Susan Feist review 21 Apr 2013
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The view across the plaza at Jerash and all the friendly school girls who were also visiting the roman site. The first view of Petra in a slit of sunlight as we approached the end of the Siq. The climb to the cafe with a view, in the quiet of Little Petra. The Jeap ride through Wadi rum and the lovely meal by fire light in our desert camp site. The stunning colours and shapes of the sandstone in Petra and Wadi rum. The peaceful walk in Dana nature reserve. The fantastic company of my fellow travelers and our knowledgeable friendly Jordanian guide Sam.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't worry about travelling by yourself. Bring some money to buy the handmade silver jewelry at Danna nature reserve. Consider staying in Danna to do some walking.
Don’t forget to take a book down to the Dead Sea so you can have your photo taken floating and reading.
There were loads of clean bedding and blankets at the camp site so did not need sleeping bags.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Hopefully we did, we certainly aware of this at Dana nature reserve.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I was very impressed with the organisation and how much we saw in one week. We did not seem rushed but felt we had been given a good overview of the country. This is the first time I have travelled with this company and will do so again I am sure. Jordan is a great country to visit. Almost tempted to give this one 5 stars as my best holiday except I have also been to the Galapagos islands!
Kate Askew review 8 Apr 2013
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Climbing the steps by donkey at Petra and the night spent at Wadi Rum in the desert.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Ask tour leader to suggest local places to eat rather than automatically hotel or 'tourist' stop. Don't automatically believe suggestion from tour leader that buying on route in 'tourist' stops on journey is cheaper than airport - actually airport was much cheaper! Try to get group to only have one short break on last days travel (but make sure driver has enough rest) - time is needed at Dead Sea rather then a tourist restaurant on way, especially for those travelling back early next day.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes at Dana nature reserve and in Wadi Rum. However, little opportunity to use local shops and restaurants and to explore a bit. Seemed to be larger concerns picked by tour leader on route. Not sure money goes to local people.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Parbatee Manoo review 1 Oct 2012
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Visiting Jordan was amazing from start to finish, the landscape was vast and varied. The City of Petra was indeed the most exciting and exhilarating!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Just ensure you've got proper walking shoes, our guide Sam was excellent! We had both a cultural and adventure type holiday all in one. Sam took us to local places to eat, walked through Amman in the evening and provided entertainment with his funny, if not silly jokes along the way.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes indeed, it did benefit the local people. Especially happy that we visited Dana nature reserve and eat at local shops.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent and would welcome anyone to give this holiday a go - old and young!!
Jenny Steel review 23 May 2012
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Actually seeing ancient Petra and climbing to the sacrificial high point. The
views were extremely memorable as was the first glimpse of Petra from the
siqu.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared for a little bit of walking, not too much outside of Petra. However
if you want to see as much of Petra as possible then a good pair of walking
shoes/sandals and a willingness to climb.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Local people were employed to ensure the holiday was memorable including
our tour guide. He was extremely helpful and very creative with his stories,
which were not always historically accurate but were extremely interesting.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent, really enjoyed it, felt I had been on holiday even though I was away
for only 8 days in total.
Carmen Obrocea review 19 Apr 2012
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Petra of course, which is the only place where nature and mankind have joined their forces to make a wonderful and ireplaceable place. And then Jerash- but there are no words to describe it, you have to see it for yourself
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
PLEASE convince your group NOT to leave tips to local people at the discretion of the Tour Leader, each one can leave 1 JOD here and there
Do NOT leave your Tour Leader buy sandwiches/lunches for you, at least in Petra you have very nice shops selling these at the entrance, at less than half the price
Ask your Tour Leader to accompany you in Dana reserve, it is not as safe as described to go alone as there are no markings at all, I got perfectly lost between the bushes
And do NOT take Petra by night if you are not with your loved one in a romantic mood, otherwise it`s just a looooong walk in the dark just to here 30 min of (beautiful) music
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
NO, except for the Tour Leader and his friends along the way
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It`s a pitty that a whole excursion can be ruined by one guy, in my case the local guide, who did nothing else than ripping us off for one whole week. I was very disappointed, and it really ruined my whole trip- which could have been the best I`ve had
Read the operator's response here:
Thank you for sending us your comments.
We note that the issue of tips has upset you. The group tipping is discretionary and if anyone wants to withdraw, at any stage of the trip, they can do so. We would expect your group leader to highlight this to you.
We are concerned that you felt the prices the tour leader was charging for lunches was higher than the price for food available locally. This is something we are discussing with the local agent to ensure that the group leader is offering good value for money.
We are very disappointed that you felt the trip was not helping the local people. There are many ways in which your visit helped the locals - one of which was by supporting the local Bedouins - allowing them to continue their way of life. This should have been explained to you and we have raised this with your tour leader.
We are sorry that you did not enjoy the Petra and Wadi Rum holiday. Your comments have been raised with our Product manager who is responsible for this trip. Normally the feedback we receive is excellent. So far this year the trip overall has been rated 89% by customers, and our leaders 91%. Please be assured that we are trying to learn what happened on your trip, so that we can ensure future customers have happier experiences.
