose water and kaymak or the traditional clotted cream.
  • Baklava: is one of the most popular Jordanian desserts. It is a delicious and rich treat.Baklava is commonly prepared not only in Jordan, but also in Lebanon, Turkey, Greece, Bulgaria, Macedonia, the Balkans and as far as the United States.It originated from the Ottoman Empire which dominated North Africa, Southeastern Europe and Western Asia from the 14th century until the 19th century.In Jordan, baklava is found in bakeries, street and pastry shops in the capital city of Amman and the rest of the Kingdom.   It is typically made of dough layered and brushed with honey syrup, powdered sugar, or homemade syrup, which includes lemon juice, orange flower water, or rosewater. The stacked thin phyllo sheets made of basic flour and water mixture are filled with finely chopped or crushed pistachio, nuts, hazelnuts, walnuts or almonds.
  • Muhallabia: This is the perfect dessert for celebration and festivity. Muhallabia or mahalabia is creamy, rich in flavor and one of the delicately flavored desserts in Jordan. Muhallabia is simple, delicious and indulging.The Jordanian version of Muhallabia is made of mixed ground rice, cornflour, milk, sugar, rose water, chopped almonds, or pistachio.
  • Umm’Ali: This is one of the desserts in Jordan that is often found in family meals. This is a dish similar to a bread and butter pudding. However, instead of bread Jordanians use pastry as the bread element of the dish. This is combined with pistachios, raisins and coconut flakes, before receiving a generous measure of sugar. The umm’ali is then baked until the dish has a golden crust. Finally it is sprinkled with cinnamon to serve.
  • Maamoul: Also spelled as Ma’amoul are small pastries filled with dates, walnuts or pistachios. Maamoul is made on special occasions like Eid al Adha and Eid Al Fiter. This Arabic dessert is a soft cookie dough packed with dates that are perfumed with cardamom and cinnamon.
  • Qatayef: Whether you are on a business or leisure travel to Jordan, the trip isn’t complete without trying this famous Arab dessert. Qatayef is a yeasted pancake mix stuffed with crushed nuts, golden fried and drizzled with sugary syrup. Qatayef is the star of the Ramadan season. It is packed with flavor, sweetness and crunchiness in an iconic crescent shape. Other variations of Qatayef depending on the region. It can range from savory to sweet, crunchy to soft, baked or fried. It may also include nuts, cream, cheese, or chocolate for that modern twist. The Jordanian version is nutty, bursting with syrup in every bite and crunchy outside.

 

JORDAN ADVENTURE

 

