Petra: The Enigmatic Rose-Red City. Nestled within the rugged
terrain of southern Jordan, Petra stands as a testament to the
ingenuity of the ancient Nabataeans. Carved meticulously into the
rose-red cliffs over two millennia ago, this archaeological marvel
enchants visitors with its breathtaking architecture and rich history.
From the iconic Treasury to the sprawling Street of Facades, Petra
offers a glimpse into a bygone era of trade, culture, and innovation.
Jerash: Echoes of Ancient Rome. Step back in time amidst the
Corinthian columns and ancient theaters of Jerash, often hailed as
the "Pompeii of the East." Here, the legacy of Roman civilization
flourishes in the heart of modern Jordan. Wander through the well-
preserved ruins, where the past comes alive through intricate
mosaics, towering arches, and the lingering whispers of history.
Dead Sea: Nature's Healing Oasis. Descend to Earth's lowest
point and immerse yourself in the therapeutic embrace of the Dead
Sea. Renowned for its buoyant waters and mineral-rich mud, this
mystical body of water offers a sanctuary for relaxation and
rejuvenation. Surrender to the natural wonders of the Dead Sea as
you float effortlessly, embracing the serenity of this ancient
landscape.
Wadi Rum: A Martian Landscape on Earth. Enter a realm of
otherworldly beauty as you traverse the vast expanses of Wadi
Rum. With its towering sandstone mountains and surreal desert
vistas, this timeless landscape has captivated the hearts of
explorers and filmmakers alike. Lose yourself in the silence of the
desert, where every dune tells a story of ancient civilizations and
enduring wilderness.
Mount Nebo: A Sacred Summit. Ascend to the summit of Mount
Nebo and behold the panoramic vistas that once mesmerized
Moses himself. According to tradition, this sacred peak offers a
glimpse of the Promised Land, stretching out before you in a
breathtaking tapestry of valleys and mountains. Let the majesty of
the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea unfold before your eyes, as
you stand in awe of this hallowed landscape.
Madaba: The Mosaic Masterpiece. Discover the enchanting
allure of Madaba, the "City of Mosaics," where ancient artistry
adorns every corner. At its heart lies the oldest known map of the
Holy Land, intricately crafted in Byzantine mosaic. Wander through
the labyrinthine streets, where history intertwines with myth, and
every step unveils a new marvel of mosaic craftsmanship.
Ajloun Castle: Guardian of the Highlands. Perched atop a
rugged hillside, Ajloun Castle stands as a sentinel of Jordan's
northern frontier. Built by the Ayyubids in the 12th century, this
formidable fortress offers commanding views of the surrounding
countryside. Explore its labyrinthine halls and towering battlements,
where echoes of ancient conflicts resonate through the ages.
Umm Qais: The Ancient Splendor of Gadara. Journey to the
ancient city of Umm Qais, once known as Gadara, where Greco-
Roman ruins overlook the tranquil waters of the Sea of Galilee.
Wander through the well-preserved streets, where history unfolds
amidst the remnants of theaters, temples, and baths. Lose yourself
in the timeless beauty of Umm Qais, where every stone tells a tale
of conquest and civilization.
Desert Castles: Fortresses of a Bygone Era. Embark on a
journey through time as you explore the medieval fortresses and
palaces scattered across eastern Jordan. From Qasr Kharana to
Qasr Amra, these architectural wonders offer a glimpse into the
region's storied past. Marvel at the intricate carvings and
stonework, as you unravel the mysteries of Jordan's desert castles.
Kerak Castle: A Bastion of Crusader Might. Stand in awe of
Kerak Castle, a towering citadel that has stood the test of time
since the 12th century. Perched atop a strategic hilltop, this
imposing fortress played a pivotal role in the battles between
Crusaders and Saladin's forces. Explore its labyrinthine corridors
and formidable ramparts, where echoes of medieval warfare still
linger in the air.
Beach Resorts:
Aqaba, located on the Red Sea coast, offers luxurious beach
resorts and year-round sunshine, making it an ideal destination
for water sports enthusiasts and sun-seekers.
Ski Resorts:
While Jordan doesn't have ski resorts, visitors can enjoy winter
sports in nearby countries like Lebanon and Turkey
Spa Resorts:
The Dead Sea region boasts several world-class spa resorts
offering therapeutic treatments utilizing the mineral-rich
mud and saline waters. Any time of year is suitable
for a rejuvenating spa getaway.
Travel Adventure Locations
Mountain Locations:
Wadi Mujib and Dana Biosphere Reserve offer thrilling hiking and
trekking opportunities amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Seaside Locations:
Aqaba is perfect for diving, snorkeling, and other water
activities, while the Red Sea coast offers breathtaking
coral reefs and marine life.
