girl traveling alone...

Hi,

I have been living in the Middle East on an off for about 2 years, in Egypt and Lebanon. And though I have never lived in Syria, it is a country that I have visited many times (alone and with friends), and have always really really enjoy it.

Syria is much less hassle for a girl on her own than, say, Egypt. You may get some stares from groups of teenage boys in the street, but I wouldn't fear anything more than that. In fact, I have found Syria to be a very safe place, for tourists in general and wmen particularly, where you are at much less risk of the sorts of serious things that face women in many European countries (mugging, stalking, rape etc).

Just make sure you dress conservatively: long sleeves and long trousers/skirt. If you're travelling in the summer, light linen and cotton are the best for the heat.

Syria is a beautiful country with very hospitable people. Obviously, it gets very bad press in the mainstream Western media, but don't let that be a reason to not go there. It has some real gems, I would recommend: Tartus on the Mediterranean coast, the Crusader castles (Krak des Chevalliers, the castle of Salaheddin), Aleppo, Palmyra, and ofcourse Damascus...

And if you have time, why not pop over to Lebanon aswell? Beirut is only 3 hours away in a collective taxi for $9, and is an awesome city...

Hope this was helpful,

lilith

Lilithhope gave you an accurate and detailed account of her experience in the ME and especially Syria.
I second her statement.
Taxi fare from Damascus to Beirut now is around USD 15 or 800 sp from Somaria garage terminal.

I was in Syria a year ago now and found the people to be extremely friendly, helpful and honest. In fact, of all the Middle Eastern countries we visited Syria was perhaps the easiest, but like lilithhope says, be sure to dress conservatively. There is so much to see in such a small space and is one of my favourite countries in the world.

I third Lilith - I couldn't have put it better myself. Go, you won't be disappointed.

I traveled in Syria alone, and nearly 4 years later it is still untouched as my very favorite country. I had a wonderful time and found that just like in many countries I've traveled alone, solo women are certainly regarded as a curiosity but ALSO as people to protect. People were so kind to me at all times, and never harassed me as they occasionally did in Egypt and Syria. It's a fabulous place...go!

I'd echo what previous posters have stated, just please don't think it is safe enough to hitchhike alone as a woman... it is a very safe country, but know the boundaries of that safety. I've hitchhiked countless times throughout Syria as a male, but it is something women shouldn't attempt solo. That's about it. It is wise to dress conservatively, though that isn't necessary in some areas along the coast, and parts of Damascus.

Er, I just noticed now I wrote "Egypt and Syria" when I meant "Egypt and Jordan ".

Hej!

Thnx you all! You helped me to decide and the decision is that I'll definately go to Syria (probably from Turkey).I can't wait for summer time to come and to start packing:)

Thnx again!

Best regards, A

i agree it is safe to go alone. but know where to go and what to do people in Syria are generally kind and friendly, but becarful in Aleppo the people there can be little rough not dangerous but might bother you so i wouldn't go alone at night . in the dearest also be careful as people there are conservative.
enjoy your trip