Jordan
Located in the Middle East, Jordan borders Israel to the West and Saudi Arabia to the East.
Jordan
Jordan offers an extraordinary range of climates, temperatures in the Jordan Valley and Gulf of Aqaba experience hot dry summers. Average daytime temperatures in Amman range from 12.6°C in January to 32.5°C in August.
Petra
The spectacular city of Petra, carved from the red stone of the mountains, is truly remarkable. The vast city was built by the ancient Nabataeans and is often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world.
Wadi Rum
This fantastic landscape is believed to be around 4000 years old, the red hued monoliths are a popular tourist attraction.
The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea is one of the most fascinating places on earth, boasting an extraordinary combination of natural geography, history, archaeology and luxurious pampering options that together add up to an unforgettable holiday.
Language
Arabic. English is widely spoken.
Currency
Jordanian Dinar (JD). US Dollars are widely accepted.
Electricity
220 volts AC, 50 cycles. An adaptor, generally 3-pronged, is necessary.
Typical Costs
Jordan is cheaper than Israel but more expensive than Egypt. Still, the Country offers great value for money.
Tipping
It is customary and appreciated to tip guides, drivers and hotel staff.
Shopping
Shops are generally open 9am-6pm during the week, although many shops open later, especially in summer. The official day of rest is Friday, although many shops open, with shorter hours. During Ramadan opening hours may vary.
Banks
Banking hours are 9am-6pm during the week. Banks are usually closed on Fridays and Saturdays.
Local customsg
When visiting holy sites such as mosques, you may be required to observe customs such as covering your head, shoulders and legs. Always ask permission to photograph local people. Please respect such local customs.
Clothing
Most of Jordan is subject to desert conditions, with hot days and cooler nights. Light clothing for the day and warmer wear for the evening is recommended. During the winter, nights can be cold and warmer clothing is recommended. Shoes are not worn on board dive boats, so please take this in consideration when choosing which footwear to pack. Suitable clothing such as walking boots and a windproof jacket is recommended for touring itineraries.
Passports & Visas
A full ten-year passport with at least 6 months validity remaining from the date of return is required for travel to Jordan, for all British, EU and EEA nationals. You are strongly recommended to contact the Jordanian Embassy on 020 7937 3685 prior to making your booking, for up to date information on visa requirements. If you are staying for longer than 2 weeks, you must report to the tourist police during your stay in Jordan.
For further information, visit the official Jordan tourism website at http://uk.visitjordan.com/
General information
Most meals served in hotel main dining rooms are buffet-style. Guests staying on a Half Board basis should note that meals must be taken in the main dining room. Although hotels generally serve pork products, many restaurants do not, in order to avoid offending local Islamic traditions.
For further information, visit the official Jordan tourism website at http://uk.visitjordan.com/
Festivals & holidays
The following festivals and associated holidays for 2010/2011 are celebrated in either or all of the countries featured in this brochure. During these times, resorts may be busier than usual and services may be reduced.
MUSLIM FESTIVALS
Muslim religious festivals may vary by one or two days. For further details, please contact the Egyptian State Tourist Office or the Jordanian Information Bureau.
Ramadan* 01 Aug - 29 Aug 2011
Eid Al Fitr** 30 Aug - 01 Sep 2011
Eid Al Adha* 16 - 19 Nov 2011
Popular amongst the Muslim population of Israel, with large numbers visiting Red Sea resorts to celebrate.
New Year (Hijri Day) 07 Dec 2010
Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday** 15 Feb 2011
*Dates of Ramadan and Eid Al Adha are confirmed only shortly beforehand and vary from year to year by one or two days. During Ramadan, the pace of life during daylight hours is slower and offices and shops keep shorter opening hours between sunrise and sunset. Hotels may limit facilities, and excursions and entertainment can sometimes be affected.
**These festivals are subject to change by one day before or one day after as the moon governs them.
JORDANIAN FESTIVALS
King Hussein Remembrance Day 14 Nov (annual)
King Abdullah’s birthday 30 Jan (annual)
Independence Day 25 May (annual)
Labour Day 1 May (annual)
HM King Abdullah’s accession to the throne 9 Jun (annual)
Army Day 10 Jun (annual)
Restrictions may also apply on Public Holidays. Call Reservations for more information.