After nearly two weeks in Aleppo it was time to wave goodbye this morning to our good friends at the Hotel al-Gawaher. We had so many wonderful evenings cooking, chatting, dancing and sipping wine that we really had started to feel truly at home. Time flies when you’re having fun and it was only the expiry date on our Iranian visa ticking ever closer that forced us to finally start making our way north. The countryside around Aleppo is quite beautiful and we truly had a perfect day for cycling as we rolled through tiny villages and past some amazing archaeological sites. It was Friday so the roads were almost deserted and the winter sun was shining surprisingly strong on our backs. Our poor maps were the only glitch we had to deal with. We had three different ones and none of them seemed to match what actually existed on the ground so we flagged down more than a few cars to ask the way.
At midday we arrived at a ruined palace and lunched beside picnicing families. One lovely English-speaking family befriended us and brought us nuts and chocolates while we chatted. After the usual small talk the mood turned sober as the call to prayer rang out over the hillside, its tone and message reflecting yesterday’s assassination of the Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto. The previous afternoon we’d heard a particularly long afternoon call to prayer which we were told was a response to Bhutto’s death and the mourning of so many people.
“We are very sad,” the family told us, saying how worried they were about how things would now develop in Pakistan. “We are sure Musharaf killed her,” they added, reflecting what seems to be a common belief among many people here and in Pakistan. We are upset too by the assassination and we know that it is now almost certain we will not be able to go to Pakistan in the spring as we’d hoped. Things are just too volatile at the moment.
With our minds somewhat elsewhere, we continued on past rocky fields and olive groves towards the famous Saint Simeon basilica. The complex was built in honour of a devout man who spent much of his life standing on pillars on this hilltop. After he died in 459 AD the basilica was built in his memory and pilgrims came from all over to see where he’d stood for so many years. Much of it is still preserved and it’s truly impressive.
The winter days are short so after we finished our tour of the basilica we hightailed it down the hill and around to one side where we found an olive grove to camp in. The mild day soon turned into a chilly night and our fluffy sleeping bags were very much appreciated!
26th April 2022 at 7:21 am #
I was just telling my friend about that.
8th May 2022 at 7:44 am #
I didn’t know that.
2nd December 2022 at 11:02 pm #
tractor supply ivermectin pour on ivermectin solution
3rd December 2022 at 8:08 pm #
Truly lots of superb advice! fda cbd hearing
6th December 2022 at 8:10 pm #
Do you like it here? fildena super active reviews Her fiancimon Atlee, a British fashion photographer, was missing, swept away by the crushing deluge that engulfed their beach bungalow.
14th December 2022 at 9:22 pm #
Really enjoyed this blog. Want more.
4th January 2023 at 1:30 am #
Thank you ever so for you blog post. Much obliged.
4th January 2023 at 8:40 pm #
bitcoin generieren dauerearn bitcoin 8da0_e2
12th January 2023 at 10:15 am #
ashton pines apartments 30m$ stolen from ICO investors irish hills apartments
29th March 2023 at 5:41 am #
They are very convincing and can definitely work. Nonetheless, the posts
1st April 2023 at 12:49 am #
Im thankful for the blog post.
4th April 2023 at 9:09 am #
Major thankies for the article. Really Great.
7th April 2023 at 4:14 am #
پس از انتخاب redeem code به طور اتوماتیک به سایت بلیزارد هدایت می شوید .2. از قسمت سمت راست سایت بر روی اسم خود کلیککنید و از منوی بازشده “Account Settings” رو انتخاب کنید.
7th April 2023 at 9:30 pm #
กิจกรรมต้อนรับสมาชิกใหม่ แจกเยอะแบบนี้ไม่ต้องรอ ไม่ต้องลุ้น รีบทักไลน์เข้ามาเวฟตรงไม่ผ่านเอเย่น เล่นง่ายจ่ายจริง
13th April 2023 at 3:31 am #
ivermectin amazon ivermectin while breastfeeding
20th April 2023 at 4:07 am #
ivermectin pills amazon ivermectin pills for humans for sale Dtvhlue
22nd April 2023 at 12:09 am #
is hydroxychloroquine over the counter chlorquin
22nd April 2023 at 2:22 am #
ivermectin purchase ivermectin for sale – ivermectin oral 0 8
28th April 2023 at 2:22 am #
azithromycin when does it work – over the counter z pack equivalent z pack online
30th April 2023 at 12:08 am #
ivermectin can ivermectin pills how much is ivermectin
2nd May 2023 at 1:12 pm #
Hey, you used to write wonderful, but the last several posts have been kinda boring¡K I miss your great writings. Past few posts are just a little bit out of track! come on!
2nd May 2023 at 5:52 pm #
Thanks again for the post. Really Great.
2nd May 2023 at 7:09 pm #
Hello! I enjoyed your blog post. Keep making stuff like this one. I’ll return to see more posts like these. It was very creative. Till next time!
