Jordan trips

While most locals speak English, the official language of Jordan is Arabic. Here are just a few phrases to get you started.

• Hello: Salam
• My name is: Ismi
• How much is this?: Bekam Hada?
• Yes: Na’am
• No: La’a
• Thank you: Shukran
• Where is the bathroom?: Ayn el-merhad?

Download Duolingo or some language-learning podcasts to practice your skills, and use Google Translate to help you while on the road!

• Taking photos of government and military buildings in Jordan is forbidden.
• It is considered very rude to take a photo of someone without their consent, especially the Bedouin women, who typically do not consent to picture taking.
• When visiting places of religious significance, display the utmost respect for whatever rules and customs are in place regardless of your own political or religious beliefs.
• The majority of Jordanian people speak English and are helpful when they know you are a visitor.
• Do not interrupt, or pass in front of, a Muslim who may be praying in a public place.
• Do not panic if a new Jordanian acquaintance "pecks" you on the cheeks as a greeting. This is normal in Arab countries as a warm gesture of welcome and affection.
• Tipping is not necessary for taxi drivers, but appreciated.
• Tipping approximately 10% gratuity in addition to the bill (unless service charge is included).
• Do not consume alcohol in outside public areas.

You’ll sample a variety of other local dishes on your trip, but read on for all the tips, tricks, and delicacies you must try.

• Falafel: a combination of ground chickpeas, mixed with a variety of spices, then deep fried into mini patty like shapes, is one of the most common street food snacks or light meals.
• Moutabel: roasted and peeled eggplant is combined with yoghurt, tahini, garlic and lemon juice.
• Hummus: need we say more?
• Labneh: this strained yoghurt is very thick and creamy, and is served at almost every breakfast table.
• Manakish: AKA "Arabic Pizza", whcih is a round of dough, topped with za’atar (an herb thyme spice mixture), olive oil, and can then optionally include toppings like white cheese (halloumi), eggs, or ground meat before its baked in a brick oven. YUM!
• Mujadara: a mixture of rice, lentils, and a seasoning that includes cumin (a favorite main dish for vegetarians).
• Shawarma: layers of thin meat (lamb, beer or chicken) stacked and revolving either vertically or horizontally over a source of heat. Usually wrapped in bread with tahini and pickled vegetables.