The Timeless Charm of Downtown Amman

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وانت؟
  [bukhayr. want?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [laa afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأرغب في رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [urghib fi ru'ya alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akl allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك
  [fi sahtak]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atasil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atasil bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أرغب في شراء...
  [urghib fi shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatala]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam sa'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsu'ur?]

• What time is it?ما الوقت؟
  [ma alwaqt?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashirah walnisf]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonمساء
  [masa]
• Eveningمساء
  [masa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'a]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين...
  [ayn...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخارطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tareeni (ala alkhartah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata alhafilat altaliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [tazkirat (ila...)]

Downtown Amman, known historically as Philadelphia, was a major city in the Roman Decapolis. Founded in the 2nd century BC, it flourished as a center of trade and culture. Roman architecture, including the Temple of Hercules and the Roman Theater, still stands as a testament to this era, showcasing the city's importance in the region.

The Islamic conquest in the 7th century transformed Downtown Amman, leading to the establishment of a vibrant Islamic culture. The region became an important center for learning and commerce, with the Umayyad and Abbasid caliphates contributing to its architectural and cultural development. This period saw the construction of mosques and the spread of Arabic language and culture.

During the Ottoman Empire, which began in the 16th century, Downtown Amman underwent significant changes. The city was reorganized, and new buildings were erected, including the Al-Husseini Mosque. This era marked the beginning of modern urban planning in Amman, which established a foundation for the city's development in the 20th century.

In the early 20th century, Downtown Amman emerged as a hub for political and social movements. The city played a crucial role during the Arab Revolt against Ottoman rule in World War I. Following the establishment of the Emirate of Transjordan in 1921, Downtown Amman became the administrative center, with numerous government buildings constructed during this transformative period.

Today, Downtown Amman is a vibrant cultural district that reflects the city's rich history and diversity. The area is known for its bustling markets, traditional cafes, and cultural events, serving as a meeting point for locals and tourists alike. The Rainbow Street and Souk Jara are popular attractions, illustrating the blend of modernity with historical heritage in this dynamic neighborhood.

Downtown Amman is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in the city. If you're coming from West Amman, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service, which typically takes around 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. From East Amman, local buses (known as 'service taxis') can drop you off at various points in Downtown. The main entrance to Downtown Amman is along King Abdullah I Street, which is well-connected to other parts of the city.

Downtown Amman is best explored on foot, as many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Public transport options include local buses and service taxis, which are inexpensive and frequent. However, they can be crowded and may not have specific routes. For a more local experience, consider using a bicycle, as there are bike rental services available in the area.

Downtown Amman is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas, especially around the outskirts of Downtown. Be cautious in busy markets and keep your belongings secure. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty theft can occur, so stay vigilant in crowded places.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, medical assistance, or fire services. The local police stations and hospitals are available in Downtown Amman. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical situations. For minor health issues, pharmacies can be found throughout the area, offering over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops. Religion: Do respect local customs; cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offers graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be seen as impolite.

To experience Downtown Amman like a local, visit the bustling souks, where you can find everything from spices to handicrafts. Engage with shopkeepers and don't hesitate to ask for recommendations; they are often more than willing to share local insights. Try the famous falafel and hummus from street vendors, and make sure to visit Rainbow Street for a vibrant atmosphere and local eateries. Early mornings are the best time to stroll through the area to avoid crowds.