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Travel Guide
Please Note
This is a generalized travel guide and it is intended to coalesce several resources, which a traveler might find useful, regardless of a particular destination. As such, it does not include travel warnings for specific "hot spot" destinations.
For travel alerts and warnings, please see the United States Department of State's listings available at URL:
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/
Please note that travel to the following countries, based on these warnings, is ill-advised, or should be undertaken with the utmost precaution:
Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), El Salvador, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Honduras, Iraq, Iran, North Korea, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestinian Territories of West Bank and Gaza, Philippines areas of Sulu Archipelago, Mindanao, and southern Sulu Sea, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Turkey, Venezuela, and Yemen.
International Travel Guide
Checklist for Travelers
1. Make sure you travel with the proper documentation. This may include passports, travel visas, consent for travel with minors, and international driving permits, if necessary. Get the necessary visas for the country (or countries) one intends to visit - but be aware that a visa does not guarantee entry.
2. Protect one's personal information by making copies of one's passport details, insurance policy, travelers checks and credit card numbers. Taking copies of such documents with you, while leaving another collection copies with someone at home, is also good practice for travelers. Taking copies of one's passport photograph is also recommended, as well as leaving a copy of one's passport photograph and details at home is also recommended.
3. Take time to learn about one's destination country and culture. Read and learn about the place one is traveling. Also check political, economic and socio-cultural developments at the destination by reading country-specific travel reports and fact sheets. Always have the contact information for the embassy or consulate of your home country.
4. Keep in regular contact with friends and relatives back at home by phone or email, and be sure to leave a travel itinerary. As well, keep a list of your emergency contacts handy and create a communication plan for reaching family and friends in the event of a crisis.
5. While it may be appealing to travel "off the grid" and without attention to current events, it is inadvisable to travel internationally without paying attention to the news and current events taking place "in country." Monitor local radio, television, and other sources for news and updates. Make contacts with staff at hotels and/or in the community so you are able to stay informed.
6. Phone lines are usually affected during a crisis. Think about other ways to communicate. For example, update your social media status often and send messages as regularly as possible to let friends and family know how you are doing.
7. Know the laws of one's destination country and culture; be sure to understand the repercussions of breaking those laws and regulations. Often the transparency and freedoms of the juridical system at home is not consistent with that of one's destination country. Become aware of these complexities and subtleties before you travel.
8. For longer stays in a country, or where the security situation is volatile, one should register one's self and traveling companions at the local embassy or consulate of one's country of citizenship. Be prepared for crisis situations and have an exit strategy to ensure you can easily evacuate from a volatile situation. Have more than one way to get towards safety as a crisis event may make some roads unpassable or unsafe.
9. Stay healthy by taking all possible precautions against illness. Also, be sure to take extra supplies of prescription drugs along for the trip, while also taking time to pack general pharmaceutical supplies, such as aspirin and other such painkillers, bandages, stomach ailment medication, anti-inflammatory medication and anti-bacterial medication.
10. Do not carry illicit drugs. Understand that the punishment for possession or use of illegal drugs in some countries may be capital punishment. Make sure your prescription drugs are legal in the countries you plan to visit.
11. Women should take care to be prepared both culturally and practically for traveling in a different country and culture. One should be sure to take sufficient supplies of personal feminine products and prescription drugs. One should also learn about local cultural standards for women, including norms of dressing. Be aware that it is simply inappropriate and unsafe for women to travel alone in some countries, and take the necessary precautions to avoid risk-filled situations.
12. If one is traveling with small children, one should pack extra supplies, make arrangements with the travel carrier for proper seating that would adequately accommodate children, infants or toddlers. Note also that whether one is male of female, traveling with children means that one's hands are thus not free to carry luggage and bags. Be especially aware that this makes one vulnerable to pickpockets, thieves and other sorts of crime.
13. Make proper arrangements for accommodations, well in advance of one's arrival at a destination. Some countries have limited accommodation, while others may have culturally distinctive facilities. Learning about these practicalities before one travels will greatly aid the enjoyment of one's trip.
14. Travel with different forms of currency and money (cash, traveler's checks and credit cards) in anticipation that venues may not accept one or another form of money. Also, ensuring that one's financial resources are not contained in one location, or by one person (if one is traveling with others) can be a useful measure, in the event that one loses a wallet or purse. Contact your credit card companies ahead of departure to notify them of your travel plans and be on the lookout for suspicious activity.