Thank you again for sending your comments.
Yours sincerely
Sean Hughes
Customer Operations Manager
Mike Neale review 21 Mar 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Well Organised - great group and great leader.
Covered all major sites in Jordan with enough time for all our wishes
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Read up before hand in trip guides etc and be prepared to ask the guide
questions etc
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Absolutely - we visited local Bedouin and had food from local markets etc. We supported local communities etc
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very good indeed -Great value.
Siobhan Waldron review 4 Nov 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Hearing the call to prayer on the first day in Jordan, in the town of Jerash. It was moving & brought us to a lovely reality of where we were, finally, after 5 years of waiting to come here, here we were!!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
For women, I recommend that you wear scarves / shawl around your hair in remote places & try to learn a few simple phrases in Arabic as it goes along way with the locals.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
I felt that this holiday benefited local people as we ate lunch with families from the local areas, visited non-touristy villages to buy supplies, water, food etc. Also we knew the best places to buy coffee & souvenirs as our guide instructed us on where was best to go to benefit local shops & not mega supermarkets. The environmental impact could have been better managed by the recycling of plastic water bottles & the use of plastic bags. I also feel that the hotels could reduce towel usage & washing if they didn't provide towels & asked us to bring / use our own.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I was really happy with the planning, itinerary, guide, driver, hotels, choice of stops & overall the group of people we were with. I think a lot of thought was put into this trip & it would be a shame if anything was lost or changed to it. I know me & my partner were very happy with everything.
Liza Pullman review 6 Sep 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The sheer beauty of Jordan from Petra to Wadi Rum. Petra exceeded my expectations and surpassed Giza in terms of presence and impact. The hike to the Monastery at Petra otherwise known as "top of the World" was stunning. Snorkeling in the Red Sea, pristine. Sleeping in tents at Wadi Rum, ethereal. You feel the history of the area.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
All of the destinations are equidistant from Amman, therefore I would plan the trip a little differently. This trip ended in the Dead Sea. I would recommend ending in the Red Sea. There is some inconsistency with the hotels and that should
be considered in planning your trip. You have to make a concerted effort to take in Amman as the chosen hotel is located on the outskirts.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The economy in this region is in a tail spin for obvious reasons. Therefore, any tourism is of great benefit to the people. The hotels are suffering and this affected our experience in these hotels. In particular the hotels in Petra and
the Dead Sea had expanded in past years and now due to recent events and felt virtually empty. The advantage is that you have amazing historical sites virtually to yourself.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I loved Jordan and feel that it represents much that is great about the Middle East. The experience in Petra, the Red Sea and Wadi Rum will remain embedded in my memories for a long time...
James Treadgold review 14 May 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Wadi Rum.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take good walking shoes.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.
Cordelia McKenna review 23 Apr 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
I really enjoyed spending time at the Dana Nature Preserve. It's a very beautiful, peaceful place. There are numerous treks you can take, and the guest house is a great place to stay. It's perched up at the edge of the valley and run by really nice people.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
1. You don't need a big sleeping bag for the camp because there are plenty of blankets, but a lightweight sleep sack would be nice.
2. If your group is small, the suggested tips for driver and tour guide are not enough.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Going to Dana did help local people, and apparently the camp we stayed in at Wadi Rum was the only one owned and run by the local Bedouins.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I had a really good time. Jordan was more than I expected in terms of variety and beauty of landscape. Every day brought different views to soak in and sights to explore. Our tour guide, Ahmed, knew a lot about each place we visited and went to great efforts to share his knowledge with us in a low key way. We were lucky to have him.
Neil Williamson review 24 Nov 2010
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Watching the sun rise from while riding a camel in Wadi Rum was amazing as was the 4X4 tour. Petra too is incredible, the city area is so much larger than I imagined.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Keep an open mind and do try the tea. It's easy to get used to.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
I think it benefitted local people as our guide was very knowledgeable about where to buy things from to maximise the benefit to the local economy.
As for impacts on the environment, I think the 4X4 ride was the least environmentally friendly part but it was fantastic to be able to that.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Holiday was brilliant. Lots to see, lots to do and so many photos and memories to return to.
Liz Potter review 7 Jun 2010
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
All of it - it was a wonderful mix of adventure, luxury, new sights, history and making new friends.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Make sure that the sights visited are covered; think about the type of clothes to take. Weigh up paying that little extra for a higher class of hotel versus some of the more economical trips. This was well worth the additional cash for some luxury and convenience.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
It did benefit local people, but in terms of impacts on he environment I think we as individuals had choices in our control which were not really things a holiday company can force us to do e.g. towels in hotels, travel by minibus etc
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
One of my most memorable holidays in a wonderful, friendly country.
Laura Meldrum-Carter review 1 Nov 2010
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing the varied sights and landscapes of Jordan. Travelling with a like-minded group.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Feel free to try and explore independently and take advantage of the additional excursions on offer. These were some of the best parts of the trip for me.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, particularly financially. The reduced impacts on the environment were less clear.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent things to see and do - we had some issues with accommmodation and tour leader on the ground.
