Amman, Jordan

[lauren 1996]

I’ll be visiting in May.

It’ll be okay for me to get out and about alone during the day. Anyone been to Amman? What did you do while you were there?

 

[ryskey]

Not sure of being out and about, but there are plenty of tourists. I'm going at some point within the next year.

For one, Jerusalem is very close. Not sure how the Visa situation would work coming from Jordan though.

Petra, you must see Petra. It's in southern Jordan, so it'll be a long bus ride from Amman, but it will be very worth it. Anyone who has even a passing interest in ancient civilizations should see that once in their lifetimes.

The Dead Sea and the Decapolis (City of Jerash) are pretty close to Amman as well.

And if you're feeling adventurous, go into Syria. They won't let you in if you have proof of having ever been to Israel (passport) or have any intention of ever going (don't tell them). The "interview" process of crossing the border is supposed to be something out of a spy novel as well. But once you get in, I've heard westerners are treated pretty well, and that includes Americans. This is all second hand from a few people I've met.

 

[DMLonghorn]

I **** the **** out of Petra in Rome: Total War.

 

[lauren 1996]

Blonde female so I can’t leave Amman unaccompanied. What’s to do in the city?

 

[RunTex]

Here are some suggestions from my pops who works in Amman/ Iraq for the DOD. He has a place at the Hyatt residences and recommended stopping at the Embassy if you want, someone there would likely offer to be a tour guide for you. Anyways..

"Favorite restaurant is Romero's in the 3rd Circle , ask for Kalid, he has been there 18 years, good wines, best prices, casual and reservations usually recommended.
Then right next door, upstairs is the Living Room- its a locals upscale place, very western friendly ..you've got to see for yourself.
Cinco de Mayo at the Intercontential Hotel casual;
Whispers near Sheraton;
Il Conteino (Italian) Hyatt Hotel.

Sights

Best deal is usually from Hertz rent a car and you can hire a driver for a day from the Movenpick hotel. You can visit all these on a day trip; the Dead Sea, Christ's Baptism Site; Mt. Nebo, Moses tomb and more. Cost about $90 USD, leave at 7:30am. Fantastic day venture.

Petra is best an overnite trip best hotel is Movenpick -5 Star at Petra. Take the back route along the Dead Sea, then inland to Petra. Truly a road very less traveled Arrive mid day visit Petra late afternoon 3 ish, as tourists buses leave. Several good places to eat, follow you noses...lots of westerners to ask. Next morning 0700 back into Petra to see color changes and more sights prior to tourists and buses arrivals usually about 1030.

Another overniter is Wadi Rum great overnite sleep under the stars fun time...check with your hotel and book...truly once in a lifetime"

PM me if you need any Embassy contacts.