october 2008

I traveled to Syria by car from Amman, where my boyfriend and I booked a carpool to take us to Damascus. Once we got closer to the city, our driver dropped us off in the middle of the highway where we hailed a taxi to take us to the old city gates. By 2008, Syria was no longer the enemy in the movies and it seemed like a real adventure to go there. We stayed in a hostel run by an Australian, who drove us to the Crac des Chevaliers and Palmyra. The Crac was one of the most complete crusader castles in existence and Palmyra was the ancient roman ruins; both incredible places. It felt safe then and we strolled through the vibrant markets at night in the green glow that pervaded the city. I remember that at the time, I made a mental note to come back one day and visit Aleppo and other parts of the country. It's heartbreaking what has happened over the years to this beautiful country and I wonder whatever became of our Australian friend.