text:
Jordanian Arabic phrasebook

The Jordanian dialect of Arabic (اللهجة الاردني) is a continuum of mutually intelligible varieties of Levantine Arabic spoken by the population of the Kingdom of Jordan. Jordanian Arabic varieties are Semitic, with lexical influences from English, Turkish and French. They are spoken by more than 6 million people, and understood throughout the Levant and, to various extents, in other Arabic-speaking regions. As in all Arab countries, language use in Jordan is characterized by diglossia; Modern Standard Arabic is the official language used in most written documents and the media, while daily conversation is conducted in the local colloquial varieties.

Aside from the various dialects, one must also deal with the differences in addressing males, females, and groups; plurals and verb conjugations are highly irregular and difficult to determine from their root letters; and there are several letters in the Arab alphabet that are difficult for an English speaker to pronounce.

Regional Jordanian Arabic varieties
Although there is a common Jordanian dialect mutually understood by most Jordanians, the daily language spoken throughout the country varies significantly through regions. These variants impact altogether pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary.

The Jordanian Arabic falls into five varieties:

 * Hybrid variety (Modern Jordanian): It is almost the current spoken language among all Jordanians. This variety was born after the designation of Amman as capital of the Jordanian kingdom early in the 20th century. It is the result of the merger of the language of populations who moved from northern Jordan, southern Jordan and later from Palestine. For this reason, it mixes features of the Arabic varieties spoken by these populations. The emergence of the language occurred under the strong influence of the Jordanian north dialect. As in many countries English is being used to substitute many technical words, even though these words have Arabic counterparts in modern standard Arabic.
 * Northern varieties: It is spoken in the area from Amman to Irbid in the far north. As in all sedentary areas, local variations are many. The pronunciation, exemplified by the audio file has /q/ pronounced [g] and /k/ mostly ([tʃ]). This dialect is part of the southern dialect of the Levantine Arabic language.
 * Southern/Moab: Spoken in the area south of Amman, in cities such as Al Karak, Tafilah, Ma'an, Shoubak and their countrysides, replete with city-to-city and village-to-village differences. In this dialect, the pronunciation of the final vowel (æ~a~ɐ) commonly written with tāʾ marbūtah (ة) is raised to [e]. For example, Maktaba (Fuṣḥa) becomes Maktabe (Moab), Maktabeh (North) and Mektaba (Bedawi). Named so after the antique Moab kingdom southern Jordan, this dialect belongs to the outer southern dialect of the Levantine Arabic language.
 * Bedouin: Is spoken by Bedouins mostly in the desert east of the Jordanian mountains and high plateau, and belongs to the Bedawi Arabic. This dialect is not widely used in other regions. It is often considered as truer to the Arabic language, but this is a subjective view that shows no linguistic evidence. Note that non-Bedouin is also spoken in some of the towns and villages in the Badia region east of Jordan's mountain heights plateau, such as Al-Azraq oasis.
 * Aqaba variety

Pronunciation guide
There are some letters of the Arabic alphabet that transliterate into English; others are completely foreign to English speakers, making them difficult to pronounce. The pronunciation guide shown below is case- sensitive; for example, 'th' is a different sound from 'Th' and 'TH'.

There are only two glides, or diphthongs, in Arabic. The first glides from 'a' to 'i' and gives an 'ay' sound as in the English word for bait; the second glides from 'a' to 'u' and gives the 'aw' sound as in the Arabic word mawt meaning 'death'.

One syllable of every Arabic word has more stress than the other syllables of that word. Much meaning is communicated in Arabic by the location of the stress. This is much truer than in most Western languages.

Vowels
Although some dialects have an 'e' and an 'o', there are only three phonemic vowels that are common to Arabic:

 * a : like 'a' in "apple"
 * i : like 'ee' in "cheese"
 * u : like 'oo' in "too"

Consonants
Characters marked by an asterisk (*) are ones that may prove more difficult for English speakers than the others.

 * a (ا) : like 'aa' in "back"
 * b (ب) : like 'b' in "bed"
 * t (ت) : like 't' in "top"
 * th (ث) : like 'th' in "think"
 * j (ج) : like 'j' in "jump"
 * H (ح) * : like 'h' in "ahem" (this sound is created by tightly constricting the throat muscles as you force air through; commonly referred to as "heavy h")
 * kh (خ) : like 'ch' in Scottish "loch" or German "nach" (this sound is similar to a gargled exasperation, as if someone were clearing his throat)
 * d (د) : like 'd' in "dog"
 * Th (ذ) : like 'th' in "that"
 * r (ر) : like 'r' in "row", but produced a little further back in the mouth, by flicking the tongue of the roof of the mouth. When doubled, this letter becomes a rolled 'r'.
 * z (ز) : like 'z' in "haze"
 * s (س) : like 's' in "sing"
 * sh (ش) : like 'sh' in "sheep"
 * S (ص) * : like 's' in "saw" (this sound has more force than an English 's'; commonly referred to as "heavy s")
 * D (ض) * : like 'd' in "dot" (this sound has more force than an English 'd'; commonly referred to as "heavy d")
 * T (ط) * : like 't' in "taught" (this sound has more force than an English 't'; commonly referred to as "heavy t")
 * TH (ظ) * : like 'th' in "other"
 * 3 (ع) * : a guttural sound produced in the throat, perhaps slightly resembling 'ei' in German "nein", or like the 'aa' in "aargh" (as an expression of frustration). Many foreigners have trouble with this letter, and you will generally be understood even if you don't manage to master it! (While there are different methods of transliterating this difficult character, most Arabs (and this phrasebook!) use the number 3 in informal transliteration because of its resemblance to the original Arabic letter)
 * gh (غ) * : like French 'r' (this sound is a more guttural—or gargled—version of the English 'g')
 * f (ف) : like 'f' in "fox"
 * q (ق) : like 'g' in "got" or as a glottal stop (Jordanian Arabic only occasionally retains the standard Arabic pronunciation of this letter as similar to 'c' in "cat" but produced at the very back of the mouth.)
 * k (ك) : like 'k' in "kitten"
 * l (ل) : like 'l' in "lamb"
 * m (م) : like 'm' in "mother"
 * n (ن) : like 'n' in "noon"
 * h (ھ) : like 'h' in "help"
 * w (و) : like 'w' in "wow"
 * y (ي) : like 'y' in "yes"
 * ' (ء) : a glottal stop (like the 't' in "better" if said with a cockney accent!)

Phrase list
Alternate versions of each word—used when addressing men, women, or groups—have been listed where applicable. Other variations include word differences if spoken by a male or a female. The Arabic words have been included although the spoken pronunciation may differ from the written script.

Basics

 * Hello. : مرحبا (marHaba)
 * How are you? : كيف حالك
 * (keef Haa'lak) - When speaking to a male; can be abbreviated kee fak
 * (keef Ha'lik) - When speaking to a female; can be abbreviated kee fik
 * (keef Halkom) - When speaking to a group of two or more; can be abbreviated keef kom

 * Fine, thank you :
 * منيح(mniH) - Literally means "good"
 * كويس(kwayyis) - Literally means "good"
 * حمدلله(AlHamdillah) - A very common phrase which can mean "Fine, thank you", but literally means "Praise be to God"

 * What is your name? : شو اسمك؟
 * (shu ismek) - When speaking to a male
 * (shu ismik) - When speaking to a female

 * My name is ______ . : اسمي ______ . (ismi _____ .)
 * Nice to meet you. : تشرفنا\فرصة صعيدة (Tsharrafna/ FurSa sa3ideh)
 * Please. لو سمحت
 * (law samaHt) - When speaking to a male
 * (law samaHti/arjooki) - When speaking to a female

 * Thank you. : شكرا\يسلم إيديك (shukran/yislimu ideyk)
 * You're welcome. : عفواً
 * ( 3afwan)
 * أهلا وسهلا( 'ahlan o sahlan) - Literally means "welcome" but is also used in this case

 * Yes. :نعم\آه(na3am) or (aah)
 * No. : لا (lā)
 * Excuse me. (getting attention or begging pardon) : عفوا 3afwan
 * I'm sorry. : آسف
 * ( 'ana assif) - If spoken by a man
 * ( 'ana assfeh) - If spoken by a woman

 * Goodbye : مع السلامة (ma3 salama)
 * I can't speak Arabic [well]. :ما بحكي عربي (منيح (ma baHiki 3arabi [mniH])
 * Do you speak English? : بتحكي انجليزي؟
 * (ibtiHki ingleezi?) - When speaking to a man or a woman

 * Is there someone here who speaks English? : في حدا بيحكي انجليزي هون؟ (fi Hada biHki ingleezi hun?)
 * Help! : إلحقوني(ilHaquuni!) - Literally means "follow me"
 * Look out! : دير بالك
 * (dir balak!) - When speaking to a man
 * (dir balik!) - When speaking to a woman

 * Good morning. : صباح الخير (SabaaH el-khair)
 * Good evening. : مساء الخير (masa' el-khair)
 * Good night. : تصبح على خير (tuSbaaH 3ala khair)
 * I don't understand. : انا مش فاهم\ة
 * (ana mish fahim) - if you are male
 * ("ana mish faahmeh") - if you are female
 * (mish faahim/eh 3alayk) - Literally "I don't understand you"

 * Where is the toilet? : وين الحمام (wayn il-Hammaam?)

Problems

 * Leave me alone. : سيبني / اتركني لحالي (sibni laHalli/itrikni)
 * Don't touch me! : تلمسنشي('talmisnish)
 * Police! : الشرطة (al-shurtah)
 * Stop! Thief! : وقف يا حرامي (waqif ya Haarami)
 * I need your help. : بحتاج مساعدتك
 * (baHtaj musa3adtak) - When addressing a man
 * (baHtaj musaa3adtik) - When addressing a woman

 * I'm lost. أناضايع
 * (ana Daayi3) - if you are male
 * (ana Day3a) - if you are female

 * I lost my bag. : ضيعت شنتتي (Daaya3et shantiti)
 * I lost my wallet. : ضيعت محفظتى (Daaya3et maHfazti)
 * I'm sick. : أنا مريض (ana mariiD)
 * I need a doctor. : بدي دكتور (biddi doktor)
 * Can I use your phone? : بصير أستخدم تلفونك؟ ( bSir asta5dam telefonak?)

Numbers
The Arabic numeric characters are provided in place of the words due to their more common usage. Unlike Arabic script, Arabic numerals are printed from left to right. In the case where two pronunciations are provided, either can be used interchangeably.

