The Hidden Gem of Wadi Hidan

• 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 FAD-lik]
• Thank youShukran
  [shook-RAN]
• Excuse me/SorryAasef
  [aa-SEF]
• How are you?Kifa halak?
  [KEE-fa ha-LAK]
• Fine. And you?Bikhair. Wa ant?
  [bi-KHAIR. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?Tatakalam al-ingliziya?
  [ta-ta-ka-LAM al-in-GLEE-zi-ya]
• I don't understandAna la afham
  [a-NA la af-HAM]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBidayati fi ruyat al-qima, min fadlik
  [bi-DAY-a-tee fee roo-YAT al-kee-MA, min FAD-lik]
• I don't eat meatAna la akul al-lahm
  [a-NA la a-KOOL al-LAHM]
• Cheers!Sahtain!
  [sa-TAYN]
• I would like to pay, pleaseBidayati fi al-dfaya, min fadlik
  [bi-DAY-a-tee fee al-da-FA-ya, min FAD-lik]

• Help!Musaidah!
  [moo-SAI-dah!]
• Go away!Ikhraj!
  [ikh-RAJ!]
• Call the Police!Istidaf al-bulisa!
  [is-tee-DAF al-bu-LEE-sa!]
• Call a doctor!Istidaf tabib!
  [is-tee-DAF ta-BEEB!]
• I'm lostAna dalalt
  [a-NA da-LALT]
• I'm illAna mareed
  [a-NA ma-REED]

• I'd like to buy...Bidayati fi al-shira...
  [bi-DAY-a-tee fee al-SHEE-ra...]
• I'm just lookingAna faqat atadabur
  [a-NA fa-KAT a-ta-DA-boor]
• How much is it?Kam yukhalif?
  [kam yoo-KHA-lif?]
• That's too expensiveHatha ghali jiddan
  [ha-THA ghah-LEE jid-DAN]
• Can you lower the price?Hal tastatiu tanzil al-si'r?
  [hal tas-TA-tee-oo tan-ZEEL al-seer?]

• What time is it?Kam alwaqt?
  [kam al-WAKT?]
• It's one o'clockHuwa alwaheed
  [hoo-wa al-wa-HEED]
• Half past (10)Nisf sa'a
  [nisf sa-a]
• MorningSabaah
  [sa-BAH]
• AfternoonDuhur
  [du-HOOR]
• EveningMasaa
  [ma-SAA]
• YesterdayAms
  [ams]
• TodayLyawm
  [lya-WEEM]
• TomorrowGhadan
  [gha-DAN]
• 1Wahid
  [wa-HEED]
• 2Ithnan
  [ith-NAN]
• 3Thalatha
  [tha-LA-tha]
• 4Arba'a
  [ar-ba-A]
• 5Khamsa
  [kham-SA]
• 6Sitta
  [sit-TA]
• 7Saba'a
  [sa-ba-A]
• 8Thamania
  [tha-MA-nia]
• 9Tisa'a
  [ti-SA-a]
• 10Ashara
  [a-SHA-ra]

• Where's a/the...?Ayn huwa al...
  [ayn hoo-wa al...]
• What's the address?Ma huwa al-alamat?
  [ma hoo-wa al-a-la-MAT?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Hal tastatiu an tuarini (ala al-kharita)?
  [hal tas-TA-tee-oo an too-ar-EE-nee (ala al-kha-REE-ta)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Mata sayakun al-qaeb al-tali?
  [ma-TA sa-ya-KOON al-qa-EB al-ta-LEE?]
• A ticket (to ....)Tathqiq (ila ....)
  [tath-KEEK (ila ....)]

The history of Wadi Hidan traces back to prehistoric times, evidenced by numerous archaeological finds scattered across the region. Stone tools and remnants of ancient dwellings indicate that early humans settled here thousands of years ago. The wadi provided a fertile and resource-rich environment, making it an ideal location for these early communities.

During the Nabataean era, Wadi Hidan was part of a network of trade routes that connected the Arabian Peninsula to the Mediterranean. The Nabataeans were skilled traders and architects, famous for their impressive rock-cut architecture, as seen in Petra. While Wadi Hidan does not feature grand monuments, the influence of the Nabataeans can still be observed in the form of small carvings and inscriptions found in various locations throughout the wadi.

The Roman and Byzantine periods brought significant changes to Wadi Hidan. The Romans, who annexed the Nabataean Kingdom in 106 AD, introduced new infrastructure, including roads and fortifications. Evidence of Roman presence in Wadi Hidan includes the remains of military outposts and watchtowers. The Byzantine era saw the construction of churches and the spread of Christianity, with several sites in Wadi Hidan featuring early Christian symbols and ruins of ancient religious structures.

The Islamic conquest in the 7th century marked a new chapter in Wadi Hidan's history. Under the Umayyad Caliphate, the region experienced a period of growth and development. The Umayyads constructed agricultural terraces and water management systems, which are still evident today. These innovations allowed for more efficient farming and supported a growing population. Several Umayyad-era buildings and artifacts have been discovered in the area, reflecting the architectural and cultural influences of the time.

During the Ottoman period, Wadi Hidan was part of the Empire's extensive territory. The Ottomans continued to utilize the agricultural and water management systems established by previous civilizations. However, the wadi remained a relatively remote and sparsely populated area. In modern times, Wadi Hidan has gained attention as a natural and historical site, attracting researchers, historians, and tourists who seek to explore its rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Wadi Hidan is located in central Jordan, approximately 90 kilometers south of Amman. The nearest international airport is Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) in Amman. From Amman, you can rent a car, hire a taxi, or take a private tour to reach Wadi Hidan. The journey by road typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, some tour operators offer organized trips to Wadi Hidan, which include transportation.

Within Wadi Hidan, the primary mode of transportation is by foot, especially for exploring the natural trails and canyons. For longer distances, renting a car is the most convenient option. There are no public buses that operate within Wadi Hidan itself, but taxis can be arranged from nearby towns. Ensure you have a reliable vehicle if you plan to drive yourself, as some roads can be rugged and require a 4x4.

The official currency in Jordan is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are accepted in more established hotels and restaurants, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and for purchases in rural areas like Wadi Hidan. ATMs are available in larger towns and cities, so it is advisable to withdraw sufficient cash before leaving for Wadi Hidan.

Wadi Hidan is generally a safe area for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid hiking alone and always inform someone of your plans. There are no specific high-crime areas in Wadi Hidan, but being vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuable items.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are located in nearby towns, so it is essential to have a first aid kit and any necessary medications with you. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is strongly recommended. For minor injuries or health issues, there are pharmacies in the larger towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local communities. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. It is polite to cover your head when entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous. Although public transport is limited in Wadi Hidan, if you use it, avoid eating or drinking on board. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Salam' and a handshake. It is 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 Wadi Hidan like a local, engage with local guides who can share insights about the area's history and natural features. Visit local markets in nearby towns to buy fresh produce and traditional Jordanian goods. Take time to explore the lesser-known trails and water-filled canyons for a truly unique adventure. Respect the environment by following 'Leave No Trace' principles and always carry out your trash.