Jordan Real Estate Advisors - Articles - About Jordan

Jordan-Perceptions: What is the Truth?

no@spam.com (Darlene Pharris) — Thu, 07 May 2009 04:12:01 MST

The eyes of the world are fixed on the Middle East. Rumors and half truths are heard by all who will listen. Have you ever wondered what you would find if you made your own pilgrimage into this ancient region of the world? I have, and as I read the perceptions of journalists and tourist that have ventured into this “War Torn” country, I realize there seems to be little truth in the reports “rumors” of war. Jordan seems to be nestled in a hotspot of the Middle East, but is that the truth? Jordan has no interest or desire to join the conflicts that seem to plague the Middle East. The fact is, the residents are making the most of the resources available to them, like so many of us in this time of economical distress. They want to know who we are and share with us freely who they are. They welcome us into their country with a hardy shalom, “peace” and want to share their rich culture with all the world visitors who enter their gates. In actuality, the Jordanians depend on the tourist trade for about 10% of their yearly income. The tourist industry continues to develop this rich resource. It is the goal of Tourist Ministry to maintain renewable resources and protect the environment while inviting the world to stop by for a visit.

These ancient people find themselves located near Iraq, between Israel and the Palestinian Territories, surrounded by Lebanon, Syria, and Saudi Arabia. Boarded by the political extremes and the violence of the Israeli-Palestinian struggle, while being totally void of any oil reserves, and running low on available water resources, this has been a difficult time for this ancient country.

With the continued reports of terrorists attacks, the world travelers tend to hesitate adding Jordan to their list of tourist destinations. As this tour prepared to depart, there were reports of continued eruptions and a heightened awareness of the Middle East conflicts. The Israeli forces were battling the Hezbollahs in Lebanon and in a tense standoff with the radical Hamas over soldiers.
Beirut was being bombed and the entire region threatened to erupt into a full scale campaign.
This visitor’s instincts were on full alert. The little country of Jordan seemed destined to be unwillingly caught right in the middle of the conflict.

As our plans were developed, we felt it was time these misconceptions were dispelled. To report to the world that in fact, Jordan was a very safe destination for foreign travelers. Even though conflicts were in fact raging in other regions of the Middle East, in defiance, our group accepted the invitation to see for ourselves the many great Jordanian destinations open to the world. One case in fact was the Hashemite Kingdom as this group accepted the opportunity to get a new perspective of this country. Jordan proved to be stable and a safe tourist destination that is quickly becoming the Jewel of the Middle East, with great diversity of attractions to offer the foreign visitors.

Being almost totally landlocked, Jordan is truly a small country of little over 96,000 square kilometers. To the west it is bordered by Israel and the Palestinian Territories to the west. Syria is to the north, Iraq and Saudi Arabia are to the east. The northern tip of the Red Sea at the port of Aqaba is the only saltwater access. The border follows the northern banks of the Wadi Araba to the shores of the Dead Sea. The Jordan River winds its way to the Sea of Galilee, along the often tense border of Israel.

Jordan’s diverse population of approximately six million includes an estimated one million citizens of Palestinian origin. The 2003 conflict in Iraqi, brought waves of immigrants into Jordan. Amman is the capitol and home to almost a third of the inhabitants with a population of almost two million. Though Jordan is predominantly Muslim, about 80 % adhere to Sunni Islam and about 15 % professing the Shi’ite branch of faith. The Christian minority of about 5 % enjoys complete freedom to follow their religion and are included in the economic, social, and political factions of Jordan.

Petra, the History, the Culture, the Mystic

no@spam.com (Darlene Pharris) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 04:26:13 MST

The mysterious city of Petra spans times of the past, and is steeped in the culture as one of the world’s most visited tourist destinations. Carved into the red sandstone cliffs of Jordan’s countryside this site is often referred to as the “Red City”. The history of many cultures can be traced by the archaeological research being done in this magnificent area. Without a doubt, this is one of the most beautiful sights of archaeological research sites in the world.

This tourist destination is one area that invites a slow and in depth exploration of its many recesses. There is so much to experience that one day will not satisfy the urges. Petra is a one of a kind city and an awesome legacy for the people who built it. The Nabataean civilization dominated the trade Arab routes encompassing the area from China to India to the ancient shores of the Mediterranean.

The entrance into this ancient city is a great chasm with a narrow path lined with massive rock columns. This entry is refer to as the Siq. As the group passed through the dramatic entrance, excitement mounted as the first sight of “The Treasure” was experienced. The massive columns towered far above the group. Thoughts of the history, seemed to enhance the experience that could very easily transport the tourists into a time long pasted.

