Amman

The downtown, or Al Balad, is one's best bet for finding great bargains in Amman. The area is abundantly dotted with all manner of shops and stores, selling clothing, accessories, intricate jewellery, herbs, and various edibles. Haggling is expected — count on bringing the original price down by at least half, unless the specific locale has a fixed-price policy.

The Centre sets out to support communities of Jordan's 8 natural reserves, protected areas inhabited by families who produce the merchandise sold at the on-site shop. Profits from crafts, jewellery, herbs, and jams (and all other pieces) constitute the communities' incomes. Wild Jordan Centre also houses an esteemed cafe with splendid city panoramas.

The Jordan River Foundatiun Design showroom stocks exquisite home decor pieces, rugs, accessories and Dead Sea cosmetics, along with a plethora of other pieces, all of the highest quality. Prices here are steep for good reason: the foundation supports women and youths from local communities, and all profits made are put towards development projects.

The weekly Souk Jara is an open-air market with food, live music, and an abundance of wares produced predominantly by local craftsmen. It's a weekly affair organised by the Jebal Amman Residents' Association, and profits go to support the community.

This long standing souvenir store's roots go back to late 19th century Palestine, where the owning family first established a shop. It's packed to capacity with ceramics, jewellery, lamps, and all manner of tinkles born to make excellent gifts; a trip out of downtown to come here is certainly in order.

Trinitae's cosmetics offering extends beyond soaps to include a few other skincare products, all made with organic local ingredients, from plants and oils to salts of the Dead Sea. It's a heaven of luxurious organic goods of the highest quality. Gift sets are available.