Dana Biosphere Reserve: Jordan's Natural Gem

• HelloMarhaba
  [mar-ha-ba]
• GoodbyeMa'a as-salama
  [ma-a as-sa-la-ma]
• YesNa'am
  [na-am]
• NoLa
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeMin fadlik
  [min fa-dlik]
• Thank youShukran
  [shuk-ran]
• Excuse me/SorryA'udhran
  [au-thran]
• How are you?Kayfa halik?
  [kay-fa ha-lik]
• Fine. And you?Bikhair. Wa ant?
  [bi-khair. wa ant]
• Do you speak English?Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?
  [hal ta-ta-ka-llam al-ing-li-zi-ya]
• I don't understandAna la afham
  [a-na la af-ham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseUrīdu an 'ara al-qayma, min fadlik
  [u-ri-du an a-ra al-ka-yi-ma, min fa-dlik]
• I don't eat meatAna la akl la'ham
  [a-na la a-kil la-ham]
• Cheers!Saha
  [sa-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseUrīdu an adfa', min fadlik
  [u-ri-du an ad-fa', min fa-dlik]

• Help!Musaidah!
  [mu-sai-dah]
• Go away!Imshi!
  [im-shi]
• Call the Police!Idha' al-shurta!
  [id-ha al-shur-ta]
• Call a doctor!Idha' al-tabib!
  [id-ha al-ta-bib]
• I'm lostAna da'i'!
  [a-na da-i]
• I'm illAna mareed
  [a-na ma-reed]

• I'd like to buy...Urīdu an ashtarī...
  [u-ri-du an ash-ta-ri]
• I'm just lookingAna faqat atamayyaz
  [a-na faq-at a-ta-may-yaz]
• How much is it?Kam haza?
  [kam ha-za]
• That's too expensiveHatha ghali jiddan
  [ha-tha gha-li jid-dan]
• Can you lower the price?Hal tasta'thir al-sa'ar?
  [hal tas-ta-thir al-sa-ar]

• What time is it?Kam al-waqt?
  [kam al-waqt]
• It's one o'clockHua al-wahid
  [hu-a al-wa-hid]
• Half past (10)Nisf al-ashara
  [nisf al-a-sha-ra]
• MorningSabaah
  [sa-baah]
• AfternoonBa'd al-duhr
  [ba-d al-duhr]
• EveningAl-masa
  [al-ma-sa]
• YesterdayAms
  [ams]
• TodayAl-yawm
  [al-yawm]
• TomorrowGhadan
  [gha-dan]
• 1Wahid
  [wa-hid]
• 2Ithnayn
  [ith-nayn]
• 3Thalatha
  [tha-la-tha]
• 4Arba'a
  [ar-ba-a]
• 5Khamsa
  [kham-sa]
• 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
• 7Sab'a
  [sa-ba-a]
• 8Thamania
  [tha-ma-ni-a]
• 9Tis'a
  [tis-a]
• 10Ashara
  [a-sha-ra]

• Where's the...?Ayna al...?
  [ay-na al]
• What's the address?Ma huwa al-`unwan?
  [ma hu-wa al-`un-wan]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Hal tasta'thirni (ala al-khariţa)?
  [hal tas-ta-thir-ni (a-la al-kha-ri-ta)]
• When's the next (bus)?Mata sa yantahy al-hawiya al-taliya?
  [ma-ta sa yan-ta-hy al-ha-wi-ya al-ta-li-ya]
• A ticket (to ....)Tathiq (ila ....)
  [ta-thiq (i-la)]

The Dana Biosphere Reserve is located along an ancient trade route, which has been inhabited for over 6,000 years. Archaeological evidence suggests that various civilizations, including the Nabataeans, Romans, and Byzantines, have left their mark on this land. The area’s history is deeply intertwined with the movement of peoples and goods, making it a melting pot of cultures and traditions.

The Nabataeans, famous for their rock-carved city of Petra, also left their mark on Dana. They utilized the natural resources and strategic location of the area, establishing agricultural terraces and intricate water management systems that are still visible today. These innovations were crucial for sustaining life in the arid environment.

During the Roman and Byzantine eras, Dana continued to thrive as a significant waypoint on trade routes. The Romans built roads and fortifications, some remnants of which can still be found. The Byzantine influence is evident through the remains of churches and other religious structures, showcasing the region's historical significance as a spiritual and cultural hub.

During the Ottoman period, Dana was part of the vast Ottoman Empire that spanned three continents. The Ottomans incorporated the area into their administrative framework, influencing local governance and culture. The village of Dana, with its traditional stone houses, dates back to this era, standing as a testament to the architectural and cultural heritage of the time.

In 1989, the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) established the Dana Biosphere Reserve, marking a new chapter in the area’s history. This initiative aimed to protect the diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity of the region. Today, Dana is a model for conservation efforts, balancing ecological preservation with sustainable tourism and local community development.

Dana Biosphere Reserve is located in southern Jordan. The nearest international airport is Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, approximately 200 kilometers away. From Amman, you can take a rental car, taxi, or bus to the reserve. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by road. Buses operated by JETT and other local companies can take you to nearby towns like Tafila, from where you can arrange for local transport to Dana.

Within Dana Biosphere Reserve, the primary mode of transportation is by foot, as it is a haven for hiking and nature trails. For traveling between nearby towns and villages, taxis and buses are available. Renting a car can also be a convenient option if you plan on exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace. Be sure to check road conditions if you plan on driving, as some roads can be rugged.

The official currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in nearby towns like Tafila, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Amman before traveling to the reserve to ensure you have enough funds.

Dana Biosphere Reserve is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is advisable 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, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are in Tafila, and more comprehensive healthcare services are available in Amman. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in nearby towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages or religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Modesty in attire and behavior is appreciated. 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 traditional greeting. A slight nod of the head is also 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 Dana Biosphere Reserve like a local, engage with the Bedouin communities who live in the area. Participate in guided tours led by local guides who can share insights about the region's flora, fauna, and history. Don't miss the opportunity to taste traditional Bedouin cuisine and spend a night in one of the eco-lodges or campsites for an authentic experience. The Dana Village is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into traditional Jordanian life and stunning views of the reserve.