Stopping to breath in the atmosphere of this grand city, brings the sheer size and grandeur into perspective. Trying to decide where to begin your exploration of this magnificent testament of history is almost overwhelming. After the sense of amazement of seeing the building for the first time, there are many other areas to be explored.

Take the time to venture through the area slowly, absorb the knowledge that you are standing in the footsteps of many great and wondrous people. Follow the Street of Facades to the many other sites to experience including the Theater, the Royal Tombs, the Great Temple, and the Petra Church. As our group moved from one location to another, the history and mystic of the city revealed its self.

The outside world refers to Petra as the “lost city.” It was rediscovered in the 19^th century by John Burkhardt. The tales of the archaeologist and explorer reached the world, drawing them to its door step. One of the people to visit this site because of the tales of this vision was English painter David Roberts. His amazing water colors created a buzz among the Victorian romantic images of the times. Reproductions of his work can still be found in the shops scattered around the historical site.

The archaeological studies began in the 1920's and continue to this day; however, only about 10% of the site has been explored. They often find themselves competing with the tourist for the freedom to study an area.

The tourist trade has declined greatly due to the tensions in the middle east. The site was virtually deserted during this visit. The Bedouin people depend on the tourist trade for part of the living, although they still lead a semi-nomadic life style.

On the second day of our visit, we completed the strimulious track to the Monastery. It is about a five-mile hike over narrow ledges, and around rock faces. We had been prepared for the challenges of this trip by our guides. We found it to be worth the effort as we sipped our Turkist coffee while leaning back on the camel saddles.

The entrance into the Monastery was so steeped in the history of this ancient city that it was almost overwhelming. You could almost reach back in time and join the former inhabitants of this ancient city. What a mysterious place we were exploring, there are no words to truly express the aura in this ancient place.

Silence fell as the mystery of Petra seemed to engulf this group of travelers. The feeling that this ancient city is still just as vital today as it ever was, overwhelms this world traveler. It is a place like non-other. It should be visited at least once as you experience the ghosts in the past of this magical destination.

Adventure Travel In Jordan

no@spam.com (Darlene Pharris) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 21:14:04 MST

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - A group for the development of adventure travel in Jordan met to explore this currently untapped aspect of the world’s tourist market. Gathered for this forum was ATTA President Shannon Stowell, NGA, Director of Travel, Bryan Kinkade, and Xola Consulting President Christina Heyniger by invitation of the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB).
These key members, some of the world travel industry’s leading authorities, focused on the aspects of Jordan’s sustainable resources and successful marketing strategies.

The trio of leaders joined Chris Johnson of Wild Jordan to deliver a world wide perspective on Jordan’s outstanding ability to provide equally attractive destinations for this emerging travel group. The speakers expounded on the demands of the adventure tourist for a combination of physical activity, exposure to the natural environment, and the interaction with the local people and cultures.

To better understand the development of the destinations featuring their rich culture, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, the US-based group addressed strategies required to get this sector of their tourism packages developed. Many evaluation and diagnostic marketing aides were suggested for the new Jordanian destinations. The development of these adventure resources to entice the tourists must be coupled with conservation efforts to protect the natural environments of the hosting regions. Incorporation of the suggestions of this ATID group is to adapt a philosophy of sustainable tourism resources. These principals, when they are put into place, encourage markets to open the channels to conserve the economic, environmental, and social benefits of the host communities and the country tourism industry to managers and travelers alike.

As the group prepared for this forum, they took a tour of Jordan’s key tourist destinations but with an adventure twist. They began by cycling to well-known attractions in Jordan’s Southern regions. The tour included a route from Petra to Wadi Rum, and finished in Aquaba. It verified that they could immerse themselves into the cultural atmosphere, while interacting with the locals easily. They included experiences canyoning in Zarqa Ma near, Ammon, swimming in a hot spring river, and hiking in the Rum. They added one humanitarian visit, they spent half a day with the patients and staff of King Hussein Center for Handicapped Children. This organization is one of the several missions associated to Jordan’s growing volunteer tourism sectors.

The middle east adventure tourism attractions are becoming increasingly more popular with the US tours and travelers. This largely untapped, though authentic exploration, can focus on the natural and cultural destinations. This will allow an experience of Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan like no other sector can develop, attracting the world tourism market to Jordan.

Christina Heyniger, of Xola Consulting, stressed that adventure travel faces outstanding tourism opportunities which have not yet been truly explored. It was also stated that the challenge for the destination managers will be to conserve the natural resources and maintain the capacity limit of the natural resources.

The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) has a stated mission for protecting
Jordan’s distinct natural resources while continuing to encourage businesses for the benefit local communities. The RSCN is charged with the management of nine different reserves in Jordan, each with a distinct ecosystem preservation commitment.

