Personal space

"Personal space" isn't always so spacious, as anyone who has traveled overseas can attest. This is especially true if you are a woman who stands out in a crowd. Personal space violations, or PSVs, can range from obtrusive but innocuous (cat calls, honking, and confessions of everlasting love) to absolutely unacceptable (touches, assault, etc.).

In Arab societies, personal space is considered very differently from how it is in Western cultures—it essentially doesn't exist. Queuing is an alien concept, and in many circumstances, hanging back politely invites others to move in front of you. Jordanians also have a different relationship with nature than do westerners. Someone might approach you while you are alone or with a friend in the most serene location, obscuring the sunset and eager to chat. It could be challenging, if not impossible, to express your want for solitude.