 * 1 : ١ (waaHid)
 * 2 : ٢ (tinain or ithnain)
 * 3 : ٣ (talaata or thalaatha)
 * 4 : ٤ (arba'a)
 * 5 : ٥ (khamseh)
 * 6 : ٦ (sitta)
 * 7 : ٧ (saba'a)
 * 8 : ٨ (thamaaniyeh or tamaaniyeh)
 * 9 : ٩ (tisa'a)
 * 10 : ١٠ (asharah)
 * 11 : ١١ (iH'dash or H'dash)
 * 12 : ١٢ (it'nash or t'nash)
 * 13 : ١٣ (talaatash)
 * 14 : ١٤ (arba'tash)
 * 15 : ١٥ (khamistash)
 * 16 : ١٦ (sittash)
 * 17 : ١٧ (saba'tash)
 * 18 : ١٨ (tamaantash)
 * 19 : ١٩ (tisatash)
 * 20 : ٢٠ (ashriin)
 * 21 : ٢١ (waHid u' ashriin) - Literally "one and twenty"
 * 22 : ٢٢ (tinain u' ashriin) - Literally "two and twenty"
 * 23 : ٢٣ (talaata u' ashriin) - Literally "three and twenty"
 * 30 : ٣٠ (talaatiin)
 * 40 : ٤٠ (arba'iin)
 * 50 : ٥٠ (khamsiin)
 * 60 : ٦٠ (sittiin)
 * 70 : ٧٠ (saba'iin)
 * 80 : ٨٠ (tamaaniin)
 * 90 : ٩٠ (tisa'iin)
 * 100 : ١٠٠ (miiyeh)
 * 200 : ٢٠٠ (miitayn) - Literally "two [one] hundreds"
 * 300 : ٣٠٠ (talaat miiya)
 * 1,000:١٬٠٠٠ (elf)
 * 2,000:٢٬٠٠٠ (elfeyn) - Literally "two [one] thousands"
 * 1,000,000 :١٬٠٠٠٬٠٠٠ (milyon)
 * number _____ (train, bus, etc.) : رقم _____ (raqam)
 * half : نصف (nuS)
 * less : اقل (aqal)
 * more : اكثر (akthar)

Time

 * now : هلا (halla)
 * later : بعدين (ba3dain)
 * before : قبل (qabel)
 * morning : صباح (SaabaH)
 * afternoon : بعد الظهر (ba3ed id-duhur) - Literally "after the noon"
 * evening : مساء (masa)
 * night : ليل (leyl)

Clock time

 * one o'clock AM : (issa3a waHdeh [SobiH])
 * two o'clock AM : (issa3a tintayn [SobiH])
 * noon : (issa3a itna'ash)
 * one o'clock PM : (issa3a waHdeh [ba3ad id-duhur])
 * two o'clock PM : (issa3a tintayn [ba3ad id-duhur])

Duration

 * _____ minute(s) : _____ دقيقة
 * (da'ii'a or dagiiga) - 1 minute
 * (da'ii'tayn or dagiigatayn) - 2 minutes
 * (da'ayi'  or dagayig) - 3 to 10 minutes (example: khams dagayig = 5 minutes)
 * (da'ii'a or dagiiga) - 11 minutes and above (example: khamistaashar dagiga = 15 minutes)

 * _____ hour(s) : _____ ساعة
 * (sa3a) - 1 hour
 * (sa3atayn) - 2 hours
 * (sa3aat) - 3 to 10 hours (example: khams sa3aat = 5 hours)
 * (sa3a) - 11 hours and above (example: khamistaashar sa3a = 15 hours)

 * _____ day(s) : _____ يوم
 * (yawm) - 1 day
 * (yawmayn) - 2 days
 * (ayam) - 3 to 10 days
 * (yawm) - 11 days and above

 * _____ week(s) : _____ اسبوع
 * (usbu3) - 1 week
 * (usbu3eyn) - 2 weeks
 * (asaabi3) - 3 to 10 weeks
 * (usbu3) - 11 weeks and above

 * _____ month(s) : _____ شهر
 * (shaher) - 1 month
 * (shahreyn) - 2 months
 * (tush-hur) - 3 to 10 months
 * (shaher) - 11 weeks and above

 * _____ year(s) : _____ سنة
 * (sana) - 1 year
 * (sanitayn) - 2 years
 * (siniin or sanawaat) - 3 to 10 years
 * (sana) - 11 years and above

Days

 * today : اليوم (il yawm)
 * yesterday : امبارح(imbaariH)
 * tomorrow : بكرة (bukra)
 * this week : هذا الاسبوع (had al-usbu3)
 * last week : الأسبوع الماضي\ قبل أسبوع (gabel usbu3 or al-usbu3 al-maDi)
 * next week : الأسبوع الجاي\ بعد أسبوع (ba3ad uusbuu'a or al-usbu3 al-jayy)

 * Sunday : الأحد ([yawm] il-aHad)
 * Monday : الاتنين ([yawm] it-tinayn or il-itnayn)
 * Tuesday : الثلاثة ([yawm] it-talaata)
 * Wednesday : الأربعة ([yawm] il-arba3a)
 * Thursday : الخميس ([yawm] il-khamis)
 * Friday : الجمعة ([yawm] il-juma3a)
 * Saturday : السبت ([yawm] is-sabt)

Months
The following months coordinate with the Islamic calendar and is used only for Muslim holidays. Generally, the Gregorian calendar is used. When defining a month, however, most people use the month numbers (like shahir waaHid, which means "month one" or January).

 * January : كانون الثاني (kaanuun it-taani)
 * February : شباط (shbaaT)
 * March : اذار ( 'aaThaar)
 * April : نيسان (niisaan)
 * May : ايار ( 'ayyaar)
 * June : حزيران (Huzayraan)
 * July : تموز (tammuuz)
 * August : اّب ( 'aab)
 * September : ايلول ( 'ayluul)
 * October : تشرين الأول (tishriin il'awwal)
 * November : تشرين الثاني (tishriin it-taani)
 * December : كانون الأول (kaanuun il'awwal)

Colors
Each Arabic color has a masculine and feminine form. Only the masculine forms are displayed here.

 * black : اسود (iswad)
 * white : ابيض (abyaD)
 * gray : رمادي (ramaadi or sakini)
 * red : احمر (aHmar)
 * blue : ازرق (azraq)
 * yellow : اصفر (iSfar)
 * green : اخضر (akhDar)
 * orange : برتقاني (burtu'aani)
 * purple :نهدي (nahadi)
 * brown : بني (bunni)

Bus and train

 * How much is a ticket to _____? : قديش تزكرة ل...؟ (qaddesh [tazkara] la____)
 * One ticket to _____, please. : تزكرة ل____, لو سمحت\ بدي أروح ع____, لو سمحت (tazkara la____, law samaHt or biddi aruH 3a ____, law samaHt (literally: "I want to go to ____, please")
 * Where does this train/bus go? : لوين رايح هاد الباص\ القطار؟ (la wayn rayiH had al-baS/al-qiTar?)
 * Where is the bus to _____? : من وين بيطلع الباص ل...؟ (min wayn biTla3 ilbaS la____?)
 * Does this bus stop in _____? : هاد الباص بوقف ب____؟ (Had il-baS biwagif bi____?)
 * When does the bus for _____ leave? : إيمتى بيطلع الباص ل____؟ (iymta biTla3 ilbaS la____?)
 * When will this train/bus arrive in _____? :  إيمتى بيوصل الباص\القطار ب____؟ (iymta biyiWsal ilbas/al-giTar bi____? ...)

Directions

 * How do I get to _____ ?: _____ كيف أوصل (kiif awSal _____?)
 * ...the train station? : محطة القطار (maHaTaف al-qaTaar)
 * ...the bus station? : موقف الباص (maw'if al-baaS)
 * ...the airport? : المطار (al-maTaar)
 * ...downtown? : وسط البلد (wasaT il-balad)
 * ...hotel _____? : فندق (funduq il _____)
 * ...the American/Canadian/Australian/British consulate? : السفاره (is-safaareh)
 * American: (is-safaareh al-amerikiyyi)
 * Canadian: (is-safaareh al-kanadiyah)
 * Australian: (is-safaareh al-aastraliyah)
 * British: (is-safaareh al-baritaniyah)

/محل تذكارات /محل ذكرايات
 * Where are there a lot of... : أين يوجد _____ كثير (wayn fi _____ ktiir?)
 * ...hotels? : فنادق (fanadiq)
 * ...restaurants? : مطاعم (maTaa3am)
 * ...sites to see? : اماكن تاريخية (amakin tarikhiyeh) - Literally "historical places"
 * Can you show me on the map? : فرجيني على الخارطة (farjini 3la al-khariTah)
 * street : شارع (shar3ah)
 * Turn left. : خذ يسار (lif shmal)
 * Turn right. :ذ لف يمين(lif yamin)
 * left : يسار (shmaal or yasaar)
 * right : يمين (yaamiin)
 * straight ahead : دغري(dugri)
 * towards the _____ : _____ تجاه (tijaah)
 * past the _____ : _____ بعد (ba3ad _____)
 * before the _____ : _____ قبل (qabel _____)
 * Watch for the _____. : انتبه (dir balak)
 * intersection : مفترق طرق (taqaaTa'a)
 * north : شمال (shmal)
 * south : جنوب (junub)
 * east : شرق (sharq)
 * west : غرب (gharb)
 * uphill : أعلى الجبل (a3la jabal) - Literally "on the hill"; one may also use fuq, which means "up" or "above"
 * downhill : تحت (taHt) - Literally means "down"
 * Souvenir shop:

Taxi

 * Taxi! : تكسي (taksi)
 * Take me to _____, please. : _____ بدّي اروح
 * (biddi 'aruH ah _____ law samaHt) – Literally "I want to go to _____,if you please."
 * (bidna naruH ah _____ law samaHt) – Literally "We want to go to _____, if you please."

 * How much does it cost to get to _____? : كم سيكلف (aysh huwa thaman fi...) – Literally "What is the cost for..."

Lodging

 * Do you have any rooms available? في غرفة فاضية؟ (fi ghuraf faDiyeh)
 * How much is a room for one person/two people? : قديش التكلقة (qaddesh bitkalif [lilwaaHid/lilshakhSayn]) – Literally "What cost [for one/for two people]"
 * Does the room come with... : في بل غرفة(fi bil gurfeh...)
 * ...bedsheets? : شراشف؟... (sharashef)
 * ...a bathroom? : حمام... (Hamaam)
 * ...a telephone? : تلفون؟... (telefun)
 * ...a TV? : تافزيون؟... (televesion)
 * May I see the room first? : ممكن اشوف الغرفة(mumkin 'ashuuf ilgurfeh?)
 * Do you have anything bigger? : هل يوجد غرفة أكبر؟ (fi gurfeh akbar?)
 * ...cleaner? : أنظف؟... ('anDaf?)
 * ...cheaper? : أرخص... ('arkhas?)
 * OK, I'll take it. : كويس راح اخذ(kwayyis, raH 'akhudha)
 * I will stay for 1 night/2 nights/____ nights. : (biddi a3od layleh/laylatayn/____layaali)
 * Can you suggest another hotel? : في فندق تاني ؟ (fi fanadiq taaniyeh [bil manTa'a])
 * Do you have a safe? :  في عندكم خزانة ؟ (fi 3andkum khazneh)
 * Is breakfast/supper included?ر هذا مع الفطورة /العشاء (hadda ma3 il-faTur/il-3asha)
 * Please clean my room. : (mumkin tanaTHif ghurfiti, law samaHt)ممكن تنظف غرفتي
 * I want to check out. : (biddi 'adf3a al-Haseb) بدي ادفع للحساب

Money

 * Do you accept American/Australian/Canadian dollars? : هل تقبل دولارات؟ (btiqbal dulaaraat?)
 * Do you accept British pounds? : هل تقبل باند انكليزي؟ (btiqbal pound enkliizi?)
 * Do you accept credit cards? : هل تقبل فيسا؟ (btiqbal visa?)
 * Where can I get money changed? : أين يوجد صرّاف؟ (wayn fi Sarraaf?)
 * What is the exchange rate? : ما هوا سعر الدولار؟ (qadaysh si3ir al-[dollar]?)
 * Where is an automatic teller machine (ATM)? : أين يوجد جهاز سحب آلي؟ (wayn fi jihaz saHib aalii?)

