Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
GETTING THERE & AWAY
Ever since Jean Louis Burckhardt rediscovered Petra for the Western world in the 19th cen-
tury, tourists have been finding ways of visiting Jordan, resulting in well-established and
efficient inbound and onward travel routes. These include Jordan's land borders with Syria,
and Israel and the Palestinian Territories. Another option is to take a boat across the Red
Sea to Nuweiba in Egypt. These routes were curtailed at the time of writing by disturbances
following the Arab Spring of 2011 but there is every expectation that these routes will open
up again eventually.
Combining a trip to Jordan with visits to neighbouring countries is also possible by fly-
ing from Amman to regional capitals; as Amman is well connected with other Arab coun-
tries, it's also possible to combine a trip with Dubai (an increasingly important world des-
tination) in the UAE, and other destinations in the Arabian Peninsula.
Flights and tours can be booked online at lonelyplanet.com/bookings.
CLIMATE CHANGE & TRAVEL
Every form of transport that relies on carbon-based fuel generates CO2, the main cause of human-induced climate
change. Modern travel is dependent on aeroplanes, which might use less fuel per kilometre per person than most cars
but travel much greater distances. The altitude at which aircraft emit gases (including CO2) and particles also contrib-
utes to their climate change impact. Many websites offer 'carbon calculators' that allow people to estimate the carbon
emissions generated by their journey and, for those who wish to do so, to offset the impact of the greenhouse gases
emitted with contributions to portfolios of climate-friendly initiatives throughout the world. Lonely Planet offsets the
carbon footprint of all staff and author travel.
Entering the Country
Entering Jordan is straightforward whether by air, land or sea, with visas and money-ex-
change facilities available at all borders.
Always carry your passport with you when travelling around sensitive areas such as near
the border of Israel and the Palestinian Territories, along the Dead Sea Highway and roads
linking the Dead Sea Highway to interior towns. Checkpoints and passport checks are com-
mon in all these areas.
