Mecca Mall Amman: Your Ultimate Guide to Shopping & Fun!
Mecca Mall Amman: My Chaotic, Wonderful Love Affair with Shopping & Relaxation (and Maybe a Sauna)
Okay, buckle up, folks. This isn't your typical, sterile hotel review. This is a story. A story about Mecca Mall Amman. About shopping, about surviving the Amman heat, and about the questionable allure of a post-shopping body scrub. Let’s get real.
First Impressions & the Accessibility Angle (Because, You Know, We Need to Talk About That):
Finding the place? Easy peasy. Mecca Mall is a landmark. Now, accessibility… this is where things get a touch… Jordan-esque. (I say this with love!). The elevator is key, especially if you’re using a wheelchair. I've seen the facilities for disabled guests, and they are present, which is HUGE. I'm not in a wheelchair, but I’ve seen how helpful they can be to people who are. The entire operation feels like it was designed by someone who thought of almost everything. Very very good.
The car park is free… a godsend in Amman. You can actually breathe a sigh of relief when thinking about navigating the parking situation. Valet parking is also available if you're feeling fancy. And there are car power charging stations which is a nod to the future.
Inside the mall, the layout is, well, a mall. Predictable, in a comfortable way. Lots of open space. The CCTV in common areas definitely gives you a sense of security, and there's security [24-hour]. I am the worst about dropping things and losing things. That little bit of comfort is always welcome.
Diving Headfirst: Shops, Snacks, and Survival Tactics
Okay, the shopping. It's…extensive. Literally everything. I was there to pick up some (very Jordan-influenced) presents for my sister and I ended up wandering around for hours, completely lost in the world of fabrics and perfumes. There’s a convenience store! Thank God for that!
And the eating! Oh, the eating. Here’s where things get serious. I was particularly excited by the sheer variety of restaurants!
- Restaurants: A cornucopia of options! International cuisine, Asian cuisine, pizza, burgers… you name it.
- Coffee/tea in restaurant: Needed! Necessary! Essential!
- Snack bar: Perfect for a quick pick-me-up.
I saw both a vegetarian restaurant and a restaurant with vegetarian options, (which I'm guessing means a focus on international cuisine). You've got the essential coffee shop for mid-shop fuel, too. I spent way too much time looking at the desserts in restaurant, and I was in heaven.
- Breakfast [buffet] (and Asian breakfast): Perfect if you’re a morning person.
- Room service [24-hour]: Hello, late-night shawarma cravings!
- Poolside bar: (more on that later)
The Spa: A Saga of Steam, Scrub, and… Contemplation?
I’m not gonna lie. This is where Mecca Mall really got my attention. I'm usually a "skip the spa" kind of person. But Amman is…intense. Between the crowds, the heat, the traffic… you need to unwind.
Here’s the deal: I went for the spa. The plan: A body scrub, because, when in Rome, or in this case, Amman. The reality? I'm not sure I've ever felt so gloriously clean in my entire life. It was an experience. I was then ushered into the sauna. Sweating out all the shopping-induced stress. Wonderful. There's also a steamroom. I’m not a big fan of steam rooms – too claustrophobic for me – but, hey, options are good! I didn’t end up going to the spa/sauna combination, but it looks tempting.
The Grand Finale: Pools, Views, and a Touch of Luxury
The swimming pool (and the swimming pool [outdoor]!). This is where Mecca Mall Amman becomes a sanctuary. I'm guessing the pool with a view is as good as it sounds.
I didn't make it to the gym, which is on my list for next time, but the option is there. It's a nice feeling to know, after you've spent the morning shopping, that you can work out, relax, chill, and refresh yourself and your body.
The Small Stuff, the Big Stuff: What Really Matters
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Praise be! Plus Wi-Fi in public areas. And internet access – wireless! It's essential!
- Cleanliness and Safety: Let's be real: This is important, especially in today's world. Daily disinfection in common areas (and, I'll add, hopefully in the rooms).
- Cashless payment service: Super convenient.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: A good sign.
- Non-smoking rooms: Crucial.
- Air conditioning: (essential for Amman).
- Laundry service and ironing service: Because, let's face it, you are probably going to need to get your clothes washed since you will be out exploring all day.
- Concierge, Doorman: They're there to help!
The Rooms: Your Personal Oasis
I didn’t stay overnight (yet!), but I peeked. The rooms look comfortable and well-equipped. From the air conditioning (a must!) to the bathrobes and complimentary tea, they seem to have thought of everything. Bathrooms phone?! That's a new one for me. Let's be honest: a decent desk (for those of us who have to work a little), a safe box, and a refrigerator are essential, and they're all there.
