Unique ways to relax in Jordan

Do you want to visit Jordan but feel worried that it will be to dusty and tiring? Surprisingly, you can find some unique ways to relax in Jordan. Traveling in the Middle East is highly recommended, but it can get really exhausting with all the moving around. I came to Jordan after a hectic and busy 7 days in Egypt and needed to slow the pace down a little. I was surprised to find that there are ways to relax while traveling in Jordan.

If you’ve been exploring anywhere else in the region and arrive to Jordan in need of some R&R, then try adding a relaxing stop into your Jordan itinerary. You may be wondering why you would plan to relax in Jordan, surely you can just go on a beach break to Thailand for that, right!? Read on and let me convince you.

Ma’in Hot Spring Resort and Spa

Just a 1 hour drive from Jordan’s international airport sits a beautiful and exclusive resort. Here you can find a natural hot waterfall running down into the valley. The hot springs and hotel are 260 meters below see level, so scientifically the oxygen levels must be higher, which must be good for something? That’s not all though.

While you’re here you can either use the hot hotel swimming pool, which is filled with naturally hot water that runs off from the mountain. You can also pay extra for a day pass to the exclusive spa. In the spa swimming pool the waterfall runs direct from the hillside into the spa pool. It’s pretty epic. You can also go up the road to the public hot springs, which cost very little. There is something for every budget.

I went in the winter and it was perfect, because it was incredible to warm up in the steamy outdoor spa pool. When I felt too hot I would sit around in my snuggly, white bath robe and drink a cold beer. There was no better way to wash the Egyptian sand out the of my hair.

Movenpick Resort and Spa Dead Sea

This hotel is a 1 hour drive from the international airport or a 1 hour drive from the Ma’in Spa.

It takes 1 hour by road to reach the Dead Sea from Amman. You can pick up a rental car for as little as $20 per day. Budget travellers have the option of catching a local bus.

When visiting the Dead Sea you have 4 options, which I have listed below, from cheapest to most expensive:

1) Go to the public Dead Sea beach for the day, use the public beach facilities and then head back to Amman later in the day.

2) Go to the Dead Sea resort area and buy a day pass at one of the 5* hotels. This way you can use the facilities (changing rooms, showers and swimming pools) and go back to Amman in the evening feeling all clean, relaxed and revived. After my extensive trip planning research, I’m recommending the Movenpick, because there are so many beautiful swimming pools, so you’ll be spoilt for choice. There is also a heated winter pool, which is perfect if you’re not traveling in the summer.

3) Buy a day pass to a 5* hotel day spa, which will give you access to the Dead Sea and also the fancy hydro pools and indoor heated Dead Sea pools, sauna and relaxation rooms. I’m recommending the Zara Spa at the Movenpick, because of the hydropool. It has the most epic view over the Dead Sea and also has an indoor Dead Sea floatation pool. This will probably be the most relaxing day of your life, ever.

4) The most expensive option will be to stay overnight in a 5* hotel and then visit a day spa, which does not come included with the room rate. There are no budget accommodation options at the Dead Sea.

Take a coffee break

Jordan is well equipped for the coffee and tea drinkers of the world. While driving around the country you’ll come across lots of quirky little rest stops. Petra also has heaps of little coffee shops. Allow time in your itinerary, so that you can relax and soak up the Bedouin vibes.

Take your time in Petra

Petra is more than just the treasury. The whole area is just beautiful and full of hiking trails, ancient settlements and incredible vistas. Only spending one day here is doing this place a disservice. I spent 2 days exploring the area and honestly wished I had an extra day here.

The restaurants in the town of Petra are also great. Head for one of the top 3 on Trip Advisor and you won’t be disappointed. I only had time to try the top 2, both served exceptional Middle Eastern food.

Petra tip 1) If you’re heading to Petra in a busy period, such as during Europe’s winter school breaks. There will be crowds. The best way to avoid them is to reverse your day itinerary. Most people slowly make their way up to the monastery after exploring their surroundings all day. Do the opposite. Hot tail it to the monastery in the morning and sightsee on your way back. The hoards head to the monastery in the afternoon.

Tip 2) If you see signs for view points saying things like “best view in the world” believe them and go and check out the view.

Tip 3) Don’t buy souvenirs from the entrance of Petra. You’ll get a better deal at the market stalls on the steps up to the monastery.

Petra is a special place and it deserves your time. I went to Wadi Rum afterwards and regretted leaving Petra.

A note on Wadi Rum

The reviews on Trip Advisor and Booking.com were all very good for all the camps listed at Wadi Rum. I thought Wadi Rum was going to blow my mind, going by the reviews I read online. It didn’t. The camp I stayed at was emailing and texting me everyday after we left begging us to write a good review for them. I assume this is the tactic used by most camps at Wadi Rum, hence the amazing reviews for every single camp in the area. Do your research and be careful who you book with.

There are some beautiful spots in Wadi Rum, but if you end up on a disorganised tour, like I did, you’ll have no time to enjoy it.