Increasingly, the (ATTA) Adventure Travel Trade Association, Xola Consulting, and (NGA), National Geographic Adventure are emerging as leaders in the development of these adventure travel destinations while insuring the preservation of the natural resources. The diverse interests of these groups accent their ability to guide the individual growth for these new adventure hosts.
Representing a varied range of views, these groups are helping to enhance awareness of the world wide adventure travel areas of interest.

Seattle based, ATTA is a worldwide member organization dedicated to unifying, networking, professionalizing, promoting and responsibly growing the adventure travel market. Their membership includes: tour operators, destination marketing, organization, tourist boards, specialty travel agents, guides, accommodation, media and service providers.

National Geographic ADVENTURE magazines are the one and only organization which are the ultimate guilds to adventure lifestyles. Travelers, who wish to challenge themselves mentally and physically while maintaining the desire to experience the cultures of the regions, turn to NGA’s experience for guidance. The majestic photos and introduction to adventure gear by NGA are unmatched.

Xola Consulting, Inc. is a consulting and research services firm providing information to the tourist communities and organizations with sustainable adventure tourism destinations. Xola ‘s team is a group of adventure experts who have a history of owning and operating adventure tourism operations. Their research and experience are valued not only by the adventure tourism of Jordan community, but the world travel market as well.

Three New Jordan Tourism Initiatives Announced

no@spam.com (Darlene Pharris) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 10:17:52 MST

AMMAN, JORDAN- US Agency for International Developments announced three new Jordan Tourism initiatives designed to thrust Jordan into a competitive position in the world tourism industry. The three initiatives will build on a decade of American partnerships and support of the tourism sectors through the local Jordanian government and organizations. The $38.3 million initiative will span a five-year time table with three primary objectives.

The Jordan Tourism Development Project II will be managed under the supervision of the Ministries of Tourism and Antiquities and key stake holders. The primary goal of this division is to develop key tourist destinations and to strengthen the economical capacity of the governing institutes to guide this sector of tourism.

The second phase of development, will be under the watchful eye of the Nature-Driven Rural Development in the Southern Region Project. The five-year plan calls for a collective link that will culminate into a world class tourist complex. The three primary tourist attractions, Petra, Dana, and the newly protected, Jebel Masuda will become one world-class complex. The result will be the development of an attraction geared to entice and entertain the global tourist market.

The third, but possibly one of the most vital partnerships will be the link between the Cultural and Environmental Tourist Project and the US National Park Services. Working closely with the local governing bodies, their goal is to enhance the tourist’s experience while protecting the natural resources of Jordan.

This USAID ceremony was hosted by Acting Administrator Alonzo Fulgham and Her Excellency MS Maha Khatib, the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities

About Jordan

no@spam.com (Wasfi Samaan) — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 05:19:30 MST

Jordan

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Situated in the heart of the Middle East is Jordan, the meeting point of three continents: Europe, Asia and Africa. Jordan’s image conveys a vibrant fusion of history and modernity. These elements are well interlaced in the capital Amman, where one moment you are wandering back in time at the ancient Citadel Hill and the next driving through the urban and contemporary streets of Amman.

Jordan is often seen as the liberal and accessible face of the Middle East and widely regarded as one of the most promising and emerging markets in the region, due to rising income levels and increased interest from foreign investors . Jordan’s vision of a thriving market includes a future that caters to the needs of the people and promotes business and investment opportunities in the region. Thus the demand for international brands is growing as the numbers of visitors increase.

Amman
Situated between the desert and the lush Jordan Valley, Jordan’s capital Amman is a vibrant city with a history dating back almost 9000 years. Benefiting from an Eastern Mediterranean climate, Amman has long been an attractive place to live in. Amman is one of the fastest growing cities in the Middle East and home to almost one third of the Jordanian population.

Business and residential areas in West Amman are located in relation to a number of roundabouts and crossroads along Zahran Street, the main road from downtown to the Queen Alia International Airport. These are referred to as "circles" and are numbered one to eight. In addition there are popular residential neighborhoods of Abdoun, Swafiyeh, Dair Ghbar, Al Rabia and Um Othaina.

As the city has grown, the commercial center of Amman has shifted to the west. The main business district is now close to the third and fourth Circles and is expanding towards Shmeisani. Amman forms the focus of the Jordanian economy, being the center of government activity, commerce, services and manufacturing. The service sector dominates the economy real estate and business related services with transport and communications forming the greater part of Jordanian commercial activity.

Amman is being transformed into an international center attracting substantial inward investment. Amman’s thriving business community has created a city of opportunity as continued privatization and forecast economic growth stimulates and accelerates the pace of domestic and international investments.

