I spent most of my time with Jordanian friends, who took me to local hotspots and out-of-the-way favorites, and it was almost frustrating to see that however obscure and apparently hidden the place, it was included in the book (the only exceptions, for those who really care: a great hole in the wall falafel place called "Al Kuds Cafeteria" on Rainbow Street in Amman, an equally cheap and fantastic schwarma place near the second circle, also in Amman, and the Hotel Panorama in Petra: affordable, quiet, and with a great view of the valley).

This book will be essential for those interested in the main tourist destinations, but also (and especially) for those willing to travel, read and explore more. My Jordanian friends were so taken with this book, that some of them actually bought it...