4th May 2023 at 2:48 pm #
20 off DISCOUNT ON COUPLES THERAPY AND INDIVIDUAL THERAPY UNTIL APRIL 30TH 2023 SUPPORTING YOU WITH YOUR COUNSELLING AND LIFE COACHING NEEDS
4th May 2023 at 8:43 pm #
CPD,ICF,UKCP AND BACP accredited qualified staff members
6th May 2023 at 8:01 pm #
Singapore is really fascinating for its multilayered social tapestry! From Chinatown to Little India and also whatever in between, there’s so much to experience as well as uncover right here – its lively colors and rich background makes every corner an exciting journey – foodies should certainly visit! If that is something that talks to you too then Singapore ought to not be missed as your next traveling location! Hawker Centres in Singapore supply an outstanding variety of neighborhood recipes. Don’t miss out on trying Hainanese Chicken Rice or Chili Crab! Gardens by the Bay were breathtaking – I specifically admired Supertree Grove and also Cloud Woodland – they absolutely took my breath away! The light show at night was truly thrilling and also an absolute must-see! Singapore provided such an incredible mix of futuristic design and lavish greenery – from Marina Bay Sands to Henderson Waves this city is truly impressive to discover! Singapore’s public transportation is superior! From its effective metro train system as well as easy traveling with an EZ-Link card to Sentosa Island for leisure – which flaunts Universal Studios, S.E.A Aquariums, as well as much more attractions! – their public transportation has actually established new requirements. Fish tank, attractive coastlines, and other home entertainment for the whole household make Singapore an exceptional method to invest a day. Do not miss Singapore’s ArtScience Museum which integrates art, scientific research, and technology in an amazing combination! Experiences at The Gardens By the Bay were truly enchanting; with interactive displays and also exciting screens making for an unforgettable trip – certainly worth a browse through! I was really surprised at Singapore’s incredible purchasing scene! From deluxe shopping centers such as ION Orchard to Bugis Street’s vibrant markets there truly is something here for any type of shopaholic to experience! Ensure to leave some room in your travel suitcase! I located Singapore Zoo among the finest zoos I’ve checked out; it’s open-concept enclosures and immersive environments developed a real wild animals experience, not neglecting Night Safari for added enjoyment! Singapore’s multiculturalism is another drawcard; Chinese, Malay, Indian, as well as Western influences can be seen all over from style to food; producing a remarkable fusion!
14th May 2023 at 9:53 am #
Im obliged for the blog post. Awesome.
14th May 2023 at 10:13 am #
I really like your writing style, wonderful information, thanks for putting up : D.
15th May 2023 at 8:39 pm #
You said it nicely.. best college application essay ever custom paper dissertation proposal help
19th May 2023 at 12:27 pm #
I loved this article. Thanks for creating it. I’m a huge fan of your work.
28th May 2023 at 8:44 pm #
Thanks again for the article. Keep writing.
28th May 2023 at 11:01 pm #
Very interesting subject , thanks for putting up.
1st June 2023 at 10:47 am #
Actually when someone doesn’t know afterward itsup to other people that they will assist, so here itoccurs.
1st June 2023 at 7:54 pm #
I really like looking through an article that can make people think. Also, thank you for allowing me to comment.
2nd June 2023 at 3:02 pm #
plaquenil hydroxychloroquine doctors prescribing hydroxychloroquine near me
11th June 2023 at 4:13 am #
Teenage Mutants Elle Sombre Bonheur Hispanos In Space Marbella Ibiza Mallorca Misty Mountain Through The Bottom Of A Glass
11th June 2023 at 3:21 pm #
I am continuously invstigating online for tips that can assist me. Thank you!
15th June 2023 at 8:13 pm #
théme est correctement écrit. Et-il possible de reprendre du billet
21st June 2023 at 4:57 pm #
A few months review prosolution plus Saber and Baxter have been together for 10 years, but their time together is in jeopardy. Baxter recently had his tumor removed, but needs at least $2,000 in treatments or he might die within a few months.
23rd June 2023 at 12:35 pm #
baystone apartments rentberry scam ico 30m$ raised sola apartments
27th June 2023 at 8:05 pm #
Thanks so much for the blog.Much thanks again. Really Cool.
28th June 2023 at 3:07 am #
Bellissima questa foto e molto bella la ragazza nella foto Staci Northrup Peddada
4th July 2023 at 2:32 pm #
ivermectin 1 – ivermectin australia purchase ivermectin
5th July 2023 at 8:31 pm #
Exactly what I was searching for, appreciateit ketogenic diet for fat l putting up.
7th July 2023 at 1:52 pm #
Pirdmo – hugh gallagher college essay Qfqkes dgpslr
8th July 2023 at 3:25 pm #
amlodipine dosing how to taper off amlodipine
8th July 2023 at 11:06 pm #
Hello! peeling skin on hands treatment description here
15th July 2023 at 6:45 pm #
Thanks so much for the article. Fantastic.
