Palmyra

So much to say, so little space/time.

Top 5 favorite (or not) moments:

(1) 5am visit to Diocletian's camp / Zenobia palace. Its on the edge of the ruins. And behind the building are stairs going up into the one remaining tower and a tomb cut into a cave. Amazing view from the tower (c. 15 feet high).

(2) The necropolis. An area full of tombs behind the ancient site. Tower tombs, house tombs, tombs cut into caves. Counted at least 50. Ruins felt untouched and many open for wandering. Did we mention we were the only people there? (6.30am long walk worth it.)

(3) The smell of the Ishtar Hotel's bathroom. yucky.

(4) Sunset from the citadel. Overlooking the ruins (facing East). Realized at the last moment that behind the citadel has an ever MORE amazing view of the sun setting in the desert mountains. Applause from many tourist as the sun dissapeared.

(5) The blisters. Why didn't we buy good walking shoes?

(6) Ruins overall: peaceful in the early am and late pm. Very untouched, pretty well preserved. Major contrast to what you see in Rome. Very authentic feeling. Highly recommended.

(7) Resteraunt selling point: (owner pointing to two people walking on street) "They ate here last night and didnt get sick."

(8) Camel noises. haha.

(9) Kittens on the terrace. Hungry for you dinner. Will moew, will circle the table, will congrate, will jump up on the seat and try to lick your knife. Soooo cute. And yet so diseased.

(10) Bel temple. Again, for the best Roman(esque) architecture, go to Palmyra. Even with a tourist group inside it is not crowded. M posing as sacrifical (sweaty) lamb by altar = major highlight.



SEE PALMYRA HERE