Jordan

For many people, Jordan begins and ends with the ancient city of Petra. Whilst there is little doubt Petra is one of the most un-missable sights in the Middle East, there is much more to Jordan. Visitors can explore splendid desert castles, gaze in awe at the haunting wilderness of Wadi Rum, or bathe in the restful waters of the Red Sea. For adventure lovers, there’s horse riding, 4×4 safaris, rock climbing and hiking. For taking it easy, nothing on earth compares to the Red Sea and its many spa facilities.

Location

Jordan is located in the Middle East. There is a small area of coastline to the south in the Gulf of Aqaba. To the western border lies Israel and the West Bank, to the north is Syria, to the west is Iraq and finally to the south is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Jordan is less than half the size of the United Kingdom and has a population of around 6 million which is 95% muslim.

Resorts

Although Petra is a popular tourist destination, the seaside resort of Aqaba is attracting more people in search of a beach holiday. Jordan’s Rift Valley offers dramatic and beautiful landscapes dropping to around 400m below sea level to the Dead Sea. The soothing waters of the Dead Sea (10 times saltier than sea water) are rich in minerals and the area has evolved into a major hub of health and wellness tourism. Finally, the capital, Amman is a modern city with an ancient past making it an ideal place to add to your itinerary of a multi-destination holiday.

Currency

The currency of Jordan is the dinar and is made up of 1,000 fils. Coins are 10, 25, 50, 100 and 500 fils as well as 1 dinar. Notes are 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 dinar. As well as dinars, US dollars, Sterling and Euros are also widely accepted. Cash machines are readily available except in smaller towns. Credit cards are accepted but check the commission rates being charged.

Visas

British and European passport holders must hold a full 10 year passport with 6 months validity from your scheduled return date. It is strongly recommended that you contact the Jordanian embassy in your country prior to making your booking. It is important that you full understand the visa entry requirements before you travel as it is the visitors obligation to ensure they have the correct documentation in place in order to entry Jordan.

Power

Jordan uses 220v 50Hz but has several types of plugs; European 2 round pins, UK and combination sockets that take both European and US flat pins (still 220v).