DRMumbai: Lonely Planet, the world-renowned travel guidebook publisher, has named Jordan as Lonely Planet’s Top Countries to Visit in 2019. This nomination will play a pivotal role in increasing the number of new tourists to Jordan to explore this Middle Eastern time-old destination with a modern twist. Each year, travel enthusiasts around the globe anticipate the release of Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel guide, a go-to source for the best travel destinations, unique experiences and trends for the year ahead, and this year, Jordan has been named one of the 10 most coveted destinations for 2019.
Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Lina Annab, said, “Featuring sixth on such a prestigious, international and trusted publication is quite an achievement for Jordan. This nomination will play a pivotal role in increasing the number of new tourists to Jordan to explore this Middle Eastern time-old destination with a modern twist and will act as a reminder to those who’ve already visited Jordan that a revisit to this marvellous country is due. This anticipated increase in number of tourists is in perfect harmony with the Kingdom’s plan for continued growth and development.”
She continued, “Recently, a number of steps have been taken into consideration to ensure Jordan is an accessible destination, to support the continuous flow of tourists, these steps include recent partnerships with low-fare carriers and charter flights with an increasing number of routes.”
Dr. Abed Al Razzaq Arabiyat, Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board, elaborated saying, “We are thrilled to see that the efforts invested by the Jordan Tourism Board has been recognized by leading travel publication Lonely Planet, which has been guiding travel enthusiasts from every corner of the world for nearly 45 years. The list will showcase Jordan as a hub for adventure through the Jordan Trail, where visitors can hike, bike or visit the lowest point on Earth at The Dead Sea. Not only that, but visitors can also camp in the Wadi Rum desert and marvel at the sky’s clear stars, visit the Nabatean’s Petra, one of the seven wonders of the World or enjoy the Red Sea’s lush coral scene in Aqaba.”
Tom Hall, Lonely Planet’s Editorial Director, said, “Exciting endeavors are Jordan’s specialty and the country has always offered amazing adventure, but now it’s given exploration a modern twist, making it easier than ever for travellers to experience. The new Jordan Pass offers a free visa and access to the country’s main sites. There’s a new Bike Trail complementing the Jordan Trail – a continuous route, offering 650 km of beautiful hiking through myriad landscapes and terrains – as well as desert safaris at Shaumari Wildlife Reserve, and off-road routes snaking across the desolate Badia. There’s never been a better time to visit.”
