Syria

I got a quick two day trip into Syria. I know many find Syria beautiful.
So I dislike their entry/exit/ visa regulations. As long as you don’t
discuss politics you will have a great time!

The first stop after crossing the border was the Roman city of Busra.
A European choir sang one sang in the center of the theatre which
was great. Some local kids where playing football among the ruins
which was hilarious. Next we headed to Damascus and had quick
lunch (manakeesh pastries) and some fresh juice drinks, I took mine
with cream which was amazing. After that took a hike in some hills,
rested and then had a picnic. That evening we headed over to the
old city, which is so beautiful it reminds me of the old city of
Jerusalem. Locals tell me Damascus is among the oldest cities
the world. The Al Hamidiyeh Souq in the old city is a lot of fun
and we went to have ice cream at Bakdash which makes it as
it was made when established around 1885. Only a few spots in
the world make it this way – I guess the other place is in Turkey.

In Syria lots of eating, walking around, and shopping in the souk.
Things are cheaper than Jordan so I took advantage of buying
some stuff. I entered the Ummayad Mosque (Grand Mosque).
I had to rent a brown cloak to cover up. Families are just hanging
out in the courtyard, children are running around. When we left
a man said to my friend in Arabic to teach us foreigners about
Islam to convert (but he is Christian so that is not happening).
Oh yeah he had to wear a skirt to cover his knees since his shorts
were above his knees. It was funny to see even the security with
out shoes/socks. This mosque was a church that was dedicated
to John the Baptist. Even the pope has visited it.

More good Syrian/Lebanese food. Can you ever get enough?
I always like to try new things as well as ordering the same
favorites. Some get sick in Syria, luckily I was traveling with
people who know where to go. I got into a USA political
conversation with a French guy and my Jordanian friend said
he would leave me at the border with the secret police if they stop
me. I will not forget this???? Also I pointed to a picture of their
leader because I was amazed that cars will have the entire back
window with a picture of him, I was told not to point.

By the way, I traveled with a total of nine people in a large SUV
5 guys and 4 girls or 7 Jordanians passport holders and 2 expats.
I think our dinners had 15-20 people at the table.

YES pictures will come. Next trip Beirut!