Cultural Travel Locations:
Petra, Jerash, and Madaba are just a few of the many cultural
gems waiting to be explored, offering insights into Jordan's
rich history and heritage.
Ethnicity and Languages:
Jordan is predominantly Arab, with a small percentage of Bedouin
and Circassian communities. Arabic is the official language,
although English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Foods
Mansaf: Considered the national dish of Jordan, Mansaf is a
traditional Bedouin meal consisting of lamb cooked in fermented
yogurt sauce, served with rice and topped with nuts and parsley.
Kebabs (Shish Taouk and Kofta): Grilled skewered meat, often
chicken (Shish Taouk) or ground meat (Kofta), seasoned with
spices like cumin and served with rice or bread and a variety of
salads.
Maqluba: A one-pot dish featuring layers of rice, vegetables
(usually cauliflower, eggplant, and potatoes), and meat (typically
chicken or lamb), all cooked together and flipped upside down
before serving.
Falafel: Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, herbs,
and spices, usually served in pita bread with tahini sauce,
vegetables, and pickles.
Mouttabal: A smoky eggplant dip made by grilling eggplants,
then mixing the flesh with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Hummus: A creamy dip made from mashed chickpeas blended
with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, often served as an
appetizer with bread.
Warak Enab: Grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced
meat, tomatoes, and spices, then cooked in lemon juice and olive
oil.
Makloubeh: A flavorful dish of rice layered with eggplant,
tomatoes, potatoes, and either chicken, lamb, or beef, all cooked
together and inverted before serving.
Musakhan: Roasted chicken seasoned with sumac and other
spices, served on flatbread with sautéed onions, pine nuts, and
sometimes parsley or yogurt.
Shawarma: Thinly sliced marinated meat (often chicken or lamb)
roasted on a vertical spit, served in a wrap or pita bread with
vegetables, tahini sauce, and pickles.
Drinks
Arabic Coffee (Qahwa): Strong, cardamom-infused coffee
brewed from lightly roasted coffee beans, often served in small
cups with dates as a gesture of hospitality.
Tea with Mint (Shai bil Na'na'): Black tea brewed with fresh mint
leaves and sometimes sugar, enjoyed throughout the day,
especially with breakfast or after meals.
Tamarind Juice (Tamr Hindi): A refreshing drink made from
tamarind pulp, water, and sugar, served cold with ice.
Jallab: A sweet drink made from dates, grape molasses, rose
water, and pine nuts, often garnished with raisins and served
chilled.
Ayran: A yogurt-based beverage mixed with water and salt,
sometimes flavored with mint, popular for its refreshing taste,
especially during hot weather.
Laban Ayran: Salted yogurt drink, similar to ayran, but without
water, sometimes flavored with mint or served plain as a cooling
accompaniment to spicy dishes.
Qamar al-Din: A thick apricot juice, made from dried apricot paste
mixed with water, traditionally consumed during Ramadan to break
the fast.
Carob Juice (Kharoub): A sweet drink made from carob pods,
water, and sugar, known for its rich flavor and health benefits.
Lemon-Mint Cooler (Limonana): A refreshing blend of lemon
juice, mint leaves, sugar, and water, served over ice and perfect for
hot summer days.
Sahlab: A warm, creamy drink made from orchid root powder,
milk, sugar, and sometimes flavored with rose water or cinnamon,
enjoyed during the winter months for its comforting properties.
Average Weekly Budget for Accommodation:
Hostel: $150 - $200 per week
Hotel: $300 - $600 per week
(Depends on season, location and category)
Average Daily Budget for Food:
Street Food: $5 - $10
Restaurant: $40 - $60
(Depends on season, location and category)
Best Season to Visit:
The best time to visit Jordan is during the Spring (March to May)
and Autumn (September to November) when the weather is
mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring outdoor
attractions and historical sites.
Jordanian cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors,
influenced by its rich history and diverse cultural heritage of
Bedouin, Levantine, and Arabian culinary traditions..
Interesting Historical Facts about Jordan
Jordan Cusine and Beverages
Located in the heart of the Middle East, Jordan is a land of
remarkable contrasts. From bustling cities to vast desert expanses,
this small yet captivating country boasts a wealth of natural and
cultural treasures. With a history spanning millennia and a legacy
that includes some of the world's most iconic landmarks, Jordan
offers a truly unforgettable travel experience.
From the ancient wonders of Petra to the vibrant markets of Amman, Jordan invites you
to embark on a journey of discovery and adventure. Whether you're exploring historical
sites, indulging in delectable cuisine, or simply soaking up the sun on the shores of the
Dead Sea, this enchanting country promises an unforgettable travel experience.
