Hotels in Syria

Syria is widely believed as the teacher of old civilization. Great philosophers in ancient times lived and taught in Syria. This makes Syria a top tourist destination in the Middle East. Two of the finest hotels in Syria are Beit Al Mamlouka and Le Meridien Damascus.

Beit Al Mamlouka is located in Bab Touma, fronting Hammam Bakri. It is 35 minutes by car from Damascus International Airport. The hotel features 8 bedrooms, private patios, terraces, and a courtyard. It is the only hotel in Syria that has a stable converted into a gallery. Outside you can see a line of citrus trees and a fountain. The hotel is within the Christian quarter of Old Damascus.

Beit Al Mamlouka rewards the curious with ancient Arabic poetry painted on its walls. The hotel's suites vary in size. The largest and most sought after is the Suleiman Suite. All rooms in the hotel have a built-in entertainment system, including Internet connection.

On the other hand, Le Meridien Damascus offers a bird's eye view of the city. The hotel is minutes from the old shopping district. It is modern in many respects: It features a business center, tennis courts, and Olympics size swimming pool.

Aside from the usual 5-star fare, Le Meridien's rooms have a mini-bar and a balcony that looks out at the city. Some rooms are overlooking Damascus' International Fair. Others are overlooking the Kassioun Mountain. The hotel's winning feature, though, is its Presidential Suite. It has two TV sets, a large salon, kitchen, two bathrooms, sauna, and a Jacuzzi.

Damascus is famous for the Omayad House, a religious center with stunning designs. Rituals in the mosque date as far back as 3000 years ago. Its walls are covered with mosaic and precious stones.