A view for Al Abdali- Amman

Jordan, is this MICE’s best kept secret?

07/04/2018
News

 

 

Picture this – a country that is within a 4 hour flight from most of mainland Europe, with nothing short of spectacular scenery, friendly people, excellent infrastructure and awe inspiring sites, such a Petra, the new 7th world wonder.

This is a country that is full of mystique, one which has kept true to its heritage while embracing a relaxed, moderate policy and a cosmopolitan feel. You would think that a boutique country such as this would be a top MICE destination, but the fact remains that it is still one of the world’s last undiscovered gems.

Jordan has it all, and the good news is that there has never been a better time to visit. Jordan is very well represented by most of the international hotel chains, which are virtually all there, such as the Four Seasons, Kempinski, Sheraton, Intercontinental, Mövenpick amongst others. Many of these hotels have excellent meeting and conference facilities.

Moreover, some were built in the traditional style, which makes them even more interesting, though what makes these properties most enticing is the fact that many are located next to some striking natural and man made wonders. For example there’s the US$ 280 million Ishtar Kempinski resort at the Dead Sea, which is about to open within its grounds the largest Spa in the Levant (the Dead Sea in itself is the world’s largest natural spa, rich in minerals and 400 meters below sea level!)

Another seaside destination is Aqaba on the Red Sea, with its 330 days of sunshine a year and its pristine corals. Aqaba has a much more exclusive feel than the Egyptian Red Sea and is located only 140 km from Petra, the 7th world wonder, and 60 km from Wadi Rum, the most picturesque desert in the world.

Jordan also boasts Roman sites, such as the best preserved Graeco-Roman city in the world, Jerash, where you can still experience life as it was 2000 years ago thanks to the Roman Army and Chariot Experience (RACE); a Roman show that can be organised exclusively for incentives (the choreography of the fighting scenes and uniforms are all historically correct- the organisers used the same firm who advised the Hollywood blockbuster, Gladiator).

What makes this destination even more suitable is its stability, the genuine friendliness of its people, and the fact that its currency is pegged to the US dollar, which makes it excellent value for money. Tourism to Jordan has increased by over 120% over the past two years, but it is not yet a mainstream destination. Come and experience this true hidden gem before the secret gets out!