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102 Syria


■ Roman ruins and Valley of the Tombs at Palmyra ■ World Heritage city of Aleppo ■ Mount Qassioun ■ Qala’at al-Hosn Crusader ■ Damascus ■ Citadel and Roman theatre of Bosra ■ Latakia beaches


One of the cradles of civilisation, travellers have been drawn throughout time to Syria. Tourism here has of late become something of a well kept secret for discerning travellers seeking less-trammelled destinations.


Visitors are often in for a surprise as there is an immense range of scenery from rugged desert to pine-covered mountains, and bustling modern cities. Most impressive of all is the extraordinary wealth of historical remains. Egyptians, Babylonians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs and Turks all passed this way, and many outstanding archaeological sites and fine buildings remain as their witnesses. However this is no backwater Syria is a modern and efficient nation, fortunately, all this modernisation doesn’t mean that it has lost sight of its past. The country has more than its fair share of significant historical sites. The ancient cities of Damascus, Aleppo and Bosra are all listed on Unesco’s World Heritage list, as is the sensationally beautiful ruined city of Palmyra. Mighty Crusader castles, labyrinthine medieval souqs, jewel-like Damascene houses and sacred mosques are only some of the treats on offer; there are plenty more for those who are keen to search them out. Best of all is the fact that these monuments are often woven into the fabric of daily life – the locals worship in the mosques, shop in the souqs, drink tea in the houses and picnic in the ruins. Talking about picnics brings us to the food. The national cuisine is simply superb, so come with a big appetite!


What you need to know


Flight details bmi flights to Damascus depart daily from London Heathrow.


Flight time Approx 5 hours to Damascus.


Time difference GMT +2 hours.


Language Arabic is the official language, although English is widely spoken.


Currency Syrian Pound (S£).


Visa requirements British Citizens require a visa which must be obtained in advance. Details will be provided at the time of booking.


Experience the World. Discover yourself. To book your holiday call us on 0844 225 1232


Syria


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