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 The small Red
Sea port of Aqaba is unique and beautiful in a
very special way. Encircled by rugged purple
mountains that subtly change in
mood and color as the day unfolds. On the
beaches visitors soak up the sun before cooling
off in the refreshingly cool waters. Aqaba
has remained at low rise, and of
the several beach hotels none offers more than
150 rooms. The natural setting is impressive, with the
narrow bay, the country's only port, ringed
by mountains and fringed by Palm trees.
The port area lies round
to the east of the town,
and Jordan receives most of her imports from
this route.
 It is
the secrets these waters hold that makes Aqaba
unique, for further down the coast are some of the
most spectacular coral reefs to be found anywhere
in the world. Often over many hundreds of
metersThis makes con and snorkelers, a diving
paradise. Over 140 species of coral have been
identified in Aqaba's waters, among them numerous
species endemic to the region. There are many
other aquatic activities; Paddleboats, Sailing
boats, Wind surfing, Rowing boats and canoes can
be hired. Water skiing is an exciting experience
on the glass surfaced gulf. Fishing from the shore
is excellent due to deep water near the
edge.
Fishing by boat can also be arranged. The Birthday
of the late King Hussein on the 14th of November
is marked in Aqaba each year by a large water
festival. The late King used attends the event
which involves water sport competitions. Other
festivals are also held throughout the year.
The Fortress, now a
museum, 
was originally a Crusader
Castle. It was extensively rebuilt by the
Mamelukes in the 14th Century. A stroll around the
modern town will reveal the presence of some
excellent fish restaurants and craftsmen are to be
found at work filling small bottles with colored
sand in intricate geometric designs. In the town
center of Aqaba, the recently discovered 7th Century
Islamic Walled city of Ayla is currently
being excavated. The other main monument
to see in Aqaba town is the
14th Century fort, by the port. A
section of it houses the Visitor's Center,
and another section boasts a small
museum.
A qaba Tourist Information Centre
Whilst visiting Aqaba make your first stop at the Aqaba Tourist Information Centre (TIC) situated at the southern part of Al-Hammamat Al-Tunisyya Street in the centre of town. Without having to go all around to discover what experiences are available in Aqaba and the surrounding areas, Aqaba TIC team are on hand to ensure that you get the most of your visit and able to deal with any enquiries you may have
Aqaba TIC opened in September of 2005 under the umbrella of the Tourism Directorate in the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA).
The centre now caters for many tourists and local visitors who ask for information regarding transportation, accommodation, activities, attractions, places to eat, local events, doctors and much more. It also offers independent advice with the planning of travel itineraries and information on the services provided by the tourism private sector in Aqaba.
Aqaba TIC opens daily, all year round; from 08:00am till 04:00pm.
If you have a query concerning Aqaba, Petra and Wadi Rum, please browse www.aqaba.jo or send an e-mail to info@aqaba.jo
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