CAPITAL DAMASCUS - POPULATION 19.7 MILLION - AREA 185,180 SQ KM - OFFICIAL LANGUAGE ARABIC
Although the USA recently issued a warning against travel to Syria, this misunderstood country on the ' axis of evil' continues to have a healthy independent traveler turnout. With a reputation for having some of the friendliest locals in the Middle East, Syria's appeal is beginning to translate into an upturn in tourism services, with boutique hotels popping up in Damascus and Aleppo, and ecotourism starting to emerge around the country. By no stretch of the imagination though is the country overrun with backpackers, making now a perfect time to explore. Travel to Qala' at Samaan, Syria's most atmospheric archaeological site, and then onward to explore the spooky ancient Dead Cities ghost towns, before returning to civilization for a gourmet meal and a soak in a luxury- hotel tub.
|
