Traveling the World in Search
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Jordan
Overview
From Andrew Harper
Amman offers few monuments of interest, though it does provide an ideal base for touring the Greco-Roman city of Jerash, 45 minutes to the north. Often referred to as the “Pompeii of the Middle East” because of its remarkable state of preser vation, Jerash is a fineexample of a provincial Roman city. Shoppers should visit Amman’s gold market and colorfulsouksladen with handicrafts. A knowledgeable English-speaking driver/guide is vital if you wish to feel secure. Following your stay in Amman, proceed south along the Kings’ Highway through the Holy Land of Moab to Petra. En route, stop at Mount Nebo, which affords breathtaking panoramas of the “Promised Land.”
WHEN TO GO: Jordan is 90 percent desert. Only the northwestern section receives much rain. Avoid a visit at the beginning or end of summer, when violent dust storms occur.
CURRENCY: Dinar (JOD). Fluctuating rate valued at JOD1.00 = US$1.40 as of January 2012.
TRAVEL ADVISORY: The Islamic holy fasting month of Ramadan is strictly observed and should be avoided, as tourist services are noticeably curtailed throughout the country; in 2012, Ramadan begins around July 20.
U.S. EMBASSY: Amman, Tel. 6-590-6000.
DIRECT DIAL CODES: To phone hotels in Jordan, dial 011 (international access) + 962 (Jordan code) + city code and local numbers in listings.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Passport and visa. Visit travel.state.gov, and for travelers’ health information, cdc.gov.
Hotels
All recommended hotels in Jordan
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Four Seasons AmmanStylish 192-room property in a 15-story building in a spectacular hilltop setting overlooking the city. |
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If you have the opportunity to travel to Jordan and you are staying down by the Dead Sea, definitely include a visit to the baptismal site of Jesus Christ. Once located on the Jordan River, which has since naturally diverted, it is something very interesting to see. Do your homework before you go as some guides do not seem to be too familiar with the site, or perhaps do not choose to be. It was fascinating. - http://www.baptismsite.com/
If I had to compare the Movenpick Dead Sea to the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar at the Dead Sea, it would be like comparing cruise lines. The Kempinski Ishtar is Seabourn or Crystal, and the Movenpick Dead Sea is like Royal Caribbean or NCL. The two hotels are next door to each other.
The Movenpick Dead Sea was interesting, but no where near as deluxe (even though it's 5 star) as the Kempinski, although their beachfront arrangement is superior to the Kempinski. I think this would be a fun hotel for families with kids of all ages. The dining venues are mostly in one area set up like a little village square. I just didn't care all that much for how dark the outside halls were that lead into the rooms. Some rooms also showed wear and tear.
Hello....
Any hotel recommendations for a short stay in Petra? And what time of year would you suggest?
Many thanks!
Dear Nellie,
Mr. Harper does not currently officially recommend a hotel at Petra in Jordan, but the Travel Office most frequently uses the Mövenpick, set quite close to the entrance of the city.
Mr. Harper recommends avoiding the beginning or end of summer, because of violent dust storms that can occur. Otherwise, because the area is mostly desert, it generally receives little rain.
If you have any other questions or if you would like assistance with travel arrangements, feel free to contact the Travel Office at (800) 375-4685, (630) 734-4610 or reservations@andrewharper.com.
Best Regards,
The Travel Office