Jordan Petra
Red Sea
For many visitors Jordan is synonymous with the Rose-Red City of Petra, one of the New seven Wonders. This ancient city is a wonder of architecture and colours, you can easily spend days discovering the monuments spread out in the desert and hills.
At a glance
Jordan has much more to offer; from the lunar landscape of Wadi Rum, to the beach resort of Aqaba on the Red Sea and the Roman city of Jerash to the crusader castle of Kerak. At about 0.4 kilometres below sea level and at the lowest point in the world, lies the Dead Sea, world renowned for its salty waters where it is impossible to sink. The Dead Sea water and mud are famous for their therapeutic benefits. Spending a few days giving your skin a boost is a treat you should not miss.
Time zone: GMT + 2 hours
Capital city: Amman Emirates gateway: Amman Queen Alia International Airport Distance from airport to city centre: 39 kilometres
Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD); USD 1 = JOD 0.80 Languages: The official language is Arabic, English is widely spoken. When to visit: Any time of year, all but 10 percent of Jordan is desert, meaning the country has long, dry, hot summers with chilly nights and cold, crisp winters. The Amman area has wet and cold winters. Events: • Dead Sea Ultra Marathon (April) • Jordan Rally (May) • Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts (June)
Did you know? Syria
The main areas of Amman are connected through a series of eight ‘circles’ or roundabouts. The first circle is located in the old city and from there the city spreads westward towards the eighth and last circle in the newest part of the city. Areas of the city are referred to by these circles.
Jerash
Amman DEAD SEA
Jordan’s national dish Mansaf consists of lamb chunks cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yoghurt and served with rice. Mansaf is traditionally served in large round trays, sprinkled with toasted almonds or pine nuts and with a yogurt sauce on the side.
Saudi Kerak
Arabia
Jordan
Wadi Rum has been the setting of numerous films, the most famous being Lawrence of Arabia and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
Petra
Several kilometres away from Petra, lies Little Petra or Al Beidha, a miniature version of Petra hidden away in the centre of a mountain. It is worth a visit with its well-preserved monuments and unique atmosphere.
Wadi Rum Aqaba GULF OF AQABA
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Wadi Rum