15. Find out about transportation in the destination country. In some places, it might be advisable to hire a local driver or taxi guide for safety reasons, while in other countries, enjoying one's travel experience may well be enhanced by renting a vehicle and seeing the local sights and culture independently. Costs may also be prohibitive for either of these choices, so again, prior planning is suggested. If you plan to drive "in country," as indicated above, ensure you have proper international driving permits.
16. Be aware that other countries use different voltage. Travel with a voltage adaptor pack if you will need to power up a laptop, phone, or medical device. It is also advisable to think in terms of power supply, and be sure to find backup power or other ways that will sustain your device or equipment during a power outage.
Tips for Travelers
A passport and a visa are required. Visitors may obtain a visa for Jordan for a fee at most international ports of entry upon arrival except at the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge. Foreigners who wish to stay fourteen days or more in Jordan must register at a Jordanian police station by their fourteenth day in the country. Failure to do so subjects the traveler to a fine of one Jordanian dinar (currently U.S. $1.40) per day overstay. This fine is usually assessed at departure.
In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.
Travelers may contact their embassy in Amman for the latest information on border crossing hours to Israel. Israel does not require advance visa issuance for some citizens traveling on tourist passports at any crossing point. Jordan issues visas at most international border crossings, except the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge. To cross into Jordan at the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge, foreign citizens must already have either a visa for Jordan in their passports or have an entry permit from the Ministry of Interior. Both Jordan and Israel assess an exit tax for tourists at all border crossings. Note: "King Hussein" and "Allenby" denote the same crossing point which is referred to by Jordan as the King Hussein Bridge, and by Israel as the Allenby Bridge.
In addition to being subject to all Jordanian laws affecting foreign citizens, dual nationals may also be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on Jordanian citizens. Although no longer subject to immediate conscription, all Jordanian dual national males under the age of 37 are required to register for service in the Jordanian military. Those subject to registration may be prevented from leaving Jordan until permission to do so is obtained from competent Jordanian authorities. This permission is often granted to some citizens, but it may take some time to obtain and is limited to one trip only. Consular assistance to dual nationals may be limited in some instances. For instance, Jordanian officials do not usually notify an embassy when a dual citizen is arrested or detained.
The ongoing violence in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza continues to have an impact on the security climate in Jordan. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations have occurred periodically throughout Jordan since violence between Israelis and Palestinians broke out in September 2000. Anti-U.S. sentiments are often in evidence at demonstrations and protests. Jordanian security forces have been successful in maintaining order and preventing the movement of large groups outside of approved areas.
The events of Sept.11, 2001, serve as a reminder of the continuing threat from terrorists and extremists groups to Americans and American interests worldwide. Threat information received intermittently over the past two years in Jordan has indicated that both Americans and U.S. facilities, as well as sites frequented by tourists, may be the target of terrorist groups. Although the Jordanian security forces have responded quickly and successfully to such information in the past, in light of these security concerns, U.S. citizens are urged to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness to reduce their vulnerability.
Foreign citizens should maintain a low profile, vary routes and times for all required travel, and treat mail and packages from unfamiliar sources with suspicion. In addition, foreign citizens are also urged to avoid contact with any suspicious, unfamiliar objects, and to report the presence of the objects to local authorities. Vehicles should not be left unattended, if at all possible, and should be kept locked at all times. Additional caution and sensitivity should be exercised at religious sites on holy days and Friday Sabbath. Modest attire should be worn at all holy sites.
There have been isolated incidents of sexual harassment, assault and unwelcome advances of a sexual nature against Western women, both visiting and residing in Jordan. These incidents, while troubling, are not pervasive. However, women are advised to use common sense and to take reasonable precautions: dress conservatively and do not travel alone. Husbands may stop their wives and children from leaving Jordan, even if the woman's only nationality is American.
Islam is the state religion of Jordan. The government does not interfere with public worship by the country's Christian minority. Although the majority of Christians are allowed to practice freely, some activities, such as proselytizing or encouraging conversion to the Christian faith -- both considered legally incompatible with Islam -- are prohibited. It is illegal for a Muslim to convert to Christianity. In the past, foreign citizens have been detained or arrested for discussing or trying to engage Jordanians in debate about Christianity.
Crime is generally not a serious problem for travelers in Jordan, but petty crime is prevalent in the downtown Amman Hashimiyah Square area and near the Roman Theater. In the narrow streets of the Old City, crowded conditions invite pickpockets and other petty criminals. It is safer to travel in groups when visiting the center of Amman.
