Over the past 5 years The US has labelled Syria (among other countries) to be part of the notorious Axis of Evil. So, everyone outside of the Middle East has this negative idea planted in their head about how bad this place is. I have to say that this leg of of our trip has been the most exciting and I have felt the most hospitality here of all the countries we have visited so far. Their foreign policy definitely does not cozy up to the American one - but nor would mine if I had my own country 
Syria is a country of about 19 million. They all speak Arabic. 90% are Muslim and the other 10% are Christian (approximate numbers). They get along just fine. The streets are safe and clean. We are but miles away from Lebanon and Israel. You would think that would be a scary place to be, but it isn’t. Everyone offers you tea and welcomes you to their country. Much more welcoming a place than say Vancouver or any other Canadian city of any size.
Yesterday we visited the Abu Nour Mosque, we is a teaching center for Islamic studies. We had a chance to sit down and discuss Islam with Muslims from different countries. It helped get rid of a bunch of myths about Islam and was all around good fun. I would have liked to the opportunity for some deeper discussions with a smaller group, hopefully I will get the opportunity somewhere along the way. Islam is a fascinating topic. Most would not recognize how close it is to Christianity theologically.
Not many tourists in Syria that we can see. No where near the ‘tourism congestion’ that we saw in Turkey. You get a much better chance to see the people of Syria in normal day to day life without all the tourist icing put on top.
I should mention the history of the place as well. Probaly more history here than just about anywhere else. Pretty much everywhere you walk you are within meters of a structure or building that has existed for over 2000 years. Everywhere you go you recognize things you have heard about from biblical times. This morning we went to the Umayyad Mosque where there is a shrine containing John the Baptist’s head. Next door is a shrine to Saladin who some of you might know from Crusades History (Movie: Kingdom of Heaven). A few days ago we were in Palmyra, home of pretty much the biggest ruins EVER!
All round this is a fantastic place to vacation. Don’t believe the hype about Syria and come visit it.
It’s damn hot though.
Never trust what the U.S says - you know its a lie for profit and power.
Your trip sound like a life time of adventure - enjoy!
FYI: Its finally warm here - in the NW.
Sony
June 8th, 2007