Caroline Chadwick review 19 Jan 2010
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Petra, the sunset over the Dead Sea, the people that we shared our trip with, they were fantastic and we all got on with each other really well.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Check that your stay is actually in the Wadi Rum Protected Area rather than the larger Disi area that the Rough Guide (page 326) advises you about.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Overall it was very good made better by the people in our group. We were very disappointed to find that were not within the protected area of Wadi Rum but rather in the Disi. This area is very nice and we enjoyed our 4wd trek but having looked through the leaflets and maps at the visitors centre and read the guide book we feel that we have been let down in this part of our trip. Everything in the itinerary suggests that you are in the Wadi Rum Protected Area and nobody at any point suggested that we were not. Having said that we enjoyed our trip very much. Thank you.
Lesley Chaffey review 16 Aug 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
As I can’t swim it has to be floating in the Dead Sea. It was an unbelievable experience. I did not believe I would be able to as I did not think it would work if you cant relax to float but the sea just lifted me up and held me in the water.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
To make sure you have the right shoes to walk up, down and around mountains. Very hard work but the guide took the group at the right pace for everyone and made the whole experience a joy. Try not to go in August if you can as it was very hot but did not spoil the holiday although we felt as though we were melting at times.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes all guides were local and knew their areas so explained the ways and cultures of their country.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was packed will new experiences each as good as the others but all different.
Sally Hughes review 3 Nov 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Jordan is such a magical place it is difficult to pick any one part of the holiday but I think the time in the Wadi Rum was the most amazing. It is such a very special place-constantly changing in different lights with the most awe-inspiring scenery. There is a real sense of legend about the Wadi Rum it just feels ancient. The night we camped out, just our group in a special camp in the Rum will be a lasting memory.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take plenty of cash as ATMs seem to operate rather erratically-they have separate systems so some banks take mastercard and some visa and lots seem to take against debit cards and there is such a great programme it is a pity to waste time trying to get out money when you could be drinking in the scenery or checking out the historical sites. A sleeping bag liner is a must too and a more useful thing to pack than a sleeping bag as there are always plenty of blankets but it is often too hot to sleep under them.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes - we used local guides and ate in local restaurants so were feeding back into the community especially in the Dana Nature Reserve and Feynan.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic! Well organised and included all the key must-see places. As always some I could have spent a lot longer in but for a first taste of Jordan it was great. Particularly in the Wadi Rum I felt our guide could have let us take things a bit slower not because he pushed us too hard but because there was so much to marvel at we needed time to take time. We often found that we arrived at the destination point with plenty of time to rest but would have appreciated more time on the trail to stop and look and take another kodak moment. The standard of accommodation far exceeded my expectations - the guesthouse at Feynan was truly magical and the Dead Sea resort fabulous - the best shower ever and drinks by the pool-so necessary after all that TT trekking!
Joan Mowat review 4 Jun 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Wadi Rum followed by Petra. Would have loved to stayed longer in the desert it was magical.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
You don’t need to take a hairdryer!! and if you don’t like hummus and salad for breakfast take some cereal bars with you. Tell the local guide you really would like to see some local shops and not the tourist ones. There is a lot of walking but you can opt out if you want to and relax. The toilet facilities in the desert camp were better than some British toilets.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Not sure about this one, didn’t meet a lot of local people. Petra was well impacted, coach after coach.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Different, interesting and suitable for all ages (not young children though) our group ranged from 30 to 70 yrs.
Valerie Malik review 21 Apr 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We went on the Jordan Adventure holiday and by far the most memorable part was the visit to Petra. It was incredible - we walked through the narrow gorge and it was in shady sunshine and at the end it opened out into the 'Treasury' with sunshine blazing on it and you could see the wonder, size and breath taking beauty of this magnificent monument depicting history in all its awe and splendour. Our group of 16 were really supportive and fun to be with and this also made a difference to our enjoyment.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Bring strong sun block and be prepared for long periods of walking especially in Petra - I reckon we walked 22 km that day! Also on the 4 by 4 in the desert wear warm clothes whilst on the back of the vehicle and a proper Bedouin head gear that won't keep slipping and falling off!!! You also need to be quite fit to climb some very steep hills in Dana and Petra. Bring medicine for stomach pains - the heat and some of the food gave members a bit of a 'dippy' tummy.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes - we stayed in local hotels and ate in local restaurants and our tips went to the locals. We also transferred our water into smaller bottles or indeed carried the larger ones and disposed off in the correct bins. We also visited souvenir outlets that were run for the benefit of handicapped children or other charities, so I did not mind spending money in these shops.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent.
Dorinda Davies review 8 Mar 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Arriving in Petra after the walk through the gorge to get there. Staying at Wadi Rum, dancing to authentic local music, travelling through the desert rocky landscape, riding a camel through the desert while wearing one's newly acquired Bedouin headdress!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
If you go in January/February it can be cold and wet. At least one warm jumper needed. (It snowed in Amman) Further south much warmer. Still managed a sun tan. Try to get out of the Dead Sea hotel and see the museum at the viewpoint. Very interesting and a good, fairly cheap restaurant. Use a local taxi to get there as the hotel charges the earth. If too rough to swim in the Dead Sea, hotel spa has a small warm indoor pool of Dead Sea water (charges £10). The cost of living has gone up since the Iraq war, so you need to budget a little more than the prices mentioned in the trip notes. 3 course dinners were more like £10/12 and beer £4/5. Dead Sea Hotel buffet £22!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
We stayed in family hotels mainly and used some local restaurants. Some money to stalls etc we didn't have a vast amount of contact with local people.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very enjoyable. First time we had tried a group holiday. There were 9 of us of varying ages and backgrounds and we all got on very well. Really appreciated having a knowledgeable local guide with us- this made the holiday.
