As a solo female traveller you have to constantly assess your safety. I have been to Jordan solo 3 times now. Each time was very different. Each time I have stayed for longer periods of time. The majority of the time I felt safe. The few situations that was uncomfortable were in public spaces and I dealt with them by ignoring it. The one time that I did feel in real danger was ironically after vetting the person thoroughly. He was a cousin of a good male friend, unfortunately it turned out to be the worst of my experiences. I chose that this one situation would not spoil all of the other very good experiences I have had in Jordan. Please do not ignore Jordan as a holiday destination as a solo female traveler. With reasonable precautions you will have a unique and memorable experience.

 The medias coverage of political and social unrest in the Middle East is very different to what is happening in peoples everyday lives. The down turn in Jordan’s tourist economy over the last few years has affected the whole nation. Jordan is not a budget destination, though it should not be dismissed as a Must Do Bucket List travel destination. Be prepared, Jordan is not an easy holiday destination, though it is well worth the effort.
My key pieces of advice are stay in reputable accommodation, hire a driver, don’t stray too far off the tourist path.

Travelling to Jordan is not for inexperienced solo travellers. Jordanians are typically welcoming and friendly, though they have some unique views on women. Appearing quite relaxed in relation to women, Jordan is a patriarchal society. It is still unusual to see a women travelling alone, people will stare and some may approach you to talk. A lot of men will say welcome to Jordan as you a passing them. I did not learn to speak Arabic and I survived very well for two weeks in the major towns with driver.

Miss-conceptions about western women are a constant battle, the belief that all white women are promiscuous lends to some uncomfortable conversations. I had one situation just waiting for a friend in a restaurant where the waiter started innocently chatting and then out of the blue started commenting about my looks, my eyes my mouth. I just said to him  it is time for you to leave and do your work, he left without argument. you just have to be forceful but not rude. There is an idea that women with wet hair have just had sex, so be conscious about cultural misconception.

You may experience that some restaurants have separate areas for women diners. You will be guided by the staff or the local people you are travelling with. Jordanians are very hospitable and will offer you sweet tea and food constantly. In never drink alcohol or go to bars in Middle East countries as a personal preference. Be mindful of your choices while visiting these nations.

 I always dress conservatively regardless of where I travel. I think it is a sign of respect, full stop. It disturbs me seeing skimpy clothes in my own country let a lone on travellers in foreign countries. I can not stress enough that you have to dress conservatively in all Arab nations, including Jordan. This means covering arms and legs as well as around the shoulders and neck. At major tourist sites there is some element of leniency with wearing of shorts and short sleeved t-shirts.

Head covering is not necessary in Jordan. I always choose to wear a scarf or have a scarf in my backpack if the need arises.

Ignore male attention is something you have to learn to do, when you are travelling in Jordan. There is a pack mentality, you will find that groups of younger men will pay you more attention to you than older men. As you see in my YouTube videos, I just walk confidentiality along on my journey pretending they are not there. Avoid eye contact helps and so does wearing sunglasses.

Stay to the main tourist tracks. The few times I ignored my own advice there were additional elements of danger. Most of the antiquity sites are very big, with often very few visitors, this may be overwhelming for some solo travellers. Be conscious that some guides may give unwanted attention, just be respectful and forceful.

Deterring unwanted attention may be achieved by telling them to go away or raising your voice. I have only needed to do this once or twice and it worked effectively. Bystanders will often offer assistance. It is important to be firm, stay calm and not swear, which is really hard to do in a stressful situation. I always have a strategy of going into a shop or office and talk to the people in that area explaining the situation. There is always uniformed police officers in the major towns and cities and tourist police at every antiquity.

I know that some women choose to wear a wedding ring. I personally have not done that, though that would be a reasonably easy solution to employ. I have had tell men that my husband is at the hotel or coming very soon. Though when I use this strategy on the very bad day I had, it enraged the person so much it escalated their behaviour.

While travelling in Jordan you can use public transport, as an option, though it is not one that I have ever done in Jordan. I always hire a private driver for peace of mind, safety and flexibility. Though if you did use public transport take precaution like sit with other women, sit in the back of taxi, or Uber.

If, as a solo traveller you do encounter a more serious assault, contact the authorities, by calling 911 or find a police officer. Please do not be deterred to visit Jordan you will have the best time.

So pack your bags, your next adventure awaits.