Interesting Facts about Jordan – Tips

International travel is slowly resuming and I thought I share some interesting facts about Jordan – an Arab country in the Middle East and one of the most populous country in the region. Whenever I think about visiting the Middle East, Jordan isn’t often high on the list because I am often blinded by Dubai and Doha but not this time. Jordan is home to the famous archaeological site of Petra, the country is surrounded by Israel, Saudi and Iraq and home to the ‘Holy Land’.

Jordan is such a compelling country from its ancient archaeological sites to awe-inspiring desert landscapes, there is so much to discover. Each visitor will have their own unique experience of Jordan. If you’d like to discover this country for yourself, but you’re not sure where to start, you’re in the right place. Here are some interesting facts about Jordan and it’s a magical place. 

*Disclosure – this is a collaborative post

Interesting Facts about Jordan

Obviously like many people I am eager to get back to travelling but I am eagerly waiting for the announcement next month on which countries will be tagged green and we won’t need to quarantine upon return. Travelling during COVID has been interesting to say the least and it is so important to say informed about the changes and also make sure you have saved up money for your trip. I personally have two trips planned this year and in my personal budget I allocate a small amount to travel and also set-up sinking funds to ensure I am saving a little every other week towards my upcoming holidays.

Archaeological Sites 

There are thousands of archaeological sights to be discovered in Jordan. Arguably, the most famous is Petra, also known as the ‘Lost City.’ It can be found in a dramatic landscape made up of mountains and canyons. The Jordan Museum displays the oldest statues in the world. The Ain Ghazal Statues date back to 7500 BC. There’s also the oldest dam in the world, Jawa Dam was built in 3,000 BCE. There are so many historical sites it can be overwhelming knowing which ones to go to. Group tours to Jordan allow you to experience some of the best historical wonders of the country. 

Movie Magic 

You may have read through those archaeological sites and thought to yourself it sounds like something out of an Indiana Jones film. Well, you’re not wrong there. Jordan appears – admittedly briefly – in Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade. This is not the only film franchise shot in Jordan. You’ll also see its deserts in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, The Martian, and Prometheus. Jordan hosts some incredible landscapes, which can’t help but feel like something out of this world. 

Coastal Gems 

While Jordan is traditionally known for its ancient site and deserts, it does offer some spectacular coastlines. The beaches are found in the south of the country where it touches the Red Sea, and you’ll find the Dead Sea on its Western border. The Dead Sea is a particularly popular tourist spot. It is the lowest point on earth and contains ten times the amount of salt than any other sea on earth, meaning visitors can float with absolute ease. It’s a surreal experience. 

Favourite Foods

There are so many traditional foods to try in this country. Jordan’s national dish is Mansaf, which is a tasty lamb dish cooked with fermented yoghurt called jameed, which is usually served with rice and topped with pine nuts. Warak enab is another popular favourite. It is grape leaves stuffed with rice, meat and a special dressing. They’re cooked in a giant pot, sometimes with other stuffed vegetables such as aubergine and green peppers. This dish is a labour of love. 

Jordan offers something for everyone’s tastes: whether it’s taking a step back in time or floating in the ocean. It is a fascinating country and makes for an unforgettable trip. What would you enjoy the most while exploring Jordan?