Jordanians drink tremendous amounts of Arabic coffee (ahwa). A cup of this thick, black, bitter-sweet brew is almost espresso-strong. It is impolite to refuse any Jordanian’s hospitality when they offer ahwa, even if it results in insomnia. Tea, brewed with mint leaves, is another favorite. It is usually served very sweet, in small glasses and without milk. American coffee and instant coffee (Nescafe) are available at restaurants.

Because drinking alcohol is prohibited in Islam, imbibing in Jordan is subject to some restrictions and conventions. It is illegal to possess alcohol in public, unless at a place licensed for liquor. Drinking and driving, or even having alcohol in the car, would be a big mistake. Nonetheless, most Jordanians drink, and with no drinking age, anyone who looks older than 16 may go in and buy at a liquor store (usually owned by Christians). Imported beer is the universal drink (Amstel 9OOfils). “Araq is a local drink that tastes like licorice and is mixed with water until a cloudy white suspension results. Liquor is very expensive, especially at bars and restaurants, where a drink may cost JD3.500-5. liquor stores are less costly (bottle of vodka about JD10).