Eating

 * Can I look at the menu, please? : لائحة الطعام لو سمحت  (aa'Tini laa'ihah, law samaHt)
 * I'm a vegetarian. : انا نباتي (ana nabaati)
 * breakfast : فطور (faTuur)
 * lunch : غداء (ghada' )
 * supper : عشاء (asha)
 * I want _____. : ___بدي(biddi)
 * chicken : جاج (jaaj)
 * beef : عجل ( âjl)
 * fish : سمك (samak)
 * pork : خنزير (khanzir) - note pork is not widely available and outside of Christian areas you may not receive a friendly response if you ask for it!
 * cheese : جبنة (jibneh)
 * eggs : بيض (bayD)
 * salad : سلطة (salaTa)
 * (fresh) vegetables : خضار (khuDar [Tazeh])
 * (fresh) fruit : فواكه (fawakeh [Tazeh])
 * Arabic (flat)bread : خبز (xubiz)
 * sliced bread : توست (toast)
 * toast : محمّر (mHammar) - Literally "slightly browned"
 * pasta : معكرونة (ma3karunah)
 * rice : رزّ (rozz)
 * beans : فول (ful)
 * May I have a glass of _____? : _____اعطتني كاسة (a3tini kasit _____, law samaHt) - Literally "give me a glass of _____, if you please."
 * May I have a cup of _____? : _____ اعطتيني فنجان (a3tini finjan _____, law samaHt)
 * May I have a bottle of _____? : _____ اعطيني قنينة (a3tini ganinit _____, law samaHt)
 * coffee : قهوة (gahweh)
 * tea (drink) : شاي (shay)
 * juice : عصير (aSiir)
 * (bubbly) water : مياه غازية (miyeh gaziyeh)
 * water : مياه (maiy)
 * beer : بيرة (biirah)
 * May I have some _____? : اعطيني _____ لو سمحت (a3tini _____, law samaHt) - Literally "give me _____, if you please."
 * salt : ملح (milH)
 * black pepper : فلفل أسود (filfel 'iswad)
 * butter : زبدة (zibdeh)
 * Excuse me.(getting attention of server): عفواً (afwan) or لو سمحت (law samaHt')
 * I'm finished. : شبعت (shabi3it - literally, "I'm full/satisfied") or خلصت(khallaSt)
 * It was delicious. : زاكي (kan ktir zaaki)
 * The check, please. : الفاتورة لو سمحت (el-fattura, law samaHt)

Shopping

 * Do you have this in my size? : عندك مقاسي؟
 * (indak maqaasi) - When speaking to a male
 * (indik maqaasi) - When speaking to a female

 * How much is this? : ما ثمن هذا؟ (qaddaysh ha' hadda?)
 * That's too expensive. :هادا غالي كتير (hadda gali ktiir)
 * Would you take _____? : سأدفع لك _____ فقط (raaH adfa'alak...) - Literally "I'm going to pay you..."
 * expensive : غالي (gali)
 * cheap : رخيص (raxiis)
 * I can't afford it. : ما معي كفاية (ma ma3i kifaayeh) - Literally "I don't have enough"
 * I don't want it. ما بدي ياه (ma biddi ya)
 * You're cheating me. : انت تغشني (inta bitgushni)
 * I'm not interested. : ابا مش مهتم (ana mish mohtam)
 * OK, I'll take it. :طيب ابا موافق (Tayyib, ana muwaffiq)
 * Can I have a bag? : أعطيني كيس لو سمحت (a'tiini kiis, law samaHt)
 * Do you ship (overseas)? :ممكن بتشحم؟ (mumkin btishHam?)
 * I need... : أحتاج (a'Htah...)
 * ...toothpaste. : معجون أسنان (ma'juun asnaan)
 * ...a toothbrush. : فرشاية أسنان (furshayit asnaan)
 * ...tampons. : كتكس (kotex)
 * ...soap. : صابون (Saabuun)
 * ...shampoo. : شامبو (shaambuu)
 * ...pain reliever. (e.g., aspirin or ibuprofen) : مسكّن (musakkin) - Literally "coming down"
 * ...cold medicine. : دواء رشح (dawa' rasheH)
 * ...stomach medicine. : دواء للمعدة (dawa' lil ma'deh)
 * ...a razor. : شفرة حلاقة (shafrah xilaaqah)
 * ...an umbrella. : شمسيّة (shamsiyyeh)
 * ...sunblock lotion. : دواء للشمس (dawa' lil shams) - Literally "medicine for the sun"
 * ...a postcard. : كرت (kart)
 * ...postage stamps. : طوابع (tawaaba)
 * ...batteries. : بطاريات (baTaariyaat)
 * ...writing paper. : ورق (waraq)
 * ...a pen. : قلم (qalam)
 * ...English-language books. : كتب اللغة الانكلزية (kutuub illugah ingliziyah)
 * ...English-language magazines. : مجلاّت اللغة الانكلزية (majellaat illugah ingliziyah)
 * ...an English-language newspaper. : جريدة اللغة الانكلزية (jariideh illugah ingliziyah)
 * ...an English-English dictionary. : قاموس اللغة الانكلزية (qaamus illugah ingliziyah)

Driving

 * I want to rent a car. : I want to rent a car. بدي أجر سيارة (beddi asta'jer seyara)
 * Can I get insurance? : Can I get insurance? بقدر اخذ التأمين (bagdar akhod ta'meen...)
 * stop (on a street sign) : stop وقف (waggef)
 * one way : طريق واحد (Tarig waHed)
 * yield : yield (...)
 * no parking : no parking (mamnu3' el wuguf...ممنوع الوقوف)
 * speed limit : speed limit (el sur3a  السرعة)
 * gas (petrol) station : gas station (kazeyeh...)
 * petrol : petrol بترول(banzeenبنزين)
 * diesel : diesel (diezel...ديزل)

Authority

 * I haven't done anything wrong. : I haven't done anything wrong. (Ma imilit ishi ghalat)
 * It was a misunderstanding. : It was a misunderstanding. (Saar soo tafaahom)
 * Where are you taking me? : Where are you taking me? (Wein am takhodni)
 * Am I under arrest? : Am I under arrest? (...)
 * I am an American/Australian/British/Canadian citizen. : I am an American/Australian/British/Canadian citizen. (...)
 * I want to talk to the American/Australian/British/Canadian embassy/consulate. : I need to talk to the American/Australian/British/Canadian embassy/consulate. (...)
 * I want to talk to a lawyer. : I want to talk to a lawyer. (Biddi mohaami)
 * Can I just pay a fine now? : Can I just pay a fine now? (...)

Learning more
This is where you would give more information on learning the language, such as links to online courses or textbooks, suggestions for in-person courses to take, or pointers to a dictionary or two.

 * How do you say _____ in Arabic? :How do you say _____ ? (...)kif aHki___ bil 3rabi?  كيف أحكي بالعربي
 * What is this/that called? : What is this/that called? (...)shu ismu hada? شو اسمه هذا

title: Jordanian Arabic phrasebook


text:
Jorhat

Jorhat is a city of about 150,000 people (as of 2011) in Assam. It was the capital of the Ahom Kingdom.

Get in
The city of Jorhat is well connected by rail, road and air modes of transport.

By plane
For visitors, the most convenient way of reaching Jorhat is by air.

By train
Railway is the next most convenient way to get to Jorhat. The main railway station is the Mariani junction, 17 km from the city centre, through which every train passes by (railway code:MXN). Important trains including Rajdhani Express and Brahmaputra Mail stop there. A loop line connects Mariani to Jorhat Town Station (railway code:JTTN). Only long-distance trains run through Jorhat Town Station — namely, InterCity Express, and Janasatabdi Exp. — are connected to the state capital, Guwahati.

By road
The National Highway No. 37 (NH37), running through the heart of Jorhat, connects the city to the airports of Dibrugarh (approximately a three-hour drive) and Guwahati (approximately a six-hour drive), respectively. The same National Highway also acts as a gateway to the neighbouring states of Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya.

Get around
The historical city of Sivasagar (the former Ahom Dynasty's capital) is on one end of the district and the Kaziranga National Park on the other. Rented taxi services (both pre-paid and post-paid) can be arranged from most hotels and lodges in the city. Daily ferry boats to the world's largest fluvial island (Majuli) can be boarded from Jorhat and most of those travel arrangements can be made straight from the city hotels.

See

Do
Visit Kaziranga National Park located 96 km from Jorhat, a journey likely to take around two hours by road. The park is open from November to April.

The park covers some 430 sq km of varied terrain. The elephant grass, cane, forest and swamps offer a variety of habitats for the local wildlife, including the one-horned rhino, wild buffalo, sambar deer and wild pig as well as a wide range of birds. The last tiger count suggests a park population of 86, the highest density population of tigers in India. However the lush jungle means visitors are by no means guaranteed a sighting any of these.

Safaris into the park can be arranged locally. In addition to jeep safaris, elephant safaris to working animals of the Indian Forestry Department are possible. however the jeep safaris allow the visitor to cover a larger portion of the park than is possible on an elephant.

Buy

 * Ethnic handicrafts, of the north east and Assam are available in many shops in Jorhat.
 * Local Shopping, Gar-Ali is the main shopping area of the city. Apart from Gar-Ali shops, Big Bazaar, Raaga, Sohum Shoppe, Vishal Mega Mart and Max Mart are other shopping outlets of Jorhat.

Eat

Hotel restaurants:

 * Fusion Asiana restaurant with some ethnic flavours.

Go next

 * East to Sivasagar, famous for the historical monuments of the Ahom era.
 * South-west to Golaghat, one of the oldest urban centres, and administrative divisions of Assam, since 1839.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Jorhat


text:
Jos

Jos is a city of about 810,000 people (2015). It is the state capital of Plateau State in North Central Nigeria. Before the unrest that has shaken the region, the city's cool climate, scenic plateau location and colonial importance made it a popular tourist destination.

Understand
Jos is inhabited by various ethnic groups and chiefs, of whom are indigenous Afizere, Berom, Anaguta, Bugi, Mwagwavul, Angas, Tarok and many more from other areas of Nigeria, such as Yoruba and Igbo, Hausa and many southerners displaced from other northern cities in the aftermath of religious violence. The most widely spoken language is Hausa, and because of the high literacy rate in Jos, almost everyone also speaks English.

Jos is an old city, one of the first built in Nigeria during colonial rule. Jos has always been the home of many cultures. Because of its old structure, Jos has been a very hard place for the government to renovate. Although places like Rayfield and other new settlements have the feeling of living in a developed city, its oldest sites and tourist locations most certainly are very outdated.

The Berom are one of the three largest groups in the city and environs. According to the locals, the prominent people in the Lamingo district are the Afizere also called by the Hausa exonym, Jarawa. The language of the Berom is Berom (the largest Plateau language spoken in Nigeria) and that of the Afizere is called Izere, with the third group being the Irigwe who speak Rigwe; however, the dominant language spoken across the city is Hausa. Some of the common names you hear around the Berom speaking areas are Jang, Pam, Dung, Dalyop; names you would hear in the Izere speaking areas are Azi, Izang, Arin, Itse, Aware for males and Adar, Agyer, Atong, Kushim for females. Lamingo occupies an expanse of land - high lands and lowlands inclusive. Flat terrain of rocks seen in isolation and in groups bound this area.

Get in
Jos is served by many bus lines, chiefly Cross Country that runs air-conditioned mini-van services from Lagos and Abuja. The state government-owned Plateau Line runs station wagon services, but these are mostly uncomfortably crowded trips. Many other state governments operate transport services with termini in various Jos motor-parks from surrounding state capitals: Gombe, Lafia, Kaduna, Damaturu and even Yola. Other mini-bus or car services are private arrangements where you sit and wait for the vehicle to fill up, but are best avoided because the drivers tend to have dubious driving skills. You can also get into Jos by having a private driver in a private vehicle; because of terrorist acts, you may pass through a lot of security check points.

