Car Rental: Many possibilities, but most very expensive. Local agencies have the best deals. Your Guide to Amman lists numerous specials. International drivers license is often required. Try Bisharat Travel Corporation next to the Intercontinental Hotel or Dirani Rent-a-Car (tel. 66 06 01, fax 60 66 11), across from Jabri in Shmeisani. Another rental agency is attached to the Marriott Hotel. Age restrictions vary from 18 to 21 years of age. Avis has offices at the Alia Gateway Hotel (tel. (08) 51 000), the Philadelphia International Hotel (tel. 66 31 00), and the Abdali Commercial Center (tel. 60 35 00).

English Bookstores: University Bookstore (tel. 63 63 39), Jabal ai-Weibdeh, near Khalaf Circle. Books on the archeology of Jordan. Open 8am-7pm. Amman Bookstore, on Prince Muhammad St.. near Third Circle, and the more expensive bookstores in the Marriott and Intercontinental hotels cany books on the Middle East as well as maps and guides to Jordan’s sights; the latter also has many works on Palestinians. InterBooks, near the Second Circle on Zahran St., and most supermarkets, sell local and foreign newspapers and magazines in English.

Publications: The Jordan Times lists useful telephone numbers, cultural events in Amman, and current government prices for fruits and vegetables (helpful for bargaining in the market). The weekly Jerusalem Star lists cultural events. Your Guide to Amman, published monthly and available free at larger hotels, bookstores, and travel agencies, has more complete listings.