EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: AMMAN

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN AMMAN

With Israel and Egypt on one side, and Syria, Iraq, and Saudi Arabi on the other, it’s no wonder Jordan’s cuisine is so vast and varied. But the consensus among travelers, hands down, is that Amman, Jordan is the best place in the world to enjoy falafel. If you haven’t been introduced to falafel, you’re in for a treat. Falafel is a generously spiced, fried ball or patty of ground chickpeas often served on a pita spread with hummus, and filled with lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Please, when in Amman, do as the Jordanians do, and enjoy an unforgettable plate of falafel.

Top Cultural Foods To Try in Amman

Here are some of the top traditional foods to try while you're studying in Amman:

• Mansaf: Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan, and it is a massive platter that features tender lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce that gets served over a bed of rice. It's traditionally shared with friends or family, and it offers a nice way to experience Jordanian hospitality and culture.
• Mezze: Mezze refers to a selection of small dishes, like a Mediterranean tapa. It’s a  great way to try a variety of different flavors, from creamy hummus and smoky baba ghanoush to crispy falafel and fresh salads. Really, it’s all about spending time with friends and family while enjoying a delicious collective meal together!
• Maqluba: This is a truly unique dish that means "upside-down" in Arabic. Maqluba is a pot of layered meat, rice, and fried vegetables. When it's ready, the pot is flipped over onto a platter, revealing a beautiful, layered dish. In Jordan, it’s a traditional home-cooked meal that tastes as good as it looks. 

BEST DRINK IN AMMAN

Coffee is more than a must-sip beverage in Amman – it’s a cultural tradition and commonly served to guests as a sign of hospitality. The host will drink the first cup to ensure it is good, then serve it to others. Jordanian coffee is made with beans from the Arabian Peninsula and is roasted either lightly or robustly with cardamom, a spice that adds a unique but surprisingly delicious twist. It’s served at street stalls, coffee shops, and restaurants alike and makes for the perfect pick-me-up.

Top Cultural Drinks To Try in Amman

Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in Amman:

• Limonana: On a hot day in Amman, there is no better drink than Limonana. It's a popular and refreshing mix of fresh lemonade and mint. It's the perfect thirst-quencher that you can find in cafes and restaurants all over the city.
• Arabic Coffee: Coffee is a huge part of the local culture, but it’s different than American coffee. Arabic coffee is strong, dark, and often bitter coffee that is served in small, handleless cups. You’ll likely enjoy this as a welcome drink, as it is a symbol of hospitality in Amman!
• Jallab: Jallab is a refreshing juice made from dates, grape molasses, and rose water. It's a very popular sweet drink that is often served over ice and topped with raisins and pine nuts. It’s especially popular during the summer and during Ramadan! 

BEST PALCES TO EXPLORE IN AMMAN

The Grand al-Husseini Mosque is located in the old part of Amman and often confused with two similarly named mosques. You can recognize it by its four minarets towering against the sky and the unusual colored pink and white stone façade. The Ottoman-style mosque was rebuilt in 1924 on the site of an ancient mosque and is simply spectacular to see! The mosque is conveniently surrounded by shops and markets so you can spend hours strolling the surrounding streets.

Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in Amman

Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in Amman:

• Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qal'a): This amazing historic site is a must-see while you’re studying abroad in Jordan. The Citadel sits on a hill overlooking downtown Amman and has ruins from Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic eras. We recommend checking out the breathtaking view at sunset!
• Petra: This ancient city carved into pink sandstone cliffs, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Walking through the narrow canyon to see the stunning Treasury building is an unforgettable experience, so you will definitely want to check this off your bucket list!
• Wadi Rum: For a unique change of scenery, visit the Wadi Rum desert! Famous for its red sands and towering rock formations, this otherworldly landscape has been the backdrop for many movies in history. You can take a jeep tour, ride a camel, and sleep under the stars in a Bedouin camp. 

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