19th July 2023 at 2:24 pm #
clonopine meaning how to make hydroxychloroquine at home
20th July 2023 at 10:08 am #
598164 748928I came across this great from you out of sheer luck and never think lucky enough to say also credit you for any job well done. 313406
31st July 2023 at 8:20 am #
Im obliged for the article. Fantastic.
20th August 2023 at 12:20 pm #
Great blog. Fantastic.
23rd August 2023 at 8:21 am #
Boost your luck today and take advantage to get big jackpot winnings Lucky Cola
27th August 2023 at 6:04 pm #
Really appreciate you sharing this post. Really Cool.
15th September 2023 at 11:09 am #
Thanks-a-mundo for the blog post. Cool.
30th September 2023 at 10:44 am #
Enjoyed every bit of your blog.Much thanks again. Want more.
1st October 2023 at 11:54 am #
Enjoyed every bit of your blog. Really Great.
27th October 2023 at 9:50 am #
Hey, thanks for the article. Will read on…
28th October 2023 at 11:54 pm #
Thanks again for the blog. Keep writing.
4th November 2023 at 1:15 am #
I value the blog post. Cool.
28th November 2023 at 7:36 pm #
I have to express my admiration for your kindness for persons who should have help with in this concept. Your special commitment to passing the solution around had become especially important and has continuously made folks just like me to get to their aims. The useful publication denotes a great deal to me and extremely more to my fellow workers. Thanks a ton; from each one of us.
29th November 2023 at 11:43 pm #
I appreciate you sharing this article. Great.
6th December 2023 at 10:41 am #
Thanks for the blog. Really Cool.
7th December 2023 at 10:53 am #
Thanks so much for the article. Keep writing.
25th December 2023 at 12:01 am #
Great blog.Much thanks again. Much obliged.
26th December 2023 at 2:42 pm #
I gave https://www.cornbreadhemp.com/products/cbd-balm a prove payment the first previously, and I’m amazed! They tasted great and provided a be under the impression that of calmness and relaxation. My importance melted away, and I slept well-advised too. These gummies are a game-changer since me, and I enthusiastically commend them to anyone seeking appropriate worry liberation and improved sleep.
3rd January 2024 at 8:23 pm #
Kelvin Kaemingk has over two decades of helping people make smarter decisions regarding their mortgage and money decisions. He began his career in financial planning and migrated into the mortgage space in 2002. He is passionate and committed to helping people throughout their lives, make the best financial decisions for themselves and their families. As a father of three, and now Papa K (grandpa) to one, a team builder and recruiter, Kelvin thrives on helping others realize their potential, often referenced as “Everyone’s biggest fan”. Kelvin Kaemingk is the Area Manager for loanDepot and Co-Host of the Real Estate Chalk Talk radio program based in the Minneapolis – St. Paul area. Kelvin Kaemingk, NMLS 251124 | Branch NMLS 1139048
3rd January 2024 at 8:26 pm #
Kelvin Kaemingk has over two decades of helping people make smarter decisions regarding their mortgage and money decisions. He began his career in financial planning and migrated into the mortgage space in 2002. He is passionate and committed to helping people throughout their lives, make the best financial decisions for themselves and their families. As a father of three, and now Papa K (grandpa) to one, a team builder and recruiter, Kelvin thrives on helping others realize their potential, often referenced as “Everyone’s biggest fan”. Kelvin Kaemingk is the Area Manager for loanDepot and Co-Host of the Real Estate Chalk Talk radio program based in the Minneapolis – St. Paul area. Kelvin Kaemingk, NMLS 251124 | Branch NMLS 1139048
23rd January 2024 at 2:29 am #
My wife and i have been now comfortable when Albert could do his basic research from your precious recommendations he gained while using the web pages. It’s not at all simplistic to simply possibly be giving for free points that some others have been trying to sell. We really acknowledge we now have the writer to give thanks to for this. The explanations you’ve made, the easy web site navigation, the friendships your site make it possible to instill – it’s got everything sensational, and it’s really letting our son in addition to our family reason why the subject is fun, which is certainly tremendously serious. Many thanks for all the pieces!
6th February 2024 at 12:41 am #
Great article. Keep writing.
16th February 2024 at 9:08 pm #
933021 171895I truly appreciated this gorgeous blog. Make positive you keep up the good work. Best Regards . 914340
6th March 2024 at 10:51 am #
Great blog.Much thanks again. Will read on…
7th March 2024 at 9:35 am #
Thanks-a-mundo for the blog post. Really Cool.
8th March 2024 at 11:16 am #
I really liked your post.
18th March 2024 at 9:27 am #
Explore vast, open worlds filled with hidden treasures and challenges. Lucky Cola