Salt: A Hidden Gem in Jordan's Hills

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [na'am]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [a'ithran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحوم
  [ana la akul alluhum]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [itassal bialtabib!]
• 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 أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatallu']
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam hu thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafe alsiar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (10)
  [alnusf ba'd (10)]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsabah]
• Afternoonالعصر
  [aleasar]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• 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
  [tisa'a]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين الـ...؟
  [ayn al...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'unnwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala alkhariata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata ya'ti alhafilat altaliat?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tazkirat (ila ....)]

Salt, known historically as 'Saltus', has ancient roots that date back to the Iron Age. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was inhabited by several civilizations, including the Moabites, Greeks, and Romans. The city's strategic location on the trade routes made it a significant settlement in the region.

During the Byzantine era, Salt continued to flourish as a key agricultural and trade center. The early Islamic periods saw the city transitioning into a prosperous community under the Umayyad and Abbasid caliphates. Numerous architectural remains from these periods reflect the city's importance.

Salt experienced turbulent times during the Crusader and Ayyubid periods. The Crusaders built fortifications in the area, but it was eventually recaptured by Muslim forces under the leadership of Salah ad-Din. The city’s strategic importance was evident during these conflicts.

Salt reached new heights of prosperity during the Ottoman rule, starting in the 16th century. The city became the regional administrative center and a hub for trade and commerce. The Ottomans left a lasting architectural legacy, including several well-preserved buildings and houses that still stand today.

The Great Arab Revolt of 1916 against Ottoman rule had a significant impact on Salt. The city played a crucial role as a base for the Arab forces led by Sharif Hussein. Salt's involvement in the revolt is a point of pride for its residents and is commemorated in local history.

In the 20th century, Salt became one of the first cities to embrace modernity in Jordan. The city saw the establishment of schools, hospitals, and businesses, contributing to its development as a modern urban center. Despite modernization, Salt has managed to preserve its rich historical and cultural heritage.

Salt is renowned for its cultural heritage and traditions. The city's architecture, with its distinctive yellow limestone buildings, reflects a blend of Ottoman and local styles. Salt is also known for its hospitality, traditional crafts, and vibrant community life, making it a unique destination for travelers.

In 2021, Salt was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its historical significance and well-preserved urban landscape. This designation highlights the city's role as a 'Place of Tolerance and Urban Hospitality,' celebrating its diverse cultural history and community spirit.

Salt, also known as Al-Salt, is located about 28 kilometers northwest of Amman, the capital of Jordan. The nearest international airport is Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Amman city center, and from there, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to reach Salt. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour by road.

Salt is a relatively small city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to get around. Public buses and minibuses (known as 'servees') operate within the city and connect to nearby towns and villages. Renting a car is also an option, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

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

Salt is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, 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 local police station and medical facilities are available in Salt. It is 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. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. 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. A slight bow 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 Salt like a local, visit the local markets (souks) 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 city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Ottoman architecture and historical buildings, such as the Abu Jaber Mansion. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the narrow streets of the old town and enjoy the view from the hilltop where the Salt Archaeological Museum is located.