July 12

Off to Damascus for 2 nights (I wanted to get up for the sunrise but I slept in). Bus to Sham no problem but I always get stuck behind someone who likes to lean back.

In Damascus I had my first hotel search - for the first time there was no room in the inn for the first 4 I checked but i eventually found one and wandered about the old city getting lost a few times.

Ate beside the Mosque (not great, thanks LP) saw kids fighting and children slapped which was disturbing but I also made some friends. (Young boys misbehave everywhere)

Talked to a Swedish couple after dinner. Meeting some interesting people (like the Greek/American yesterday in Palmyra).

SO many tourists in Damascus - way more than last time.

Tomorrow more of the old city