Lesley Stones review 31 Dec 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The sights - Petra is stunning, and the Dana nature reserve is also lovely.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take more money than you expect - Jordan is expensive. Or be prepared to do your own thing and skip the guide's suggested lunch venues. Take warm clothes for the winter. There's no section on this form for suggestions etc, but I really want to lodge a complaint against our guide, Essa. He was rude, unhelpful and merely interested in lining his own pockets. He also was completely unable to answer general questions, although he talked endlessly. He also gave wrong info - eg "There's a 10 Dinar airport departure tax to pay for people not on the group visa." No there isn't. First time I've seen a group tip its tour guide LESS that it tipped the driver....
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Not entirely - it benefited big local operators through numerous stops for expensive lunches in tourist-oriented hotels and restaurants. We did more to benefit the local economy by skipping those and finding our own place in the back streets. Our guide also had no clue about preserving the environment. After a picnic on a mountain top the rubbish bag was quietly deposited behind a rock - until I objected and said we must take it down to dispose of properly. He said local kids would tidy it up, but reluctantly put the litter back on the coach when others joined the protest.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very nice group of travelling companions. Interesting sights, nice mix of antiquity and modern.
Read the operator's response here:
We would agree with you that Jordan is becoming more expensive, particularly overthe last year. Whilst we do our best to keep the information on local costs up to date, it has been quite a challenge lately due to the fluctuations in exchange rates.
It’s true that the tourist infrastructure is well developed in Jordan and that guides tend to opt for the safety and predictability of hotels and tourist restaurants. We realise that our clients are not always happy with this approach and have reiterated to our local agent that any meal arrangements should be agreed with the group beforehand.
We have taken note of the recommendation for taking warm clothing and have reminded our Sales and Customer service teams to be vigilant in providing this advice in future.
Whilst the Group Leader is there to ensure that all arrangements are in place and that everything runs smoothly, it is equally important that he communicates effectively with the group and provides accurate information. We were particularly unhappy to hear about the incident with the rubbish bag and have addressed this with our ground agent
Ron Noah review 8 Jun 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
This is a tie between my first glimpse of the Treasury at Petra and floating in the Dead Sea watching the sun set over Israel.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take plenty of money, big hotels out in the boonies are expensive, even when the room is paid for. Don't expect a variety of food or much contact with local people or culture. Be prepared to be dumped at the a joining hotel which is miles from downtown Amman without any idea of where it is located, where, outside of the hotel you might eat (we did find a place without difficulty) and not to be met by your local guide until the next morning, two hours after the designated time. (The guide apologized profusely and explained his tardiness and we did not hold it against him; but for a while we wondered if the whole trip had been a scam. The fact is that he forgot that 4 of us were "land only" when he informed the group flying in together of a change in schedule.) Be prepared to be dumped at the departure hotel a day and a half before departure without any idea of how to arrange a trip to local sites or where a meal could be purchased for a half way reasonable price.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
No. 4 of 7 nights were spent in 4 or 5 star hotels not usually known for minimizing environmental impacts or particularly benefiting local people beyond providing menial jobs. It is my guess that the preceding comment also applies to our stay in Wadi Rum after racing across the desert for 3+ hours in 4-wheel drive vehicles. (It was a blast and a memorable highlight, but not an experience of which I am necessarily proud.)
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was a memorable experience; and I am glad to have seen and done much of it. On the other hand I have not felt more like a typical tourist for years. At the end I felt almost like I had spent a week at a theme park carefully separated from the real world. I would rate it as an enjoyable disappointment.
Read the operator's response here:
The food in Jordan, whilst comprising many different dishes in the style of a meze, does tend to be the same in most establishments. Buffets are the norm and they provide the opportunity to pick and choose according to personal prefernce.
Having checked about the changed meeting time, a message was left with the hotel reception which they failed to pass on. We have advised that in future a note be put under clients’ doors as hotel receptions can be notoriously unreliable for passing on messages. Any affected clients were provided with a complimentary lunch by way of an apology.
Our clients should not have been left at the end of the trip, the Group Leader is supposed to stay with the group until departure. This has arisen due to a misunderstanding over the service expected from our local agent and has been resolved for future trips.
Jordan is a well developed tourist destination and we realise that some of the hotels and attractions are not necessarily compatible with our aim to interact with and contribute to the local community. However, we are pleased to be able to include the stay at Dana National Park, where the guest house is owned by one of the village families and the park run by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature. Despite the overall benefit of tourism bringing much needed investment and employment into the country, we are always looking to improve on this aspect of our trips.
