Jordan Travel Tips

The currency in Jordan is called the dinar (JD). It is divided into 1,000 fils, and 10 fils equals 1 piaster. Paper currency notes come in denominations of JD1, 5, 10, 20, as well as 500 fils. There are silver coins for 25, 50, 100 and 250 fils, as well as copper coins for 5 and 10 fils.

All foreign currencies can be easily exchanged in banks and currency exchange offices. Most hotels can also change money for you, albeit at a slightly worse rate. Major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and large shops. ATMs can be found in most of the larger towns and all throughout Amman. Traveller’s cheques are accepted by banks and currency exchange offices, but it’s advised that you get traveller’s cheques in US dollars.

Banks are open from 08:30 to 15:00, but during Ramadan they are only open from 08:30 until 10:00.

There are no restrictions on the amount of money you can import or export in either dinars or other foreign currencies.

Visitors can import up to 200 cigarettes or 25 cigars, as well as one litre of alcohol. Visitors under the age of 18 are not qualified for a duty-free allowance. Edible products from animals, flowers, fruits and vegetables are only permitted with a certificate issued by the Department of Agriculture from the country of origin. To find out what you can take home from Jordan, contact your country’s Customs Service Office.

Jordan uses 200V, 50 Hz; with round two-pin plugs.

Jordan poses few health risks to visitors. Hepatitis B is endemic and hepatitis A is also present, so it’s advised that all travellers get inoculations for these as well as tetanus.

The worst health problem visitors are likely to experience is a case of traveller’s stomach from exposure to new micro organisms in the food. The tap water is not safe to drink in Jordan, so you should stick to bottled water which is readily available all over the country. Avoid dairy products and raw vegetables. The food in most restaurants should be fine, but always check that any meat has been thoroughly cooked. The intense Jordan sun and dry desert environment is another thing to watch. Wear plenty of sunscreen and a hat to avoid getting cooked. Wherever you go, bring plenty of water and keep hydrated.

If you get sick, Jordan’s hospitals and clinics are up to international standards. There are excellent hospitals in the main towns and decent clinics in many villages. Most doctors in Jordan speak English, but the cost of medical care can be expensive. Visitors should make sure they have comprehensive medical insurance before leaving home. Also keep in mind that an HIV test is mandatory for anyone planning to stay longer than 14 days in the country.

Medical Emergency number: 193

As most people are aware, Jordan sits in the midst of one of the world’s most chaotic and violent regions. Most visits to Jordan are trouble-free however; the country remains a major target for terrorism, especially against Westerners. These terrorist attacks can happen at any time in any place. Travellers can look at this situation in two ways: either leave it to fate and don’t worry about it, or spend your visit to Jordan constantly worried about the possibility. Within Jordan itself, there is little animosity towards Westerners. Even so, in September 2006 a shooting in downtown Amman left one British citizen dead and a number of tourists wounded.

Travellers to Jordan should stay aware of the daily political and sectarian situation within the country and its neighbours. Always have an escape plan ready should things break down into chaos and take particular care at the borders with Iraq and Israel. Travellers should always avoid public demonstrations and be generally cautious in public places.

Police: 191

Jordanians are very proud of their Arab heritage and consider hospitality a matter of great importance. Visitors will always be made to feel welcome and the Jordanians will act as perfect hosts. Handshakes are the common form of greeting in Jordan. Islam plays a significant role in Jordanian society, so it’s essential that visitors learn something about the customs and rules of Islam before going to this country. It’s important that you respect the local Islamic traditions. Arabic coffee is normally served during social functions. It will be constantly refilled unless you slightly tilt the cup when handing it back to your host. A small gift is considered polite in return for hospitality. Women should always dress modestly and beachwear must only be worn at the beach or pool. Always ask permission before taking someone’s photograph, as in some areas it is forbidden.

There is a US$10 airport departure tax, but it is usually included in your ticket fare. Most restaurants will add a small service charge to your bill. Otherwise it is considered polite to tip the waiter 10 per cent. Taxi drivers don’t expect to be tipped, but again, a 10 per cent tip will be greatly appreciated.

The country code in Jordan is 962. Card phones are the most common way to call back home, and can be found in most cities and major tourist sites. Calling cards can be bought at many different kinds of shops. There are Internet cafés throughout the country with fast connections.

GMT +2

All foreigners must have a visa to enter Jordan. You can get a visa upon arrival at the border or in the airport, as well as from consulates in your home country. Visas are good for two weeks upon entry, but can easily be extended for up to three months at any local police station. Travel agents can also handle the visa extensions if you prefer. The price of the visa for all nationalities is US$10 for a single entry. Always keep your passport with you when you move about.