Damascus, Syria, December 2008
I had a few months to spare and decided to try to work on my poor Arabic which I had acquired in Iraq.
My research narrowed my linguistic pursuit down to two areas: Yemen or Damascus. I chose Damascus and had a great time.
The company I chose to go with was called Arabesk, which was run by a Spanish born Syrian called Iskander. After a month of intensive schooling, Iskander said I was ready to attend the language school at Damascus University.
So, off I went. I lived with a Syrian family who tolerated my poor Arabic and strived with me to improve it.
I was able to travel around the country and visit some amazing archelogical sites. Bosra and its amazing Roman remains, The Crusader castle – Krak de Chevalier, the water wheels at Hama and, of course, the legendary Palmyra.
I had a wonderful experience. The hospitality was outstanding, the atmosphere enticing, and the relatively unspoilt history a true pleasure to experience. Thanks to all that made it such a special time.