Amman Travel Guide

Amman Travel Information

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are the most common.

Language

Arabic is the official language, but English is understood by most people involved in the tourist industry and by middle to upper class Jordanians.

Tipping

Most of the better hotels and restaurants will add a 10-12% service charge to the bill, but smaller establishments usually expect a tip. It is customary to round up the price of a taxi trip instead of tipping.

Safety Information

The vast majority of tourist visits to Jordan are safe and trouble free. However there remains a moderate risk of terrorist attacks throughout the Middle East including Jordan and foreigners should maintain a degree of vigilance particularly in public places frequented by tourists and at tourist sites. The situation in Iraq has had an impact on local opinion, as well as the violence between the neighbouring Israelis and Palestinians, and foreigners should avoid all public demonstrations and political gatherings. There is a fair degree of anti-American and anti-Western sentiment in the country, and no distinction is made between US government personnel and ordinary citizens. Care should be taken at the borders with Israel and Iraq. Crime is not a serious risk for travellers although on buses and in crowded places visitors could be the target of pickpockets or petty thieves.

Local Customs

The consumption of alcohol is strictly forbidden in the streets. It is advisable to respect local Muslim conservatism regarding dress and women in particular will be better respected if their legs and shoulders are covered in public places. It is advisable to ask permission before photographing people. Bargaining is expected with merchants especially in the markets. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. Homosexuality is illega