WHO’S AFRAID OF A KICK A$$ SOLO TRIP??? AN INTRODUCTORY GUIDE TO JORDAN FOR FEMALE TRAVELERS
Is it safe? Do you have to cover your head? These are normally the first questions that I am asked after I tell someone that I took a solo trip to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Yes, Jordan is considerably safe and no, it is not a requirement for you to cover your head for religious reasons. My trip, in September, to the Kingdom of Jordan was actually my second independent endeavor to this paradise of red sand. So, I am more than happy to share the must-sees and the must do’s of the desert Kingdom of Jordon.
The Must-Sees
If you are staying in Jordan for at least three days and plan to explore, I recommend purchasing the Jordan Pass. The Jordan pass will save you money and includes your visa fee of $56 and the entry costs to a variety of tourist attractions. https://www.jordanpass.jo/
The seaside town of Aqaba is a snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise. Aqaba sits on the Red Sea in the southern part of the Jordan and is ideal for water enthusiasts. If you need a hotel recommendation for Aqaba, I stayed at the Al Manara, a Luxury Collection, which is part of the Marriott family. https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/aqjlc-al-manara-a-luxury-collection-hotel-saraya-aqaba/
After you explore Aqaba, the next stop is the Wadi Rum Protected Area. During the day you can explore Wadi Rum with a local and knowledgeable Bedouin guide. A four-hour tour will provide ample exploration time and the tour will conclude with an amazing sunset. Spending the night at a Bedouin Camp will be the climax to an exhilarating day. I stayed at the Memories Aicha Luxury Camp. The service, staff, and food were all impeccable. https://www.booking.com/hotel/jo/memories-aicha-luxury-camp.html
The next stop along the Jordan trek is the “Rose City” of Petra. Petra is the 2000-year-old Nabatean city carved from pink sandstone in the Jordanian desert. Petra is only a 45-minute drive from the Wadi Rum Protected Area. I do suggest that you stay a night near Petra so you can do the sunrise tour and explore the tombs, caves, and temples before the heat commences. https://www.visitpetra.jo/
Once you have done all of this exploring from the Red Sea and through the desert, you will definitely need to relax! The Dead Sea in the northern part of Jordan is a perfect end to an extraordinary adventure. You can take a day or two to float in the mineral-filled sea and then enjoy the multitude of spa options in the area. http://international.visitjordan.com/Wheretogo/TheDeadSea.aspx
The Must Do’s
You are not required to cover your head, but one should respect the culture and dress modestly. Remember that your shoulders and legs must be covered to enter places of worship in this region and around the globe.
Do not forget to register with your government’s embassy before your travel. And while you are on vacation, stay abreast of current events in the country to avoid unexpected situations. For United States’ citizens, the link is https://step.state.gov/ .
It is a good plan to keep a copy of your passport in your luggage and email yourself a digital copy as well.
When taking a taxi, you should confirm the cost before you ride. The upfront confirmation will alleviate later misunderstandings about the price.
Stay clear of large public gatherings, protests, and demonstrations. Always be aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings, do not announce that you are a solo traveler, and be respectful and kind to police and military officials.
Yes, Jordan is in a tough neighborhood and the block is definitely hot! But there is always that one neighbor who will pick up your Amazon Prime packages, keep an eye on your house while you are on vacation, and even feed your cat. The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is that hospitable neighbor in the Middle East and will magically float, dive, and trek your worries away in a sea of culture.
If you would like to see the visual introduction to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, I have attached a video link. Happy travels! Stay safe and explore like a Boss!
https://youtu.be/eAEeL8gdxM4