By train
The old locomotive trains famed in Cyprian Ekwensi's The Passport of Mallam Ilia no longer bring the people in and the tin out.

Get around
There are many taxi cabs, and other transport vehicles all over Jos, such as motorcycles, tricycles and buses. But they have to be shared with other passengers over defined routes. it is also possible to get a private taxi where you share with no one at all, but it is much safer to bear the inconvenience of travelling with others, to avoid getting robbed. Some mini-bus routes are also defined but these are difficult to understand. The taxis and buses almost always tend to be rickety. Motorcycle taxis, commonly known as 'okada' are also a choice but these can be very dangerous as the road network is filled with a lot of potholes and there is a general lack of safe practices. The "okada" rides also tend to be more expensive than the 'Tricycle' or bus rides but are very flexible.

Various roads lead to Lamingo depending on where one is coming from. From the University of Jos (main campus/permanent site), you could get a small bus, a motor cycle or a tricycle to Lamingo. Generally speaking, you can get to Lamingo from any destination within Jos with an average of about ₦10,000. You will always find a bus, a tricycle or a bike.

See
There are many parks you can see in Jos, examples are the wild life park, and the national museum.

The old tin mines are all on the outskirts of Jos. They have developed into lakes which might have some environmental concerns. The areas are generally safe but it is best to go with a guide. There are many waterfalls on the outskirts of Jos.

 * The National Identity Management Commission office: A beautiful building on the Lamingo road.
 * The National Identity Management Commission office: A beautiful building on the Lamingo road.
 * The National Identity Management Commission office: A beautiful building on the Lamingo road.
 * The National Identity Management Commission office: A beautiful building on the Lamingo road.
 * The National Identity Management Commission office: A beautiful building on the Lamingo road.

Learn

 * Plateau State University (PLASU) offers a variety of courses.
 * The state Polytechnic (PLAPOLY) offer courses with the award of Ordinary and Higher National Diploma.
 * Federal School of Medical Laboratory offers a 3-year course with a certificate of Medical Laboratory Technician.
 * There is a Federal College of Veterinary and Medical Laboratory Technology in Vom, also called Vom Vet. which is usually prided as the best veterinary centre in West Africa.
 * The National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom. They deal not only with animal research, but also human.
 * The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) has its television college also located in Jos where courses in film production and editing are on offer.
 * The National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom. They deal not only with animal research, but also human.
 * The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) has its television college also located in Jos where courses in film production and editing are on offer.

Buy
The central business district is around Ahmadu Bello Way in the centre of Jos. You can buy virtually everything possible, ranging from mobile phones, SIM cards, other devices and peripherals, and many other items including food stuffs snacks. There are many banks in the area as well. General merchandise may be purchased around here. For leather products at very good prices, Ferin Gada on Bauchi Road is the best place to go. There is a place popularly referred to as Terminus; it has a diverse market where you can buy food ranging from meat to fish, fresh pepper tomatoes and onions. There are provision stores, shops for electronics and shoes. There is another market called New Market, about 5 minutes ride from terminus where you can get food stuffs too. The market is known for its peculiarity in clothing material.

Depending on what you need to buy, there are small stalls around for the purchase of snacks and drinks. Shops line the roads at intervals too and there are shopping malls. You could also take a paid tricycle to a father away market if you need stock purchase. Markets like Terminus and Faringada are relatively close. Below are some shopping malls you could try.

Eat
There are many eateries and restaurants that offer a range of cuisines. Local delicacies are also very abundant. Many modern restaurants also serve international dishes.

Drink
Shemshak, opposite the University of Jos gates, is a local favourite where the price is reasonable. There are many other drink zones where local brewed drinks or international drinks are served.

Connect
The usual service providers can be found in Jos. There are other third-party internet service providers among which are:

Stay safe
The Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) is in Lamingo. They have all the hospital departments including diagnostic laboratories. It is a good place to access quality health care.

Cope
You can speak English and Hausa to virtually every Jos citizen and they understand but someone who doesn't understand English may just stare at you as you speak while others may try redirecting you to others who can, notice where they point to, they may be pointing at people with better knowledge of what you are asking for. Some may speak a mixture of English and other languages whilst just a few would ever speak the pidgin English mostly spoken among locals. Berom and Izere are also well spoken by natives and those who live around them.

Go next
The city is not so far from towns like:
 * Abuja - Nigeria's capital
 * Kafanchan - the economic capital of Southern Kaduna
 * Nok - the village after which the famous Nok culture was named
 * Zangon Kataf - historically, in the days of the trans-Saharan and trans-Atlantic slave trade before the 20th century, captives were marched on foot to this town from the villages which later became Jos and the neighbourhoods where they were sold in the famous Zango market, whence they were taken towards Zaria to the Sahara or southwards to the Atlantic
 * Zaria - one of the traditional Hausa city states

title: Jos


text:
Joseph

Joseph is a city in Eastern Oregon at an elevation of 4,150 feet above sea level.

History
The area has a rich history dating back to the days when Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce inhabited the land. After the gold rush occurred (ultimately populating the wallowas), the government took back most of its land from the tribe. Angered by this action, some of the Nez Perce retaliated by slaying some whites nearby. This turned into a long battle between the two forces. Chief Joseph and his followers eventually surrendered, but were never able to return to the Wallowa Valley. A tribute to Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce is present all throughout Wallowa Lake and its surroundings. It is still considered one of the most important and unjust actions toward a Native tribe by the United States government.

Flora and fauna
The area outside of town around Wallowa Lake is surrounded by true beauty. Various animals inhabit the area, but the most amazing sight to see is the large amount of does and bucks the Wallowas has. Chipmunks surround the landscape, and are famous for their grabby little hands and big cheeks on top of Mount Howard. The mountain located next to the lake is great place for sight seeing and be able to feed the chipmunks.

The lake is also surrounded by many pines. One pine in particular was found in the surrounding Wallowa Mountains. Pinus contorta, 'Chief Joseph', is a dwarf pine that is very rare and is known for its drastic change from green in the summer to bright gold in the winter time.

Climate
There is a great variance in the weather. During the summer months of July and August the average temp is in thet mid 70s. Thunderstorms are very standard in the spring and summer. During the winter months, the temperature dips into the 30s on average. The best time to visit is in the summer time, this is when water sports are at their best and the Wallowa tram is up and running.

Get in
The easiest way to get to Joseph is along Highway 82 east from La Grande, Oregon. Be prepared as this is a small two-lane highway with limited shoulder area and often has construction work in progress. It is about 72 miles from La Grande to Joseph so make sure you fuel up before leaving. There is also a local small airport with a 5,000 long runway about 1 mile west of Joseph.

Get around
In a quaint town like Joseph the primary means of transport is your own vehicle. Do not expect any form of public transportation here. Do not be surprised to see horses tied to a rail along the main street, the old west still lives on in Joseph.

See
Joseph itself is a mixed little town, part modern west farm town and part old west. The buildings are a mix of both, often within the same block. Due to its proximity to so many wilderness areas it serves as a local replenishment station. The Joseph city managers have seen fit to erect a small kiosk about the middle of Main Street to provide weary tourists with all the information they could ask for. The best way to learn about Joseph is to get out along Main Street and walk. It is through walking that you will discover all of the little curiosity shops tucked along Main Street and the characters they contain within.

title: Joseph


text:
Joseph City

Joseph City is a city in Northern Arizona.

Get in
Located off I-40, west of Holbrook and east of Winslow.

title: Joseph City


text:
Joshimath

Joshimath is a city in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India, a major tourist destination and a pilgrimage site at an altitude of that serves as a gateway to the Hindu pilgrimage town of Badrinath.

Understand
Joshimath, in the Garhwal Himalayas, is also known as Jyotirmath. It is on route from Haridwar and Rishikesh to the Hindu sacred shrine of Badrinath. It is also the junction for people visiting Auli, one of the best skiing spots in India.

Get in
The drive from the valley is very scenic and runs along the Ganges and its tributaries.

By bus
The bus service operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation, a Government company starts from Tapovan, a town in the outskirts of the city. Online bookings for this has not been started for this route yet but you can purchase bus passes to avail all government buses in Uttrakhand at the official website. Private buses can be booked at the counters in bus stands eventhough some companies allow online bookings through travel booking websites like Redbus and MakeMyTrip.

Buses leave from Rishikesh (₹580/550 gov/pvt) at 5–5:30AM but you should be the 30 min before, seats are limited, or from Haridwar at 4:30AM. The last bus leaves by around 7AM. The journey takes 8 to 11 hours depending on the condition of the road and where you start.

Do

 * Cable car ride to Auli
 * Day Hike to Gorson meadows
 * Trek to Kuari Pass and Curzon Trail
 * Trek to Nanda Devi National Park

There are some trekking companies in town in case you need further information.

Go next

 * Auli – One of India's best ski resorts, just south.
 * Badrinath – 50 km north, a Hindu holy town and a nagar panchayat with the most important of the four Char Dham Yatra Hindu pilgrim centers.
 * Ghangaria – South of Badrinath, it's the gateway to the Hemkunt pilgrimage site and the Valley of Flowers.
 * Kedarnath – Relatively close, considering you are already in this area. It is one of the four Char Dham Yatra Hindu pilgrim centers, at 3,400 m, which you need to hike at least 16 km to.

title: Joshimath


text:
Joshin'etsukogen National Park

Joshin'etsukogen National Park (上信越高原国立公園 Jōshin'etsu Kōgen Kokuritsu Kōen) is in the Chubu region of Japan; it is the second largest national park in Japan and consists of mountains and highlands that extend across Gunma (old province name 上野 kōzuke), Nagano (信濃 shinano), and Niigata (越後 echigo) prefectures.

Get in
The nearest town of size is Nagano, easily reached by Shinkansen from Tokyo (79 min). From Nagano Station, the Nagaden Shiga Kogen express bus runs several times a day directly to Shiga Kogen (1 hr 10 min, ¥1600). All buses go up to Hasuike (蓮池), with some continuing on to Oku-Shiga Kogen (奥滋賀高原) or Shirone Kazan (白根火山).

Alternatively, if you miss the direct bus, take the Nagano Dentetsu train from Nagano to Yudanaka (40 min) and continue by bus to Shiga Kogen (20 min, roughly hourly).

See
On your journey, you might see some of these notable mountain locations: Mt. Asama, Mt. Shirane, Ichinokurasawa, Shibu Pass, Mt. Myoko, Mt. Kurohime, Mt. Togakushi, Mt. Iizuna, or Lake Nojiri.

title: Joshin'etsukogen National Park


text:
Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree is a village in south central San Bernadino County in the California Desert, on the northern boundary of the Joshua Tree National Park.

Understand
Joshua Tree is a village in the Morongo Basin, on California State Route 62 between Yucca Valley to the west and Twentynine Palms to the east.

Joshua Tree is home to Joshua Tree National Park, with the western entrance to the park located to the south.

Aside from the park, Joshua Tree (also known simply as "JT") is an artists and musicians community, with a farmers market and art galleries.

By car
Most visitors will arrive by car on California State Route 62, which runs east-west through the Morongo Basin, west from the Palm Springs area and Yucca Valley, and east from Twentynine Palms and the Arizona state line.

