Jordan: Home 🇯🇴
Ahlan wa Sahlan
While I wasn't born in Jordan, it was where I grew up. We immigrated to Jordan in 1990 and I left for the US in 2012.
For the majority of my life, I didn't realize how blessed I was to live in such a great country. From mountains to valleys. From desert to forests. From cities to seas. From north to south. From west to east.
Every inch of Jordan is full of culture, tradition, hospitality, and beauty.
Come with me to explore more starting with:
Amman
This is where I lived, where I had friends, where I went to school, and where I went to work. This is very personal to me so I hope you enjoy these locations as much as I do.
1st I'll start on where to stay. The Sheraton Amman has a special space in my heart because it was my very first big girl job so my loyalty will always be to them.
Hope into a cab and head to rainbow street for its many cafes, street food, street performers, rooftop bars, and live music!Â
Your breakfast spot in the morning has to be in old downtown Amman. A little gem called, Hashem. I still crave that smell on Saturday mornings! The service is impeccable and the food is fantastic. You will not be dissappointed.
No visit to Hashem is complete with a little something sweet after. Head over to Habiba- a popular spot for Knafeh- a Palestinian dessert from Nablus (where my family is from).
Now that you've had the delicious food, it's time to walk it off. Head over to the roman amphitheater
Dont forget the downtown market- Meet vendors and listen to the authentic voices of the people.Â
Make your way to the 2nd circle for the best Shawerma you have ever had from Shawerma Reem. Advice: order 3 or 4 of them because they're small and delish!
If it's raining or if need to get out of the cold or the heat (depending on when you decide to go), make sure to go visit one of the best auto museums (in my opinion), The Royal Automobile Musuem.
Right next to the Royal Museum, is one of my favorite public parks! It has a beautiful mosque and a gorgeous panoramic views
One of the more modern landmarks in Amman is Abdoun Bridge- it's particularity beautiful to see at night.Â
Jerash
No trip to Jordan is complete without visiting Jerash. Book a tour bus In advance to Explore the enchanting ancient ruins of Jerash, located north of Amman, where the echoes of Roman civilization come to life. Wander through cobblestone streets, towering columns, and intricate arches that paint a vivid picture of a bygone era. From Hadrian's Arch to the Oval Plaza, South Theater, and North Theater, every step immerses you in the grandeur of Roman Decapolis cities. Marvel at mosaics, temples, and baths that offer glimpses into the past, all set against the stunning backdrop of surrounding hills. Jerash is an archaeological treasure trove that transports you through time, providing a captivating journey into history and culture within the heart of Jordan.
The Dead Sea
Nestled at the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea is a natural marvel that beckons with its unique beauty and exceptional therapeutic properties. Its high salt concentration and mineral-rich waters create a buoyancy that allows you to effortlessly float on its surface, offering a surreal and serene experience. As you soak in its rejuvenating mud and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, you'll find yourself enchanted by the mystique and healing allure of this iconic body of water.
Stay at my favorite resort- The KempinskiÂ
And if you're in the mood for some hot springs, venture down to Ma'in hot springs. Tucked away in Jordan's stunning landscapes, Ma'in Hot Springs is a haven of tranquility and rejuvenation. Its warm, mineral-rich waters cascade over terraced pools, creating a soothing oasis amidst the rugged terrain. As you soak in these therapeutic waters, you'll feel your worries melt away and your body unwind. The harmonious blend of nature's beauty and the springs' healing properties make Ma'in a cherished destination for those seeking both relaxation and a revitalizing escape.
While there are many cities to explore in Jordan, we are well known for one the most iconic wonders of the world, Petra!Â
Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Jordan, stands as a testament to ancient architectural marvels. Nestled within the rugged mountains, this "Rose-Red City" reveals itself through a narrow gorge known as the Siq, culminating in the iconic Treasury carved into the rock face. As you explore the intricately designed tombs, temples, and amphitheaters, you'll feel transported to a lost world of Nabatean civilization. The rich history, dramatic setting, and awe-inspiring craftsmanship make Petra a must-visit destination that continues to capture the imagination of travelers from around the globe.Â
You will definitely need to reserve in advance so make sure to check out Petra Daily Tours for assistance.Â
FYI, you will need at least two days to explore thins wonderful wonder.
Oh, you dont know where you want to stay near Petra? How about MARS!!! I'm kidding, well, not really. The famous movie "The Martian" was actually shot in Wadi Rum. A Mars-esq desert that take you to another planet!Â
You have to make sure you check in advance on where to stay as there are multiple locations to choose from!Â
You can always embrace the Mars theme and enjoy a glamping in one of the many bubble tent camps such as Aicha Luxury Camp
While you're staying at any of these camps, enjoy some delish Zarb. A mouthwatering Bedouin dish, Zarb is a feast cooked underground, infusing flavors into tender meats and vegetables.
While in Wadi Rum- Book a sunset tour! I cannot stress this enough! It's worth every penny. They'll take you out to the middle of the desert just in time for the sun to beam through the valley and make it out of the world! You'll look up and see the sky split in half between darkness and light. It is unbelievable.Â
Each camp is different however, they all have some sort of night entertainment included with your stay!Â
The trip south is not over yet: TO AQABA
Jordan's coastal gem, Aqaba is a vibrant city on the Red Sea, offering stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and a gateway to underwater adventures. So take some scuba diving or rent a boat out to sea. Do what you can to enjoy this beautiful city- and oh it's worth mentioning that Aqaba is tax free!!Â
Make sure to stay at The Kimpinski hotel & resort!Â
Final notes:
Feel free to make this itinerary your own and tailor it to your preferences! If you feel like switching things around or want to allocate more time to explore additional attractions, go ahead and create the perfect plan for your trip in Jordan.Â
There's a lot to explore in Jordan, but if you're tight on time, this guide will be enough to get you started
Buy a sim-card! This will save you a lot on calling/internet browsing. Zain is a very popular and reliable network to choose!Â
Transportation in Amman is readily available (taxi/Uber), however, getting out to any of the other places i mentioned will need a booking in advance. Tours to Jerash, Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba run frequently. I suggest choosing one company to book all your travel/transportation.Â
Even as a Jordanian resident, I trusted two companies to book my travels through:Â
In summary, though Jordan may be a small country, it stands as a beacon of captivating beauty and cultural richness. From the ancient wonders of Petra to the healing embrace of the Dead Sea, the adventurous landscapes of Wadi Mujib, and the tranquil allure of Ma'in Hot Springs, Jordan offers a diverse tapestry of experiences that will leave an indelible mark on any traveler's heart. Whether you seek history, nature, relaxation, or adventure, Jordan's undeniable charm as a beautiful destination beckons you to explore its treasures and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ma Alf Salama- Enjoy your Trip to Jordan!
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