Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Women Travellers
Adopting the Right Mindset
Plenty of women travel through Jordan, often alone (this author included), and enjoy the
experience thoroughly. That said, there are bound to be times when you'll have male com-
pany in Jordan that you'd rather do without. This may involve nothing more than irritating
banter, proposals of marriage and declarations of love. On rarer occasions it will involve
leering and minor physical contact - a grope in a bus for example. Where possible, it's best
to ignore such behaviour or pass it off as part of the experience, or a few sad individuals
will spoil your whole trip.
Attitude towards Women
Being highly gregarious as a nation, Jordanians will be surprised that you want to travel
alone. Men, who have little or no contact with women, let alone sex, before marriage, may
misinterpret this as an invitation to provide company. Stereotypes of foreign women based
on Western films and TV convince some that all foreign women are promiscuous and will
jump into bed at the drop of a hat. The fact that some women choose to do just that contrib-
utes to this impression.
Avoiding Trouble
Dressing Appropriately
Nothing gives more offense in Jordan - a country with largely conservative and Islamic
sensibilities - than bearing too much flesh. To minimise harassment and to be respectful of
local customs, it's imperative to dress appropriately, especially in small towns and rural
areas.
In the trendy districts of Amman such as Abdoun and Shmeisani, in large hotels and re-
sorts or even in the middle of Petra (where tour group parties generally wear whatever they
feel like) you'll feel comfortable dressing as you would at home. Outside those areas, aim
for knee-length dresses or loose trousers, and cover your shoulders and upper arms.