By bus
There is a limited bus network, run by the Morongo Basin Transit Authority (MBTA). There's an hourly service to Twentynine Palms and to Yucca Valley, where it is possible to connect with Palm Springs.

By plane
The closest passenger airport is:
 * Palm Springs International Airport, west of Joshua Tree Village.

Further afield are:
 * Ontario International Airport, about west.
 * Los Angeles International Airport, west.
 * San Diego International Airport, southwest.

Go next

 * Joshua Tree National Park, south — The large national park south of the town is home to two desert ecosystems and is a favorite for campers, hikers, and rock-climbers.

title: Joshua Tree


text:
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a national park in the Southern California Desert. The park encompasses nearly of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, conserving two separate desert ecosystems at different altitudes.

Understand
The name of the park is derived from the distinctive Joshua tree (Yucca brevifolia), a tall-growing plant that grows prevalently in the higher elevations of its boundaries.

History
The area enclosed by the park was declared a National Monument in 1936, a Biosphere Reserve in 1984 and finally a National Park in 1994.

The name Joshua tree was reportedly given by a band of Mormons who crossed the Mojave Desert in the mid-19th century, the tree's unique shape reminding them of a Biblical story in which Joshua reaches his hands up to the sky. The Joshua tree is also called izote de desierto (Spanish, "desert dagger").

The profile of the Joshua Tree National Park (then a National Monument) was raised significantly in 1987 with the release of the best-selling U2 album The Joshua Tree. (The actual tree on the album cover stood some 200 miles to the northwest, closer to Death Valley National Park; it fell over sometime around the year 2000, but it remains a shrine for fans of the band.)

Landscape
Two deserts, two large ecosystems whose characteristics are determined primarily by elevation, come together at Joshua Tree National Park. Below, the Colorado Desert encompasses the eastern part of the park and features natural gardens of creosote bush, ocotillo, and cholla cactus. The higher, moister, and slightly cooler Mojave Desert is the special habitat of the Joshua tree. In addition to Joshua tree forests, the western part of the park also includes some of the most interesting geologic displays found in California's deserts. Five fan palm oases also dot the park, indicating those few areas where water occurs naturally and wildlife abounds.

Flora and fauna
While it may at first appear lifeless, the desert supports myriads of creatures that become active during the evening and early morning. Coyotes are commonly seen near the park roads making their rounds. Jackrabbits and the shy kangaroo rats emerge from their dens in the evenings to forage. Bobcats are less frequently seen, but a lucky traveler might catch one silhouetted against the moonlight. Birds in the park include burrowing owls, vultures, golden eagles, and roadrunners. Desert tortoise, lizards, tarantulas, and rattlesnakes may be found among the rocks.

The desert floor will blossom with springtime wildflowers in numerous varieties and can produce extraordinarily colorful displays, especially following wet winters. What blooms when varies upon water, elevation, temperature and season. (See also: Do: Wildflower viewing section within this article).

Climate
Days are typically clear with less than 25 percent humidity. Temperatures are most comfortable in the spring and fall, with an average high/low of 85 and 50°F (29 and 10°C) respectively. Winter brings cooler days, typically around 60°F (15°C), and freezing nights. It occasionally snows at higher elevations. Summers are hot, over 100°F (38°C) during the day and not cooling much below 75°F (24°C) until the early hours of the morning.

Visitor information
There are four visitor centers: two inside the park, and two in towns just outside of the park:
 * Park website

By car
Joshua Tree National Park is 140 mi (230 km) east of Los Angeles, 185 mi (300 km) south of Las Vegas, and 230 mi (370 km) west of Phoenix.

Entrances along the north park boundary are at Joshua Tree Village (west entrance) and the city of Twentynine Palms (north entrance). From the west (Palm Springs, Los Angeles) these entrances can be reached via Interstate 10 to California State Route 62 (CA 62, also known as Twentynine Palms Highway).

The south entrance at Cottonwood Spring is along I-10, east of Indio (25 mi / 40 km) and west of Blythe (80 mi / 130 km) and the Arizona-California border.

The park is the closest national park to Los Angeles and San Diego. On weekend and holiday mornings there often are lines into the park at the West entrance (in Joshua Tree Village) and the South entrance (from I-10).

By plane
The nearest airport with passenger service:
 * Palm Springs:

Or you can fly into to nearby airports and make a road trip to the park:
 * Ontario: Ontario Airport ( – from ONT to Palm Springs.
 * Los Angeles: Los Angeles International Airport – 120 mi (190 km) from LAX to Palm Springs.
 * San Diego: San Diego Airport – 150 mi (240 km) from SAN to Palm Springs.

By train
Palm Springs is also the nearest city with an Amtrak station, served by the Sunset Limited (Los Angeles-New Orleans) route.

Fees and permits
Entrances fees are valid for seven days, allowing unlimited re-entry for the week. Fees as of 2022 are:

 * $15 - individual on foot/bike
 * $25 - motorcycle
 * $30 - private vehicle
 * $55 - Joshua Tree National Park Annual Pass (good for 12 months, covers the entrance fee for the pass signee and accompanying passengers entering in a single, non-commercial vehicle)

By car
The main roads through the park are paved and easily accessible to passenger vehicles. Several backcountry roads through the park may also be passable by normal sedans, although conditions often require high-clearance, four-wheel drive vehicles: check at the ranger stations for current road conditions.

By foot
There are numerous trails throughout the park. Be sure to carry and drink lots of water while hiking.

By bike
Many of the park trails and roads are excellent for mountain biking: check at a ranger station for options.

See

Astronomy and star gazing
Due to its dark nighttime skies and the relative clarity of its air, Joshua Tree National Park is a popular spot for amateur astronomy, stargazing, and astrophotography.

The east side of the park offers the darkest skies for stargazing. Looking east, the closest major city is Phoenix, over 250 miles (400 km) away.

Birding
The park is an attractive place to sight and watch birds. The sparse desert vegetation makes birding easier than in most national parks.

The majority of recorded bird species are migrants and vagrants. The aquatic areas of Barker Dam and the Desert Queen Ranch attract waterfowl that would not otherwise be seen in the desert, a way-stop to or from Salton Sea, further south.

Many southwestern desert species make Joshua Tree their home: from the roadrunner, mockingbird, verdin and cactus wren, to red-tailed hawk and American kestrel. Golden eagles regularly hunt throughout the park.

Climbing
The park is one of the most popular climbing, bouldering and highlining areas in the world with more than 8,000 climbing routes, 2,000 boulder problems, and 100s of natural gaps, offering a wide range of difficulty and ability levels. Note that there are differing regulations depending on whether a climb is being done within the designated wilderness area or not: check with a ranger for current regulations.

Hiking
A great place to go! Trails within the park include short and easy to strenuous:

 * – Also walk around Cap rock itself.
 * – continue on longer
 * – Also walk around Cap rock itself.
 * – continue on longer
 * – continue on longer
 * – continue on longer
 * – continue on longer

Learning
A number of classes are conducted in the park through the Joshua Tree National Park Association's Desert Institute. Classes include topics such as painting, photography, wildlife, wildflowers, and geology.

Photography
The odd shapes of the Joshua tree as well as the dramatic geology and desert scenery make the park a great place for photographers. As with many areas, photography is best in the early morning and late evening hours.

For astrophotography, the east side of the park offers the darkest skies but lacks the background of the Joshua tree due to its lower elevation. Lost Horse Valley (enroute to Keys Views) offers an abundance of Joshua trees and rock outcroppings for scene composition, but with light pollution from the Palm Springs and Twentynine Palms areas. Anywhere in the park you will also see an abundance of airplane light trails to and from the Los Angeles area.

As with most national parks, commercial photography requires a permit.

Wildflower viewing
Springtime wildflowers come in numerous varieties and can produce extraordinarily colorful displays, especially following wet winters. The flowers can include vast fields of flowering shrubs or tiny flowering plants right at your feet.

Blooms occur at different times at different elevations: in February at lower elevations in the Pinto Basin and around the south entrance (2,200 ft / 670 m elevation), in March and April at higher elevations such as from Lost Horse Valley (4,200 ft / 1,280 m elevation), and as late as June for higher desert regions above 5,000 ft (1,500 m).

For desert blooms at even lower elevations, consider continuing your journey to Death Valley wildflower blooms.

Buy
Services within the park are limited, but food, gas, and supplies can all be purchased just outside of the park in Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree Village. Park visitor centers all offer bookstores selling maps, postcards, posters, and books of local interest.

Eat
There are no restaurants or stores in the park, but numerous options are available along CA 62 (north of the park) in towns such as Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree Village, and limited nearby options along I-10 (south of the park) in Chiriaco Summit. Joshua Tree Village has a variety of cafes and restaurants. There are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options in the Village. Every Saturday, year round, the Village holds a farmers’ market. For further options, you would need to continue west from Joshua Tree Village to Yucca Valley and Pioneertown; continue far enough you'll hit Palm Springs.

Drink
Water is available from all visitor centers and a few of the campgrounds. Towns outside of the park borders offer additional options for refreshment, such as Twentynine Palms, Joshua Tree Village and Yucca Valley, all along CA 62.

Lodging
There are no hotels within the park, but numerous hotels cluster along the Twentynine Palms highway (CA 62) in Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree Village.

Camping
There are nine campgrounds within the park, but they will often fill well before sunset, especially on weekends. Sadly, as least since 2005, there are no longer any free sites. All campgrounds are open year-round. Some of the campgrounds must be reserved in advance through the National Park Service Reservation System. There are also 13 staging areas for backcountry camping trips in the park; these are free but require registration in advance.

Backcountry
Permits are required for all backcountry camping and can be obtained at the visitor centers. Backcountry campsites must be located at least one mile from the road and 500 feet from any trail. Camping in washes is not recommended due to possible flash flood danger. All water must be carried in as natural water sources are limited and reserved for the local wildlife population. Open fires are also forbidden, and all cooking should be done over portable camp stoves.

Stay safe
By far, the greatest danger in this park is the weather. Due to the high desert environment, it will be blazing hot during the day and temperatures may drop to freezing during the night. Top medical issues for visitors include both hyperthermia (body temperature too hot) and hypothermia (body temperature too cold).

Do not hike without adequate water. One gallon per person per day is the minimum recommended amount. Wear sunscreen, dress in layers, and take all other precautions when dealing with a desert environment. Be aware that even a tiny amount of rain can cause flash flooding; avoid canyons and drainage areas during severe weather.

Other dangers within the park include rattlesnakes, abandoned mines, and the numerous prickly and thorny desert plants. In general, snakes can be avoided by being careful when in rocky areas. Mines can be found throughout the park, and while most have been sealed over, open mines can still be found. Do not enter mines: most of these areas are over 100 years old and are extremely dangerous.

Flash flooding can quickly occur in low-lying areas, even if it's not raining in the immediate vicinity. Get out quickly, no matter if you are on foot or in a vehicle.

If you are going a significant distance on any of the unpaved roads, phone a friend who is not part of your party and tell them where you are going, when you will be back, when you will phone them again to tell them you are safe. Provide them with emergency numbers to call: +1 909-383-5651 (park dispatch).

There is no cellular phone service throughout most of the park. Where there is service, it is patchy and unreliable as with most wilderness and remote areas, so don't count on being able to use it in an emergency. You may be able to call 911 from some locations, but there is no guarantee. However, in an emergency always try 911: even if you have no service it may connect with another carrier.

If using maps on your phone, download maps before you go. Take a paper map with you – and know how to read it.