Fill your life with adventures, roam far & wonder wide. Life is about the adventures you take and memories you make.
  • Hot Air Ballooning in Wadi Rum: The amazing landscapes of Wadi Rum looks incredibly stunning from the blue sky. When you are in the sky, you can explore the real beauty of this arid valley. That being said, hot air ballooning offers tourists an opportunity to fly above the lofty sandstone ridges and drift peacefully across the vast desert.
  • Camel Ride in Wadi Rum: Certain parts of Wadi Rum’s arid plateau offer travelers an opportunity to enjoy the most thrilling camel trekking experience. Travelers can get a taste of the country’s traditional mode of transportation while they go deep into this vast desert and explore Wadi Rum to its core.
  • Rock Climbing in Wadi Rum: Cut out from southern Jordan’s sandstone and granite rocks, Wadi Rum happens to be an arid wasteland, which has an abundance of opportunities for the adventure seekers.
  • Camping in Wadi Rum: The vast sprawling desert of Wadi Rum can offer travelers an exciting cultural experience of spending a night in the traditional camps. Although the desert is usually arid and hot during the daytime, it becomes pleasantly cool as evening approaches.
  • Scuba Diving in Aqaba: Located on one end of the Red Sea, the coastal city of Aqaba shelters more than 450 coral creatures and a plethora of marine animals. This makes the place one of the best destinations for experiencing scuba diving.
  • Snorkeling in The Red Sea: The country has a coastline of approximately 17 miles along the Red Sea, which offers the best snorkeling experience in the whole area. This part is known popularly for its large and beautiful coral reefs that propel umpteen varieties of attractive marine animals.
  • Ajloun Reserve Trails: Ajloun Forest Reserve is located in the Ajloun highlands north of Amman and covers 13 square kilometers. It is dominated by open woodlands of Evergreen Oak, Pine, Carob, Wild Pistachio and Wild Strawberry trees. These trees have been important to local people for their wood, scenic beauty, and quite often for medicine and food.
  • Azraq Wetland Reserve Hiking & Biking Trails: Azraq is a unique wetland, located in the heart of the arid Eastern Desert, which takes its name from the Arabic word for ‘blue’. A migratory stopover for birds from three continents, Azraq is becoming increasingly popular for bird watching. From the walkways and hides, visitors get the chance to observe birds close at hand, including local, migratory and occasional rare species.
  • Dana Reserve Trails: Starting from the Dana Guesthouse, this trail winds above the Dana Village and through the terraced gardens and local craft workshops. Visitors can meet the local residents, see original Ottoman architecture, and learn more about Dana's rich history. This trail is operated year-round and can be guided or self-guided.
  • Canyoning in Wadi Mujib - At 410m Below Sea Level: One of the world’s lowest natural reserves lies 410 meters below sea level, within Wadi Mujib. This reserve then leaps up to lofty hills in the south and north, 900 meters above sea level. The elevation drop of 1300 meters makes for a great terrain to allow thrilling canyoning activities. The adventure junkies can walk down lofty arid hills, slide on rocks, climb waterfalls, float along streams, and rappel. This dynamic, exhilarating activity is enough to give you a better punch to wake up than a shot of espresso.
  • Hammam Visit in Amman or Petra: After a sightseeing tour, relax at a Hammam. The visit includes steam bath, sauna, scrubbing and massage.
  • Glamping in Wadi Rum: Many camps in the desert offer “Domes” and “Martian Tents” as a luxurious camping experience. Part of the tent is transparent to let you see the desert sky in the night. Rates are upon request as prices vary between camps.
  • Stargazing in Wadi Rum: Well known for its fabulous starry sky, live an amazing experience with the help of telescopes.
  • Quad Bike in Wadi Rum: After the instructions on how to use a quad bike, get and adrenaline rush as you drive across Wadi Rum desert.
  • Glass Bottom Boat Ride with Snorkeling in Aqaba: Cruise on the Red Sea on board of a glass bottom boat, see coral reefs and enjoy a short snorkel trip. After, lunch at the beach.
  • Zipline Ride in Ajloun: When in Ajloun, try a ride with a zipline over the beautiful greenery of the area.
  • Half Day Cycling in Umm Quais: Experience Jordan ’s countryside with a local guide while riding a bike.

 

THINGS TO DO IN JORDAN

 

Jordan is one of the most iconic ancient cities in the Middle East. Planning for a vacation, deciding on a destination, and searching for places to visit can be very overwhelming. If you’re looking for a place to do an activity here are some guides:
  • Amman City Day Tour: One of the most important reasons to visit Amman is the different perspective it can give you on the country's culture, demographics, and history. It is a city with a rich history and culture that dates back thousands of years. Amman is usually treated as a stop on the way to Petra or Wadi Rum. In our opinion, the capital of Jordan is worth visiting. The city offers a good blend of ancient history and modernity. Amman. The capital of the country is also a real beauty of Jordan. You will never be short of things to see and do here.
  • Petra by Night: On Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays Petra By Night takes place. From 20:30 on the Siq and the Treasury in Petra Archaeological Park are lit by candles.
  • Petra Kitchen Cookery Course: At Petra Kitchen do a cookery course with other guests. Prepare a Jordanian dish including mezze, salads and a main course, working alongside local women and an experienced chef.
  • Beit Sitti Cookery Course Amman: Go for a cookery course and prepare with other guest’s Jordanian dishes including mezze and a main course.
  • Bread Making Experience Little Petra: A Bedouin woman will show you how to prepare and bake the flat Arabic bread called Shrak.
  • Homemade dinner with a Jordanian Family in Petra: Food and hospitality plays a large role in Jordan ’s society. Why not enjoy a home cooked meal with a family?
  • Wine Tasting in Amman: Do you know Jordan produces local wine? Visit a winery in Amman and taste 3 wines of your choice.
  • Brewery Visit in Fuhais: Visit Jordan ’s first brewery including a 30 minutes factory tour and 3 beer tastings.
  • Sea Glass Jewellery Making in Aqaba: Work with local artisan to create a beautiful piece of jewellery out of sea glass from Aqaba ’s Red Sea beach.
  • Sweet Making Experience in Aqaba: Learn how to make Hooh, the traditional sweet of Aqaba., consisting of dough, nuts, honey, cream and molasses.
  • Visit a Beekeeper: Visit in Jordan ’s north a beekeeper. Wear a protective outfit and learn about honey production.
  • Farm Visit: Tour a local farm, learn about daily tasks, taste fresh product and empower the local community.

