If you’re planning a trip to Jordan, you’re in for a treat. This beautiful country is home to ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and warm, friendly people. But like any international destination, it’s important to be aware of potential safety risks and take steps to protect yourself. In this article, we’ll cover the top tips for staying safe while traveling in Jordan.
Understanding the Culture
One of the most important aspects of staying safe in Jordan is understanding and respecting the local culture. Jordan is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s important to dress modestly and follow local customs. For example, it’s not appropriate to show a lot of skin or wear revealing clothing. Public displays of affection are also frowned upon.
When visiting mosques or other religious sites, make sure to dress appropriately and remove your shoes before entering. It’s also important to avoid eating or drinking in public during Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.
Getting Around Safely
Transportation in Jordan can be a bit tricky, but with some preparation, you can get around safely and efficiently. Taxis are a common mode of transportation, but make sure to only use licensed taxis and agree on the price before getting in. Uber and Careem are also available in some areas.
If you’re planning to rent a car, be aware that driving in Jordan can be chaotic and unpredictable. Make sure to have a GPS and a good map, and be prepared for heavy traffic and aggressive drivers. It’s also important to have comprehensive insurance and a valid driver’s license.
Avoiding Scams
As with any tourist destination, there are some common scams to watch out for in Jordan. One of the most common is the “fake police” scam, where someone posing as a police officer will stop you and ask to see your passport or money. Always ask for identification and make sure the person is a legitimate police officer. It’s also important to be cautious of anyone offering unsolicited help or advice, as they may be trying to scam you.
Staying Safe in Crowds
Jordan is a relatively safe country, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in crowds. Pickpocketing can be a problem in busy tourist areas, so keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. It’s also important to be cautious of large protests or demonstrations, which can sometimes turn violent.
Emergency Contact Information
Finally, it’s important to have emergency contact information on hand in case something does go wrong. The emergency number in Jordan is 911. You should also have the contact information for your embassy or consulate in case you need assistance.
Conclusion
Traveling to Jordan can be an incredible experience, but it’s important to take steps to ensure your safety. By understanding the local culture, getting around safely, avoiding scams, and staying alert in crowds, you can enjoy all that this fascinating country has to offer while keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.
Topic | Tips |
---|---|
Culture | Dress modestly, follow local customs, be respectful in religious sites |
Transportation | Use licensed taxis, agree on price beforehand, be cautious when driving |
Scams | Be cautious of “fake police” and unsolicited help or advice |
Crowd safety | Keep valuables secure, stay alert in busy areas and protests |
Emergency contact | Know the emergency number and embassy/consulate contact information |
FAQs
Is Jordan safe for tourists?
Overall, Jordan is considered a safe country for tourists. However, it’s important to be aware of potential safety risks and take steps to protect yourself, such as understanding the local culture, getting around safely, and avoiding scams.
What should I wear in Jordan?
It’s important to dress modestly in Jordan, especially in religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts. It’s also important to remove your shoes before entering mosques or other religious sites.
Can I drink alcohol in Jordan?
Alcohol is legal in Jordan, but it’s not widely available and is generally only served in hotels and restaurants that cater to tourists. It’s important to be respectful and avoid public drunkenness or disorderly behavior.
Is it safe to drive in Jordan?
Driving in Jordan can be chaotic and unpredictable, so it’s important to be cautious and prepared. Make sure to have a GPS and a good map, and be prepared for heavy traffic and aggressive drivers. It’s also important to have comprehensive insurance and a valid driver’s license.
What should I do in case of an emergency?
If you’re in Jordan and need emergency assistance, call 911. You should also have the contact information for your embassy or consulate in case you need assistance.