A Few Quirks, A Few Imperfections (Because Life Isn't Perfect)
Look, no place is perfect. There's no pets allowed (bummer for pet owners). The hotel chain can be a bit anonymous.
The Verdict: Book It, Already!
Mecca Mall Amman isn't just a mall. It's an experience. A chaotic, wonderful, and slightly overwhelming (in the best way) experience. It's shopping, it's relaxation, it's a sanctuary from the Amman hustle. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the beauty of the world and then find it again.
Here's the thing: You absolutely MUST book it.
My Compelling Offer: "Escape the Amman Chaos: Your Mecca Mall Amman Adventure Awaits!"
Are you ready for a shopping spree like no other? Need to unwind after a day of exploring Amman? Mecca Mall Amman is your answer!
Why Book Now?
- Instant Relaxation: Imagine this: You've spent the day haggling in the souks, dodging traffic, and soaking up the vibrant Amman atmosphere. Now, picture yourself sinking into a cloud-like bed and getting massaged by the sound of water, feeling the scrub and relaxing.
- Shopping Nirvana: With a massive variety of international and local brands, you're sure to find a little something for yourself - and maybe some gifts for your loved ones.
- The Ultimate Convenience: Free parking, delicious dining options, and all the amenities you need. Plus, free Wi-Fi to stay connected!
- Safety First: The property emphasizes safety and cleanliness with high attention to detail.
Book your stay at Mecca Mall Amman today! It’s the place to have a real Amman experience. Don't miss out – this is your escape!
Hue's Hottest 1-Bedroom Haven: Pi Home Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this is NOT your sanitized, perfectly-planned travel itinerary. This is Amman, Jordan, Behind the Mecca Mall, unfiltered. Consider this a rough draft of a memory, a collage of moments, a testament to surviving (and hopefully thriving) amidst the controlled chaos of Jordanian life.
Day 1: Arrival, Sensory Overload, and the Quest for Decent Coffee
- (7:00 AM) - Flight Nightmare: Landed at Queen Alia International Airport. "Land" is used loosely. After a fourteen hour flight, my brain felt like a scrambled egg. The passport control line? A lesson in the existential dread of standing still. But hey, at least there was a guy selling dates…okay, maybe I was the guy buying dates.
- (7:45 AM) - The Great SIM Card Hunt: The airport wifi? A cruel joke. Finding a SIM card was a frantic sprint through a gauntlet of pushy vendors. Ended up with a plan that costs a million dinars, I'm pretty sure. But hey, connectivity! (Side note: "Dinar" is a pretty cool word. Sounds like a warrior princess.)
- (8:30 AM) - Taxi Terror? Negotiating a taxi to my Airbnb near Mecca Mall was…an adventure. He kept gesturing dramatically and yelling about the traffic. I spent half the ride convinced I was about to be taken to the Dead Sea…permanently. (Amman driving is…intense).
- (9:30 AM) - Airbnb Arrival: "Charming" is a Lie: The Airbnb. Charming it was not. Okay, it was… functional. The “bed” resembled a concrete slab with a thin blanket. But hey, it had a rogue air conditioning unit that, at least, worked. Unpacked, tried to ignore various stains on seemingly everything.
- (10:30 AM) - Coffee Quest Begins: Decent coffee is essential for survival. Wandered the streets. Everywhere sells sugary, pre-made coffee. My soul shrivelled. Found a tiny hole-in-the-wall. The barista, a teenager with an eyebrow piercing, looked at me like I was a Martian when I asked for a real espresso. He made something that resembled…a strong, black liquid. Progress! The tiny, plastic cup cost me 3 dinars. Worth it.
- (11:30 AM) - Mecca Mall Reconnaissance: The Mecca Mall. A towering monument to consumerism, plunked down in the middle of this ancient city. First impressions? Overwhelming. A sea of flashing lights, chattering voices, and the scent of…everything. Went in, emerged blinking into the sun 20 minutes later. Too much, too soon.
- (12:30 PM) - Lunchtime Lunacy: Found a local shawarma place. BEST SHWARMA OF MY LIFE. The meat was so flavorful. The bread was pillowy. Ate three. Regret and joy, all rolled into one delicious, greasy package.
- (2:00 PM) - Nap of Judgment: Passed out in the "charming" Airbnb. Woke up in a sweaty haze. More existential dread.
- (4:00 PM) - Exploring. Walking…mostly getting lost: Wandered aimlessly (and got delightfully, hopelessly lost). Amman's a city of hills, a labyrinth of winding streets. Every turn revealed something new: a crumbling mosaic, a hidden courtyard buzzing with activity, children playing in the street, dogs barking, the call to prayer echoing from hidden corners.
