Jordan
The Facts
Population: 4.7 million
Capital: Amman
Currency: Jordanian Dinar (1JD = 1,000 fils)
Language(s): Arabic is the primary language but English is widely spoken even in rural areas.
Time Difference: GMT +2 hours
International dialling code: +962
Paperwork: The Kuoni Travel Visa Service (KTVS) can obtain your visa for you at a cost of £36 per person. Full visa details will be sent to you well in advance of your trip by us or your charity. Alternatively, you can apply direct to the Jordanian Embassy in London (telephone 0207 937 3685). You can also obtain the visa upon arrival at the airport for 10JD.
Health: There are no major health hazards in Jordan and the quality of medical care is good. You should take the usual precautions with eating new foods by starting slowly and not over doing it, but even street food is pretty safe. Drink plenty of water to avoid getting dehydrated - stick to the cheap and plentiful bottled water - and apply sunscreen and use a hat and sunglasses. We recommend you check with your GP who will advise you of the up to date requirements.
Money Matters: ATMs are widely available in Amman, Aqaba and other tourist destinations. Visa, Mastercard and Cirrus all work fine. Most hotels accept cards. Outside the cities you need to carry cash.
Cultural Awareness: Whilst it's normal to see people wearing shorts and sleeveless tops in resort towns like Petra, Aqaba and the Dead Sea, Jordan is a Muslim country and it's advisable to dress modestly outside these areas. Alcohol is widely available. Jordanian wine and locally brewed Amstel beer are very good.
