Despite being one of the less recognised countries in the region, Jordan is the second most visited country out all of its neighbours beating Israel by a million visitors. Despite the news of turmoil in the surrounding countries, Jordan is a pocket of relative calm in a maelstrom of a region. Jordan also boasts some incredible landmarks throughout the country such as the ancient city of Petra or the Jerash ruins.

Travelling info

All visitors travelling to Jordan are required to have a valid passport. The vast majority of visitors may obtain a visa on arrival however citizens of several countries around the world must obtain a visa prior to their trip. (List in sources).
Tourists who wish to drive in Jordan must have their national driving permit and an international driving permit. Beware however that the IDP is only a translation of the original driving permit and does not substitute for it.

Travelling hazards

Driving in Jordan may be quite hazardous. Inexperienced drivers should generally avoid driving unless it is necessary. It is typical for drivers in Jordan to not signal turns or lane changes. Drivers can also be aggressive, and cars operate very closely together on the highways. Jordanian roads are particularly treacherous during the rainy season, which runs from December to March. Driving in Amman is also more hazardous in the summer months of June to September when Jordan experiences an influx of visitors from other countries in the region. Highways are more crowded around the Muslim holidays when many Jordanian expatriates return to Jordan for family visits. Poor lighting and road conditions prevail, so extra caution must be exercised at all times, especially when driving at night. The Desert Highway outside Aqaba, a popular tourist destination, is particularly dangerous because it is narrow, winding, steep, and crowded with trucks. If possible, you should try to avoid this area at night. When driving in both urban and rural areas, motorists should be aware of both unmarked speed bumps and livestock, including camels, sheep, and goats. Collisions between livestock and automobiles are common. Landmines are often located within two miles of military installations and borders, including the popular Dead Sea area. Minefields are usually fenced off and marked with skull and crossbones notices, but the fences and signs may be in poor repair or hard to see. Avoiding these areas is generally a good idea for anyone who wants to live.

Environmental hazards

There are no dangerous predators in Jordan. There are 6 venomous snakes in Jordan out of a total of 37 species. Although the majority is non-venomous, tourists are advised to stay away from any snakes as an untrained eye won’t be able to tell them apart. All of the venomous snakes are vipers. Black widows are present in Jordan. These spiders bite is almost unnoticeable however later symptoms of its venom can be deadly and should be consulted with a doctor as soon as possible. Jordan has a small access to the Gulf of Adaba which is generally safe and free from any dangerous creatures. Jordan is exposed to natural hazards, including earthquakes, droughts and floods however out of all these flash floods are responsible for most deaths.

Health hazards

There is no risk of yellow fever in Jordan. The government of Jordan requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. There are other vaccinations however these are only recommended and not required. These are the routine vaccines aka MMR vaccines, hepatitis A and B, typhoid and rabies vaccines. Although the quality of health care is quite good, the levels of comfort and privacy in hospitals in Jordan are not quite up to Western standards. Infection Control in Jordan is very strong and well monitored by the government. Most tourists prefer private hospitals and clinics over public facilities.
In case of an emergency dial 193.

Crime

Although criminal events are less prevalent in western Amman, crime remains a concern. The most common crimes directed against Americans and other Westerners are petty crimes, to include pickpocketing and bag snatching. Jordanian police warn the public to exercise vigilance when leaving banks and ATMs. Violence at universities continues to be a problem, and many assaults involve weapons. Several disturbances at universities were incited by disagreements stemming from university elections, tribal affiliations, and perceived grievances and injustices. Although there have been several instances of men being involved with various terrorist groups, incidents of terrorist attacks are relatively low comparing to the neighbouring countries. People should beware that Jordan is a Muslim country and most inhabitants are following the religion. Homosexuality is not illegal however the public display of affection, particularly by homosexuals might result in violence carried out by the locals. Jordanians are very welcoming people however if you do not follow unspoken rules such hospitality might end. Alcohol is a controlled substance in Jordan, but fines for public intoxication or drinking outside a bar are far less serious than those for possession, use, or trafficking in harder drugs. If you bring marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or any other drug into the country and you’re found out, the authorities will be very heavy-handed.

Summary

Despite political turmoil in the region, Jordan stands strong as a safe and popular tourist spot in the region. Visiting Jordan gives tourists the opportunity to see one of the 7 wonders of the world and to experience the harmony of two of the world major religions existing together for past millennia. Remember that planning your trip with Travset.com will give you the quickest information about nearest emergency services and will also help you purchase indispensable travel insurance for the trip of your lifetime. Please feel free to comment and share the experiences of your travels with Travset.com.

Sources

(Visa)
http://international.visitjordan.com/generalinformation/entryintojordan.aspx
(Vaccinations)
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/jordan