Syria

Syrians generally dress conservatively, though Western-style clothing is also common. It's best to observe and follow local dressing cues.
● Men: Typically wear long pants, and t-shirts or shirts. While shorts are becoming more popular in larger cities, long pants are generally recommended, especially when visiting religious sites.
● Women: Should dress in loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing that covers their bodies, including shoulders, knees, and necklines. A headscarf isn't mandatory at all times, but you must carry one for visits to mosques or religious areas. At the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, women are required to wear an abaya and cover their hair, which can be rented on-site.

While official sources generally advise against travel due to security concerns, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Our organized tours strictly focus on safe and government-controlled areas such as Damascus, Maaloula, Homs, Krak des Chevaliers, Aleppo, Hama, and Palmyra. We maintain constant communication with local authorities and have a strong network to ensure a secure experience. Independent travel isn't recommended. All itineraries are conducted with licensed local guides and coordinated with local partners. Eastern and northeastern parts of Syria remain strictly off-limits.

Obtaining a visa for Syria is a relatively straightforward process based on nationality.
● Visa Fee: Typically free at land borders, but around 150 USD if flying into Damascus International Airport (subject to nationality). Visa on arrival fees are paid in cash upon arrival.
● Visa Stamp: Upon arrival at the designated border crossing, you'll receive a 15-day visa as a stamp in your passport rather than a sticker.
● Entry Points: While direct flights to Damascus are now available via airlines like Qatari Airways, Turkish Airlines, Royal Jordanian Airlines, Syrian Airlines, and Cham Wings Airlines, most travelers still find that entering Syria overland from Beirut International Airport in Lebanon (3-4 hours to Damascus) or Amman International Airport in Jordan (4-5 hours to Damascus) remains the most convenient and cost-effective route.

The official currency in Syria is the Syrian Pound (SYP).
● Cash is Essential: ATMs generally don't accept foreign cards, and credit cards aren't accepted for most transactions. You must pay all expenses in cash.
● Preferred Currency: It's advisable to carry extra US dollars in cash, as this is the primary currency used for exchange. It should be new edition notes (see picture below). Euros are less commonly accepted.
● Exchange: Your local guide can assist you in exchanging money at government banks at the border and within cities. Please note that only Syrian Pounds are accepted for day-to-day transactions.

Understanding local customs enhances your experience:
● Greetings: Shaking hands is common for initial or formal greetings. If physical contact isn't preferred (e.g., due to conservative views), a warm smile, slight nod, or placing your right hand over your heart are respectful alternatives.
● Gift-Giving: When visiting a Syrian home, bringing a small gift (like sweets or a souvenir from your home country) is a thoughtful gesture of appreciation for hospitality.
● Mosques/Homes: It's customary and respectful to remove your shoes before entering a mosque or a Syrian home. When sitting, avoid postures that expose the soles of your shoes, as this is considered impolite.

Main mobile operators are Syriatel and MTN Syria.
● SIM Cards: You can purchase a prepaid SIM card at the border crossing or upon arrival. These are issued only with a passport copy, and the process can take some time.
● Internet Quality: While hotels often provide free Wi-Fi, service quality may vary. Mobile internet coverage is extensive, though occasional weak signals can occur due to power outages.
● VPN recommended: For secure internet access and to use apps like WhatsApp, it's highly advisable to install a VPN on your phone before entering Syria.

Syria faces a severe shortage of electricity supply with rationing throughout the country. Consequently, supply can be inconsistent, and unexpected power outages may occur. The electrical voltage is 220 V, frequency is 50 Hz, and outlets typically have two rounded prongs.

Syrian cuisine is renowned for its complexity, subtlety, diversity, and rich heritage. Must-try savory dishes include Yabraq, Kibbeh, Mahshi, Molokhia, Shawarma, Shish Kebab, Lahme bi Karaz, Kibbeh Labaniyeh, Shish Tawook, Shish Barak, Koussa Blaban, Baba Ghanoush, Kebab Halabi, Muhammara, and Falafel. Don't miss out on exquisite sweets like Baklava, Kunafa, Halawet el Jibn, Basbousa, and Barazek. Vegetarian options are plentiful due to fresh local produce.

● Alcohol: While generally available in major cities, especially in hotels and Old Damascus, it's highly recommended to consult your local guide first before inquiring about alcoholic beverages in public. Always consume responsibly and be mindful of local customs and traditions, particularly during the current transitional period.
● Smoking: Both cigarettes and shisha are prevalent and generally permitted in public areas, restaurants, and cafes. It's polite to ask permission before smoking around others. Be aware of potential restrictions in government buildings and public transport.

While Syria isn't considered expensive by global standards, the country has experienced inflation and devaluation, leading to increased prices. Only Syrian Pounds are accepted for day-to-day transactions.
● Meal in casual restaurants: US$10 – US$20
● Meal in upscale restaurants: US$20 – US$30
● Popular Syrian street food (e.g., Shawarma/Falafel sandwich): US$2 – US$5
● Local soft drink/beer: US$2 – US$6
● Within-city taxi fare: US$3 – US$6
● Traditional public bathhouse (Hammam): Around US$20 per person for entry; additional costs apply for services like exfoliation, soap, loofah, refreshments, and fruits.

Tipping is customary and appreciated:
● Guide and Driver: It's strongly advised to consider providing a gratuity to your local guide and driver upon concluding the tour, as they are independent contractors. The amount is at your discretion, based on your satisfaction.
● Restaurants: Typically 10-15% of the total bill, depending on your contentment.

● Border Checks: Be prepared for additional questioning or security screening.
● Photography: Don't take photos of people, military, or checkpoints without permission.
● Sensitive Topics: To respect local culture and avoid misunderstandings, it's strongly advised to avoid engaging in conversations about religion, politics, or other potentially sensitive topics, especially with locals you don't know well. Your local guide can offer insights on navigating social interactions.
● Itinerary Adherence: Tour itineraries must be followed exactly as approved; unplanned detours aren't allowed.
● Tour Duration: Tours typically last 8–10 days.

● Damascus National Museum and Azem Palace close on Fridays.
● Aleppo National Museum, Aleppo Citadel, and Baron Hotel are currently closed for maintenance due to the devastating February 2023 earthquake. Their reopening dates will depend on the completion of ongoing restoration work.
● The Umayyad Mosque in Aleppo is also currently closed due to damage from the conflict and events after 2011.
● Souqs/bazaars are closed on Fridays, except in Christian areas where they close on Sundays.

Syria enjoys a moderate Mediterranean climate. The ideal times to travel are during spring (March to May) and early autumn (September to November), offering warm, sunny weather around 25°C. Winter (December to February) can be chilly and rainy, with occasional snowfall, while summer (June to August) is hot, dry, and clear, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 40°C.

Arabic is spoken in Syria. Locals don't speak much English, so it's worth having a translation app on your phone for communication.
It’s a good idea to learn to recognize Arabic numerals and basic phrases in Arabic.
Learning to read and write in Arabic is not easy, as you have to learn different letters and read (write) from right to left. Books and magazines are also printed from the other end than we are used to.