Best Books To Read & Movies To Watch Before Visiting Jordan

Everyone enjoys reading a good book or watching a movie to get them in the mood for a vacation. Fortunately, there have been many books and films about Jordan. Whether you want to learn more about the history of Jordan or enjoy fictional adventures set in Petra, this guide showcases the best books to read and movies to watch before visiting Jordan.

Books To Read Before Visiting Jordan

The Rough Guide to Jordan, Matthew Teller

This book is the ultimate travel guide for Jordan. It provides details about all the things to see and do in Jordan, including destinations that are slightly off the beaten path. The guide also includes maps, entrance prices, and important cultural information. It is ideal for planning an itinerary in advance and even offers information on places to eat and places to stay with honest reviews.

Married to a Bedouin, Marguerite Van Geldermasen

Married to A Bedouin is a fascinating book about a nurse from New Zealand who married a Bedouin man from Petra whilst traveling in 1978. The story explores the life of the Bedouin people and Margueritte’s own personal experience of moving into a cave with her new husband and embracing the Jordanian culture. The book provides an insight into the traditions of the Bedouin people, something which is difficult to find in Jordan today.

The Language of Baklava, Diana Abu-Jaber

This memoir explores the childhood of writer Diana Abu-Jaber. Diana was raised by a Jordanian father in Canada, and in the book, she explores Jordanian food and personal accounts of her family. The book provides readers with a good understanding of Jordanian cooking and includes many recipes to practice at home before and after your vacation.

Films To Watch Before Visiting Jordan

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade

This blockbuster movie is a fun fictional fantasy film about an art collector who asks the beloved explorer Indiana Jones to embark on an expedition to find the Holy Grail. The reason that this is a great movie to watch before visiting Jordan is that it is set around the archaeological site of Petra. This movie is a great way to get children excited for their very own Jordanian adventure.

Lawrence of Arabia

This classic Hollywood film was made in 1962 and explores a dramatized version of T.E. Lawrence and his role as a liaison officer for the Arab and British army. Although it is slightly fictionalized, the movie is a historical drama that contains facts about T.E. Lawrence’s time in Jordan. There are many places to visit in Jordan that T.E. Lawrence visited, and this movie is a good way to gain a brief understanding of the role he played in Jordanian history.

Bring These Jordan Stories to Life

Books and films can transport you to Jordan, letting you experience its culture, history, and landscapes even before your flight. From exploring Petra through the adventures of Indiana Jones to gaining insight into Bedouin traditions in Married to a Bedouin, these stories bring Jordan to life and help you appreciate the experiences you’ll have in person. They provide context, spark curiosity, and make your journey through the country even more meaningful. For additional tips, insights, and guidance on planning your visit, read our detailed, helpful Jordan travel resources.

To turn this inspiration into a reality, book one of our Jordan day tours. You’ll explore all of Jordan’s must-see attractions, alongside expert local guides who share fascinating stories about the country’s history, culture, and traditions. If you’re picturing a longer, even more immersive journey, our Jordan Package Tours feature immersive itineraries spanning several days and showcasing Jordan’s most extraordinary destinations. We arrange all your accommodations, transportation, expert tour guides, and activities, making your trip smooth, comfortable, and unforgettable.

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