Syria Flag
Why visit Syria?
Best known for ancient history, archaeology, architecture, bathhouse, biblical historical sites, cafes, clubs, culture, desert scenery, medieval ruins, mountains, waterskiing, and windsurfing.
Krak des Chevaliers, Al-Husn, Syria. Photo Credit: Iyad Al Ghafari/Pixabay
At a Glance
- Souvenirs to Buy: Arabic music, brocade, caftans, calligraphy goods, carpets, ceramics, embroidered tablecloths, hand blown glass, leather, metal goods, mosaics, mother-of-pearl inlaid wood, olive-oil soap, opal jewelry, silks, silver, straw goods, water pipes, wooden backgammon sets, and wood carvings.
- Local Cuisine to Try: Baklava (dessert). Khubz (flatbread). Kibbeh (spiced meat). Mujaddara (lentil dish). Labneh (yogurt). Shanklish (cheese). Shawarma (meat slices). Sujuk (sausage). Tabbouleh (salad).
- Local Drink to Try: Al Shark (beer). Arak (spirit). Jallab (fruit Syrup). Qamar al-din (apricot juice).
Photo Credit: Amani Sharaa/Pixabay
Fun Facts
- Damascus is the oldest capital in the world.
- Archaeological finds (Palmyra) date back to the Neolithic Period (10000 BC - 2200BC).
- Home to one of the most well preserved medieval castles (Krak des Chevaliers) in the world.
- Male USA citizens of descendants are required to complete military service or pay the exemption fee.
Apamea (Afamia), Syria. Photo Credit: Iyad Al Ghafari/Pixabay
Special Holidays/Occasions
- Annual Events: (July) Cotton Festival, (September) Arabic Book Fair, and Silk Road Festival.
- Holidays: Independence Day, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha.
Photo Credit: Iyad Al Ghafari/Pixabay
Good to Know
- Has no tourism infrastructure.
- Women can be arrested "under suspicion of immoral behavior", being alone in a room with a man who is not her husband or being in a residence where alcohol/drugs is being consumed.
- Considered one of the best historical sites in the world.
- Prone to dirt, dust, and litter.
- Hotel bills are paid in USD.
- During the Christmas Season, Christian Carolers perform in the winding alleyways in Damascus' Old City.
- Retailers in Souks tend not to close for lunch.
- Work week is Saturday - Thursday.
- Known hardships surrounding housing, infrastructure, medical facilities, power, schools, and water utilities.
- Traveler’s Checks are not accepted.
- Currency can only be exchanged by licensed money changers.
- Toilet paper is usually disposed of in a trash can.
- During Ramadan (holy month) avoid drinking or smoking in public.
- Due to surcharges, avoid charges for drinks and food to your hotel/resort bill.
- LGBTQI+ is punishable up to 3 years in prison.
- USA banks will not process ATM transactions, funds must be transferred through Western Union.
- Americans pose a high risk of being a hostage or kidnapped..
- Charges a Departure Tax at its land and sea borders.
- Between December - March it is rainy.
- Prevalent Diseases: Hepatitis A, Measles, Polio, Tuberculosis, and Typhoid.
- Summer Season (June - August) temperatures can exceed 100F.
- Dress moderately with arms and legs covered.
- Due to theft, hand carry your shoes into the mosque.
- Karnak buses require 1 day advance reservations.
- In smaller towns, Microbuses only depart when they're full.
- Requires an International Driver's License.
This international destination requires:
- A valid passport with six months of validity upon return and one blank page for entry stamp.
- Tourist VISA required.
Palmyra, Syria. Photo Credit: Pixabay
- Best Time to Visit: April - June & September - November
- Coolest Months: November - March
- Hottest Months: June - September
- Peak Season: March - April & September
Your Must-See & Do
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Aleppo, Ancient City of Aleppo, Busra, Citadel of Saladin, Damascus, Krak des Chevaliers, and Palmyra.
Citadel of Aleppo, Aleppo, Syria. Photo Credit: Dianne Ket/Pixabay
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All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.
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