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Travel Information

DMC & MICE - Jordan

Your partner in orient

JORDAN ORIENTATION

Jordan is located in the heart of the Middle East, Northwest of Saudi Arabia, South of Syria, Southwest of Iraq, and East of Israel and the Palestenian National Authority. Jordan has access to the Red Sea via the port city of Aqaba, located at the northern end of the Gulf of Aqaba
Jordan has a combination of Mediterranean and arid desert climates, with Mediterranean prevailing in the North and West of the country, while the majority of the country is desert. Generally, the country has warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, with annual average temperatures ranging from 12 to 25 C (54 to 77 F) and summertime highs reaching the 40 C (105-115 F) in the desert regions. Rainfall averages vary from 50 mm (1.97 inches) annually in the desert to 800 mm (31.5 inches) in the northern hills, some of which falls as snow in some years.
JORDAN TIME ZONE

clockWhen in Jordan, remember to adjust your watch to the local time. The country is two hours ahead of GMT during the winter and three hours ahead during the summer months. This simple step ensures that you stay in sync with the local time as you travel within Jordan.

LANGUAGE

languageArabic stands as the official language of Jordan. However, English holds significant prominence, particularly within urban areas. Jordanians, often having traveled extensively and received education abroad, possess strong English proficiency. Additionally, while to a lesser degree, languages such as French, German, Italian, and Spanish are also spoken

ELECTRICAL INFORMATION
ELECTRICAL INFORMATIONIn Jordan, the electrical system operates on 220 AC volts with a frequency of 50 cycles. To connect your devices, you'll need rounded two-prong wall plugs. If you're coming from the US, remember to bring a transformer for your electronics as the voltage differs. Fortunately, most hotels in Jordan offer transformers for your convenience.
TIPPING ETIQUETTE

TIPPING ETIQUETTEAs you traverse Jordan, you'll quickly recognize that tipping is a customary practice, intricately woven into the culture. It's important to note that tipping isn't obligatory; rather, it's a gesture meant to reflect the quality of service received. While those in the tourism industry do receive decent fixed salaries, tips serve as supplementary income. In certain situations, a service charge of 10% might be included in hotel and restaurant bills.  Remember, tipping is a tangible way to show appreciation for exceptional service.

CURRENCY DETAILS

CURRENCY In Jordan, the official currency is the Jordanian Dinar, often abbreviated as "JD." It's subdivided into one hundred piasters or one thousand fils. The dinar maintains a fixed exchange rate with the US dollar. Presently, the exchange rate stands at JD 71 for every 100 US dollars. While the US dollar is commonly accepted, it's recommended to have Jordanian dinars on hand for your travels within the country. This ensures smoother transactions and a seamless experience during your journey throughout Jordan.

CREDIT CARDS AND TRAVELER'S CHEQUES

credid cardDuring your travels in Jordan, you'll find that Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, with American Express also being accepted but to a somewhat lesser extent, primarily in most shops. As for traveler's cheques, they can be converted into cash at exchange shops. However, it's important to note that a commission of up to 5% might apply for this service.

JORDAN'S CLIMATE INSIGHT

When preparing for your trip to Jordan, it's wise to consider the upcoming climate conditions so you can pack accordingly. Jordan experiences dry, hot summers with pleasantly cool evenings. Notably, the Jordan Valley, situated 400 meters below sea level, maintains warmth during winter and becomes intensely hot in the summer months. Aqaba, in contrast, boasts a drier and hotter climate compared to the rest of the country, with temperatures averaging about 10 degrees Celsius higher than those in Amman. Rain typically falls between November and April, primarily in the central and northern mountain ranges. The coldest weather conditions occur in December and January.

VISA REQUIREMENTS

Queen Alia International Airport
For anyone considering a journey to Jordan, it's essential to note that all foreign nationals must acquire tourist visas. The convenience of obtaining a visa extends to Amman's Queen Alia International Airport and numerous land and sea borders, with the exception of Allenby Bridge, catering to most nationalities. Visitors planning to stay in Jordan for a minimum of two nights can enjoy the added benefit of visa arrangements at no cost. To avail this, all that's needed is the submission of comprehensive passport details before your arrival.

DEPARTURE FEES & TAX

Upon leaving Jordan, a departure fee of JD 10 per person (approximately US$ 15) is required at all borders. This fee is already incorporated into your flight ticket if you're departing by air; however, it's necessary to settle the fee separately when departing through land borders. If your departure involves a land border crossing, it's recommended to have a JD 10 bill on hand at the conclusion of your tour to cover the departure fee.
Queen Alia International Airport

CLOTHING SUGGESTIONS, PHOTOGRAPHY & HEALTH TIPS

Queen Alia International Airport

When embarking on a journey to Jordan, lightweight cottons and linens are recommended for the period between May and September to combat the summer heat. Conversely, warmer clothing is essential for the winter season and for cooler evenings in the summer. From November to April, rainwear might come in handy. Notably, Jordan is primarily a Muslim country, albeit relatively moderate in its conservatism.
It's important to exercise cultural sensitivity in attire choices. While revealing clothing is acceptable in tourist towns, conservative clothing is advisable, particularly in downtown Amman and rural areas. Carrying a sweater or shawl is prudent for cooler summer evenings.
Equally important are comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, and sunscreen.
Visitors to Jordan need not worry about vaccinations. Throughout your stay, it's recommended to consume bottled water, although using tap water for showering and brushing teeth is generally safe.
When capturing images of locals on your journey through Jordan, it's courteous to seek their permission beforehand. Your guide can be of assistance in navigating this. However, exercise caution and refrain from photographing military installations or airports. To safeguard your camera, it's recommended to carry it in a dust-proof bag, ensuring it remains in optimal condition throughout your travels.

SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

Queen Alia International Airport

For avid shoppers, a journey to Jordan is a delight realized, as it unfolds into a haven of retail treasures. This shoppers' haven presents an array of exquisite offerings, ranging from hand-blown glassware and intricate inlaid boxes to shimmering silver, gold jewelry, and ornate brass and copper items. Carpets, antiques, leather attire, aromatic spices, alluring perfumes, alabaster creations, embroidered covers, wall adornments, and captivating furniture are among the plethora of items waiting to be discovered.

While this shopping paradise is a treat, it's important to observe regulations. The export of ancient artifacts is prohibited, and caution is advised when contemplating the purchase of "genuine antiques," as these sometimes prove to be masterful forgeries. A treasure trove of options awaits, ensuring a remarkable shopping experience in Jordan.