Eight Lesser-Known Facts About Syria from Headwater

SURREY, ENGLAND, November 20, 2010 (Press-News.org) Some interesting facts you might not know about Syria.

1: Capital, Damascus, has been inhabited for over 4000 years making it the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the world.

2: Ugarit is the place where the oldest alphabet in the world is believed to have originated.

3: Every year, in May, the Palmyra Traditional Festival - also known as the Desert Festival - includes a grand spectacle of camels racing through the ruins of the ancient city.

4: More than 250 silver coins dating back to the time of Alexander the Great were unearthed in northern Syria in April 2010.

5: Agatha Christie wrote "Murder on the Orient Express" whilst staying in Aleppo.

6: The best place to buy the humble nargileh, or hubble-bubble pipe, is just off the huge souk el-Hamidiyye in Damascus. You'll find all shapes, sizes and colours - and, if you explain that you're flying home, the stallholders will take apart and pack in a handy carrying case. Don't forget the fruity tobacco and charcoal pieces!

7: Chocolate probably isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Syria, however the Ghaoui family have been keeping chocoholic Syrians happy since the 1920s! Candied orange peel, chocolate-coated coffee beans and apricots hand-dipped in dark chocolate have each helped earn them deserved international fame.

8: Domestic hamsters descend from Syria - the earliest known one dates back to 1930!

New for autumn 2010, Headwater's Highlights of Syria walking & sightseeing tour explores five UNESCO-listed sites including Aleppo, Palmyra and the old city of Damascus, and travels the eastern Silk Road, and where the Bedouin nomads still live today. It's a fully guided trip, led by expert local enthusiast, Ahmad Awad, staying in luxury boutique-style hotels, and all meals are included.

Order our NEW 2011 brochures to find out more about our extensive range of holidays. Visit our website at www.headwater.com.