Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in the cities. French, German, Italian and Spanish are also spoken.

Hello/Welcome - Ahlan; Ahlan Wa Sahlan
How are you? (said to a man/woman) - Izzayak/Izzayik?
Fine/good (said by a man/woman) - Kwayyis/Kwayyisa
Please (said to a man/woman) - Men Fadlak/Men Fadlik
Thank you - Shukran
You're welcome - Afwan
Goodbye - Ma'Asalaama
Yes - Aywa
No - La
My name is..... - Issmee.....
Where is the toilet? - Feen El-Hammaam?
When? - Emta?
How much (cost)? - Bi Kaam?
God willing - In Shaallah

Nationals of most countries, including the UK, US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan and most EU countries, require a passport and visa to visit Jordan. Transit passengers continuing their journey by the same or first connecting aircraft provided holding valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport do not require visas. Passports must be valid for at least six months from the arrival date, although return/onward tickets are not required.

Types of Tourist Visas:
Single-Entry - US$20 (valid for 2 months)
Multiple-entry - US$40 (valid for up to 6 months)
Visa on Arrival: JD10 (valid for 2 weeks)

Extensions of three to six months are available by registering with a police station in Jordan.

Visa validity can depend upon nationality. It is advisable to check this information with your relevant embassy prior to travel.

The international dialling code for Jordan is +962. Public telephones are available and are operated by both phone cards, which can be purchased from numerous shops. International calls made from post offices or hotels have a minimum three-minute charge.

Roaming agreements exist, with many international mobile phone companies present in Jordan, and the coverage is good.

Internet cafes are present throughout the country, especially in major tourist destinations.

Airmail to Western Europe generally takes three to five days. The Central Post Office in Amman is the only place where it is possible to send packages from.

Jordan's official currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD), which consists of 100 piastres or 1,000 fils. Banknotes come in denominations of JD50, 20, 10, 5 and 1, and 500 fils, where as coins are available in denominations of JD1, 1/2 and 1/4; 10, 5, 2 and 1/2 piastres; and 1 and 1/2 qirsh. The current official exchange rate can be found at OANDA.com - The Currency Site.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at most major banks, bureaux de change or at many hotels.

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are all widely accepted, and most hotels, restaurants and shops also accept payment by credit card. ATMs are found throughout Amman, as well as in larger towns.

Standard banking hours are Saturday-Thursday 08:30-150:0. Hours during Ramadan are 08:30-10:00, although some banks open in the afternoon.

Local Costs in Jordan

Vaccination against TB and hepatitis B is recommended. Jordan has an excellent network of hospitals and clinics. Generally it is advised to stick to drinking bottled water.

HIV tests are mandatory for anyone staying over 14 days.