Answering questions
People will be really (and naively) curious about you as guests, and they may ask you a lot of questions. In addition to "What's your name?" and "Where are you from?" you may also be questioned about your family size, the names of your children, your reasons for not having more children, and other topics.
If you have none, two polite, understandable ways to say so are lissa ("later") and masha'allah ("according to God's will"). The Glossary includes other useful terms. If any ice needs to be broken, having a few photos or digital images of your kids, parents, siblings, nephews, and nieces on hand will help. However, keep in mind that Jordanian men will never ask about another man's wife, not even her name; Be aware that men in Jordan never bring up another man's wife, not even her name; instead, the topic should always be job and kids.
Saying "We're just good friends" when traveling as an unmarried couple has no meaning and just serves to emphasize the cultural gap. Even if there are no plans for nuptials, being able to display a wedding or engagement ring (a cheap replica would do) clarifies and makes things more understandable. We're getting married next year in Arabic is explained in the Language section at the conclusion of this Guide, along with other useful expressions. A ring, which denotes an absent husband, is a potent sign of respectability for a woman traveling alone.
Although you can discuss most political matters openly, locals will avoid engaging in political conversation in anything but the broadest terms so as to spare you the embarrassment or potential backlash. However, feel free to ask your own questions. Once you do, you'll discover that most people aren't afraid to express their opinions on anything pertaining to Israel, Arab affairs, domestic reform, or the larger world. Let them lead; if they want to, for instance, criticize the king or the royal family, which is illegal, be sure not to do likewise. The same is true for religion: while it is typically permissible for people to practice their religion openly, it is advisable to refrain from starting a discussion about religious matters because it is forbidden to proselytize or urge people to convert to any religion other than Islam.