- (5:00 PM) - The Unexpected Chat: A friendly old man, sitting on a stoop drinking tea, chatted with me in broken English. He told me about the history of Amman, the changes he's seen, the things he misses. Offered me tea which was the best thing I've ever tasted.
- (6:00 PM) - Finding a Rooftop: Found a cafe with a rooftop view, overlooking the city. Sat and watched the sunset, the minarets glowing gold. Ordered a shisha (never smoked before. Who am I?). The smoke burned my throat. But the view…unbelievable.
- (7:30 PM) - Dinner and Regrets? Dinner? Back to the shawarma. But this time, I think I overdid it. Feeling slightly ill.
- (9:00 PM) - The Bed-Slab Beckons: Collapsed into bed. The air conditioning unit is still battling the heat. Tomorrow? Who knows. I'm just glad I found a proper coffee shop.
Day 2: History, Hiccups, and the Price of Camel Milk
- (8:00 AM) - Coffee, the Savior: Back to the eyebrow-pierced barista. Said "Espresso" with more confidence this time. He nodded. Progress!
- (9:00 AM) - Citadel Stumble: Hired a taxi to the Citadel. Amman's ancient heart. The taxi driver, a man named Mahmoud, was a wealth of (mostly useless) information. "Citadel? Very old! Many stones!" Thanks, Mahmoud.
- (9:30 AM) - The Ruins of My Humility: The Citadel itself? Stunning. The Roman Temple of Hercules. The Umayyad Palace. But between the heat and the steep climbs, I felt like I was aging rapidly. Took a lot of shady breaks.
- (10:30 AM) - Lost in Translation (and the Souk): Found my way to the Souk. A riot of colors, smells, and aggressive sales tactics. I got completely lost, overwhelmed, and nearly suffocated in a cloud of incense.
- (12:00 PM) - The Great Falafel Fiasco: Lunch: Falfel. This time, from a place Mahmoud recommended. The falafel was great. But then I saw the price (a bargain!) and bought six. Had way too many for my stomach.
- (1:00 PM) - The Roman Theatre - Ancient Acoustics: The Roman Theatre! Magnificent. Sat there, closed my eyes, and imagined the roar of the crowd. It was cool and shady. (A bonus since it really wasn't getting any cooler out today).
- (2:00 PM) - Dairy Doings: Decided to try camel milk. Because, Jordan. Found a small shop. The shopkeeper stared at me, then pointed at a carton, and said "Camel! Good!". I took a sip. It tasted like…salty, vaguely metallic, slightly weird milk. Bought a small carton. Drank half. Debated the rest.
- (3:00 PM) - Getting Lost…Again: Wandered the streets, eventually returning to the area near Mecca Mall. Stopped at a juice bar. A freshly squeezed pomegranate juice, in the shade, felt like heaven.
- (4:00 PM) - Shopping: the Art of the Haggle: Tried some shopping. Haggle the shopkeepers. I'm terrible at this. Ended up overpaying for a scarf. It's beautiful, though. Just slightly expensive.
- (6:00 PM) - Shisha Reprisal! Decided to try shisha again, at the same rooftop cafe. This time, I picked a less-intense flavour. Slight improvement! Still coughing a little.
- (7:00 PM) - Dinner and Desperation: Found a highly rated restaurant. Ordered a mixed grill. It was…a lot of meat. Too much meat. I'm starting to suspect the shawarma is the only food my stomach can handle.
- (8:30 PM) - The "Charming" Bedroom Nightmare: Back in my "charming" Airbnb. The bed-slab is calling. The air conditioning unit is wheezing. I spent another hour staring off into the inky darkness.
- (9:30 PM) - I'm Starting to like this place. This place isn't as chaotic as when I first arrived. There is a feeling of safety, of a world less shiny but more authentic.
Day 3: The Dead Sea Almost, Transportation Troubles, and the Joy of Unexpected Conversations
- (8:00 AM) - One Last Coffee: Morning routine solidified. The eyebrow-pierced barista is starting to recognize me (and even give me a small discount!). The coffee is an elixir.
- (9:00 AM) - Dead Sea Dreams Dashed: Planned a day trip to the Dead Sea. Booked a taxi. A last-minute message? The spa at the Dead Sea is closed for renovations. Deep, existential sigh. Plans aborted.
- (9:30 AM) - Transportation Troubles: Spent an
Mecca Mall Amman: The Good, the Bad, and the Absolutely Chaotic (aka Your FAQ!)
Okay, Real Talk: Is Mecca Mall Actually Worth Visiting?
