Is it possible to get from Turkey to Jordan overland with an American passport? What route is recommended and what kind of difficulities can I expect along the way?
-Rachael
Posts: 48 | Location: Honolulu, Hawaii | Registered: 01 December 2005
Yes, it's possible. Your choices are to go either via Syria or via Iraq. Or I suppose you could do a more convoluted route involving ferries to Cyprus and Israel (not sure if a Cyprus-Israel route exists, though) and then cross over land into Jordan.
The Syria route is easiest. The biggest issue is making sure you have a Syrian visa before you depart. It's next to impossible for Americans to get a Syrian visa at the Consulate in Turkey. Once you've got the visa, though, it's smooth sailing.
we just went through the Syria-Jordan border headed north, Visas in hand, and it was really simple. time consuming, as we were on a bus, and have to wait for everyone to get through, but there are relatively few foreigners going through, at least there was at that place and at that time, so it was quick for us, we just had to sit and wait on the bus for everyone else (we were the only foreigners (non-Arabs) on the bus). We didn't even really go through customs! I don't think the Syria route should cause you much trouble, just agree with everyone who says Bush sucks (when asked your nationality, if you admit to being American), and I'm sure you'll be fine. I don't think that many locals here would give you much hassle just because you're American, it doesn't seem part of the culture. (though as mentioned, they may want to confirm that you don't support Bush, but I would expect that to really be the only discussion on that front).
Course I could be way off, but I somehow don't think so.
Based on what we've been hearing from other travellers, Syria is worth whatever small hassle you might encounter (getting visas, etc). We've already been 'welcomed' by several local strangers and shop owners, and we've been here less than 24 hours.