Go next

 * Salton Sea, south — California's largest lake, formed when an irrigation canal burst in 1905 and flooded the Salton Basin for more than a year. This unusual area is home to geothermal features, a wildlife refuge, the partially built resort community of Salton City, and the "profoundly strange" artwork of Salvation Mountain in the squatter town of Slab City.
 * Twentynine Palms, north — On the park's northern boundary, this small city has lodging, food and supplies for park visitors, and is home to the largest US Marine Corps Base.
 * Joshua Tree Village, north — Also on the park's northern boundary, this small town also has lodging, food and supplies for park visitors.
 * Palm Springs, west — A desert oasis southwest of the park, Palm Springs offers resorts, golfing, dining, and other escapes for travelers.
 * Mojave National Preserve, north — Sand dunes, mountain ranges, and mesas with three types of deserts: the Mojave, Great Basin, and Sonoran; in the Mojave Desert north of Joshua Tree.
 * Death Valley National Park, north — Yet another desert landscape, with the lowest elevation in the Western Hemisphere and hottest recorded temperature; further north of Mojave National Preserve.

title: Joshua Tree National Park


text:
Jostedalsbreen

Jostedalsbreen is the largest glacier on the European mainland. It is mainly located in the county of Sogn og Fjordane in Norway partly in Oppland county. The many arms of the glacier can be seen from different parts of Sogn og Fjordane and Oppland. There are many access points. There is a tangle of countless valleys and lakes around the glacier. Glacial melt water makes surrounding rivers, lakes and fjords turquoise in summer.

Most of the glacier is an ice cap and is as such not visible from valleys below. Its size and position makes the glacier a key barrier to travel in this part of Norway. The glacier and the surrounding area is protected as a national park. Around Jostedalsbreen proper there are additional glaciers partly included in the protected area. Breheimen area between Jostedalsbreen and Jotunheimen is a separate national park. National parks are only available hiking.

Glaciers are alive and are constantly moving and changing. The extent and visibility of glacier branches change over time and depends on snow cover. For instance, branches that were once impressive and easily visible from the valley may some years later have retracted to the plateau.

Understand

The main glacier rests on a mountain plateau west of the Jostedalen valley, hence the name. The glacier ice covers a total area of about 500 km2, while the national park is more than 1300 km2. Jostedalsbreen is a temperate glacier such that it is at melting point throughout the year, from its surface to its base. The glacier is not frozen to the bedrock but flows along the slopes and through the valleys like a river, albeit at very low speed from 1 cm/day up to 100 cm/day (3 feet per day). Flow is highest at surface and middle causing the ice to crack and break up. Chunks of ice regularly falls from the edge or front of the glacier, a process known as ice calving. The resulting huge waves in lakes or the chunks of ice themselves are deadly.

Glaciers are created by snow accumulated and gradually transformed into ice ("blue ice"). Snow melts off at lower parts of the glacier during summer revealing the blue ice (actual glacier), while the higher parts of the glacier has permanent snow cover. Glaciers like Jostedalsbreen are created and maintained by heavy snowfall at high altitudes, rather than by extreme temperatures as in the Antarctic.

Jostedalsbreen is basically a plateau glacier or ice cap, while the arms or branches are valley glaciers. Jostedalsbreen has some 30 named arms into the adjacent valleys, among the well-known are:
 * Nigardsbreen in Jostedalen, Luster district
 * Austerdalsbreen at Veitastrond, Luster
 * Bøyabreen in Fjærland
 * Briksdalsbreen at Olden
 * Kjenndalsbreen at Loen

East of Jostedalen towards road 15 and 55 is the Breheimen ("Glacier park") protected area, and this area has number of smaller glaciers. West and South there are several smaller glacier not fully connected to Jostedalsbreen proper, but often seen as part of Jostedalsbreen system. Together with nextdoor Jotunheimen these form the highest and most alpine mountains in Norway.

Smaller, independent glaciers digging into mountain slopes creating amphitheater shapes are cirque glaciers, "botnbre" in Norwegian, hence the generic name "botn" in Norway's mountains.

History

The glacier and the mountains surrounding it became a national park in 1991.

Jostedalen and many other secluded valleys in Sogn district were abandoned after the Black Death (1349) and remained uninhabited for the next 200 years. Around 1700, during the "Little Ice Age", glaciers advanced several kilometers down the valleys and destroyed farms.

Landscape
Mountains, some of them scrubbed bare by the ice. Many valleys. And glaciers rising to a height of 2083 m (6833 ft).

Flora and fauna
At lower elevation the flora is quite rich. This is because of the pure meltwater flowing down the valley. Closer to the glacier the flora is of an Arctic type. On the glacier there is not much animal life. Red deer, lynx and wolverines could be spotted. In the mountains and valleys around the fauna is richer. Especially the red deer can often be seen. Eagles can also be seen.

Climate
In the valleys and the mountain area around the glacier the climate can be temperate in summertime. On the glacier the temperature is lower. There can be snowfall even in mid-summer.

Get in

Jostedalsbreen largely rests on a mountain plateau with arms stretching in all directions to the valleys beneath. Only the arms of the glaciers are visible to visitors and the main glacier is visible only from airplane. The glacier can be approached from any of the valleys around the glacier, and there are many access points.
 * The northeastern corner of the glacier is in Oppland in Skjåk district near road 15. Drive local roads through tributary valleys. Access to this corner usually involves long hikes.
 * Stryn district has several access points, notably the well known Briksdalsbreen at Olden
 * Nigardsbreen arm in Luster district is also a popular place for glacier hiking. Access to several branches from Jostedalen valley. Access through Jostedalen valley via Gaupne village.
 * Veitastrond village offers access to several branches, local road from Hafslo junction on road 55
 * Fjærland on road 5 has at least two arms of the glacier
 * Several branches are with some hiking available from Stardalen valley via Klakegg junction on road E39

Most of Jostedalsbreen is protected as national park which means that there are no roads within the park limits. Motor vehicles are not allowed outside roads. Motor transport is only to the edge of park or to one of the arms of the glacier.

Glaciers are treacherous and extremely dangerous, and visitors must keep a safe distance to the glacier arms. Visitors can hike on the glacier only with a professional guide. Guide services are available at Nigardsbreen (Jostedalen valley) and Olden/Loen/Stryn area.

By car
Public transport is limited with a few departures daily, so a car is the only flexible way to get to the edge of the park.

Road 5 Sogndal-Skei runs in a tunnel in the bedrock under the glacier, and the Bøyabreen arm is visible close to the road at the tunnel entrance in Fjærland.

The Stryn summer ski centre operates at the northern end of the glacier along road 258 Stryn-Grotli.

 * From Oslo:
 * Road E16 to Lærdal then
 * Road 5 to Sogndal and Fjærland
 * road 55 to Luster and Jostedalen
 * road E6 to Otta, then road 15 towards Stryn
 * Road 55 to Luster

 * From Bergen
 * Road E16 to Lærdal then
 * Road 5 to Sogndal and Fjærland
 * road 55 to Luster and Jostedalen

 * From Trondheim
 * Road E6 to Otta, then road 15 towards Stryn
 * Road 55 to Luster

 * From Geiranger
 * Road 63 to Langvatn junction
 * Road 15 to Stryn
 * Road 15 to Grotli, road 258 (old road) to Stryn
 * Road 15 to Lom, road 55 to Luster

By bus or rail

As Sogn og Fjordane county barely has railway lines, the best public transport option is by bus. Buses often operate on a limited schedule, but the entire county is well-covered. The map on Ruteinfo.net shows bus stations, bus stops and accommodation including telephone numbers. As the map is not in English, select one of the municipalities bordering the glacier (Jølster, Luster, Sogndal or Stryn) where it says VEL KOMMUNE. Local bus can be used for the last kilometers to the glacier front.

 * From Trondheim
 * Express bus via Otta and Stryn towards Bergen

 * From Bergen
 * Express bus via Førde, Skei and Stryn towards Trondheim
 * Express bus via Førde, Skei and Byrkjelo towards Ålesund
 * Ekspress bus via Lærdal to Sogndal
 * Train to Flåm, bus to Sogndal

 * From Oslo and Oslo airport
 * Express bus via Valdres to Sogndal
 * Train to Otta, bus to Stryn (direction Bergen or Måløy)
 * Train to Flåm, bus to Sogndal

By boat
No branch of the glacier reach sea level, but the glacier is partly visible from some of the surrounding fjords.
 * Cruise ships calling at Skjolden (Luster) or Olden (Stryn district) offer bus transport some 30 km to the glacier.
 * Express passenger boat from Bergen or Flåm to Balestrand or Sogndal can be used to connect to public transport on the north shore.

Fees and permits
There is no fee to enter the park, for hiking or for staying overnight in the backcountry. Hiking is allowed for anyone. There are mostly no fences and no guards on duty.

Get around
There are no roads in the park, so the only option is by foot. Hiking in the area surrounding of the glacier is very much possible, given that you choose routes according to skill and experience. In no case should visitors get up on the glacier without a local professional or otherwise skilled enough guide; glaciers are extremely dangerous.

The glacier itself and the complex topography make road transport difficult. Except for the tunnel (between Fjærland and Skei) under the southern tip of the main glacier, all roads into the valleys are dead ends. The full circle around the by car would be well over 400 km or almost a full days drive. Jostedalen valley to Olden on the opposite side is about 200 km by car.

Because of limited public transport, a car is the most flexible way to visit different branches.

See

The most popular places, such as Briksdalsbreen at Olden, can be crowded in summer.

Some attractions related to the glacier and the park are situated outside the boundaries of the park:

If you only would like to see the glacier, without walking on it, these are the best options:

There is generally no need to climb to a high point above to see branches of the glacier. Slopes surrounding valleys are mostly steep and hikes there are only recommended for fit and skilled hikers with proper hiking boots. Branches that requires more hiking to be visited, although no demanding slopes:
 * Bergsetbreen through Krundalen branch of Jostedalen
 * Austerdalsbreen from Veitastrond
 * Langedalsbreen from Veitastrond
 * Vetlebreen from Fjærland
 * Brenndalsbreen from Olden
 * Bødalsbreen from Loen
 * Erdalsbreen from Stryn

Do

Trekking and glacier walking should only be done with a professional, local guide. Hiking boots or sturdy hiking shoes are needed, depending on the type of hike. The guiding company will provide details about required footwear. The glacier surface is cold (close to 0°C in summer) and wet, so hiking on or near the glacier is colder than general air temperature suggests. The guiding company will give advice about appropriate clothing. Here is a list of organised glacier tours:

Individual tours could be arranged with the tour-guide upon request.

Hiking can be done around the glacier at safe distance. There are several good and safe viewpoints all around the glacier. The glacier must always be approached with great caution and careful planning. A detailed map 1:50,000 is needed. Visitors should observe warning signs, consult locals, and if in doubt go with a guide.

There are whitewater tours and also more quiet kayak tours available in the neighbourhood. Some of the tours are with the glacier in sight, some even include a glacier hike.

Austdalsvatnet/Styggevatnet lake in the north end of Jostedalen is a reservoir for the hydro power system. A glacier branch dips into the lake and a popular spot for kayakers.

Tunsbergdalsbreen is a 15 kilometer long branch (one of the longest) that ends near Tunsbergdalsvatnet reservoir. It is difficult to access except by boat across the lake. Local guiding companies offers trips including boat transport.

Buy
A ticket to the Norwegian Glacier Museum in Fjærland.

Eat
Traditional Sogn og Fjordane cuisine include: raspeballar, pinnekjøt or spekekjøt.

