Specifically Iraqi Kurdistan

When a friend of mine told me she was taking up a job in Iraqi Kurdistan I just couldn’t pass up this opportunity to visit.  I mean, when else was I going to get to Iraq??  Surprisingly it was very easy to get to in terms of flights and visas.  That said having decided that we would all go as a family, we did linger a long time before hitting the ‘confirm’ button on the flights.  Taking T. to Iraq was not something we took on lightly, though we did get confirmation that it was safe (from our friend on the ground and the embassy websites).

We had a really wonderful time.  Catching up with friends, meeting new ones and having a glimpse into life in Kurdistan.  You don’t see many women on the streets except in the markets and malls.  Being with Tali meant that we did ‘interact’ with local people (as we watched our children playing together). I find the middle east fascinating and really want to see more of it.

When: Late October 2012 for 4 days

Where: Erbil

View Iraqi Kurdistan in a larger map
Who: with Andrew & Tali, we stayed with our friend at the school she was working at (Bilkent College, Erbil)

How: We flew with Emirates all the way – Hong Kong – Dubai – Erbil (and reversed).  10 day visa on arrival (only for some nationalities).  Remarkably easy!

Weather: dry, warm days, cool evenings and nights

Food: a bit limited, but we ate well. Lots of bread!

Sites:  limited – it’s a huge construction site. Just being in the region was fascinating for me as I have not travelled much in the Middle East, so it’s all exciting.  Our day trip to see a monastery was wonderful.

Surprises:  Lots of huge, amazing playgrounds for kids – Tali had a blast

Tips: You really need a car & driver as there is no public transport and I can see getting around by taxi would be tricky if you didn’t speak Kurdish. Our friends drove and showed us around so we were lucky.  Carry your documents with you always in case you come up against checkpoints (especially when travelling outside the city)