 

ATTRACTIONS IN JORDAN

 

Jordan is a glorious ancient architecture, desert adventures, deep sea diving, local homestays, delicious Jordanian cooking, spectacular holy sites, the Red Sea and the Dead Sea are just some of the reasons to visit Jordan. You'll find endless adventure possibilities, ancient history and culture, nature reserves, community-based immersive experiences. Has quite an advanced health care system. The country was ranked to by the World Bank to be the number one health care services provider in the region and among the top five in the world. Jordan can be regarded as a typically Arab country, for its people are very warm, friendly and hospitable. Jordanians are typically happy to forgive foreigners who break the rules of etiquette.

 

Amman

  • Roman Theater 
  • Amman Citadel
  • King Abdullah I Mosque
  • The Royal Automobile Museum
  • The Jordan Museum
  • Roman Temple of Hercules
  • Grand Husseini Mosque
  • The Royal Tank Museum
  • Rainbow Street
  • Jordan Archaeological Museum
  • Darat al Funun-The Khalid Shoman Foundation
  • Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts
  • Amman Panorama Art Gallery
  • The Duke's Diwan
  • Cave Of The Seven Sleepers (Ashabul Kahf)

 

Dead Sea

  • Ma'in Hot Springs
  • The Baptismal Site of Jesus Christ
  • Kerak Castle
  • Dead Sea Beach
  • Kalia Beach
  • O Beach
  • Ein Gedi Beach
  • Mineral Beach

 

Petra

  • The Treasury
  • Al-Siq
  • The Monastery
  • Royal Tombs
  • Great Temple
  • Byzantine Church - Petra
  • Triclinium
  • High Place of Sacrifice
  • Obelisk Tomb & Bab as-Siq Triclinium.
  • Street of Facades
  • Colonnaded Street
  • Qasr al-Bint
  • Urn Tomb
  • Palace Tomb
  • Petra Museum

 

Wadi Rum

  • Wadi Rum Protected Area
  • Lawrence’s Spring
  • The Nabatean Temple
  • Wadi rum desert experience

 

The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature

  • Ajloun Forest Reserve 
  • Azraq Wetland Reserve 
  • Dana Biosphere Reserve 
  • Rift Vally Mountain Trek (RVMT)  
  • Mujib Biosphere Reserve  
  • Shaumari Wildlife Reserve 
  • Yarmouk Forest Reserve 
  • Burqu Nature Reserve

 

Aqaba

  • Aqaba Fort
  • Aqaba Marine Reserve
  • Saraya Aqaba Waterpark
  • Marina Village - Ayla
  • Sharif Hussein bin Ali Mosque
  • Berenice Beach Club
  • Ancient Islamic City of Ayla‎
  • South Beach Highway
  • B12 Beach Club
  • Aqaba Bird Observatory
  • Aqaba Museum
  • C-130 Hercules Aircraftwreck
  • Ayla Oasis
  • Red Coral Dive Center - Diving Aqaba