Jordan Country Information
Since the dawn of time, human beings have been etching
their stories into the landscape of the nation now known
as Jordan. In this relatively small geographical area, one
can find layer upon layer of evidence, tracing the many
stages of human history. From the mines and quarries of
the Neolithic era, through the age of the great classical
civilizations of Rome and Byzantium; from the ruins of desperate
battles of the Crusades down to the still visible scars
of the desert wars of the 20th Century, Jordan is a virtual
treasure chest for the amateur history buff, as well as
an important area of study for professional scholars and
archeologists.
 However,
modern Jordan was founded by King Abdullah I after World
War I. It was ruled by his grandson, The Late King Hussein,
for 46 years until his death in 1999, when his son King
Abdullah II assumed the throne. Jordan has grown into a
modern nation which has enjoyed a remarkable measure of
peace, stability and economic growth in recent decades.
Jordanians like to say that Jordan is a small country with
very big ideas. To live up to those big ideas, both the
government and the private sector are actively encouraging
the reforms and innovations necessary to adapt the population
to meet the needs of the global marketplace. Whether through
committing to internet training and access in every corner
of the Kingdom, or by introducing English into the school
curriculum at the elementary levels, Jordan is making far-sighted
investments in human capital and creating a successful regional
model for sustainable and progressive economic development.
Modernity; active involvement in the international community
of nations; adherence to universal principles of humanity
and tolerance; respect for revered tradition and heritage.
These are the pillars upon which Jordan is building its
future.
Currency
The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar; symbol JD, which
is often called the jaydee. There are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 JD
notes. The dinar is divided onto 100 piasters (pronounced
pee-aster) of 1000 fils (fills).
Currency can be exchanged at major banks, exchange booths
and at most hotels. Exchange rates are set daily by the
Jordanian Central Bank.
Language and Religion
The official language of Jordan is Arabic, but English
is widely spoken especially in the cities. Many Jordanians
have traveled or have been educated abroad so French, German,
Italian and Spanish are also spoken, but to a lesser extent.
The major religion is Islam. Approximately 4% of the population
is Christian. The population is conservative and takes its
religions very seriously.
Weather
Average monthly temperatures range from 46 to 78 degrees
(8-26c) in Amman to between 60 and 91 degrees (16-33c) in
Aqaba, in the south. Summertime often brings hot and dry
winds that blow in from the Arabian Peninsula. Average rainfall
in Amman is about 14 inches.
Shopping
For shoppers Jordan offers a mix of new and old. Parts
of Amman are lined with trendy shops where one can find
the latest fashions. In the older souks one can find a plethora
of traditional items to purchase including sand bottles
and Arab "kefiyas, big cotton headscarves in black
and white or red and white. Jewelry is also popular. But,
wherever you go in Jordan you will find plenty of opportunities
to shop. There is a wide range of locally made handicrafts
and other goods available at all the popular sites as well
as within the boutiques of the leading hotel and at the
various visitor centers. There you will find hand-woven
rugs and cushions, beautifully embroidered items and clothing,
traditional pottery, glassware, silver jewelry embedded
with semi-precious stones, Bedouin knives, coffee pots,
narghiles (hubble bubble), marquetry work, antiques and
other artifacts. The list is endless and about as varied
as you can imagine. Bargaining is encouraged, especially
in the older souks and when purchasing traditional items.
Sightseeing
Jordan features something for everyone. History, archeology,
culture, spas and the outdoors. Some the more notable places
and events are: Petra, Jerash, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, Aqaba,
Dead Sea Marathon, Jerash Festival.
Transportation
There are many international flights to and from Jordan,
to most major cities in the world. The only domestic flights
run between Amman and Aqaba. Major cities are connected
by buses and mini buses. One can travel around Amman by
taxi, bus or service taxi (shared taxi).
Important Links
http://www.visitjordan.com/
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/middle_east/jordan/obt.htm#umm
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