The four wheel drive vehicles used in Wadi Rum are, we agree not the most eco friendly aspect of the trip. Nevertheless, we ensure that the vehicles used are well maintained and as new as possible, rendering the pollution caused lower than many other vehicles used in the desert.
Finally, we have passed these comments to our Product team who are currently planning our trips for next year.
Deborah Hannah review 7 Jan 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Seeing Petra.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take a sleeping bag.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes.
Judith Walker review 3 Jun 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
There were many memorable and exciting parts of the holiday. I enjoyed all of it, the Roman ruins at Jerash, Dana Nature Reserve, and of course Petra which lived up to all my expectations, not forgetting the wonderful atmosphere in the desert. The whole trip was then brought alive by our guide who obviously loved his country and with his knowledge and enthusiasm brought Jordan alive to us.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't bring a sleeping bag in May for sleeping in the desert as good mattresses and blankets are provided. The last day at the dead sea the hotel was five star and it would be good to have one decent dress to get a bit dressed up.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes particularly in the Dana nature reserve. Not sure about plastic bottles of water, we did try to buy larger bottles but not always possible.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Five stars a wonderful trip met interesting people with similar tastes. I will freely recommend to friends and family.
Read the operator's response here:
Having been to Jordan myself, I can appreciate how many highlights there are and would agree with you that Petra does live up to its reputation and more. It is great to hear what a fantastic guide you had, it makes such a difference. We feel it is important to use local guides as they can give you a real insight into the country. We offer sleeping bags as we have found that some clients appreciate them if the temperature drops suddenly as it can in the desert. However, bedding is provided and certainly during the summer months you should not need anything extra. Unfortunately, plastic water bottles are all over in Jordan, as in many countries. We would always recommend they be avoided or reused if possible, indeed much of the water in Jordan is now safe to drink. Thank you for leaving your feedback and for your recommendation, we will look forward to you travelling with us again.
Linda Payne review 2 Oct 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The most memorable part of our Jordan holiday was walking into Petra at sunrise, with just 2 friends and no guide, being free to wander at will, to stop and take photos without being hassled.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take more money than is suggested in the itinerary and notes!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
This is a very difficult question! We had little contact with local people as the guide kept us together and 'under his eye', he took Jordanian dinars from us to dispense all the tips to locals and we had no time to wander freely except at Petra. I think the Wadi Rum part of the adventure was carefully organised and monitored and did minimise the impact on the environment but feel that at some time in the future there will have to be more 'Don't do' signs at Petra as insensitive tourists were climbing everywhere.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
As an adventure it was great, scenically beautiful and very, very different. Petra is one of the most wonderful places I have seen but there is a BUT, I found the tour 'rushed' generally, the pit stops too short and the guide's attitude was a bit rude. He seemed to be 'herding' us all the time and made no allowances for our own interest and knowledge. His English was also a bit strange and difficult to follow at times.
Read the operator's response here:
It is great to hear how much you enjoyed Jordan and in particular your time in Petra. We are currently updating all our trip dossiers in preparation for the new brochure and local prices will be amended to reflect the recent fluctuations in exchange rates.
We were concerned to hear that you were unhappy with some aspects of the service provided by your Group Leader and this has been brought to the attention of our agent. Our local leaders are instructed to take the individual group's interests and needs into account and we would apologise for any shortcomings you experienced in this respect.
Pauline Lacey review 20 Sep 2008
All of the Lacey family really enjoyed our recent holiday to Petra/Wadi Rum. From the time we were met at Amman Airport, and during the whole holiday we were really looked after. I must particularly praise our guide, Samir Saleh. He was very informative and knowledgeable, about his country Jordan, without being boring or political. Nothing was too much trouble and tried in every way to please us. He was a very pleasant person to talk to, easy to get on with and a great guy. The holiday exceeded my expectations, and I would recommend it to anyone. I would definitely go back to Jordan. The people seem to be really friendly. I enjoyed every minute of the holiday and didn't want it to end.
Ruth Hodgins review 9 Sep 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
I really liked the mountain biking. I wasn't sure about it before the holiday but the instructors were excellent and their encouragement and top tips made for a very enjoyable experience. I will definitely be doing more biking now that I'm home.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
This is a good holiday for people travelling together but also for people travelling on their own. There was a good mix of both in my group and everyone was included at all times.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, very much so.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I had a great time on this holiday. It was exactly as described in the brochure. The activities were extremely well organised and lots of fun. The instructors were professional and graded each activitiy according to people's ability, confidence and skill.
