Cities within a city
1 October 2018
Modern glamour meets ancient history in one of Amman’s newest hotels
Just under a year old, the Fairmont Amman is already the hotel of choice for many travellers including celebrities and politicians. It’s easy to see why. A short distance from Old Downtown and the cultural neighbourhood of Jabal Weibdeh, it occupies an enviable location in the Fifth Circle, one of the capital’s most prestigious areas.
Just under a year old, the Fairmont Amman is already the hotel of choice for many travellers including celebrities and politicians. It’s easy to see why. A short distance from Old Downtown and the cultural neighbourhood of Jabal Weibdeh, it occupies an enviable location in the Fifth Circle, one of the capital’s most prestigious areas.
Designed by award-winning architecture firm Wimberly, Allison, Tong & Goo, the hotel oozes relaxed opulence, with live piano in the lobby, local artwork throughout the hallways and panoramic views over the cityscape from its 317 rooms and suites.
Rooms are beautifully appointed, with marble bathrooms, rain showers, soaker tubs and every comfort imaginable: from Nespresso machines to pillow menus. The suites, the largest of their kind in the city, feature a fireplace for that romantic glow and warmth in wintertime, while the Penthouse Suite also houses a sauna, cinema and private terrace.
For relaxation, the hotel offers two rooftop swimming pools under the starlit sky and an array of treatments at Willow Stream Spa. Indulge in a soothing lava shell massage, take a dip in the Dead Sea water-pool, then recharge under the ice fountain. When it’s time to dine, you’ll have seven venues to choose from – serving everything from delectable sushi at Tsuki, to Jordanian favourites at Nasim, European grills at Salt, and date-infused cocktails at Caprice.
And when you’re ready to step outside, you’ll discover one of the most charming cities in the region; rich with ancient biblical sites, eccentric restaurants, a vibrant street-art scene and locals who are always happy to show you around.
Designed by award-winning architecture firm Wimberly, Allison, Tong & Goo, the hotel oozes relaxed opulence, with live piano in the lobby, local artwork throughout the hallways and panoramic views over the cityscape from its 317 rooms and suites.
Rooms are beautifully appointed, with marble bathrooms, rain showers, soaker tubs and every comfort imaginable: from Nespresso machines to pillow menus. The suites, the largest of their kind in the city, feature a fireplace for that romantic glow and warmth in wintertime, while the Penthouse Suite also houses a sauna, cinema and private terrace.
For relaxation, the hotel offers two rooftop swimming pools under the starlit sky and an array of treatments at Willow Stream Spa. Indulge in a soothing lava shell massage, take a dip in the Dead Sea water-pool, then recharge under the ice fountain. When it’s time to dine, you’ll have seven venues to choose from – serving everything from delectable sushi at Tsuki, to Jordanian favourites at Nasim, European grills at Salt, and date-infused cocktails at Caprice.
And when you’re ready to step outside, you’ll discover one of the most charming cities in the region; rich with ancient biblical sites, eccentric restaurants, a vibrant street-art scene and locals who are always happy to show you around.
Rainbow Street
Stroll along Rainbow Street, Amman’s most famous pedestrian thoroughfare, to get a feel of the city’s rich history. On the hilltop hub of Jebal Amman, the walkway is dotted with sidewalk cafes, bookshops, galleries and artisan shops. Ammanis often come here in the evening to visit the shisha cafes, while shoppers come in the daytime to hunt for local handicrafts. Either way, this narrow one-way cobbled street is best explored by foot.
From the concierge
See
Wander around Madaba city and marvel at the world’s oldest map of the Holy Land, an exquisite 6th-century mosaic masterpiece. Then visit the nearby Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land.
Eat
Indulge in a Levant culinary experience in one of the oldest eateries in Jordan. Um Khalil offers a tempting selection of dishes, with an exceptional service and atmospheric setting that has earned this restaurant its reputation.
Words: Heba Hashem