Amman
A capital with a treasure trove of historic sites and cultural activities, Amman.
Established in the 20th century, Amman is a relatively ‘young’ city for the Middle East which otherwise typically dates back thousands of years. Although it is relatively young, its is also one of the easiest cities in which to enjoy the Middle East experience. There are plenty of historical attractions, artistic sights and cultural gifts to draw in travelling visitors from all over the globe, before making their ways to on Petra, the Dead Sea or Wadi Rum.
CLIMATE
Amman’s summers are hot and dry in the daytime with cooler, breezier evenings. The coldest months are December and January, although the lowest temperates will only reach 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit). Expect rainfall in the spring and autumn months, although these are brief periods in the seasonal calendar.
LANGUAGE
The most commonly spoken language in Amman is Arabic, which is spoken conversationally locally as well as on television and in printed media. There is also a Jordanian specific Arabic language which is a variant of modern standard Arabic.
As Jordan used to be British colony, English has been taught in schools in Amman for many years and you will often someone who can speak English in service and hospitality situations.
VOYA’S FAVOURITE PLACES TO VISIT
If you’re visiting Amman, then you won’t want to miss the iconic Citadel, set on the highest hill in the city. Occupied since the Bronze Age, it’s an impressive sight to behold. Even without knowing the history of each element, you’ll want to visit for the view alone.
Feeling cultural? Spend an inspiring afternoon visiting The Jordan Museum, which offers expertly curated displays of historical and cultural Jordanian heritage pieces. Beautiful rooms filled with paintings and hallways of collected artefacts will certainly leave you inspired.
Want something more modern? Visit The Orfali Gallery to enjoy local contemporary artworks from professional artists as well as local students from the best of the best local art schools. Not to be missed on any length of trip.
VOYA’S FAVOURITE PLACES TO STAY
Want to recline in typical Jordanian splendour? The eye catching glow of its exterior lighting makes ‘Le Royal’ something of an architectural icon. It’s also an enjoyable spot that is conveniently located near many of the attractions you’ll want to visit. Think luxury meets practicality.
Modest budget? Head for the ‘Amman Pasha’ hotel which is ideally located near to the souks and adjacent to the famed Roman theatre. With only 40 bespoke designed rooms and the option of evening dinner and traditional breakfasts, you’ll enjoy a more personal approach to your stay.
VOYA’S FAVOURITE DISHES TO TRY
Jordan is world renowned for its falafel, hummus and baba ganoush. But there are a whole host of dishes that haven’t made it to the Western menu which you’ll want to try.
Mansaf is an aromatic rice dish that is spread thinly non a flatbread and topped with fermented yogurt (nicer than it sounds) and tenderly cooked lamb.
Vegetarian? Try the mulukhiyah soup, made from nafta jute leaves, fresh herbs, garlic and onions. This dish is typically served with chicken and rice, but can also be enjoyed on its own with flatbreads.
Don’t forget to sample the array of traditional fragrant sweets on offer - you’ll find them in restaurants, cafes, and in the souk markets.
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