Eating out

Being culturally Arab, Jordanian hospitality is exceptional. We may be invited to dinner at a private house and, taking into account how important food is for them, be offered extraordinary dishes. We will start with mezzeh (appetisers) with aromatic bread rolls, honey-covered sweets, pistachios and other delicacies, humus (chickpea and sesame purée spread on trimmed vegetables and bread), baba ghanoush (an aubergine-based dish), tabouleh (a salad consisting of wheat semolina, tomato, onion, parsley and mint) and mansaf (a traditional lamb dish with a yoghurt-based sauce and rice). We will also have the chance to taste kebab, that is, lamb brochettes cooked in different ways. We can also have a snack in a restaurant or at a street stall, where we can try shawarma, a typical pita bread sandwich filled with lamb, chicken or falafel, which are bean- or pea-based balls with parsley and onion.

Petra

Shopping

Opening hours are flexible, but they are usually 09:30-13:30 and 15:30-18:00. During Ramadan, shops close earlier. Some shops open 08:00-20:00 non-stop. Jordan is well-known for the variety of handicrafts in 24-carat gold and silver, which are sold by weight and are cheaper than in Europe and America. Compare prices and remember that in Arab countries haggling is almost obligatory. Enjoy bargaining and buy at the best price... Ceramics, leather products, carpets, glassware, sand bottles with beautiful motifs or cosmetics from the Dead Sea are some of the souvenirs you can take home with you.

Entertainment

Newspaper in English The Jordan Times offers, apart from the news of the day, the cultural, sports and entertainment agenda of Amman and other cities. Galleries: Jordan has developed an important artistic scene, including an increasing number of women among its most popular artists. The Jordanian Artists' Association will help coordinate a gallery and studio tour of your interest.

Smoking

Smoking is something usual in Jordan, even more than in Europe, and it is difficult to find non-smoking areas outside the big hotels.

Wadirum

Drinking alcohol

Alcoholic drinks are served in most restaurants and bars except during the Ramadan (when you can get them only at hotels). There is beer and a wonderful Jordanian wine. Araq is the most popular liquor. Drunk with water and ice, it acquires a special whitish shade.

Visa

Those visitors with a valid passport can get the visa at any of the Jordanian embassies, consulates or delegations, as well as at the Reina Alia International Airport upon arrival in Jordan. Payment must be done in the local currency and money can be changed in the bank just near the visa office in the arrivals area. Visas are valid for two weeks, but they can be extended at any police station.

Vaccines

There is no compulsory vaccine to enter the country, but hepatitis, polio, tetanus and typhoid vaccines are recommended. If possible, avoid eating raw vegetables and fruit.

Leaving the country

Remember to keep DJ 10 for the departure tax to be paid at the airport or border, depending on the means of transport used.

Climate:

Mediterranean