History of Amman

Throughout history, Amman has been inhabited by several civilizations. The first civilization on record is during the Neolithic period, around 6500 BC, where archaeological discoveries in Ain Ghazal, located in eastern Amman, showed evidence of not only a settled life but also the growth of artistic work, which suggests that a well-developed civilization inhabited the city at that time.
In the 13th century BC Amman was called Rabbath Ammon or Rabat Amon by the Ammonites. It was later conquered by the Assyrians, followed by the Persians, and then the Greeks. Ptolemy II Philadelphus, the Hellenic ruler of Egypt, renamed it Philadelphia. The city became part of the Nabataean kingdom until AD 106 when Philadelphia came under Roman control and joined the Decapolis - a league of ten cities.
In 324 AD, Christianity became the religion of the empire and Philadelphia became the seat of bishopric during the beginning of the Byzantine era. One of the churches of this period can be seen on the city's Citadel. Philadelphia was renamed to Amman during the Ghassanian era, and flourished under the Ummayads and the Abbasids. It was then destroyed by several earthquakes and natural disasters and remained a small village and a pile of ruins until the Circassians settlement in 1887.
In 1921, Abdullah I chose Amman as seat of his new government, the Emirate of Transjordan, and later as the capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Amman remained a small city until 1948, when the population expanded considerably due to an influx of Palestinian refugees. Amman has experienced exceptionally rapid development since 1952 under the leadership of His Majesties King Hussein and King Abdullah.
Residential areas have spread out from the centre of the city to the surrounding hills. For example, several communities thrive in Jerash.

Amman

Today

Amman was originally built on seven hills, but it now spans over an area of 19 hills. The main areas of Amman gain their names from the hills on whose slopes they lie. 21st century Amman is one of the most comfortable and relaxed cities in the Middle East, a place where Muslims, Christians and the small number of people from other faiths live together without conflict.

The city's population continues to expand at a dizzying pace (fueled by refugees escaping the wartime events in Palestine and Iraq). During the last 10 years the amount of new building within the city has increased dramatically with new districts of the city being founded at a very rapid pace (particularly so in West Amman), straining the very scarce water supplies of Jordan as a whole.

The older downtown area centered around the old Souk (a colorful traditional market) and the King Hussein Mosque is now completely dwarfed by the sprawling urban areas that surround it but despite the changes much remains of its old character. For those seeking the atmosphere of the Old City, it is best to venture to the district east of Jabal Amman. There, in the bustle of daily life, you can explore the capital's greatest souqs, fine museums, ancient constructions, monuments, and cultural sites.

The Citadel hill of Amman, known as Jabal el Qala, has been inhabited for centuries, important as a military and religious site. It dates back to Roman and Byzantine times, and later work was carried out in the early Islamic era. Remains unearthed at the northern and eastern ends of the Citadel, possibly date back to the Bronze Age. The Citadel also is home to the Temple of Hercules which is said to have been constructed under the Roman empirical ruler Marcus Aurelius who reigned from AD 161-180, is similar to the Temple of Artemis in Jerash.

Philadelphia was a favorite place for Roman soldiers and officials as—like Rome—the city was built on seven hills. Right behind the Roman forum stands a Roman theatre, the largest theatre in Jordan, with room for 6,000 spectators. Thought to have been built between AD 138 and AD 161 by the Roman Emperor Antoninus Pius, it is built into the side of the mountain and is still used for sport displays and cultural events.

Amman is also home to some of the grandest mosques in the Middle East. The newest of these is the enormous King Abdullah I Mosque, built between 1982 and 1989. It is capped by a magnificent blue mosaic dome beneath which 3,000 Muslims may offer prayer. The most unusual mosque in Amman is the Abu Darweesh Mosque atop Jabal Ashrafieh (the highest point in the city). It is covered with an extraordinary black and white chequered pattern and is unique to Jordan. In contrast, the interior is totally free of the black and white scheme. Instead, there are light colored walls and Persian carpets. This religious building was erected by one of Amman's Circassian immigrants.

Real Estate in Amman Jordan has become the prime investment pool for the majority of investors and real estate entrepreneurs. Real estate in Amman Jordan has historically been a lucrative market, and in the past few years. Real estate in Amman Jordan has taken a prime location amongst all the real estate investments in the Middle East. Real estate investors in Amman Jordan feel secure in their investment due to the calm and wise political strategy and atmosphere which has led to a firm and stable growth in the real estate marketplace, which is expected to evolve further and flourish in the upcoming 3 years. Real estate in Amman Jordan is a lucrative business to the wise and intelligent investor whom has made a lot of profit and use in the real estate market in Amman Jordan.