Jordanian Tourism Website

The aim of this is to give a brief introduction to Jordan's culture. Jordanians are hugely generous and it is not uncommon to be invited to eat at their homes. This is a really good opportunity if you are asked. Clearly you must be careful in accepting a strangers offer, but in reality the chance of trouble is minimal.

Clothing

The best advice with clothing is to not dress provocatively. Downtown Amman and in rural areas especially, more conservative clothing is appropriate. Women in particular should cover their arms and legs. It is rare for men to wear shorts, but would not be unacceptable in tourist areas. Swimming attire should only be worn around swimming pools and beaches. Women are not required to cover their hair or face.

Food and Drink

Jordanian cuisine  generally consists of a selection of mezzeh, or starters, followed by main meals to share. Unleavened bread, or khobzis always served. Felafel, deep-fried chickpea balls, shwarma, spit-cooked sliced lamb, and fuul, a paste of fava beans, garlic and lemon are all traditional Jordanian dishes served at restaurants. Mensaf is a Bedouin speciality - a whole lamb on a bed of rice and pine nuts. Meals in Jordan traditionally take a number of hours and are important social events.

Alcoholic drinks are available in most hotels although prices do tend to be slightly inflated. Arabic tea and coffee is usually drunk as a welcome and after meals. It is best to always take them when offered as a politeness. The cup will continue to be refilled unless you gently shake the cup and then give it back.