Tourism plus hospitality

We have at least two, if not more, types of tourism in our society: modern tourism in the contemporary sense of the word and traditional authentic hospitality.

Modern tourism, as we have come to know it, is abundant in our country and has evolved over the years in terms of the quality of facilities and services, making it comparable to the best in the world.

It is evenly spread throughout the entire kingdom, from the north to the south, and from the east to the west, encompassing the desert, the plains and the mountains, as well as valleys and seas.

It is available year-round, in summer, winter, autumn and spring, benefitting from the moderate and diverse climate and a good road network.

Tourism, in its modern and enhanced sense, with its hotels, restaurants, transportation and professionally designed itineraries, is a source of pride and has spared many the trouble of traveling to nearby and distant countries. It competes regionally and globally.

To be sure, sometimes it is criticised, especially during peak seasons, holidays and vacations, for being costly compared to some regional and global destinations and for the limited facilities, leading some people to refrain from visiting or choosing to travel abroad.

This is an important matter that needs to be addressed and reviewed.

On the other hand, there is in our society another type of tourism, which we classify under the concept of hospitality, that has recently gained strength. It involves projects falling under the "small businesses" concept, largely implemented by ordinary citizens from their own pockets. These projects stand out for their affordability, quality of services, and focus on the less familiar places.

In addition, dealing directly with the owners of these places gives the trip the sense of intimacy, genuine hospitality, generosity and kindness that our people are known for.

Those who visit such places feel like they are among family and friends, in simple, authentic, and friendly settings, enjoying healthy home-cooked meals, with free tea and coffee around the clock.

This type of tourism, which is best described as “hospitality”, is also present throughout the kingdom, from Shobak, where the smallest "hotel" in the world is located, to the elegant cave inns, and the activities of hiking in the valleys, hills, and mountains.

It extends to Dana, Fenan, Ajloun, Umm Qais, the Jordan Valley Salt, Jerash, the Azraq region and much more.

In essence, this type of tourism represents a different and competitive option compared to the first type. It offers relaxation and tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle, along with contemplation of unfamiliar stunning landscapes, culture and exercise.

Clearly, the backbone of both types of tourism lies in the rich historical legacy of our country, be it religious, political, architectural, artistic, anthropological, or historical, in addition to the blessings of our geography, topography and climate, making us undoubtedly a leading tourist destination due to the precious resources we possess.

To sum up: the option of modern tourism is available to us, and we need to maintain our competitiveness in it by addressing the matters of cost and limited facilities.

 But the option of hospitality is also available and growing, and is accessible to people with modest incomes. It requires support from relevant authorities in the state to become a complementary and perhaps a more important option.

Moreover, it may be the most attractive option for foreign tourists, as well, as it provides them with the chance for a close encounter with our culture, society, and our wonderful and hospitable people.