Introducing Southern Yemen

Yemen’s south is the richest and most developed region of the country. It’s also the greenest and most fertile and has long been considered the breadbasket of Arabia. There is a huge amount of historical, cultural and geographic variety in this area. In the far south is the run-down, sweltering port of Aden, the former British colony and old capital of the south. Like many port towns, it’s much more liberal and relaxed than the interior (symbolised perhaps by the Adeni women who do not cover their faces, as well as the availability of alcohol).

Further north, and in complete contrast, are the lush and cool highland towns of Ibb, Jibla and Ta’izz, where rain falls year- round and Islam and scholarship are more the keys to life. Overall this is the safest and easiest part of the country in which to travel, particularly for those reliant on public transport.