Highlights of Jordan: Why now is the perfect time to travel!

With tourism at a frustrating low and global confusion creating plenty of misunderstanding, this was the perfect time to travel to Jordan.

Jordan has always been considered a peaceful country, with strong international relationships and a tolerant, moderately conservative culture. Tourism has thrived due to its diverse terrain, easy access, warm climate and significant historical and religious sites, the most famous of all of course being Petra.

Its geographical position bordering Israel has inevitably caused almost a whole season of tourism to be depleted, but it’s important to note that the UK, US and most other government’s travel warnings on Jordan have not changed since last October. The whole country is considered safe to visit and Odyssey World has continued to send a steady stream of travellers to the country with constant positive reviews after return.

Odyssey World has had Jordan at its heart since the original company founder Liz spent several years living in Amman. With some changes to our sales team, we wanted to reconnect with our ground suppliers and see what was new in and around the country. What we found was a treat!

             

Mountain Hiking at Dana Biosphere Reserve

At 1600m above sea level, Dana is a mountain retreat offering a respite from the world below. Cooler in summer, cold in winter, the huge protected area has no large resorts or swanky facilities. Lodges are rustic and basic, and due to the remote location, perhaps a little ‘weathered’ in places. But the views are dramatic, trail hiking superb and you’ll be well cared for by your lodge hosts and Beduoin hiking guides. For the more experienced hikers, connect a stay in Dana Guesthouse with the impressive Feynan Eco Lodge, trekking the 14km (mostly downhill) trail between the two villages.

             

Wander the desert at Wadi Rum

The site of many ‘other worldy’ movies, Wadi Rum is a vast desert-scape, offering a bizarre contrast to everyday life. There’s a good selection of separate resorts we can consider, from basic off grid sustainable camps where you’ll feel you’re in the home of all your favourite brothers and uncles, to luxury ‘Martian tent’ bubble resorts with hardryers and hot tubs. Take a Jeep tour to visit dramatic viewpoints, photogenic rock features and the bluest sky. Chat with a camel and their bedouin owner. Marvel under the clearest night blanket of stars. Sit by the fire, enjoy incredible local food and absorb stories from the past. It’ll all feel like a dream!

             

Float in the Dead Sea

At the lowest point on Earth lies a cluster of large 4-5 star multinational resorts around the northern coast of the Dead Sea flooded valley. The healing properties and skin-nourishing minerals of the salty waters are well known and it’s also super fun to bob around for a while and cover yourself in a natural mud mask! In one breath, you can be stunned by the realisation that you’re in the true birthplace of all modern religion, and the next you can be sipping a cocktail and delicious five star cuisine next to a luxurious infinity swimming pool. It’s a little incongruous, but if you like your holiday to have a day or two of comfortable relaxation, this is the place to indulge.

             

Amman City

Jordan is known for being a moderately conservative but progressive country and nowhere is this more evident than Amman. Universities and commercial businesses attract a wealth of educated, diverse and open minded people, creating a modern, casual vibe yet retaining the critical Jordanian traditions of hospitality, family and generosity. Gastronomic foodie tours, wine tastings, modern art exhibits and fine restaurants are scattered below the Roman Citidel and ampitheatre and neighbourhood mosques, showcasing the gradual progress Amman has embraced. New concepts can be tentatively tested here, be it a new craft brewery or a modern art centre. Not everyone indulges but there’s a feeling that colouring outside the lines won’t be too strictly criticised or judged – surely the ideal stage for a progressive and hospitable nation. It’s also safe, clean and relatively quiet….plus extremely hilly!!  Pack layers and good walking shoes, and be ready for anything!

             

Historical Sites

The ancient site of Petra is of course the reason that most people visit Jordan so it’s assumed this will be on your itinerary – and for good reason. It’s truly remarkable in every way. But Jordan is also home to Jerash, Um Qais, Mt Nebo, Madaba, Kerak Castle……all carefully preserved and protected for you to enjoy. Knowledgeable guides will weave biblical references and historical facts to tell the stories of ancient times. Whatever your religious belief or level of interest, these sites are unmissable and our itineraries are totally flexible to allow you to choose the time you want to dedicate to each.

In summary, travel to Jordan with a full heart and open mind and if there’s any parting advice I can give is – just stay one more day than you originally planned.  It doesn’t matter where you choose – desert, city, Petra, mountain or Dead Sea, but allow yourself an extra day to relax, reflect and absorb a few more moments in this beautiful and generous country.

You can contact us via email (enquiries@odyssey-world.co.uk) or call us directly (+44 117 313 7070) to get in touch!