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Plan Your Trip to Aqaba: Best of Aqaba Tourism

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By jazz須磨

Aqaba, Jordan

Red Sea beaches and snorkeling put Aqaba on the travel map, but Jordan's only coastal city is an enticing destination in its own right. Along with a well-earned reputation for friendly locals, Aqaba boasts seafood cafés, a waterfront promenade, and gorgeous desert scenery.

Travel advice

Powered by AI
These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travelers ask in the forums.

Snorkeling Site Recommendations

According to forum posts, some of the best snorkeling sites in Aqaba include the South Beach area, which is praised for its accessibility and beautiful underwater scenery. Specifically, the underwater military museum near South Beach is highlighted as a unique snorkeling spot with a shallow depth suitable for easy viewing.

Additional Notable Locations

Travelers have called out the Japanese Gardens and the area around Tala Bay for good snorkeling experiences. However, opinions vary, with some users finding the snorkeling in Aqaba not as impressive compared to other global destinations. Despite mixed reviews, these areas are frequently recommended for their coral and marine life sightings.

General Advice

For many users, combining a visit to Aqaba with other activities like diving or relaxing on the beach enhances the overall experience. It's suggested to check with local dive centers or hotels for organized snorkeling tours to get the most out of the visit.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.

Family-Friendly Options

According to forum posts, the Movenpick Tala Bay is highlighted as a family-friendly option due to its outdoor play area and water slide. Similarly, the Marina Plaza Hotel Tala Bay offers several pools and water slides, catering well to families with children.

Luxury Accommodations

Some travelers recommended Al Manara, a Luxury Collection Hotel, for its high-end amenities and beach access. It is noted for its location in the less busy Saraya community and offers a calm bay beach as well as access to the Sea. The architecture and food at Al Manara are also highly praised.

Alternative Luxury Options

For those considering luxury stays, the Hyatt Regency in the new resort town of Ayla is mentioned for its access to several private beaches, upscale shopping, and a variety of restaurants. The Kempinski Hotel in Aqaba is also suggested, providing high-quality accommodations, though it is situated in a busier part of the city.

Considerations for Large Groups

For large groups, especially those with children, the Tala Bay area is recommended for its more family-oriented facilities compared to downtown Aqaba.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.

Visa Requirements

According to forum posts, for UK citizens traveling from Saudi Arabia to Aqaba through the Durra Border Crossing and staying in Jordan for at least two nights, a visa can be obtained at the border free of charge. However, if the stay is less than two nights, a visa fee of 40 JD applies.

Additional Requirements

Travelers have called out that the ASEZA visa is also applicable, which can be received free of charge upon entering Jordan through Aqaba by land, provided the visitors stay for at least two nights. This visa exemption aims to promote tourism in the Aqaba region.

Visa on Arrival for Other Nationalities

Some travelers mentioned that aside from UK citizens, other nationalities, such as Indians, are eligible for a visa on arrival at the Durra Border Crossing. This includes receiving the visa free if staying more than three nights, which also waives the 10 JD exit fee.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.

Taxi Availability and Apps

According to forum posts, taxis are readily available at Aqaba Airport and in the city. However, ride-hailing apps like Uber, commonly used in other regions, do not operate in Aqaba, only in Amman. Travelers have mentioned the use of local apps such as Careem and Jeeny in Jordan, but these are not available directly at Aqaba Airport.

Cost and Negotiation

Travelers have called out that the typical taxi fare from Aqaba Airport to the city is around 10 JD, with a set rate that travelers can rely upon. For longer distances, like Aqaba to Tala Bay, the cost is around 18 JD and is generally negotiable. Some travelers advised negotiating the fare before beginning the journey to avoid potential discrepancies.

General Taxi Tips

Some users recommended being cautious with yellow taxis and suggested being firm on the fare before starting the trip. For those needing a taxi from Aqaba to the airport or other specific locations, posts indicated that it's practical to ask hotels to arrange taxi services, ensuring a fixed price and reliable service.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.

Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.

Aqaba Is Great For

Scuba Diving

Archaeology Tours

Eat & drink

Snorkeling

After dark