Danielle Dunbar review 11 Aug 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
All of it!!! Our guide Osama was excellent so knowledgeable and he put his whole heart into making the trip memorable for us, the people of Jordan are so welcoming (I went alone and felt totally safe), and the group were all so like minded we had such a fun trip! But highlights have to be the Monastery at Petra (very worth the 800 steps - don't give up half way) plus walking back out of Petra to find the Treasury turned rose in colour and was totally free from tourists, just the camels and donkeys were milling around (plus the climb our guide took us on away from the touristy parts to see beautiful views of Petra). Dana was incredible, the hostel was stunning, with the most amazing views and so peaceful, would have loved to stay there another night. The nature climb was pretty special too - particularly when our walking guide pulled out his tea pot and made us all fresh tea in the middle of nowhere. The night at Wadi Rum... there are no real words to describe this just breath-taking! All the ancient ruins and sites... Jordan is an amazing destination. Sorry it was all so great I can't just give one highlight.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take ear plugs as morning call to prayer is very loud at 4am! A torch is essential for the desert (and wet wipes!). Take some fresh water into the Dead Sea with you to rinse your eyes should they get splashed - its very painful. If you are going to walk to the Monastery take at least 2 bottles of water up with you and cover for your head!
Small backpack for the day is also a very good idea, water gets heavy and it’s good to have both hands free.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Our guide was very aware of littering and even removed rubbish we came across as we walked through the nature reserve and desert. He pulled over a rubbish truck one morning to tell them to go back and clean up properly which I was very impressed with. He was also very good to point out which shops helped the local people and explained how they helped so we could make informed choices. We also went to very local restaurants and even a cave to eat which definitely benefited the local people directly.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Amazing, would highly recommend it to anyone that asks. The company were very organised, took great care of us and I will definitely return to Jordan. The only thing I would change is to have less time at the Dead Sea, was very hot with very little to do and all the group expressed the same feelings, think we all would have preferred and extra night at Dana or in the Desert. (Fortunately our very lovely guide helped us all to go visit the Baptism site while we were there as we told him we were a bit bored and asked his advise, which was a great bonus - would be nice if this was in the itinerary for future guests should they want it too!)
Mike Bayliffe review 24 Jun 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Difficult to identify any one activity... all activities were very well designed and executed. Most noteworthy was the trip to Jerash... the Roman city was well preserved... and the show of Roman Gladiators/chariot racing was extremely enjoyable. We covered a lot of ground and the guide (Osamah Twal) was excellent in providing loads of information and explanation... in fact he made the tour what it was... Petra was crowded with visitors and although very well presented was very tiring. The Wadi Rum desert activity was also well executed and a lot of fun.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Petra was very hot and busy at this time of year... perhaps avoiding the mid-summer and crowds would have made it more enjoyable.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Not sure you can ever avoid impacts on the environment... the desert activity was the most fun and perhaps the most impactive... Jordan relies on tourism and has invested large sums in rebuilding infrastructure and historic sites... we also visited nature reserve at Dana with spectacular views and the walks were designed to minimise impacts.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
One of the best I've taken in the past 8-years of adventure type holidays... I'm not the most able afoot so was relieved that there were alternatives for the less able. The tour operator should be commended for a well organised and safe adventure. Jordan was a surprise as it turned out to be unlike other Middle East countries in being very friendly and welcoming to tourists and appeared to be safer than most.
Read the operator's response here:
I’m pleased to see what a great trip you had to Jordan. Having done this trip myself a little while ago, I would agree that Jordan is an amazing place to visit and very friendly. It is always tricky to get an even balance between the responsible tourism aspect of the holiday and the real need of the population to make a living out of tourism but we do our best to give back what we can by visiting places such as the Dana Nature Reserve and using locally owned accommodation. Thank you for you kind words on the skills of your guide and our organisation, I will make sure your comments are passed on to those concerned.
Linda Johnstone review 24 Mar 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Camping in the desert and having tea under the stars. Wadi Rum was amazing and it was fantastic to be able to trek between sights.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Get a polarising filter if you have an SLR camera as the sun is really intense. Bring a torch, flip flops and some funny stories for around the camp fire. Read up on Petra and watch Indian Jones & the last crusade. Have a picnic - it is really easy to get barbecue chicken, fresh vegetables, freshly baked bread and yoghurt for an alfresco lunch.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Our guide and driver were local and we ate in local restaurants & cafes and were encouraged to support local businesses. The emphasis on this holiday was trekking so we were able to escape the bus a lot. One of the Bedouin camps had an eco-toilet but the other had portaloos which were not only unpleasant on the landscape but very smelly. We felt that in that particular camp, more care could have been taken over the local area ensuring litter was removed. Our group was conscious of litter and ensure this was disposed of as best we could but there was no place for recycling. Some more work could be done in this area by the tour company to encourage this.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We had a fantastic time. The trekking was great and we felt we were able to appreciate Jordan much more than being brought from place to place in a coach. We really enjoyed the food and atmosphere and found Jordanians very friendly.
Alan Bailey review 18 Feb 2008
Here are some bullet points regarding the Petra - Wadi Rum tour of Jordan:
Support at Airports coming and going very good. The Guide, Samir Saleh, who stayed with the group all week could not have been better. He had an authoratative command of the history and geography of the country. He ensured that the needs of individuals as well as those of the group were met to everyone's satisfaction. The ruins of Jerash, Petra and, Karak were all well worth seeing. Each having their own contribution to the history of the area. The geographic features of the Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, Dana nature reserve on the edge of Wadi Arabia and the Desert of the south to Aquaba were something not to be missed.
