FAQs
Question
When should I RSVP by?
Answer
Ideally, as soon as possible so we can get the best rates for hotels, activities, etc. The RSVP deadline is December 21, 2024.
Question
How Safe/Welcoming is Jordan?
Answer
Jordan is an extremely safe country - the surrounding conflicts in the Middle East will have no impact on our trip. You should feel safe walking around by yourself wherever you'll be staying. Diana went on runs alone in Amman the last time we visited. Jordanians also pride themselves on being exceptional (albeit somewhat traditional) hosts. Most people in Amman will speak at least a little English, and we'll send out a list of common phrases you can use in Arabic to get around. We do not recommend a lot of Public Displays of Affection (regardless of what type of relationship you're in) in the smaller areas of Jordan as the culture itself is fairly conservative, but Amman should not be much different than any smaller European city. In general, Jordan is a relatively private country so while it is LGBT-tolerant, we would not recommend any public displays of affection. You would not face any harassment or be made uncomfortable, the locals would just judge you.
Question
How Much Will the Trip Cost?
Answer
Excluding your flight to Amman, we expect to spend $700-1100 for the week on hotels and $100-150pp on travel for the week. In Amman and the Dead Sea there will be more financial flexibility on hotels if desired, but in Petra and Wadi Rum we all will stay together because the places are so remote. Food will likely cost between $40-75 a day. In Amman, Petra, and in the Dead Sea, we will likely stay in more Western hotels like a Marriot or Hilton. In Wadi Rum, we will be staying in bedouin style "glamping" tents. See an example here: http://www.mlc.jo/ Flights to Amman are typically between $1000-1300. There are non-stops to Amman from NYC-JFK, Detroit, Washington-Dulles, Chicago-O'Hare and Montreal. Jordanians in most markets like American currency, but we would recommend getting about 100 Jordanian Dinars (equivalent to ~$150) in smaller bills either before or on arrival. This isn't necessary and you should have very few issues travelling with USD and Credit Cards.
Question
How Kid-Friendly Is Jordan?
Answer
Kids are welcome at all events. While there might be some activities that will be harder for babies - like canyoning at Wadi Mujib - there are alternate options nearby that will allow you to experience the beauty of Jordan if you let us know that you'll be bringing your little ones. Ramsey did a trip similar to the one we will be doing at 6 years old, but please reach out if you have any logistical questions.
Question
How Should I Dress?
Answer
In Jordan, the dress code is generally conservative, reflecting the country’s cultural and religious values. In general, modesty is key and layering is essential due to the country's high desert climate. Be sure to also bring comfortable walking shoes and bathing suits for the Dead Sea and Wadi Mujib.
Question
How will the week work?
Answer
When we designed the trip, we wanted it to be a cultural showcase of Amman and Jordan at large with a bunch of adventures baked in. You'll have a chance to experience some of the more traditional activities, like bartering in souks (markets), going to the Jordan Museum, or walking through ancient Roman ruins. You'll also have the chance to see Petra (one of the seven wonders of the world), go stargazing and sand-surfing in Wadi Rum, go canyoning in Wadi Mujib, and relax by the Dead Sea after a week of adventuring. Ramsey and his family will arrange for all the transportation to and from the hotels, activities, etc. All you have to do is commit! If you have limited travel time, the airport is fairly convenient from Wadi Mujib and the Dead Sea so you can leave as early as Wednesday. Of course, we highly recommend staying the entire time so you can see some breathtaking sights and enjoy the week!
Question
Food, Drink, and Hookah
Answer
Alcohol will be available at any bars, restaurants, and parties we attend, and there are plenty of stores where you can buy bottles of whatever you'd like to drink. Men and women should feel equally comfortable ordering drinks out as the places we'll be in Amman are mostly very western and tourist-friendly. Even though Jordan contains a mix of religions (the majority of the country is Muslim, but a large minority are Christian, and there are a mix of other faiths), all of the food will be halal, which means that the food has been blessed in a permissible manner according to Muslim customs and tradition. This means that you will likely not see pork on any menus, and you will most often see chicken and fish. If you are vegetarian, there are a large variety of options that will be available to you. Hookah bars are plentiful in Amman and the Dead Sea and opportunities to smoke hookah will be available at most of the places we visit. Both women and men should feel comfortable taking part, though there may be certain smoking sections that are gendered. If you have questions about this, please reach out to Ramsey for more information.