Syria has a reputation for being “dangerous,” but let me tell you, the real danger is falling in love with everything this incredible country has to offer! From food to culture, people to landscapes, Syria is overflowing with warmth and unforgettable experiences. Here’s why a trip to Syria might be more dangerous than you think.
1. Food Overload – Too Delicious to Resist
Syria is a land where food isn’t just sustenance; it’s a way of life. Imagine sitting at a long table covered with mezze – a feast of tiny plates like hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and muhammara (that irresistible roasted red pepper and walnut dip). And that’s just the appetizer! Soon after, you’re diving into kibbeh, a perfectly spiced mix of bulgur and minced meat, or fatteh, a dish layered with chickpeas, yogurt, and fried bread. Don’t even get me started on the shawarma—thinly sliced, marinated meat wrapped in fresh pita bread and drizzled with tahini sauce. Then there’s dessert: knafeh, a sticky, sweet pastry made with cheese and soaked in syrup. The servings are huge, and the food is irresistible. By the time you’re done, you might need a whole new wardrobe because of the food-induced weight gain danger!
2. Infinite Refills – Tea, Coffee, and Arak Galore
If there’s one thing you’ll learn quickly in Syria, it’s that your cup is never empty. Whether it’s Arabic coffee served thick and strong, or mint tea poured from a height into a tiny glass, you’ll find yourself in a constant flow of drinks. But if you really want to experience the local life, you must try Arak, a traditional anise-flavored spirit that turns cloudy when mixed with water. It’s typically served with a large meal, and before you know it, you’re sitting around a table with new friends, clinking glasses, and enjoying endless conversations. Good luck keeping track of how many cups you’ve had—Syrians won’t stop refilling!
3. Instant Family – The Heart of Syrian Hospitality
In Syria, you’ll never feel like a stranger for long. Syrians have a unique way of turning guests into family. Step into a Damascene house, and you’ll feel an instant warmth as you’re welcomed with open arms. These homes, with their cozy courtyards and trickling fountains, are a beautiful blend of ancient architecture and heartwarming hospitality. Walk into one of the ancient cafés like Al-Nofara in the Old City of Damascus, where locals gather to sip tea and swap stories, and you’ll immediately feel at home. By the end of your trip, don’t be surprised if you’ve been adopted by a Syrian family (or two) who invite you for meals, walks, and heartfelt conversations.
4. Shopping Frenzy – Souks Full of Treasures
Shopping in Syria’s bustling souks is an adventure in itself. You’ll walk through the narrow alleys of Souq Al-Hamidiyah, with the smell of spices and perfumes filling the air. Your eyes will catch the glimmer of handcrafted Brocade fabrics—fabrics woven with gold or silver threads, which are perfect for making a one-of-a-kind dress. Then there’s the copper: trays, bowls, and lamps hand-engraved with intricate patterns, reflecting the skill of generations of artisans. The famed Damascene steel—once used to craft swords for warriors—is now made into stunning jewelry and decorative items. Mosaic art is another treasure, featuring tiny pieces of wood or stone carefully assembled into intricate designs. By the end of your shopping spree, your suitcase will be bursting with these unique Syrian handicrafts, and trust me, you’ll want to take them all home!
5. Food Comas – Not Just for Meat Lovers
Prepare yourself for food comas, even if you’re a vegetarian. The Syrian kitchen is a paradise for vegetarians, with dishes like falafel, stuffed vine leaves (known as yalangi), and moussaka, a rich stew of eggplant and tomato. Meat lovers will be drooling over lamb shank cooked with dried apricots or spicy kofta kebabs, but vegetarians will be equally delighted by the endless array of vegetable dishes, dips, and salads. Whether you eat meat or not, the Syrian kitchen will leave you stuffed to the brim, happily drifting into a food coma.
6. Photo Overload – Beauty Around Every Corner
Syria’s historic sites are a visual feast. You’ll be snapping photos non-stop, whether it’s the Umayyad Mosque, with its grand courtyard and ancient mosaics, or the Azm Palace, an 18th-century wonder of architecture filled with beautiful fountains and lush gardens. And don’t even get me started on Syria’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Palmyra, the ancient Roman city rising out of the desert, or Krak des Chevaliers, one of the best-preserved Crusader castles in the world. Each of these places offers a unique, jaw-dropping scene, perfect for filling up your camera roll. Be prepared for photo overload!
7. Taste Buds Forever Changed – Authentic and Unforgettable
Syrian cuisine is nothing short of magic. It’s the kind of food that makes you forget every other meal you’ve ever had. The authenticity of each dish, crafted from ancient recipes and fresh local ingredients, creates a flavor experience that’s unforgettable. Whether it’s the richness of fattoush, a salad bursting with fresh herbs, or the smoky depth of moutabal, a grilled eggplant dip, your taste buds will be dancing. The spices used in Syrian cooking—sumac, cumin, and Aleppo pepper—give the food a unique flavor profile that you’ll crave long after you’ve left.
8. Chat Time Warp – Stories That Stay with You
When you visit Syria, prepare for long, meaningful conversations. Syrians love to talk, and they love to share stories. In a café like Al-Nofara, one of the oldest in Damascus, you might find yourself sipping tea and listening to locals recount tales of resilience, hope, and community during the war. The warmth of the people and their openness is truly something special. These conversations will give you a new perspective on strength, survival, and human connection. You’ll hear stories that touch your heart, leaving you with a deeper understanding of Syrian culture and history.
9. Goodbye Is Impossible – You’ll Never Want to Leave
One of the hardest parts of visiting Syria is saying goodbye. As your trip nears its end, you’ll find yourself wishing for more time. Whether it’s the food, the hospitality, or the friends you’ve made along the way, Syria has a way of wrapping you in its warmth and never letting go. Many tourists find themselves shedding a tear when it’s time to leave, and it’s common for people to extend their stay just to enjoy the authentic, familial feeling a little longer. It’s easy to see why leaving Syria is so “dangerous”—you’ll want to stay forever.
So, Are You Ready to Experience the “Danger” of Syria?
In conclusion, Syria may not be the kind of danger you imagined. Instead, it’s a place of unforgettable food, overwhelming hospitality, rich culture, and beautiful people. Once you experience the magic of Syria, you’ll understand why visitors find it so hard to leave. Just be careful, because you might fall in love with Syria and never want to go back home!