Plan your trip to Jordan today and unlock the secrets of this captivating land.
Jordan
Interesting Places to Visit in Jordan
Petra: Nestled in the rugged desert canyons of Jordan, Petra is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient Nabatean
architecture and breathtaking sandstone cliffs. The city's most
iconic structure, the Treasury, carved directly into the rock face, is a
testament to the engineering prowess of its inhabitants. Exploring
Petra's narrow passageways, tombs, and temples reveals a rich
tapestry of history dating back over 2,000 years, offering visitors a
glimpse into the once-thriving trade hub's past glory.
Dead Sea: The Dead Sea, Earth's lowest point on land, is a natural
wonder renowned for its hyper-saline waters and mineral-rich mud.
Floating effortlessly on the sea's surface is a surreal experience
made possible by its incredibly high salt concentration. Apart from
its unique buoyancy, the Dead Sea's therapeutic properties have
attracted visitors for centuries, offering relief for various skin
ailments and providing a rejuvenating spa experience amid the
region's stunning desert backdrop.
Wadi Rum: Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is
a vast desert wilderness characterized by towering sandstone
mountains and sweeping sand dunes. This otherworldly landscape
has served as the backdrop for numerous films, thanks to its
surreal beauty and stark isolation. Visitors to Wadi Rum can
embark on thrilling desert adventures, from camel treks and 4x4
safaris to camping under the star-studded sky, immersing
themselves in the timeless tranquility of the desert.
Jerash: Jerash, often referred to as the "Pompeii of the East," is
home to one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities in the
world. Its expansive ruins, including an impressive oval forum,
temples, and theaters, offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient
Jordanian civilization. Strolling through Jerash's colonnaded
streets, visitors can envision the bustling life of a once-vibrant city,
where chariot races and theatrical performances entertained the
masses.
Amman Citadel: Perched atop a hill overlooking Jordan's capital
city, the Amman Citadel is a historical site brimming with
archaeological treasures spanning millennia. From the remnants of
ancient civilizations like the Roman Temple of Hercules to the
Umayyad Palace complex, the Citadel offers a fascinating journey
through Jordan's rich history. The panoramic views of Amman from
the Citadel's vantage point provide a stunning backdrop for
exploring the layers of civilizations that have left their mark on this
strategic hilltop.
Aqaba: Aqaba, Jordan's only coastal city, is a gateway to the Red
Sea's vibrant underwater world and a haven for sun-seekers. Its
pristine beaches, coral reefs, and clear azure waters make it a
paradise for snorkelers and divers alike. Beyond its aquatic
wonders, Aqaba boasts a rich history, with landmarks like the
Mamluk Fort and Aqaba Archaeological Museum offering insights
into its past as a strategic port city along ancient trade routes.
Dana Biosphere Reserve: The Dana Biosphere Reserve is a
sprawling expanse of rugged mountains, sandstone cliffs, and
diverse ecosystems, preserving Jordan's natural heritage. Home to
a remarkable array of flora and fauna, including endangered
species like the Nubian ibex and Syrian wolf, Dana offers
unparalleled opportunities for eco-tourism and outdoor adventures.
Hiking trails winding through the reserve lead visitors past ancient
archaeological sites, Bedouin villages, and panoramic vistas,
showcasing the region's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Mount Nebo: Mount Nebo, a revered biblical site, offers
panoramic views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea from its
lofty summit. According to tradition, this is where Moses stood to
view the Promised Land before his death, making it a pilgrimage
destination for religious travelers. The site's ancient monastery and
Byzantine mosaics add to its historical significance, inviting visitors
to reflect on the intersection of faith, history, and natural beauty.
Ajloun Forest Reserve: The Ajloun Forest Reserve, nestled in
the rolling hills of northern Jordan, is a green oasis of biodiversity
and natural beauty. Home to dense woodlands of evergreen oak,
pistachio, and carob trees, the reserve provides a sanctuary for
wildlife, including rare species like the Persian squirrel and Syrian
brown bear. Hiking trails meander through the forest, offering
glimpses of historic sites like the Ajloun Castle and panoramic
views of the surrounding countryside, making it a haven for nature
lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Madaba: Madaba, known as the "City of Mosaics," is famous for
its intricate Byzantine and Umayyad mosaic artworks, found in
churches and archaeological sites throughout the city. The
crowning jewel of Madaba is the 6th-century mosaic map of
Jerusalem and the Holy Land, preserved in the Greek Orthodox
Church of St. George. Exploring Madaba's labyrinthine streets
reveals a treasure trove of ancient artistry and craftsmanship,
offering a glimpse into Jordan's rich artistic and cultural heritage.
Brief Travel Information about Jordan
