Government
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a constitutional monarchy with representative government. The National Assembly has two chambers, with the Senate having half the number of members as the House of Representatives.

Geography
Jordan is a small country with about 98'000 sq km. It is situated in the Middle East and borders Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria and Israel.
The country has a varied and beautiful landscape including the green hills in the north and the plain desert in the south, the subtropical Jordan River Valley and the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, as well as the sparkling Red Sea coast.

Economy
Jordan's economy is largely agricultural, although less than 5% of the land is arable. The principal crops are vegetables, wheat, citrus fruits and olives for oil. Industry is limited to the manufacture of foodstuffs, clothing, cement and some oil- refining. There is also significant production of phosphate and potash. The service industry and tourism contribute considerably to the economy.

Climate + Weather
Jordan is blessed with a Mediterranean climate for pleasurable year-round travel with the lush green of spring the ideal season for a visit. Both autumn and winter are equally mild and pleasant although winter can bring cold and rainy days. Still the southern part of the country, including Aqaba are ideal winter resort areas. Summer days are hot and dry.

Inhabitants + Religion
The population is approximately 5.2 million of which about 1 million are Palestinians registered as refugees from the wars of 1948 and 1967.
The majority of Jordanians are Arabs descended from various tribes. There is a small minority of Circassians and Armenians.
About 92% of the population is Sunni Muslim and about 6% is Christian. The remainder includes Druze and Shiite Moslems.
As Jordan is a mainly Islamic country, although comparatively liberal, many of the women are veiled. Visitors, especially women, are advised to dress modestly. Please do not take photographs without asking permission. Respect the culture and traditions and you will be rewarded with warmth and hospitality.

Language
The official language is Arabic. English is widely spoken.

Time
Jordan is two hours ahead of GMT in winter and three hours ahead in summer.

Visa and Inoculations
To enter Jordan you need a valid passport and a visa: For European and American citizen, a visa can be obtained at the airport upon arrival (10 JD). Citizens of other nationalities, please check with the Jordanian embassy responsible for your country.
For stays of more than 2 weeks, report to a Jordanian police station, which will extend your visa for 3 months and in order not to pay a fine upon leaving the country.
Inoculations: Only required if coming from disease-infected area.
Preventive shots for polio, tetanus and typhoid are recommended.

Safety
Jordan is one of the safest countries in the world. Street crime is almost unknown.
Although some of the neighboring countries have unstable political situations, Jordan has been for many years a secure country to travel in.