Excellent content, but Biased - Rated 
I recently visited Syria, and after purchasing a number of guide books about the country I found myself reaching for this book first, it has a great wealth of information and details about the country and region.
The only problem I had with it is the Authors obvious pro-Syrian view, she constantly praises the government and the country, and in some parts it becomes laughable when compared to other sources of information. In fact its pretty hard to find a negative comment anywhere in the book.
In conclusion I would recommend this book for any traveler hoping to visit Syria, it is the best guide book available, but I would warn them to take the book's opinions with a pinch of salt.
BIAS TOWARD WEALTHIER VISITORS - Rated 
Syria has an EXCELLENT developing rail network, yet this guide book barely mentions rail travel and encourages visitors not to use trains. Not a very environmentally friendly suggestion. Additionally, it assumes you'll travel everywhere by car. Basic information is good, but I consider that Lonely Planet will be a better publication.
Not suitable for butget travellers. - Rated
This guidebook contains thorough discriptions of the sights and cities and valuable background information. This book is not suitable for budget travellers since the places mentioned in "places to stay" are generally expensive. Furthermore information about public transport is also lacking for many smaller towns and sights.
I can recommend - Rated 
This new guide from Bradt is the best yet on the country. A better balance of text, pictures and excellent maps than other guides for the serious traveller. Especially interesting are the many titbit notes of background information on arab, islamic and Syrian customs, religions and history. Quite a feast. Do take the road to Damascus. You won't be aware of the geopolitical controversies surrounding the country, just the warm welcome from the people, the souks, the beautiful mosaics in the mosques, the stunning Roman remains out there in the desert and the great crusader castles. This guide will be a good friend on the way.
A Superb Guide to a Staggering Country - Rated
This is a superb guide to a staggering country. Whatever we in the
West are led to believe about Syria, it is one of the safest and most
welcoming places I have ever been; beautiful, completely unspoilt, steeped
in history - it really is the Cradle of Civilisation. Maybe thanks to all
the adverse publicity, it is completely off the beaten-track, so you can
explore all the incredible sites without the usual coach loads round you. We had the place practically to ourselves. There is no begging or importuning, just friendly curiosity and hospitality, which led in our case to wonderful invitations to visit homes and share food.
The hotel facilities are amazingly in advance of the tourist hordes, so
this really is the time to go and explore the place and get to know the
people - with all the comforts we seem to expect, but without any of
cynicism or exploitation that may alas creep in later.
Diana Darke's new guide is absolutely up-to-date and comprehensive on all
levels. It provides excellent coverage of the basic practicalities of
getting around, accommodation, essential travel information and helpful
advice about the Syrians and the Arabic language. It also offers in depth
information about the history and culture.
|