The contrasts of Snow in Aman and Little Petra with sunning yourselves in the Dead Sea and the beach of Aquaba just a day apart illustrated another aspect of the physical geography of the area making very interesting to experience and the necessary preparation of lots of clothing layer. Add to this the desert in Wadi Rum being the coldest for some 20 years and it made you realise the diurnal range of temperatures possible in this desert country. Transport was OK...Especially when you did mini coach, 4 X 4, camel and walking in one day. Royal Jordanian Airways top class with good service all round.
The hostel at Dana was first class even though showrooms had to be shared. The natural history guide and staff at Dana would be difficult to better. The Shepherd Hotel ( Amman), Petra Palace and Crystal Hotel (Aquaba) were satisfactory but(as a guest house owner in Stratford) need a Jordan version of the "Inspector calls" to improve necessary of good service. I.E - light not working in bathroom, no hot water on arrival after 2 days on the road, no bedside lights connected. Small essential things matter.
Will tell others of how much you can pack into 8 days, learnt a lot and had fun with strangers of like minds who soon become good friends.
Melanie Murphy review 25 Oct 2007
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Exiting the Siq to view the enormity and beauty of the Treasury at Petra during the "Petra by Night" tour.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take a separate pair of old trainers, deck shoes or flip-flops to wear when entering the Dead Sea. Don't forget a good hat to protect you from the sun and don't forget a decent torch for camping at Wadi Rum.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, members of the group were asked to personally hand over tips that came out of the local payment to Bedouin and other locals following excursions etc. This added to our personal "feel good" factor in knowing that Jordanians actually benefited; it's a superb touch knowing they directly benefit from tourism.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Extremely good - and anyone considering the holiday who may be "sitting on the fence" about whether or not they should book should definitely go for it. After only arriving back in the UK yesterday, we both have that horrible feeling of being very out of sorts now we are back and miss Jordan and the Jordanian people immensely. This I feel is testament to just how much we enjoyed it.
Anne Mccardle review 7 Nov 2007
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
It's hard to pick just one highlight, but the time we spend in the desert was just amazing. From sitting to watch the sunset over the extraordinary scenery, watching a thousand starts light up the sky to climbing sand dunes and having the best nights sleep in the Bedouin camp.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Definitely! Our guide was very focused on how our trip and activities were impacting and helping the local people and made sure we were aware of this all the time.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A brilliant holiday, full of highlights. Jordan is a wonderful country and the people are very friendly. Our tour guides were extremely efficient and were always going that extra mile to make sure we enjoyed every aspect of the holiday. Highly recommended!
Robert Mason review 6 Nov 2007
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Dana Nature reserve, Wadi Rum and Petra.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take ciprofloxacin and ear plugs for the 4.15 call to prayer.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, the locals were great.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Great.
Rupert Saunders review 24 Oct 2007
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Wadi Rum was stunning; Petra is huge (much bigger than we expected) and the Dana Nature reserve must be one of the most beautiful places on earth. Also the Jordanian people are so friendly and welcoming.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't bother with sleeping bags or a sleeping inner. We had individual tents with sheets at Wadi Rum. There is one long day in the mini-bus but stick with it. Arriving at Dana makes it all worthwhile.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Used local guides and companies wherever possible.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent - and extremely good value for money. Only issue would be quality of the first hotel in Amman.
Martha Jasko review 9 Aug 2007
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
It's difficult to say what the best bit of the holiday was as it was all really great. Naturally, visiting Petra was one of the highlights as I was realising a long held desire to go there but the experiences of snorkelling for the first time in the Red Sea, sleeping under the stars in desert and seeing all the other fabulous archaeological remains in Jordan were perhaps all the more interesting as they were unexpected.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
If you don't like heat, don't go in July! It was hot so a hat and sunglasses are essential but not humid so it's not as bad as you might think from the temperatures. Also be prepared for a possible dodgy tummy...
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, the hotels and restaurants we used were run by locals, as far as I'm aware. I can't say I noticed us doing anything either way regarding the environment although we did stay one night in a nature reserve. One point, not really in the control of the tour operator, is that, given there is a water shortage in Jordan, none of the hotels had any sort of water restriction or even suggestions about not wasting water.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic! Really interesting, good mix of culture, nature and activity. Our guide was brilliant.
Catherine Jeffery review 14 Apr 2007
The holiday was fantastic. It was so varied, it is impossible to Pick out one thing. Petra was everything one could have hoped, Dana was beautiful and was led by a local guide whose stories kept us entertained and to sleep under the stars in the desert was amazing.
The tour guide was an expert in history and archaeology and was able to bring Jerash and Petra alive. Although not a trekking holiday, trail boots or similar are advisable if you want to make the most of Petra and Dana.
I would rate the holiday as **** . I have already recommended it to friends.
Clare Lees review 19 Feb 2007
An amazing experience overall - we saw a lot and did a lot in a short amount of time. Jordan is a wonderful place and the fact that it is situated where it is, made the experience poignant.
