The Hidden Jewel of Jordan: Tafilah

• Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [Wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [Naam]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [Min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [A'dhiran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bikhayr. Wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatakallam al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [Ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [Uriidu an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحوم
  [Ana la akl allahum]
• Cheers!في صحتك
  [Fi sahtak]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [Uriidu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [Alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [Ansarf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Itsal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [Itsal bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [Lakad dalalt]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود شراء...
  [Awadu shira]
• I'm just lookingأنا أتفرج فقط
  [Ana atafaraj faqat]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [Bikam hatha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [Hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuka khafd alsu'ur?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالواحدة
  [Alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشر والنصف
  [Al'ashir walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [Alsubah]
• Afternoonالمساء
  [Almasaa]
• Eveningالمساء
  [Almasaa]
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [Albarihah]
• Todayاليوم
  [Alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [Arbahah]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [Sitah]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamaniyah]
• 9تسعة
  [Tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [Asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [Ayna huwa/hiya...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma huwa al'annwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuka an tureeni (ala alkharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [Mata alhafilah alqadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [Tazkirah (ila...)]

Tafilah, situated within the region historically known as Edom, has been a significant area since ancient times. The Edomites, descendants of Esau from the Hebrew Bible, inhabited this region. They were known for their skill in metalworking, particularly copper mining and smelting. The copper mines near Tafilah, such as those in Khirbat en-Nahas, date back to the 10th century BCE and are thought to be among the oldest in the world.

During the Roman era, Tafilah became an important waypoint along the Via Nova Traiana, a major road constructed by Emperor Trajan in the early 2nd century CE. This road connected the Red Sea port of Aqaba to the city of Bosra in modern-day Syria. The presence of Roman milestones and ruins in the area attests to the strategic importance of Tafilah in facilitating trade and military movements.

In the Byzantine period, Tafilah continued to flourish as a Christian community, evidenced by the ruins of churches and other religious sites. With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, Tafilah transitioned into an Islamic stronghold. The early Islamic period saw the integration of the region into the burgeoning Muslim empire, which brought new cultural and architectural influences.

Under Ottoman rule, Tafilah was known for its agricultural productivity. The Ottomans invested in the development of the region's infrastructure, including the construction of irrigation systems that supported the cultivation of olives, grapes, and other crops. The legacy of this agricultural development is still evident in Tafilah's lush landscapes and terraced fields.

In the 20th century, Tafilah played a role in the Great Arab Revolt against Ottoman rule during World War I. The revolt, led by Sharif Hussein bin Ali and supported by T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), aimed to establish an independent Arab state. Tafilah witnessed several skirmishes and battles as part of this larger conflict, contributing to the eventual establishment of the Emirate of Transjordan, which later became modern-day Jordan.

The cultural heritage of Tafilah is rich and diverse, reflecting its long history and the various civilizations that have influenced the region. Traditional crafts, such as weaving and pottery, continue to be practiced by local artisans. Festivals and celebrations in Tafilah often feature traditional music, dance, and cuisine, offering visitors a glimpse into the vibrant cultural life of the area.

Tafilah is located in southern Jordan, approximately 180 kilometers southwest of Amman. The nearest international airport is Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. From Amman, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use public transportation such as buses to reach Tafilah. The journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by road. There are also private tour operators that offer transportation services to Tafilah.

Tafilah is a small city, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Public buses and minibuses (known as 'servees') operate within Tafilah and connect to nearby towns and villages. Renting a car can also be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace.

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

Tafilah is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like 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. While crime rates targeting tourists are low, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 or 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Tafilah. 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, 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. 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 Tafilah 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 Dana Biosphere Reserve, a stunning nature reserve offering hiking trails and breathtaking views. For a unique experience, visit the ancient Edomites ruins and the Tafilah Thermal Springs.