Aqaba is a rather small city - which is the only seaside resort and port of Jordan. Aqaba is becoming more popular with Jordanians and residents of Saudi Arabia, although in the last time in the city you can meet refugees from neighboring Syria. It is worth noting that European tourists mainly use the city as a starting point to the famous Peter and familiarization with the lunar landscapes of the Wadi Ram Ram's desert, located 60 kilometers from here.
But still, the proximity of Egypt resorts affects Aqaba's development, which offers more affordable prices. However, as a guide told us, billions of dollars are in line into the infrastructure of the city, which will allow him to reach a new level.
Today there are many first-class hotels, shops and restaurants in Aqaba. Although accommodation here is also more expensive than in Egypt, but it is worth saying justice that the service is much higher. For example, we stayed in a simple hotel category 3 stars in the city center, worth about $ 50 per day. In return, we got a modern nearee flat-screen TV and air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, the ability to use the pool, breakfast included and dinner.
Purchase excursions in Aqaba will not be much difficulty. During our walk from the hotel to the embankment, several people approached us, and offered their services to travel to Wadi Ram and Peter. On the city beach, also name to ride a speed boat or immerse yourself in the picturesque coral reef with aqualung. However, it is still better to contact travel firms or well-known snorkeling centers like the Royal Diving Center.
As for the beaches, most of them belongs to the hotels. Municipal beaches are publicly available and do not differ in purity. Basically, local residents are resting at them.
City Beach
On the territory of the city there is a duty-free zone that collapses the development of shopping. Boutiques, shops with the cosmetics of the Dead Sea, food shops - are found at each step. Many Jordanians specially come to Aqabu for low-cost cigarettes and alcohol. You can pay for purchases as dinars and dollars (one dinar is approximately one and a half dollars).
Move around the city is most convenient for a taxi that is constantly duty near hotels. Contract the cost of travel with the driver is recommended in advance. You can also resort to minibuses that run from the center (King Talal Street) to the residential areas of Aqaba.
You can organize food for every taste and wallet. Cheaper all selling outdoor food on the street (Falafel, Hummus, Shaverm). Just expensive cafes and McDonald's, but for culinary delights go to restaurants (Red Sea Grill, Casalingo, Alerzal, Syrian Palace).
Jordan, despite the neighborhood with Iraq and Syria, quite prosperous and safe for tourists Country, and Aqaba is no exception.