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Hard to isolate one exciting/memorable experience! Driving through the Wadi Mujib, experiencing the serenity and beauty of Mount Nebo, waking up in Dana (in such a wonderful rest-house) and seeing the view and then hiking. Petra of course was spectacular, and Wadi Rum truly memorable!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
This holiday was classed as being suitable for people in reasonably good health and highlighted a reasonable amount of walking. The hike in Dana involved climbing/scrambling some pretty steep rocks - pretty hard for those with no such experience. I had good boots and no experience and though I was nervous I managed it, so felt good! The local guide was also very sensitive to the abilities of the group. I think the tour guide should also make an assessment of the clothes/shoes people set out in. I am not sure that trainers would suffice. At Petra there is a lot of walking and if you do the Monastery climb, this is reasonably tough and if you get vertigo there are a few spots which might affect you. For that reason I didn't walk to a the main High Place given this is a bit steeper. Also wear layers - we went in Feb and so expected a variety of weather (we were very lucky - week before there had been lots of rain and snow!).
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
We stayed in local hotels and did buy picnic food from local shops. One thing which disappointed a few of us on the group was that we didn't get the opportunity to look at the craft shop at Dana. Our guide implied this was expensive and it felt like he made the decision not to let us have time there. Many of us would have liked to have supported that shop - even if prices were higher....We had a big coach for the 16 of us - which was very comfortable and allowed us to spread out etc - but not that environmentally friendly! Also the driver kept the coach running when we stopped for picnic lunch or camera stops.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
**** - fabulous
Read the operator's response here:
Thank you for your feedback – we were pleased to hear you had so many memorable experiences. The grading of our trips is subjective, and the route at Dana tailored to the abilities of the group. We also don’t include the visit to the Monastery at Petra because of its difficulty level. However, as you say, it’s vital that the guide or group leader gives an idea/briefing of the level of the walks, so suitability of equipment and ability can be assessed. This is usually standard on our trips, and we will reiterate this point during a staff visit in a month’s time.
We have already spoken with our local ground agent (and Samir the Group Leader), and should clients wish there will be time to visit the craft shop at Dana. It’s true that Samir was concerned about the cost of goods at the shop, but it’s now been reiterated that the monies go to the RSCN and so it’s not like other tourist shops, which may try to take advantage of visitors. The buses we use are usually smaller vehicles, with enough room for the group to be comfortable. Where we had a bigger bus on this trip, the company thought they were doing us a favour by “upgrading” the size. Inspections of vehicle size will be done prior to each trip.
John Miller review 22 Apr 2006
Thanks for the great tour!!!!! I have already been recommending this tour company and am the verge of booking a tour to India with yourselves for April 2007.
How can you choose the most memorable part of the tour, to many to pick a favourite. But for me these are the highlights of the tour: The Dana Guest House - we arrived in the dark and in the morning woke to breathtaking views from the balcony of our room. The treasury at Petra after the walk along the siq.
Finally Wadi Rum, after a afternoon drive in a 4WD vehicle the driver stopped for us to watch the sunset over the mountains. We then drove onto the Bedouin camp and spent an evening under the stars. Words cannot describe the tour you have to do it!!!!!
Finally over guide Basel, he was outstanding. His knowledge and passion for Jordan made the holiday. Nothing was to much for him and his organisation skills outstanding. I would recommend this holiday to anyone and rate it as 5 stars.
Graham Farrer review 13 Aug 2006
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Our tour leader positioned us, eyes closed, at the approach to the Treasury at Petra and then told us to open our eyes. It made for a most memorable impression since there was no unintentional spoiling of the dramatic view, truly a Wow! moment.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Summer is low season and there are far fewer people at the attractions, therefore if you don't mind the high temperatures it can be a less crowded experience at Petra. Take a water bladder/day sack combo - it is more convenient than carrying bottles of water. Also, if visiting the Dead Sea, take care to avoid getting the water in your eyes. It really stings and spoils the view (since you can't open your eyes for ages!).
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The tour certainly avoided the big names in the hotel business, favouring indigenous hotels instead which provided excellent accommodation - not that there was much time spent in the rooms. Local restaurants and shops were used for all meals and shopping.
4. Any other comments?
Overall a **** holiday. Thank you
Molly Warrington review 13 May 2006
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
It's difficult to say what the most memorable part of my holiday to Jordan was, since it was all brilliant - amazing landscape, fascinating history and culture and friendly people. If I had to choose just one thing though, it would probably be the night in the desert, but the visit to Dana Nature Reserve was also pretty special, and not something most trips to Jordan take in.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
I'd advise other travellers to check that they really do need sleeping bags for this trip - we were advised we did, and they weren't in fact necessary. Otherwise, the organisation couldn't be faulted. Also, you don't have to be young or super fit to thoroughly enjoy this holiday!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
I was surprised that the Jordanian people were so welcoming and friendly, and were pleased we had come to visit their country. It's good - as our guide constantly told us - to build bridges between countries among ordinary people. I guess we also benefited their economy, especially since we used local hotels, restaurants, guides, etc. We also left behind sun cream, insect repellent, medicines, etc for the Bedouin. I'm not sure that any holiday is without costs to the environment though!
4. Any other comments?
This is certainly one of the best holidays I've ever been on - I'd give it 4 and a half stars! I shall definitely consider going with this operator on future trips. Attached photo is of a turtle, taken in Dana Nature Reserve.
