Jordan Part 1: I Can See Where Africa and Asia Kiss & The Lipstick is Red
I really hate having unfinished travel business floating around on my bucket list. So, in September 2019, I re-wandered to Jordan and headed to the southern part of the country. On my first visit, I explored Amman, the Dead Sea, and Mt. Nebo, yet I needed more time to visit the Red Sea or Wadi Rum. I enjoyed the Hashemite Kingdom so much the first time that I decided to return.
My first excursion to Jordan was by air, landing me at Amman’s international airport with a direct flight from Tunis, Tunisia. I decided to try something new this time and entered Jordan using the land border with Eilat, Israel. The experience was a bit laborious yet fun since this was my first attempt at crossing an international border by foot.
Below are the border crossing steps.
Upon arrival at the Wadi Araba Crossing/South Border, you must pay an exit tax of 176ILS (Israeli Shekel). Then, you will show your receipt to an Israeli Immigration officer and exit.
You will then walk a very short distance to Jordanian Immigration. You will need a Travel Visa for Jordan, which costs 40JD (Jordanian Dinar) and can be purchased upon arrival at this border.
There were taxis available at the border with a price list displayed, so the price was clear. If you have any questions about the rate, you should discuss any discrepancy concerns with the taxi dispatcher before you enter the vehicle. Also, remember that the U.S. dollar is weak against the Jordanian Dinar. I recommend you check the conversion rate and order Jordanian Dinars at your U.S. bank before leaving home.
I chose the Marriott Al Manara for my stay and am glad I did. The service was impeccable, and the facilities were outstanding. I will admit that if I do not stay in a boutique hotel and decide to lodge with an international chain, my preference is Marriott International. The hotel reserved both my boat cruise on the Red Sea and my Aqaba City Tour, and I was happy with both choices. The Red Sea cruise was a delight because there was a glass bottom, and you were allotted 30 minutes to swim or snorkel with the equipment provided. The Red Sea is where Africa and Asia meet, and the coastal views are simply beautiful. I wanted to take the “Hop On-Hop Off” bus tour but was advised it was not the best way to see downtown Aqaba. But on the other hand, if you like partying, dancing, and music, the “Hop On- Hop Off” bus will suit your needs.
I absolutely loved the two shops where I shopped in downtown Aqaba. Gulf Silver had lovely jewelry, scarves, and other Jordanian souvenirs. Dweek for Spices had just what he claimed: amazing spices. I purchased a delicious Bedouin Tea and cooking spices for myself and my entire family, which I still enjoy.
The next day, I traveled to Wadi Rum. For that adventure, continue to the next blog, Two Arabian Nights and One Day in Wadi Rum.
Safe Travels and Happy Reading,
Tani
