The official language is Arabic. Most people involved in the tourist industry and middle to upper class Jordanians understand English.
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Jordan’s official currency is the Dinar, which is broken down into 100 piastres or 1,000 fils. You can get the best rate of exchange at a moneychanger or bank, both of which will change foreign currency and traveler’s checks. Some of the nicer hotels will also exchange money. Major hotels, tourist stores and restaurants usually accept major credit cards. You can get cash inside banks or from ATMs, but many of them don’t accept foreign cards.
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Jordan’s international country code is 962. To call another country, dial 00 followed by the appropriate country code. Most major towns, including Amman, have Internet cafes.
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A 10 to 12 percent service charge is usually added to your bill at the better hotels and restaurants. Smaller places usually expect a tip. Tip taxi drivers by rounding up the price of your trip.
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Be aware of your surroundings while in the Middle East. There is a high risk of terrorist attacks. You should be vigilant in public places, especially popular tourist sites.
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No vaccinations are required for entry into Jordan. If you’re coming from an area infected with yellow fever or cholera, you’ll need a vaccination certificate. Vaccinations for typhoid, tetanus and polio are recommended. It’s best to stick to bottled water, but some of the better hotels have their own water filtering system. The medical services are good all over the country, but it’s a good idea to carry your own prescriptions and health insurance.
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Jordan’s electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz and uses European two-pinned plugs.
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A New England native but explorer at heart, Melisse has lived in four U.S. cities, spent a summer in Hawaii, made her way through wine-producing regions in Australia and New Zealand, and traveled around Europe while studying abroad in London. She is the Content Manager for the U.S. and Canada at Cheapflights.