Jordan

Capital City: Amman (Population 2,210,000).

Country Population: 11,285,869 million (2022).

Official language: Arabic.

Local Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD).

Time Zone:  GMT +3 hours.

Calling Code: +962.

President: King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein.

Electricity: type C is the plug which has two round pins, type H has three pins in a triangular shape and type M has three round pins.

The best time to visit Jordan depends on your interests and the activities you plan to do. Generally, the best time to visit Jordan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild and comfortable.

 During these seasons, the temperature is usually between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F) during the day, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and exploring historical sites. The wildflowers and greenery are also in full bloom, which adds to the natural beauty of the country.

Summer (June to August) in Jordan can be hot, with temperatures reaching over 35°C (95°F) in some areas, especially in the desert. However, this is the best time to visit the beach resorts in Aqaba, where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the Red Sea.

Winter (December to February) can be chilly in Jordan, with temperatures dropping below freezing in some areas. However, this is the best time to visit the Dead Sea, where the weather is milder, and you can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters.

Overall, the best time to visit Jordan is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is comfortable, and the natural beauty of the country is at its peak.

Jordanian cuisine is rich and flavorful, with a mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences. Here are some of the most famous and delicious foods in Jordan:

Mansaf: Mansaf is a traditional Jordanian dish that consists of lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce and served with rice and sometimes, bread. It is often served on special occasions, such as weddings or religious holidays. Falafel: Falafel is a popular street food in Jordan made from ground chickpeas or fava beans mixed with spices and deep-fried. It is often served in a pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.

Hummus: Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It is often served as an appetizer with pita bread or vegetables.

Shawarma: Shawarma is a popular fast food in Jordan made from thin slices of marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb) that is roasted on a spit and served in a pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.

Maqluba: Maqluba is a traditional Jordanian rice dish that is made with layers of rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and vegetables, such as eggplant, cauliflower, and potatoes. It is cooked in a pot and then flipped upside down when served, giving it its name, which means "upside down" in Arabic.

Kanafeh: Kanafeh is a sweet pastry that is made with cheese and semolina dough and soaked in syrup. It is often served with pistachios or other nuts.

These are just a few examples of the delicious and famous foods in Jordan. Jordanian cuisine is diverse and full of flavor, and there are many other dishes and snacks to try while visiting the country.

Jordan offers a variety of refreshing drinks to quench your thirst and help you beat the heat. Here are some of the most popular drinks in Jordan:

 Arabic coffee: Arabic coffee is a traditional drink in Jordan and other Middle Eastern countries. It is made from finely ground coffee beans and infused with cardamom and other spices. Arabic coffee is often served with dates or other sweets.

Tea: Tea is also a popular drink in Jordan, especially mint tea. It is made from fresh mint leaves, black tea, and sugar. It is served hot and is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day.

Jallab: Jallab is a refreshing drink made from grape molasses, rose water, and water. It is often served with ice and topped with pine nuts and raisins.

Laban: Laban is a yogurt-based drink that is popular in Jordan and other Middle Eastern countries. It is made from yogurt, water, and salt, and sometimes flavored with mint or cucumber. It is a great way to cool down on a hot day.

Arak: Arak is a strong alcoholic drink that is popular in Jordan and other Middle Eastern countries. It is made from distilled grapes and aniseed, and it is often served with water and ice.

These are just a few examples of the famous drinks in Jordan. Jordanian cuisine offers a wide range of delicious and refreshing beverages to enjoy during your visit to the country.

Jordan has a rich and diverse culture that has been shaped by its history, religion, and geography. Here are some key aspects of Jordanian culture, Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country, and Islam is an integral part of Jordanian culture. However, there are also significant Christian and minority communities in the country. Jordanians are known for their warmth and hospitality towards guests. It's common for visitors to be invited into people's homes for meals and tea. Jordanian cuisine is influenced by the country's history and geography, and it features a mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. Popular dishes include mansaf (a lamb and rice dish), falafel, and hummus. Jordan has a rich artistic tradition, and its music and dance reflect its cultural diversity. Bedouin music, traditional Arabic music, and Western pop music are all popular in Jordan. Jordanians generally dress conservatively, especially in more rural areas. Women often wear the hijab, and men often wear traditional thobes (long robes) and keffiyehs (headscarves). Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Jordan, and the country has a national team that competes internationally. Other popular sports include basketball, tennis, and horse racing. Jordan celebrates several cultural and religious festivals throughout the year, including Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts.

