Jordan – Information

What the Tour Includes

Transfers to and and from your hotels, resorts and the airport. Meals on a half board basis (dinner, bed and breakfast) and the services of our agents, guides and drivers in Jordan.

What is NOT included

Airfares and local airport departure tax (curently JD10 payable in local currency) are not included in the tour price. On our price page, we give an indication of average total air fare prices, including all taxes. Airfares will depend on how full flights are at the time you wish to travel. Gratuities to hotel staff, guides and drivers. Most larger hotels and restaurants will add 10% to the bill. Smaller establishments expect you to do this. Taxi fares are usually “rounded up” rather than add a tip as such. Our representative will be happy to advise you what  is currently normal. Other optional items as mentioned in the Itineraries.

Security:

Because of the situation of global and regional insecurity at present, travelers should exercise extreme caution. There are ongoing terrorist threats to Western interests particularly in border areas. If you intend to travel you should be aware that tourists should be sensitive and behave courteously and respect local customs. Jordan has been safe to travel in in the past. However you should check with the FCO before travel as the regional security situation can change very rapidly. The military keep a low profile and you are unlikely to experience anything but friendliness and hospitality. It is very important that Muslim beliefs and local customs are respected. Beach wear should be confined to the beach / pool. Society in general is less patriarchal than in other Middle Eastern countries. However women should still dress and act modestly

Customs:

The consumption of alcohol is strictly forbidden in the streets. It is advisable to respect local Muslim conservatism regarding dress and women in particular will be better respected if their legs and shoulders are covered in public places. It is advisable to ask permission before photographing people. Bargaining is expected with merchants especially in the markets. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. Homosexuality is illegal.

Electricity/ Mobiles:

Electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are the most common. Most major mobile networks work – but not in the outlying areas (obviously)

Weather:

July and August are the hottest and driest months of the year, especially in Amman and the Jordan Valley, and in the desert areas, with temperatures over 97°F (36°C). Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times to visit with clear, sunny days and moderate temperatures. The winter months from November to April can be very cold, particularly in Amman, with snow, rain and wind, but there is little rainfall in the desert regions and in Aqaba, which makes a pleasant wintertime resort. About 75 percent of the country can be described as having a desert climate with very little annual rainfall.

Money:

The official currency is the Dinar (JD), which is divided into 100 piastres or 1,000 fils. Foreign currency and travellers cheques can be changed at any bank or moneychanger, although the latter will usually give a better rate of exchange. Banks are closed on Fridays. Better hotels will also exchange money. American Express, Visa are best but MasterCard and Diners Club are not as good though can usually be used at major hotels, restaurants and tourist shops; cash can be withdrawn from inside banks. US Dollars are very popular.

Health:

Inoculations are not required unless travelling from an area infected with yellow fever or cholera, in which case a certificate will be requested on arrival. Although not necessary, it is recommended that vaccinations for typhoid, polio and tetanus be had before travel to Jordan. It is advisable to drink bottled water, which is cheap and widely available, although better hotels have their own water filtering systems. Medical services are good throughout the country with clinics, hospitals and medical centres in every city or village, and many doctors in the larger towns or cities speak English. Most hospitals are privately owned. Travellers should carry their own prescription medicines and medical insurance is recommended.