Travel Guide to Jordan

Jordan, a country that continues to amaze me. From the buzzing souks, to its ancient ruins and wonders, to its mouth-watering cuisine, and its deep blue sea. All mind-blowingly beautiful. Better yet, I was incredibly lucky to visit this time with the awesome wandering duo Kelly and Alex, whose friendship I will forever cherish. Here's my guide to visiting this gorgeous country steeped in history.

Flying to Jordan

Depending on your nationality, a visa may be required to enter Jordan. E-visas can be obtained upon application online, and visas on arrival are also available for certain nationalities. Visa costs start from 40 JOD. If you choose to purchase the Jordan Pass in advance and qualify with a stay for a minimum of 3 nights/4 days, the visa costs are waived.

Prior to travel, all passengers (except Jordanians) must complete a required form for 'Travel to Jordan Declaration Form' online. Upon submission, a QR code will be created. Save the form and print a hard copy as it is required when boarding and at the borders.

Amman

Transport from & to the Airport

Taxi: Available 24/7 at a taxi stand outside arrivals. Prices are fixed by law and vary by drop-off location. The fare is paid in advance at the stand by cash or credit card.

Hotel Transfers: You can arrange private transfer services where you are greeted at the exit gate and escorted to the vehicle.

UBER/Careem: Highly recommended, particularly for the return trip to the airport.

How to Get Around

Walking: Amman is not the most pedestrian-friendly city. In certain areas like Rainbow Street and Weibdeh, it's do-able. However, to get between further districts, you'll need transport.

UBER/Careem: Both highly recommended. Opt for the non-yellow cars.

Where to Stay

St. Regis Amman was a great choice, located in Amman's Abdoun district. Very modern building that oozes elegance with its black and white décor. Rooms are spacious, clean, and offer nice city views. The breakfast buffet was fantastic.

What to See & Do

Amman Citadel Hill: Remains of the Roman Temple of Hercules built during Emperor Marcus Aurelius (AD 161-80). Don't miss the Umayyad Palace and Mosque, the Archaeology Museum, and the remains of a large Roman statue of Hercules.

Roman Theatre

Downtown Amman (El Balad)

Rainbow Street & Jabal Al Weibdeh

Royal Automobile Museum: Houses a number of pretty cool cars and motorcycles from the personal collection of the late King Hussein.

Where to Eat in Amman

Hashem, Abu Jbara, Shawerma Reem, Al Quds for mansaf, Fakhreldin, Shams El Balad, Cooking Class at Beit Sitti, Habibah Sweets for kunafeh.

Mount Nebo & Madaba

Memorial Church of Moses: Mount Nebo is steeped in religious significance and is believed to be the place where Moses saw the sacred promised land.

Greek Orthodox Basilica of St. George: In Madaba, this 19th century basilica houses a treasure - the oldest map of Palestine in existence, discovered in 1884.

Petra

Where to Stay

Petra Guest House or Movenpick Resort Petra. I've stayed in both and would suggest either purely based on location. They're both a stone's throw from the Petra entrance and proximity is key as you'll save time in the morning and when you return from your hike.

Petra by Day

Did you know that Petra means rock in Greek? The rock-cut capital city of the Nabateans was once a major caravan hub for the incenses of Arabia, silks of China, and spices of India. Visitors will follow the trail to the Treasury 'Al Khaznah'. Its name came from the Bedouin belief that the urn carved above the entrance contained hidden treasures of an Egyptian pharaoh.

Petra by Night

Walk towards the Treasury guided by the stars' ancient light. The Petra Night Show runs every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, starting at 20:30 from the Petra Visitor Centre. Tickets must be purchased separately.

Wadi Rum

Where to Stay

Memories Aicha Luxury Camp for 1 night was a lovely experience. I would definitely recommend the panoramic tents (bubble glamping). They offer dinner and breakfast, and a star gazing session at 8pm. The sky is absolutely breathtaking - never seen anything like it.

Aqaba

Where to Stay

Al Manara Aqaba is an excellent option. Relatively newer property with big rooms and gorgeous balcony views of the sea. The breakfast buffet was scrumptious. Highly recommend sitting outside for breakfast and meeting the resident kitties.

What to Do

Snorkeling: Aqaba is at the northern tip of the Red Sea, home to spectacular marine wildlife, as well as sunken tanks and aircrafts.

Marina Village, Ayla: A luxury shopping and dining district with boutique shops featuring handmade local items.

Where to Eat in Aqaba

Hashem, Dayaa Shawarma, 7 Spices Al Shinawi.

Jordan, a country that continues to amaze.