By Iyad, Syria Travel Specialist at Syria Link · Published Updated
Overview
Traveling is one of the best ways to discover a different place and culture. Although there are many places that you can visit, Syria is a place you must definitely visit if you want to look beyond the over-hyped destinations and see what authentic travel is all about.
It offers so much, including ancient cities like Aleppo and Damascus, friendly people with a rich heritage, good food, and hospitality.
Meet the Friendly People
"Don't judge a book by its cover." Syria is known for being hospitable, friendly, and welcoming to foreigners. The locals will go out of their way to make sure you feel comfortable in their homeland. You will be surprised how Syrians are curious about others and always willing to help. They will offer you a coffee or mint tea for free, and if you're feeling tired, they will offer to take you home with them for some rest or a meal even though they don't know you.
Discover History and Archaeological Sites
Syria is one of the oldest civilizations in the world, dating back to at least 10,000 BC. Its location at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and Europe has caused it to have a unique cultural identity. It was home to some of the earliest human cultures from the ancient Sumerians to the Romans, Byzantines, Umayyads, and Abbasids.
One of the most important sites is Ugarit, which presented the world with its oldest alphabets. Among the many ancient monuments are Palmyra (built by Queen Zenobia in the 3rd century BC), Aleppo citadel (built around 300 BC), Maaloula (the home village of Jesus' apostle's father Joseph), and the Umayyad Mosque.
Test the Delicious Food
Syria is a land of many cultures and religions, and its cuisine is no exception. The most popular dishes in Syria are:
- Kabab — Meat on a skewer, usually lamb or chicken
- Kibbeh — Bulgur wheat and minced lamb stuffed with onion and pine nuts
- Falafel — Fried ball made from chickpeas
- Shawarma — Chicken or beef sandwich with pickles, salad, and tahini sauce
- Yabrak — Stuffed vine leaves with rice and minced lamb or beef
The Breathtaking Views
From Aleppo's old-town souk to Damascus' ancient castles, you will be dazzled by Syria's stunning sights and captivating countryside. The remains of Palmyra (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Aleppo citadel, the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus (built in 715 AD by Caliph al-Walid I), and the Syrian Desert all await your discovery.
Syria has a lot to offer for every visitor and it would be an amazing experience to explore the country and its ancient landmarks, relax on the beaches, meet friendly people and eat delicious food.