Jordan

If you want a taste of the Middle East, Jordan is a nice alternative. You will be immersed in Arab culture as it is close to bazaars, crystal clear waters and long beaches for lazy days in the sun. Here you can find fantastic remnants from several eras and the city’s bustling street life is a wonderful mix of the antique and modern.

The area where Jordan is today is the cradle of one of the world’s oldest cultures. The Jordan River was the centre of the world during the biblical times and in many places in Jordan you can easily imagine how it used to be.

The state of Jordan itself is quite young. It wasn’t until 1946, when the Ottoman Empire collapsed, that it became a state. Jordan is today a constitutional monarchy based on a constitution from 1952, where the king and his council have the executive power.

The landscapre is mostly dry desert plateaus in the east, with a highland area in the west. The climate in Jordan is dry and hot, due to these large desert areas. However, in the western part of the country, between November and April when it is the rainy season, you get a greater amount of rainfall.

Arabic is the official language, but a lot of people also understand and speak English.

Amman, with nearly two million residents, became the country’s capital in 1921. This is an exciting city where you can enjoy good food and take a stroll in bazaars.

When you travel to Jordan you get a lot of holiday for the money spent. Generally speaking, it is more expensive to eat at the hotels than at the local restaurants. The price level is pretty low and in these places you can bargain for great prices.

In Jordan, there is a saying that says “even if you are full, you can still eat 40 more bites”. Take the opportunity to explore all the new flavours that will definitely tempt your taste buds.

This country was one of the Middle East’s best kept secrets for a long time – several conquerors and different people have come and gone. Here you will find golden treasures like dramatic nature, historical sites and overwhelming buildings.

Welcome to Jordan, the small country with the big heart.

Good to know:

Tap water

You should not drink the tap water, buy bottled water instead.

Electricity

Jordan, like Sweden, has 220 volts. But there may be different outlets, therefore we recommend that you bring an adapter.

Hygiene

Hotels and larger restaurants have modern/western standards. Out on the town and in the countryside you can expect so-called pedal toilets, and that there may be no toilet paper. The standard of public toilets in the countryside can therefore be relatively primitive. Bring your own toilet paper, wipes and hand desinfection.

Prices

A two-course dinner excluding drinks costs about 14 euro per person.

Passport and visa

A visa is required for entry into Jordan. Swedish citizens can apply for a visa directly at the airport at a cost of 40 Jordanian dinars. Make sure your passport is valid at least six months after your planned return journey. If you are not a Swedish citizen, it may be necessary for some nationalities to contact Jordan’s embassy before departure and apply for a visa. Not all nationalities can receive a tourist visa upon arrival.

Customs and traditions

In Jordan, they have a pretty relaxed view on dresscode. In mosques and in other holy places you should show respect, even by chosing the correct clothes for the occasin. We recommend that your clothes cover knees and shoulders.

During Ramadan, the local commerse is a bit quieter – many businesses are closed and you can experience services that might not be as quick as usual. During Ramadan it is extremely unusual that alcohol will be served before sunset. On some destinations and hotels alcohol is not served at all, while others serve alcohol only in a specific place or it can only be allowed in the room. During Ramadan there is usually no entertainment.

Telephone and internet

Jordan’s international country code is + 962. Calling home is expensive, so please contact your mobile operator before departure. However, most major hotels in Jordan offer internet service for a fee.

Currency

Jordan’s currency is Jordanian Dinar (JOD). It can be difficult to make an exchange from home, so we recommend that you include USD or EUR as currency. VISA, Mastercard and American Express are usually accepted and can be used in most major hotels and in some stores. ATMs are available in most major cities.