Cafes and restaurants are mostly found in the villages surrounding the glacier:
 * Olden and Loen
 * Stryn
 * Fjærland
 * Sogndal
 * Skei and Jølster area
 * Luster including Jostedalen valley and Solvorn village

Drink
Olden, which is a bottled water from the Jostedalsbreen glacier. Its source lies in the Oldedalen valley south of Olden in Stryn municipality.

Lodging

 * Further accommodation options in adjacent villages and districts:
 * Stryn with nearby Olden and Loen on the norhern perimeter
 * Fjærland and Sogndal on the southern edge
 * Luster with Jostedalen valley east of the glacier
 * Skei village and Jølster district on the western side
 * Skjåk and Otta valley
 * Fjærland and Sogndal on the southern edge
 * Luster with Jostedalen valley east of the glacier
 * Skei village and Jølster district on the western side
 * Skjåk and Otta valley

Camping
There are no designated camping grounds in the park. There are camping sites at some accommodations in the neighbourhood.

Backcountry
Normal right to access applies to wild camping: visitors are allowed to overnight in tents in the wilderness and at least 150 meters from buildings. Camping on roads, in gardens and fields is not permitted. Visitors must not leave any traces or garbage.

Stay safe

Glaciers are one of the most dangerous places for visitors to the Norwegian outdoor. Never underestimate the power of the glacier. Observe warning signs. Never approach the front of the glacier. A glacier is not a stable piece of ice, it is constantly moving like a river and huge chunks regularly fall of.

Do not enter the glacier without proper equipment and skilled guide. Preferably in an organised group tour with a guide.

Sunrays get reflected from the white snow, so it necessary to use sunscreen to protect your skin. Bring warm clothes for tours on the glacier.

Go next
The rest of Sogn og Fjordane county is scenic. Also, nearby counties have a lot of splendid scenery too. There is a vast variety of things to do and see on your way to, e.g., Oslo or Bergen.
 * Geiranger
 * Valdres
 * Gudbrandsdalen
 * Lærdal
 * Flåm/Aurland
 * Jotunheimen — Norway's highest and most alpine mountains southeast of Jostedalsbreen
 * Ålesund

title: Jostedalsbreen


text:
Jost Van Dyke

Jost Van Dyke (also referred to as JVD or Jost) is the smallest of the four main British Virgin Islands. It's an easy and beautiful sail from Tortola and the home of the notorious rum-based drink, painkiller.

History
The island was named after the Dutch pirate Joost van Dyk who sailed the waters in the early 17th century and was thought to have had one of his hideouts there (though there is no factual evidence). The first major settlement on the island were quakers fleeing persecution in England around 1720, and today there are about 300 inhabitants. The island only got electricity in 1991.

In September 2017 the British Virgin Islands were hit by two Category 5 hurricanes, Irma and Maria. Irma hit the islands directly, and on JVD most buildings were destroyed and the landscape was stripped of vegetation (on satellite pictures taken right before the islands are green, after they're brown). A few weeks later, the outer eyewall of Maria swept across the islands. Many of the facilities and businesses on the island have been repaired and reopened as of March 2019, and visitors have returned. Income of some of the souvenirs sold on JVD are directed to the still ongoing rebuilding efforts.

Orientation
From east to west, the island measures approximately, between and  wide, and the highest hill, Majonny Hill, is  above sea level. There are protected bays in the south and east of the island, while the western and northern coasts are rocky and hard to access.

Great Harbour (also shown as Belle Vue on maps) is the main settlement on JVD and houses a clinic, police station and customs. Protected by a reef about from the coast, it's a safe and popular place to anchor. On the western side of the bay is the Government Dock, the ferry pier. Right at the beach there are two more piers, but due to shallow waters these suitable for dinghies and inflatable boats. Next to the pier in the middle are the police and customs buildings, the entry and exit points for sailors. The Main Street runs along the beach with several restaurants and bars. The Alley leads away from the beach to the ice factory, and at its end, the Back Street runs parallel to the sea.

In the southwest the unpaved road ends at the White Bay, named after its bright white sand beach, which is divided by the Black Point rocks in roughly two parts. You can walk there from Great Harbour in 15-20 minutes, and it is also another popular place for anchoring boats. This bay too is shielded by a reef from the sea, but dangerous underwater currents may develop. A good place to dive, White Bay also has places to eat, drink and sleep.

On the Garners Bay, in the southeast of the island is Little Harbour. Formerly small freight ships were pulled up on land here and their decks were cleaned. Nowadays there are three restaurants here, popular with charter boat crews. Some off the eastern coast are the islets of Little Jost Van Dyke and Sandy Cay. The waters between the JVD and its smaller namesake are too shallow to allow boats to sail, but its possible and common to anchor at the southern end of Little Jost Van Dyke. Sandy Cay is uninhabited, since 2008 a national park, with a small footpath going around its perimeter.

Get in
The only way to get to Jost Van Dyke is by sea, by ferry, water taxi or your own boat. Cruise ships make limited stops for their guests to enjoy the island. The is on the western shore of Great Harbour.

Private boats/water taxis from the other Virgin Islands (U.S. and British) are quite expensive, but you can sometimes get a local guy to take you to other islands (including Tortola or St. Thomas) for less than the "established" water taxis.

By ferry from Tortola
The most frequent ferry service is from West End, Tortola to Great Harbour with New Horizon Ferry operating multiple daily departures. Sailing time is 25 min and tickets cost $30 (round trip) or $20 (single trip) for adults, $20 (round trip) or $15 (single trip) for children.

By ferry from the U.S. Virgin Islands
From the U.S. Virgin Islands, there are some ferries during the weekends departing from Red Hook, Saint Thomas via Cruz Bay, Saint John. Sailing time is 60 min from Red Hook or 30 min from Cruz Bay.

By your own vessel
For those with their own boat, Great Harbour has no moorings and it may be challenging to find good holding for your anchor! You can pick up a mooring for the night in Little Harbour or White Bay. White Bay is a popular daytime anchorage and may not be comfortable and/or safe overnight under some conditions. Diamond Cay on the north side of the island has moorings as well.

By foot
Walking is the easiest method of transportation on the island. Paths and roads are available between each population centre, bay and beach. The island is very hilly and can be muddy in the frequent rainstorms, so it's not the easiest place for those with disabilities, etc.

By taxi
Several taxi services are available, but operate very erratically. Don't expect lightning service... plan ahead.

If arriving by ferry, taxis are waiting to take guests to popular spots like White Bay. Guests can arrange with taxi drivers in advance for a time and location to be picked up and returned to the ferry dock.

By car
4x4s and vehicles can be rented from locals — no chains here. Two reliable companies are Abe & Eunice's and Paradise car rental. Rental cars be expensive and they don't offer insurance, but they are effective for getting around. Most business is done on a handshake and smile on the island. They will accept cash for your rental. Renters are instructed to leave the vehicle at the ferry dock on the day of departure with the keys under the mat.

Vehicles are not always necessary if you are up for some energetic walking. However, the island is very hilly and if you want to venture beyond White Bay and the popular tourist spots, a taxi or vehicle is advisable.

See

But beyond the island's bars and the beaches, there's not a lot to "see" beyond stunning natural vistas. One major landmark in Grand Harbour was the yellow Methodist Church, though it was ruined by the hurricane in 2017.

Do
The point of being on JVD is to do pretty much nothing. Stare at St. John. Rub suntan lotion into your companion's back. Turn the page in your paperback. Maybe shout up to the bar for them to bring you another painkiller please!

For the adventurous, hotels will be happy to arrange excursions for deep sea fishing, sailing trips, or day trips to uninhabited specs of perfection like Sandy Cay.

Walks
Walking between the tiny main "town" on Great Harbour, up over the hill to White Bay is one of more peaceful, beautiful short walks in the Caribbean, allowing views from Tortola all the way across St. John to St. Thomas in the distance. Shoes for this hike are advisable as the terrain is rocky. It can be done barefoot, but people usually regret this choice half-way through this hike.

Money
The U.S. dollar is the currency of Jost Van Dyke. Most establishments take major credit cards (Visa, MC and for the most part American Express). Your credit card company will likely attach a "foreign transaction fee" to every credit card purchase made in the BVIs -- even though you are using the U.S. dollar. Check with your credit card company in advance to avoid any surprises. It is also advisable that you notify your credit card companies of your dates and location of travel to avoid your card being "turned off."

There are no ATMs or banks on Jost van Dyke. The nearest one is in Sopers Hole, West End (Tortola) at the First Caribbean International Bank. So be sure to bring cash with you if you intend to use it. In a pinch, some retailers may give you a "cash advance" if using your credit card for a purchase, but this is rare and entirely up to the shop owner.

Shops
Shopping is limited on Jost beyond food, drink, and lodging. The main shopping strip is in Great Harbour and along a sandy road parallel to the beach. There are a variety of little shops, selling locally made goods or some unique items beyond the usual t-shirts, but overall Jost is not someplace you come to shop.

There are very limited grocery options. Best bet is to provision on Tortola You can shop on-line in advance for your groceries and have them meet you at the West End ferry landing dock. Some services will deliver to the ferry dock at Great Harbor. Delivery is generally free, with few exceptions and prices are comparable to grocery prices throughout the Caribbean.

For souvenirs and things you may need here like sunglasses or sandals, many restaurants and bars have a small shop.

Eat and drink
In Jost van Dyke, establishments are often both restaurants and bars.

Great Harbour, White Bay, and Little Harbour all have restaurants in one form or another, but each runs on a different schedule, more or less at the whim of its owner. Wander throughout the island of Jost Van Dyke and you're sure to find something interesting...great flying fish sandwiches, burgers, chicken and the like; menus are for the most part made up of Caribbean and Western dishes. Roti is a local favourite: essentially, a wrap of curried chicken or goat, mixed with potatoes and served with a marmalade on the side.

Visitors should not expect fast service and should plan their time on island accordingly. Many foods are made from scratch to order and there is no such thing as fast food. So don't wait until you are starving to go somewhere to eat. The same applies to your drinks. When you're halfway done, order another. By the time you finish the first drink the second one will finally show up.

The island specialty is the "painkiller" made famous by the Soggy Dollar Bar. A lethal combination of Pussers dark rum, cream of coconut, pineapple juice and orange juice -- finished off with a sprinkle of freshly ground nutmeg (or island viagra as locals refer to it). A simple recipe for a painkiller is four parts pineapple juice, one part orange juice, one part "Coco Lopez" (sweetened cream of coconut), and dark rum to taste. A little nutmeg finishes off the drink. Try ordering a painkiller from each bar and see which one has the recipe down best.

Liquor throughout the Virgin Islands is generally extremely inexpensive. "Pour Man" (a pun for pour your own) or "honor bars" are common on Jost. Liquor and mixers are left out for guests to help themselves and guests keep track of what they drink on their own. When it's time to leave guests provide the list of what they consumed to the restaurant or bar. Alternatively, guests can tell the bartender what they want and they are handed the fixings to make the drink. Oddly enough in this circumstance the restaurants do better since non-locals will generally load up on the liquor in their drinks and minimize the mixers. When in fact the mixers may cost more than the liquor. It's important that you be honest and forthright about your consumption and pay accordingly.

Great Harbour

White Bay

Little Harbour and Diamond Cay

Sleep
Most overnight visitors sleep in their sailboat berths, anchored dozens or more at a time in Great Harbor, Little Harbor, or White Bay. That said, there are some lodging options on land, mostly around White Bay.

Connect
The area code for the British Virgin Islands is 284, and it's part of the North American Numbering Plan. To make a call within the BVI, dial the seven digit number without the 284 area code. From elsewhere in the world including the Caribbean, USA or Canada, dial +1-284 and then the seven digit number.