Alright, buckle up, buttercups. Mecca Mall. It’s…an experience. Seriously. Yes, it's worth visiting. Kinda. Depends on what you're after. If you're looking for a sleek, pristine, meticulously curated shopping experience like, say, the Dubai Mall? Nope. Forget about it. Mecca Mall has...vibe. Think bustling souk meets air-conditioned heaven. You'll find everything from high-end brands to super-budget finds, and the food court? Oh, Lord, the food court… more on that later.
I went once, specifically hunting for a new laptop. The place was PACKED. Like, people-elbowing-for-space packed. But! I found a decent deal. That, right there, is why it’s worth a visit. Just go in with a sense of humor and a willingness to navigate the beautiful madness.
What Shops Are Actually *Good* In Mecca Mall? Spill the Tea!
Okay, this is where things get subjective, right? But I'll give you my honest two dinars. For clothes, Zara is generally reliable, even if it's the same Zara you find everywhere. H&M, too. They often have decent sales. I’ve found some awesome stuff there, and other times… well, let’s just say I've walked away empty-handed and questioning my entire fashion sense. It's a gamble, folks!
For electronics, there are a few good options, but COMPARE PRICES. Seriously. The markup can be insane. I once saw a phone charger that was practically *gold-plated* with the price. Make sure you know what you're willing to pay before you head in. Be prepared to haggle a bit, too, especially in the smaller shops. Good luck with that!
Another good tip? Go for the local boutiques dotted around the mall. You can find unique and exciting things there that you won't find in other malls.
What About the Food? Is it a Gastrointestinal Disaster Waiting to Happen?
The food court… ah, the food court. It's a microcosm of Jordanian life, a cacophony of smells and languages. Is it a gastrointestinal disaster? Sometimes, maybe. You'll probably be fine *most* of the time, but, let's be real, I've definitely walked away with a slight tinge of fear in my stomach. Stick to the reputable chains (McDonalds... I know, I know). They usually have a good standard, or try a place that is frequently busy – that's usually a good sign, right? You'll find everything from shawarma to pizza to…ugh, I once saw someone eating something that looked alarmingly like a deep-fried shoe. I’m still not entirely sure what it was.
My advice? Don't eat anything before you go. That way, you'll at least *feel* ravenous and be more likely to make a decent choice. And wash your hands. A LOT.
Parking: The Eternal Struggle. Help!
Parking at Mecca Mall… *deep sigh*. It's an endurance test. A battle of wills. A lesson in patience. During peak hours (weekends, evenings, basically any time anyone *wants* to go), it can be a nightmare. Expect to circle, expect to stalk people walking to their cars, and expect to feel a surge of pure joy when you *finally* snag a spot.
My pro-tip? Go early. Seriously. Before noon on weekdays is your best bet. Alternatively, embrace the chaos and develop a strategic parking game plan. I've seen people park blocks away and walk, which is actually a really smart strategy. Remember that if you park in a "wrong spot," you are going to get a parking ticket.
What About the Kids? Is Mecca Mall Family-Friendly?
Yes and no. There's a play area, which can be a lifesaver if you have energetic little ones. They often have entertainment, too, like bouncy castles or face-painting, which will keep them occupied for a few minutes. The food court has lots of options, so you can usually find something to appease even the pickiest eaters (fingers crossed!).
However, the crowds can be overwhelming with kids. Little ones can get lost easily, and the sheer noise can be overstimulating. So, be prepared. Keep a close eye on your children, stick together, and don't be afraid to bail early if things get too crazy. The most important thing I can tell you: make sure you know where your children are at all times.
And for older kids? It's a great place to hang out. They can run around, meet their friends, and see things they like.
Is There Anything Else To Do Besides Shop and Eat?
Well, besides the shops and food court, you can catch a movie at the cinema! They usually play a mix of Hollywood blockbusters and some Arabic films. Be sure to check the schedules in advance. There's also a bowling alley – a great option for a fun time with friends or family.
The mall also often hosts events, like seasonal sales and promotional campaigns. Keep an eye out for those! Sometimes there will be events going on during the weekends.
The bathrooms. Let's talk about the bathrooms...
Okay, I’m not going to lie, the bathroom experience can range from “okay” to “existential dread.” It REALLY depends on the day, time, and the last person who was in there. I’ve seen things…things I can’t unsee. Bring your own paper towels/tissue (just in case). And maybe hand sanitizer. Definitely hand sanitizer.
What’s the best way to get to Mecca Mall? Taxi, bus, or my own car?
This depends on your starting point and tolerance for traffic. Taxis are convenient but can get expensive, especially during peak hours. Buses are a budget-friendly option, but can be crowded. If you're driving, prepare yourself for the aforementioned parking drama.
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