The loss or theft of a passport abroad should be reported immediately to local police and the nearest appropriate embassy or consulate.
Basic modern medical care and medicines are available in the principal cities of Jordan, but not necessarily in outlying areas. Most hospitals in Jordan, especially Amman, are privately owned. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for services. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation back to your country can cost thousands of dollars or more.
While in a foreign country, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in your country. The information below concerning Jordan is provided for general reference only, and it may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.
Safety of Public Transportation: Fair
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Good
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Fair
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Poor
Roads are particularly treacherous during the periods of rain, which are from December to March. Drivers and passengers are required to wear seatbelts, and all cars must have a fire extinguisher and warning triangle in the vehicle. Child car seats are not required and generally are not available in Jordan. The police exercise strict enforcement of speed limits. Violators of speed limits may face fines up to $140 (US). Police routinely pull over reckless drivers as well as those driving under the influence. Licensed drivers must carry local third party insurance with sufficient coverage for accidents resulting in injury or death. Jordanian Public Safety officials estimate that two people are killed and fifty more are injured in 145 road accidents daily throughout the Kingdom.
Extra caution must be exercised at all times, especially when driving at night, because of poor lighting and road conditions. Land mines are often located within two miles of military installations and borders, including the popular Dead Sea area. Mine fields are usually fenced off and marked with signs carrying a skull and crossbones, but the fences and signs may be in poor repair or hard to see. Avoiding these areas reduces the risk of accidentally setting off a mine. Highways are more crowded around the Muslim holidays, when many Jordanians return from their work in the Gulf States. Also, city driving in Amman is more hazardous in the summer months, when many Gulf residents visit Amman. Jordan does not have restrictions on women driving, and it is not unusual for women to drive alone.
The desert highway outside Aqaba, a popular tourist destination, is particularly dangerous because it is narrow, winding, steep and crowded with trucks. This area should be avoided at night, if possible. Also, when driving in rural areas, motorists should be cautious when there are herds of camels along the roads because there are often collisions between camels and cars.
Jordan has bus and taxi service. Yellow taxis are generally safe for travel in the cities. One may also rent a service car (or livery car) for longer trips, such as to Damascus, Jerusalem, Aqaba, or Petra. The service cars have a good reputation for road safety.
Emergencies should be referred to the Civil Defense Department at telephone number 199.
Drugs, firearms, poisons, chemicals, explosives and pornographic materials, among other items, may not be imported into Jordan.
While in a foreign country, you are subject to that country's laws and regulations. Persons violating Jordanian laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Jordan are severe, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Note: This information is directly quoted from the United States Department of State Consular Information Sheet.
Sources: United States Department of State Consular Information Sheet
Business Culture: Information for Business Travelers
For information on cultural etiquette in Jordan please see our Cultural Etiquette page.
Online Resources Regarding Entry Requirements and Visas
Foreign Entry Requirements for Americans from the United States Department of State
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.html
Visa Services for Non-Americans from the United States Department of State
http://travel.state.gov/visa/visa_1750.html
Visa Bulletins from the United States Department of State
http://travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/bulletin/bulletin_1360.html
Visa Waivers from the United States Department of State
http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990.html - new
Passport and Visa Information from the Government of the United Kingdom
http://www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/
Visa Information from the Government of Australia
http://www.dfat.gov.au/visas/index.html
Passport Information from the Government of Australia
https://www.passports.gov.au/Web/index.aspx
Passport Information from the Government of Canada
http://www.voyage.gc.ca/preparation_information/passport_passeport-eng.asp
Visa Information from the Government of Canada
http://www.voyage.gc.ca/preparation_information/visas-eng.asp
Online Visa Processing by Immigration Experts by VisaPro
http://www.visapro.com
Sources: United States Department of State, United Kingdom Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Government of Australia: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Government of Canada Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
Useful Online Resources for Travelers
Country-Specific Travel Information from United States
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.html
Travel Advice by Country from Government of United Kingdom
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/travel-advice-by-country/
