Local farm-stays see decline in reservations

AMMAN — Local farm-stay accommodations and chalets have witnessed a noticeable decline in reservations despite the start of the high season, according to a stakeholder.

As the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip intensifies, casting a pall over the public mood, businesses in the sector are grappling with many challenges, including decreasing demand,  declining consumer base, and escalating operating costs, several stakeholders recently told The Jordan Times.

Nassar Tahseen, an owner of multiple farms, said that the summer months, starting from May to September, typically mark the peak season for most farms and chalets, noting a decline of approximately 25 per cent in his farm's reservations since the beginning of 2024 compared with the previous year.

Despite the current downturn, Tahseen anticipated a surge in bookings towards the end of June or the beginning of July.

Shaher Hamdan, head of the Family Tourism Association (Diyafa), attributed the decline in bookings primarily to the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza and the challenging living conditions faced by people. 

Hamdan also pointed out that the ongoing circumstances have led to a decrease in the influx of foreign tourists, thereby adversely affecting reservations.