Recent events have not been kind to this nation with such a rich history. Dangerous though it still might be for travellers, if it does get back on track it could well rival places like Egypt as a must see place in the Middle East. Iraq traces its history back to the golden age of ancient Mesopotamia when land was first cultivated, writing invented and life here was the centre of the world.
Flights into Baghdad are possible on Royal Jordanian Airlines and Iraqi Airways from Amman in Jordan. Iraqi Airways will start domestic flights when possible. For getting around in Iraq travellers should stay abreast of current trouble spots. Travel between Baghdad and Damascus (Syria) or Amman (Jordan) should be possible by buses and shared taxis. Overland routes into Turkey and northern Iraq are generally okay.
Visiting Iraq in summer (May-September) is like entering a sauna while winters are mild except in the northern mountainous regions where it gets very cold. Iraq is mostly desert except for the regions bordering the Euphrates and Tigris rivers. The north is mostly mountainous and there is a small 58km coastline along the Persian Gulf.
Baghdad
The capital city of Iraq is the second largest in the Arab world after Cairo with 7.4 million people. It is located on the River Tigris and dates from the eighth century. Tourist sights are numerous although the potential for bombing damage has been and remains high. However things to look out for include the National Museum housing many ancient manuscripts and historical relics, the panoramic views from Baghdad Tower, the two level bridge in Jadriyah and the hugely popular football games and horseracing. For getting around in Baghdad the more armour involved the better but there are a few buses and share taxis.