General Travel Advice from Government of Australia
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/General
Travel Bulletins from the Government of Australia
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/TravelBulletins/
Travel Tips from Government of Australia
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/tips/index.html
Travel Checklist by Government of Canada
http://www.voyage.gc.ca/preparation_information/checklist_sommaire-eng.asp
Travel Checklist from Government of United Kingdom
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/staying-safe/checklist
Your trip abroad from United States Department of State
http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1225.html
A safe trip abroad from United States Department of State
http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html
Tips for expatriates abroad from United States Department of State
http://travel.state.gov/travel/living/residing/residing_1235.html
Tips for students from United States Department of State
http://travel.state.gov/travel/living/studying/studying_1238.html http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1219.html
Medical information for travelers from United States Department of State
http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/health/health_1185.html
US Customs Travel information
http://www.customs.gov/xp/cgov/travel/
Sources: United States Department of State; United States Customs Department, United Kingdom Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Government of Australia; Government of Canada: Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
Other Practical Online Resources for Travelers
Foreign Language Phrases for Travelers
http://www.travlang.com/languages/
http://www.omniglot.com/language/phrases/index.htm
World Weather Forecasts
http://www.intellicast.com/
http://www.wunderground.com/
http://www.worldweather.org/
Worldwide Time Zones, Map, World Clock
http://www.timeanddate.com/
http://www.worldtimezone.com/
International Airport Codes
http://www.world-airport-codes.com/
International Dialing Codes
http://www.kropla.com/dialcode.htm
http://www.countrycallingcodes.com/
International Phone Guide
http://www.kropla.com/phones.htm
International Mobile Phone Guide
http://www.kropla.com/mobilephones.htm
International Internet Café Search Engine
http://cybercaptive.com/
Global Internet Roaming
http://www.kropla.com/roaming.htm
World Electric Power Guide
http://www.kropla.com/electric.htm
http://www.kropla.com/electric2.htm
World Television Standards and Codes
http://www.kropla.com/tv.htm
International Currency Exchange Rates
http://www.xe.com/ucc/
Banking and Financial Institutions Across the World
http://www.123world.com/banks/index.html
International Credit Card or Automated Teller Machine (ATM) Locator
http://visa.via.infonow.net/locator/global/
http://www.mastercard.com/us/personal/en/cardholderservices/atmlocations/index.html
International Chambers of Commerce
http://www.123world.com/chambers/index.html
World Tourism Websites
http://123world.com/tourism/
Diplomatic and Consular Information
United States Diplomatic Posts Around the World
http://www.usembassy.gov/
United Kingdom Diplomatic Posts Around the World
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/about-the-fco/embassies-and-posts/find-an-embassy-overseas/
Australia's Diplomatic Posts Around the World
http://www.dfat.gov.au/missions/
http://www.dfat.gov.au/embassies.html
Canada's Embassies and High Commissions
http://www.international.gc.ca/ciw-cdm/embassies-ambassades.aspx
Resources for Finding Embassies and other Diplomatic Posts Across the World
http://www.escapeartist.com/embassy1/embassy1.htm
Safety and Security
Travel Warnings by Country from Government of Australia
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/
Travel Warnings and Alerts from United States Department of State
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_1766.html
Travel Reports and Warnings by Government of Canada
http://www.voyage.gc.ca/countries_pays/menu-eng.asp
http://www.voyage.gc.ca/countries_pays/updates_mise-a-jour-eng.asp
Travel Warnings from Government of United Kingdom
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/travel-advice-by-country/
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/travel-advice-by-country/?action=noTravelAll#noTravelAll
Sources: United Kingdom Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the United States Department of State, the Government of Canada: Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Government of Australia: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Other Safety and Security Online Resources for Travelers
United States Department of State Information on Terrorism
http://www.state.gov/s/ct/
Government of the United Kingdom Resource on the Risk of Terrorism
http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1044011304926
Government of Canada Terrorism Guide
http://www.international.gc.ca/crime/terrorism-terrorisme.aspx?lang=eng
Information on Terrorism by Government of Australia
http://www.dfat.gov.au/icat/index.html
FAA Resource on Aviation Safety
http://www.faasafety.gov/
In-Flight Safety Information for Air Travel (by British Airways crew trainer, Anna Warman)
http://www.warman.demon.co.uk/anna/inflight.html
Hot Spots: Travel Safety and Risk Information
http://www.airsecurity.com/hotspots/HotSpots.asp
Information on Human Rights
http://www.state.gov/g/drl/hr/
Sources: The United States Department of State, the United States Customs Department, the Government of Canada, the Government of United Kingdom, the Government of Australia, the Federal Aviation Authority, Anna Warman's In-flight Website, Hot Spots Travel and Risk Information
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