Jordan is a country located in the Middle East, bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south, Iraq to the east, Syria to the north, Israel, and the West Bank to the west. Jordan has a diverse geography, including deserts, mountains, and valleys. Here are some key features of Jordan's environment and geography:

 Desert: The eastern half of Jordan is covered by the Arabian Desert, which is part of the larger Syrian Desert. The desert is characterized by sand dunes, rocky terrain, and dry riverbeds. The Wadi Rum desert in southern Jordan is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.

 Mountains: Jordan is home to several mountain ranges, including the Ajloun Mountains, the Dana Biosphere Reserve, and the Al-Salt Mountains. The highest point in Jordan is Jabal Umm ad Dami, which stands at 1,854 meters (6,083 feet) tall.

 Dead Sea: The Dead Sea, which borders Jordan and Israel, is the lowest point on Earth and one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world. The high salt concentration makes it difficult for fish and other marine life to survive, but the minerals in the water have therapeutic properties that make it a popular tourist destination.

 Jordan River: The Jordan River flows through Jordan, Israel, and the West Bank, and it is an important source of water for the region. The river is also significant for its role in religious history, as it is mentioned in the Bible and is associated with the baptism of Jesus.

 Wadis: Jordan is home to several wadis, or valleys, that offer stunning scenery and opportunities for hiking and exploration. Some of the most famous wadis include Wadi Mujib, Wadi Dana, and Wadi Rum.

 Overall, Jordan's environment and geography offer a unique and diverse landscape for visitors to explore, from the sandy deserts to the rugged mountains and lush valleys.

Jordan has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. Here is a brief overview of the history of Jordan:

Prehistory: Archaeological evidence suggests that humans have inhabited what is now Jordan since prehistoric times. The region was home to several ancient civilizations, including the Nabateans, the Assyrians, and the Persians.

Roman Empire: In the 1st century AD, the Romans conquered Jordan and made it part of their empire. They built several important cities in the region, including Jerash and Amman.

Islamic Empire: In the 7th century AD, Jordan became part of the Islamic Empire after the Muslim conquests. The region became an important center of Islamic culture and learning, and several important religious sites were built, including the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus and the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem.

Ottoman Empire: In the 16th century, the Ottoman Empire conquered Jordan and ruled it for several hundred years. During this time, many of the region's historic landmarks were damaged or destroyed.

 World War I: In 1916, the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire began, and Jordan became part of the Arab Kingdom of Syria. However, after World War I, the region was placed under British control as part of the League of Nations mandate.

Modern Jordan: In 1946, Jordan gained independence from Britain and became a sovereign state. Since then, the country has experienced periods of political instability, including conflicts with neighboring Israel and internal tensions between different ethnic and religious groups. Today, Jordan is a constitutional monarchy with a diverse and multicultural population.

Throughout its history, Jordan has been home to many different cultures and civilizations, each leaving their mark on the region's rich heritage and traditions. The country's historical sites and landmarks offer a glimpse into this fascinating history, making it a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts.

Jordan is home to many historical wonders that offer a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. Here are ten of the top historical wonders in Jordan:

Petra: The ancient city of Petra is one of the most famous landmarks in Jordan, known for its impressive rock-carved architecture and unique pink sandstone cliffs. It was an important center of trade and culture for the Nabataeans, who inhabited the area from the 6th century BC to the 1st century AD.

Jerash: The ancient city of Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world, featuring well-preserved ruins and impressive architectural details such as the Oval Forum and the Temple of Artemis.

Wadi Rum: Wadi Rum is a desert valley famous for its striking rock formations and stunning desert landscapes. It has a rich history dating back thousands of years and is home to many ancient rock art sites and other archaeological wonders.

Amman Citadel: The Amman Citadel is an ancient hilltop fortress in the heart of Jordan's capital city. It features a range of impressive ancient structures, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace.

