Azraq: The Oasis of History and Nature in Jordan

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaan]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [laa afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid an ara al-qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا أتناول اللحم
  [ana la atnaul al-lahm]
• Cheers!صحتين
  [sahhtain]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfaa, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [ittasil bil-shurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [ittasil bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam hu thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd al-sa'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al-ashirah wal-nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [al-subah]
• Afternoonالعصر
  [al-asr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-masa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 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 الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yaati al-hafilah al-taliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [tadhkirah (ila...)]

Azraq, meaning 'blue' in Arabic, is an oasis town located in the eastern desert of Jordan. It has been a crucial water source and habitation site for millennia, facilitating human settlement and trade routes across the arid landscape. The oasis has been a vital stop for caravans and travelers since prehistoric times, providing much-needed respite and resources.

The Azraq Castle, also known as Qasr al-Azraq, was originally constructed by the Romans in the 3rd century AD. The strategically positioned fortress was built using local basalt stones and was a key military outpost. The Romans utilized the castle to control the surrounding trade routes and protect the oasis, making it a linchpin in their desert defenses.

Following the decline of the Roman Empire, Azraq and its castle came under Byzantine control. During this period, the fortress continued to play a defensive role. In the 7th century, the Umayyad Caliphate took over, and the castle saw renovations that included the addition of a mosque. The Umayyads developed the oasis further, turning it into an administrative and agricultural hub.

During the Crusades, Azraq's strategic importance was recognized by both Crusader and Muslim forces. The castle changed hands several times before coming under the control of the Ayyubid dynasty in the 12th century. The Ayyubids made further modifications to the castle, enhancing its fortifications to withstand sieges and invasions.

Under Ottoman rule, Azraq continued to serve as a military stronghold. During World War I, the castle gained fame as the headquarters of T.E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, during the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire. Lawrence and his Arab allies used Azraq Castle as a base for their guerrilla operations, bringing the site into modern historical consciousness.

In the 20th century, Azraq faced significant environmental challenges due to over-extraction of water, leading to the depletion of its famed wetlands. Efforts have been made to restore and preserve the oasis, which is now part of the Azraq Wetland Reserve. The reserve aims to protect the unique ecosystem and provide a sanctuary for migratory birds and other wildlife.

Today, Azraq stands as a testament to the rich historical and cultural tapestry of Jordan. The town is inhabited by a diverse population, including Bedouins, Druze, and Chechens, each contributing to its unique cultural milieu. Visitors can explore the historical sites, including the restored Azraq Castle, and experience the blend of ancient and modern life at this remarkable oasis.

Azraq is located approximately 100 kilometers east of Amman, Jordan's capital city. The nearest major airport is Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) in Amman. From Amman, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use a public bus to reach Azraq. The journey by road typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. There are also organized tours that include transportation to Azraq.

In Azraq, local transportation options include taxis and rental cars. Taxis can be found easily in the town center and are a convenient option for short trips. For exploring the surrounding areas, renting a car can be a more flexible choice. Public buses connect Azraq to nearby towns and cities, but schedules can be irregular. It is advisable to arrange transportation in advance, especially for visits to remote sites like the Azraq Wetland Reserve.

The official currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Azraq, but it is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash in Amman before traveling to ensure you have enough funds for your trip.

Azraq is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Azraq, but it is wise to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Azraq has a local police station and medical facilities. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a slight bow of the head as a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Azraq like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Jordanian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Azraq Wetland Reserve and the Azraq Castle. For a unique experience, consider staying at one of the eco-lodges in the area, which provide an authentic experience of the local environment and culture.