introduction: Fact file
Fact file
Location: Jordan is often referred to as being at the centre of the Middle East, bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and east, Syria to the north and Israel to the northeast.
Local time: GMT +3 hours.
Visas: All foreigners need a visa to enter Jordan. It is possible to obtain a visa upon arrival at either Queen Alia International Airport or King Hussein International Airport, at border crossings with neighbouring countries, or from local Jordanian consulates. Visas are valid for two weeks from entry, but can be easily extended up to three months. The cost for all nationalities is JD10 (single entry visa), JD20 for multiple entries and JD5 on departure.
Language: The official language of Jordan is Arabic, but English is widely understood and spoken, especially in the hospitality industry. Guides and facilitators who speak other languages are also available.
Religion: Islam is the official religion while other faiths are also respected.
Currency: The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JD). Currency can be exchanged at major banks and at most hotels. Street moneychangers should be avoided. The Jordanian Central Bank sets exchange rates daily.
Climate: Jordan has a Mediterranean climate providing pleasurable travel all year round. Amman is sunny and cloudless from May to October, with average temperatures around 23C (73F). The weather is mild and pleasant in spring and autumn, but the summer months, especially July and August, can be hot outside the capital. Amman is a little cooler than the rest of the country due to its higher elevation. Evenings are cool.
Clothing: Lightweight summer clothing is ideal for the majority of the year. A sweater, light jacket or shawl may be needed for the cooler evenings. Winter can be quite chilly, especially in Amman and the east, its also advised to bring a raincoat. It is also important to take cultural considerations into account as Jordan is primarily a Muslim country. Conservative dress (long trousers and covered shoulders) is advisable for both men and women.
Business hours: The official weekend is Friday, but many businesses, including banks, are also closed on Thursday afternoons.
Electricity: The electricity system is based on 220 volts AC, 50 cycles, and requires rounded two-prong wall plugs. Visitors from the UK will require an adaptor socket for their three-pin plugs and visitors from the US will need a transformer to step the voltage down to 110 volts AC.
Photography: Tourist photography is permitted but it is considered offensive to photograph Muslim women. It is always courteous to ask permission before taking pictures.
Alcohol: Alcohol is readily available in most bars and restaurants - except during Ramadan, when drinks are only available to visitors in their hotels.
Ramadan: During the Holy Month of Ramadan, Muslims fast, abstaining from eating, drinking and smoking in daylight hours. As a sign of respect, visitors are also required to refrain from these activities in public during the fasting hours. In 2011, Ramadan is expected to begin around July 31st. At the end of 30 days or on sighting of the full moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated and most public and private institutions close for at least three days.
