Iraq
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Visas, Embassies & Border Crossings
Now it is possible to go to Iraq. In Damascus, Syrian authorities issue tourist visas. You need to go to the usual Syrian Immigration Office close to Martyrs' Square. It took a couple of hours to get the visa so you must go before 10am. Then you can get an Iraqi bus to Baghdad from southern Damascus. It cost around 700 Syrian pounds (one way). It costs 2000 pounds by a comfortable car. The crossing point is at At-Tanf. So you don't need to go to Abu Kamal.
Antonio Quaglieri (Sep 03)
Gems, Highlights & Attractions
Art is thriving in Baghdad. There are plenty of Iraqi painters and sculptors. Iraqi art is on a very high level and can't be compared to any art scene in the Middle East. The Iraqis are way ahead of their colleagues in Jordan, Syria and Egypt. Iraq's artists prefer modern, abstract art. When visiting an art gallery you'll forget you are in Iraq. Art is rather cheap as well in Baghdad. The Saddam Art Centre, run by the government has a nice collection though not for sale.
Other things to see: The Iraqi Museum. Recently Reopend. Very nice collection; Mustansariyya Museum. Old dresses and handicrafts etc. Interesting building; Martyrs Museum. Under the blue shelved Martyr Monument (Unknown Soldier) from the Iraqi sculptor and painter Ismail Fattah. Only open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Don't miss it if you want to understand something about Iraqi politics. Don't talk politics when inside, though; The Parade Ground. Come and watch it but don't take any photos.
Martin Koene, Jordan (Feb 02)
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