Places to sleep (though not all of them) have free Wi-Fi, and the mobile operators Digicel, CCT and Flow have coverage on Jost van Dyke.

Stay safe

Go next
Getting out, like getting in, means by ferry or private boat. Check the ferry schedule carefully and inquire in advance about schedules as these can change from time to time and vary from season to season.

title: Jost Van Dyke


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Jotunheimen

Jotunheimen is one of Norway's most popular mountain areas, most of which is protected as a national park. This mountain range includes the highest summits in Norway (and Northern Europe) and some of the wildest alpine areas in Norway. While a few summits are only accessible for skilled climbers, most of the area can easily be hiked by most visitors with proper boots and fitness. Glaciers can only be traversed with a guide and proper equipment. Jotunheimen is a prime area for back-country skiing in late winter, spring and early summer.

Jotunheimen belongs to Oppland and Sogn og Fjordane counties.

Understand

The name "Jotunheimen" has its roots in Norse mythology, and literally means "The home of the giants" (the mountain range was previously referred to as "Giant Mountains"). Jotunheimen is part of a long, virtually continuous line of mountains separating East Norway from coastal and fjord districts of Trøndelag and West Norway. Hardangervidda and Dovrefjell are other important parts of this great barrier. The western most part of Jotunheimen sits at the intersection with the great Sognefjord and the fjord's adjacent valleys. The eastern part of Jotunheimen rises gradually above the mountain plateau west of road 51. Road 55 (Sognefjellet road) marks the northern limit of Jotunheimen, while roads E16 and 53 mark the southern limit. Summits are visible from these roads.

To the north-west Jotunheimen merges seamlessly with Breheimen along road 55 (Sognefjellet road). Hikes in Jotunheimen can be combined with Breheimen without any transport. Around Beitostølen there are more moderate elevations and less wild landscape that is not part of Jotunheimen proper, this more mellow terrain continues almost to Lillehammer and hikes east of road 51 can be combined with Jotunheimen. North of Ottadalen valley (beyond road 15) is Reinheimen national park that stretches from the mellow mountains in the east the wild west.

Names
Placenames often reveal shapes and landscape. Many summits in Jotunheimen have "-tind" as the last part of the name. The word "tind" indicates that the summits is sharp and pointed. "Pigg" is also a distinct summit, but less sharp/pointed than a "tind". Edges/ridges often have names like "-egg" and "-rygg". More rounded and less pronounced mountains are often called "-hø(e)". Glaciers are usually called "-bre(en)" and shown clearly as white-blue areas on the map. "Fjell" means mountain and can be used as names of individual summits or wider areas. Lodges or small settlements often have suffix "-bu", "-heim", "-hytte", or "sæter" and "-støl/stul". Lakes are often called "-vatnet" or "-vannet", and some (usually smaller) lakes are called "-tjern", "-tjønn" or "-tjørn", and some are even called "-fjord" according to naming tradition in east Norway. The big lakes in the south are Gjende, Bygdin and Tyin.

History
Several English and German noblemen used to visit Jotunheimen in late 1800s and early 1900s to explore the mountain area, and climb the mountains. The Norwegian poet Vinje named many of the peaks in the western part of the park and is justly celebrated with a monument near Fondsbu DNT Hut. The Norwegian national playwright Ibsen set one of the most famous scenes in his classic Peer Gynt on the dramatic Besseggen Ridge in the eastern part of the park. The Besseggen Ridge has become one of the most visited natural attractions in Norway with 1–2 people passing any given point every 2–3 minutes in high summer – not a place for solitude! The eccentric Englishman HC Slingsby popularised the area through his trip reports published in the Scottish Mountaineering Journal in the 1880s and 1890s. He also published a classic book-length account entitled Norway: the northern playground. Three in Norway (by two of them) (written by Lees and Clutterbuck, 1882) is a classic travelogue about a long summer and early autumn spent mostly around Gjende lake.

Landscape
Jotunheimen has alpine mountains, glaciers with lakes and small rivers. Utladalen canyon, the deepest valley in Norway, runs like a deep crack between Western and Eastern Jotunheimen.

Flora and fauna
This is a high mountain area with very few trees, mostly heathery terrain with some bushes.

Climate
Rapid weather changes can occur, there are lots of snow in the winter due to the high altitude, the summer is nice with up to over 25 C when there is good and sunny weather. Note that at higher altitudes deep snow can remain from winter until midsummer. The hiking season varies, but usually starts in late June, while July–August are the best months. Visitors should obtain specific information about snow conditions if they plan to hike in June. Utladalen valley is largely lowland and can be visited in May.

Get in

Jotunheimen can be accessed from north, south and west. Roads 51, 53 and 55 runs around the perimeter of Jotunheimen. From Oslo it is about 380 km to the north (Lom) and about 230 km to the south (Beitostølen) or 265km to Tyinkrysset.

By car
There are no roads within the boundaries of the national park.
 * Road E16 (Filefjell mountain pass) runs on the south edge of area.
 * Road 51 (Valdresflye pass) runs on the eastern side, this road climbs to about 1400 meters and allows a high starting point.
 * Road 55 (Sognefjellet pass) runs on the western/northern edge, this road climbs to almost 1500 meters and allows a high starting point. Close to Galdhøpiggen and the great summits in Hurrungane.
 * The private road to Juvasshytta climbs to 1800 meters and gives a relatively short walk to Galdhøpiggen, there is also a summer skiing resort.
 * Road 53 (Årdal-Tyin road) offers good access from low starting point in Årdal (Utladalen valley in particular) and from Tyin lake a high starting point.
 * Road 252 to Eidsbugarden, summer only, no asphalt. One of the departure points deepest within Jotunheimen.

By train
Train from Oslo and Gardermoen Airport to Otta 300km north of Oslo and take bus 80km west to Lom.

By bus

 * Bus through the Sognefjellet mountain pass from Sogndal and Luster to Otta and Lom, operated by Nettbuss (updated 2016).
 * Bus through the Sognefjellet mountain pass from Sogndal and Luster to Otta and Lom, operated by Nettbuss (updated 2016).
 * Bus through the Sognefjellet mountain pass from Sogndal and Luster to Otta and Lom, operated by Nettbuss (updated 2016).
 * Bus through the Sognefjellet mountain pass from Sogndal and Luster to Otta and Lom, operated by Nettbuss (updated 2016).
 * Bus through the Sognefjellet mountain pass from Sogndal and Luster to Otta and Lom, operated by Nettbuss (updated 2016).

Fees and permits
If you want to fish, there is a small fee. Contact the local tourist information for more details. Hiking, skiing etc. is free, but in many cases you will want to join a tour or hire a guide.

Get around
The only way to travel within Jotunheimen national park is by foot or by cross-country skis. The DNT (the Norwegian Trekking Association) has a network of hiking routes with accommodation in Jotunheimen.

Roads 51, 55 and 53 runs around the perimeter of the national park. The full circle takes several hours by car. Outside the boundaries of the park there are roads partly into area, for instance the private tollroad to Juvasshytta (dead end), the public road to Eidsbugarden (along Tyin lake), the private Tindevegen between Årdal and Turtagrø (in Luster), and the roads to Spiterstulen lodge and Leirvassbu lodge (both dead end).

In summer season there are passenger boat services on Gjende and Bygdin lakes.

See

A fabulous alpine mountain area; probably the best in the whole of Scandinavia. There are countless glaciers, emerald lakes, summits and steep cliffs. Most of the area is protected as national park or landscape park.

While the national park itself is not available by car or bus, mountain ranges can be seen from roads at the perimeter: E16 and county roads 51 (Valdresflya) and 55 (Sognefjellet). The private road Tindevegen between Turtagrø and Årdal perhaps offers the best view as it runs on the western edge of the Hurrungane group (western Jotunheimen).

Do
Here you can go hiking both on foot in summer and by cross country skiing in the winter. There are several possibilities of guided glacier hiking and guided climbing in the high mountains.

In Jotunheimen you can hike or climb several alpine mountains. Many visitors hike from lodge to lodge and include the odd summit along, or scramble to summits as a day hike from a lodge. Because of remaining snow the hiking season begins relatively late, typically from mid June. In some years and some areas hiking is best postponed to July. The cross-country or back-country skiing lasts into May and often into June, depending on weather and on how much snow remains. A summer ski resorts at Juvasshytta beneath Galdhøpiggen operates from late spring and into summer until snow is gone.

The most complete online resource is UT.no, some popular hikes and climbs are mentioned below.

Hikes

 * Second highest is with 2452m. A technically easy but demanding hike from the Glitterheim lodge. Glittertind has long been recognized by some 20-30 meters permanent hard snow or glacier on the summit. Exact height was not known until 2020 when the snow cap had receded and the highest point of rock emerged. When the snow cap was included, Glittertind was previously a few meters higher than Galdhøpiggen.
 * is a narrow edge with steep drops on both sides. It is one of the most popular day hiking routes in Jotunheimen. Many striking photos of Jotunheimen are from Besseggen. The full circle includes a boat ride and takes 8–10 hr. Available from mid June to early October.
 * waterfall has Norway's highest undisturbed drop at about . The waterfall was protected by law in 1924. Vettisfossen can be visited by hiking through the Utladalen valley. Utladalen is Norway's deepest valley as it cuts deep into the bedrock south of Hurrungane. There are several other fine waterfalls along the route.
 * waterfall has Norway's highest undisturbed drop at about . The waterfall was protected by law in 1924. Vettisfossen can be visited by hiking through the Utladalen valley. Utladalen is Norway's deepest valley as it cuts deep into the bedrock south of Hurrungane. There are several other fine waterfalls along the route.

Climbs

 * at 2405 meters is the third highest summit and reachable by climbing only. Part of Hurrungane group in western Jotunheimen, the wildest part of Jotunheimen at the inner end of Sognefjordn.
 * in the western end of Hurrungane group is one of the finest summits i Jotunheimen. Relatively easy as a climb but exposed, so climber's gear is needed.

Eat
What you bring with you, or buy at the local hotels in the park. Try elk burgers or reindeer steak.

Drink
Water from rivers and streams is generally safe and of high quality. Rivers lower than settlements and farms should be avoided. Streams flowing from barren high mountains have good water. Glacial melt water may irritate some stomachs.

Sleep
There are several places where you can get accommodation in the mountain, both full service mountain hotels and self service cabins. Visit DNT (the Norwegian Trekking Association) for more information.

Backcountry
Wild camp. Not more than three days in a row on the same spot and at least 150 meters from buildings.

Stay safe

Always bring a map (1:50,000 or 1:75,000) and a compass – even if you have a satellite navigator (GPS) – and pay attention to the local weather forecasts. Always remember to tell where you go and when you expect to arrive there, to someone who has enough info to summon help if you do not show up. Talk to locals if you are in doubt. While a national park, there are generally no guards or fences, visitors are expected to take care of themselves. Jotunheimen is mostly above the treeline and the surface is rugged with rocks, boulders, snow and glaciers; sturdy boots are needed to walk safely and weather can be cold and rough even in midsummer.

For hiking over glaciers you need a guide unless you are experienced enough yourselves. The same applies if you are going on other types of demanding hikes or do not know what to expect. Note the risk for avalanches

Go next

 * Luster
 * Valdres
 * Hardangervidda
 * Gudbrandsdalen
 * Rondane
 * Geiranger-Åndalsnes/Romsdalen
 * Stryn

title: Jotunheimen