Hi,

I've been to Jordan twice, it was that good. Jordanians are in general extremely well educated folk, and almost everyone learns English in school. Even in the middle of nowhere, some of the farmers will start up political discussions.

I can reccomend: Petra (2-3 days), Climbing and hiking in Wadi Rum, Jeep troips wadi rum, (mountain biking must be good too)  Scuba diving in the small part of the red sea that's jordanian, float in the dead sea, warm water springs near dead sea, The ruins at Jerash are in very good shape considering their age. Carcassone castle is enormous and so interesting.

If you are adventurous, try to get hold of the book Treks and climbs in Wadi Rum by Tony Howard. It mentions quite a few canyons that are off the beaten track. We found a really good way to get into Petra and an amazing trek down to the dead sea in a thermally heated river.

hope that helps

R

Oh gosh it'll be HOT in July/August (and devoid of those Jordanians who are able to leave for 2 months to escape the heat)! 

That said, if you're okay with the heat, the Jordanian sites Richard suggested are good ones, though try very early morning or late afternoon/early evening, and use midday for naps/travel time.

I'm not sure about travelling alone as a woman to Jordan right now.  Whenever I travelled to the area, even if I arrived alone, there was always someone to meet me and when living in Amman I had my own car so didn't have to chance local taxis or tour busses.

I believe Lonely Planet has a good guide to Jordan, if you like LPs