Where to stay in Jordan

So what is a typical Jordanian hotel like?

Although there is a wide range of hotels, most of these are quite large and perhaps a little lacking in character. You can get luxury but it is more difficult to find somewhere that oozes Arabian charm… Jordan seems yet to discover the joy of the boutique hotel.

That said, there is the occasional exception such as the fantastic Eco-Lodge at Feynan. Situated in a peaceful spot at the bottom of a valley but surrounded by craggy mountains, the location of this hotel alone is fabulous. With nothing around and only solar power, there is no light pollution anywhere nearby so the views of the night sky are literally out of this world. The hotel capitalises on this with a roof top telescope and the children will be mesmerised by glimpses of Mars and other planets.

Rooms are thoughtfully decorated with local touches although don’t expect to be able to read your book at night as the solar powered lighting means you only get a gentle glow in the evening. Food is plentiful and delicious although vegetarian so avid carnivores should be prepared!

There is also more interesting accommodation available in Wadi Rum, from wild camps in the remote desert to high-end tented camps which are really more like hotels. One of our favourites is the Wadi Rum Night Luxury Camp – the clue is in the title! This is a magical place deep in the heart of the desert yet offering hotel facilities – not as much 5 star accommodation, more like 5 million stars! You will enjoy your own private Bedouin-style tent replete with silk furnishings and traditional hand-made furniture. Each tent has its own verandah with fantastic views over the dramatic desert and mountain scenery. Modern toilet and shower facilities, and a dining tent beautifully decorated with Arab furnishings, complete this incredible setting. This is glamping at its best!

How do high-end and mid-range hotels compare?

When we prepare an itinerary for you in Jordan we will take into account your budget and will be able to suggest a range of hotels to suit. Families who want to splash out can enjoy luxury hotels with a range of facilities whilst those on a tighter budget can enjoy clean and comfortable accommodation in simple, often family-run hotels.

Aqaba provides some much needed R&R at the end of a busy family holiday to Jordan. It is the perfect contrast to the sightseeing, ruins and desert so is the ideal place to illustrate different levels of accommodation. Those on a tighter budget will enjoy staying at My Hotel, a family friendly guesthouse that garners consistently good reviews from our travellers. Located near the beachfront, it offers pleasant surroundings, good service and most importantly a (small) rooftop pool.

There are family suites/inter-connecting rooms and a restaurant – or staff will recommend one of the many fabulous options for dining out in Aqaba. Guests can make use of the sandy beach at the nearby Intercontinental Hotel for a small fee and snorkelling/diving trips can also be arranged.

Those looking for more comfort have a variety of choices along the beachfront here – we think that the Movenpick Tala bay offers the best all round top-notch facilities whilst remaining well suited to families. Situated on a private 150m long beach on the shores of the Red Sea, the Movenpick has several swimming pools, plenty of water sports and numerous bars and restaurants.

These are just a few examples of places to stay in Jordan that past travellers have loved. All our holidays are tailor-made, so once we have found out a little more about you and your family, we will suggest a range of properties that we think will suit you best.