Umm Qais: The ancient city of Umm Qais was an important cultural and commercial center in the region during the Roman and Byzantine periods. Today, it is home to a range of well-preserved ruins, including a theater, a basilica, and a Nymphaeum.

Madaba: Madaba is a historic city known for its impressive Byzantine-era mosaics, including the famous Madaba Map, which depicts the Holy Land and other biblical locations.

Karak Castle: Karak Castle is a massive fortress built by the Crusaders in the 12th century, and is one of the largest and best-preserved Crusader castles in the world. It features a range of impressive architectural details and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Ajloun Castle: The Ajloun Castle is another impressive Crusader fortress, built in the 12th century to protect against Muslim incursions. It features a range of impressive architectural details, including a large central keep and several towers.

 Shobak Castle: Shobak Castle is another impressive Crusader fortress, built in the 12th century to protect against Muslim attacks. It is perched on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding desert landscape, and features a range of impressive architectural details.

Qasr Amra: Qasr Amra is an impressive Umayyad-era palace, known for its well-preserved frescoes and other artistic details. It is in the heart of the desert and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich cultural history.

These ten historical wonders are just a few examples of the many fascinating cultural landmarks and attractions that Jordan has to offer.

Jordan is known for its unique handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional items that are popular with tourists. Here are some of the most famous shopping items in Jordan:

Mosaics: Jordan is famous for its beautiful mosaics, which are crafted from natural stone and often depict scenes from ancient history or religious texts. You can find a range of mosaic products in Jordan, from small decorative items to large wall hangings and murals.

Bedouin rugs: Bedouin rugs are handcrafted by Jordanian nomads using traditional techniques and natural materials. They often feature bright colors and intricate patterns and are a popular souvenir item for visitors to Jordan.

Dead Sea products: The Dead Sea, which is in Jordan, is known for its healing properties and unique mineral content. As a result, many products made from Dead Sea minerals, such as salt scrubs, mud masks, and lotions, are popular souvenirs for visitors to Jordan.

Pottery: Jordan is home to many skilled potters who create beautiful ceramic pieces using traditional techniques. You can find a range of pottery products in Jordan, including plates, bowls, vases, and decorative tiles.

Arabic calligraphy: Arabic calligraphy is a traditional art form that is popular in Jordan. You can find a range of calligraphy products in Jordan, from decorative wall hangings to personalized jewelry.

Olive oil: Olive trees are a major crop in Jordan, and the country produces high-quality olive oil that is often sold as a souvenir item. You can find a range of olive oil products in Jordan, from plain bottles of oil to flavored varieties and soap.

Spices: Jordanian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. You can find a range of high-quality spices in Jordan, which make a great souvenir for foodies and home cooks.

These are just a few examples of the many unique and traditional shopping items that can be found in Jordan.

Jordan hosts many cultural and religious events throughout the year that showcase its diverse heritage and traditions. Here are some of the most popular events and festivals in Jordan:

 Jerash Festival: The Jerash Festival is an annual cultural event held in the ancient city of Jerash. The festival features performances by local and international musicians, dancers, and actors, and includes traditional Jordanian food and handicrafts.

Amman Summer Festival: The Amman Summer Festival is a month-long event that takes place every July and features a range of cultural activities and performances, including music, dance, theater, and film.

Petra by Night: Petra by Night is a unique event that takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at the ancient city of Petra. Visitors can walk through the Siq (canyon) and experience the illuminated ruins of Petra, while traditional music and storytelling add to the atmosphere.

Jordan Rally: The Jordan Rally is an international motorsport event that takes place in April each year. It is part of the FIA Middle East Rally Championship and attracts top drivers from around the world.

Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha: Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha are two major Islamic holidays celebrated in Jordan. During these festivals, families gather to enjoy traditional food, music, and dance, and give gifts to children.

Christmas in Jordan: Christmas is celebrated by Jordan's Christian community, and many churches hold special services and events throughout December. Visitors can experience the festive atmosphere in cities such as Amman and Bethlehem.

Independence Day: Jordan's Independence Day is celebrated on May 25th each year and marks the country's independence from British colonial rule in 1946. The day is celebrated with parades, speeches, and fireworks displays.

These are just a few examples of the many events and festivals that take place in Jordan throughout the year.