Make your trip to Jordan an unparalleled experience. Consider this A to Z guide to getting the best out of your Jordan journey.

Amman Citadel. Perched on top of one of Amman’s high hills, the Citadel (or Jabal al Qala’a) is one of the biggest Roman settlements and fortresses Jordan managed to restore for visitors who want to wander through the ruins of a bygone Roman era and enjoy a panoramic view of old and new Amman.

Bethany Beyond Jordan. The baptism site of Jesus Christ is one of the most sacred places you ought to visit during your trip to Jordan. You’ll find the excavated site completely dry (during Summer) and cemented but you’ll get to see actual baptism rites (of Israelites) at the Jordan river separating Israel and Jordan territories.

Castle Ajloun. Feel like a real king or queen owning an amazing castle on top of a high mountain.Exploring the interior of the castle will reveal the intelligence of medieval military Arab architecture and  an impressive view of Jordan cities and towns down below.

Dead Sea. Beauty products made from mud and salt of the Dead Sea consistently attract visitors all over the world. However, potash (agricultural fertilizers) and bitumen (mortar for building constructions, adhesives, mummification ingredient, medicine, etc.) are other lesser known essential elements abundantly provided by the Dead Sea. Go for a swim and put mud all over your body to experience the healing wonders of the saltiest lake on earth. Feel your ears as you descend to the Dead sea as it is hailed as the lowest point of the earth (420 m below the sea level).

English. Travelers must know that in Jordan, English is not widely written nor spoken. Be prepared to mime or keep a handy book of Arabic survival phrases at all times. If you can afford an English-speaking tour guide, hire Raed from Petra Nights Tour.

Fauna and Flora. Donkeys, camels, sheep, and horses are a common sight on a quick drive around Jordan. Meanwhile, cedar, eucalyptus trees, pine trees, fig trees, apple trees, pomegranates, and grapes surround the front and back yards of most houses. A true marvel to someone who grew up climbing mango and santol trees and munching guava, kamias and tamarind.

Greek Orthodox Monastery of St. John the Baptist. Stop by this church to get a glimpse of religious fine arts and souvenirs.It is also ideally situated beside the Jordan River marking the boundary between Israel and Jordan.

High Place of Sacrifice. As the name suggests, the High Place of Sacrifice is a mountain summit at Petra offering a spectacular view of the city down below. This open-air altar made by Nabataeans is only accessible after climbing up flights of steps (terrifyingly steep and small) cut into the rock.

Israel – Almost. Tracing the pathways where Moses, Elijah, Jesus and his disciples used to  walk brings an unknown and indescribable sensation. Jordan gives that “almost Promised Land” experience.

Jerash. The ancient city of Gerasa proudly shows ruins of Graeco-Roman urbanism. If you don’t want a tour guide, don’t forget to capture  the highlights of the 3km-walk around Jerash: Hadrian’s Arch, Hippodrome, Colonnad Street, Cathedral, North Theatre, South Theatre, and Jerash Archaeological Museum.

Kazneh or The Treasury  of Petra. After navigating the breathtaking pathway of hemmed cliffs soaring up to 80 meters, Petra dazzles visitors even more with the most beautiful monument – Al Kazneh or the Treasury. No matter how tall you are, you’d feel dwarfed by your face to face encounter with the huge, elaborately carved facade of Al Kazneh. Undoubtedly, Al Kazneh is a product of ancient engineering genius.

Lamb and Labneh. Mansaf is the national food of Jordan. As our guide said, “Jordan is mansaf; Mansaf is Jordan.” Goat milk-soaked tender lamb and rice and a special yoghurt (Labneh) could be your trip’s sweetest treat.

This must be the longest post I’ve ever written. It’s just prudent to cut it and continue later, saving the best for last.

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