Airport Damascus Airport is 32kms southeast of the city and served by a fast, straight highway that will get you into Damascus in half an hour on most days. Immigration procedures are reasonably easy, with two dedicated desks for foreigners. You may be asked for your address in Damascus and what the purpose of your visit is. Don’t be afraid to change some money at the airport desk as, despite its shoddy appearance, the rate is the same as you’ll get in town. Hang on to the entry card you fill out as you’ll need to hand it in when leaving Syria. Otherwise you’ll have to buy a new one amid frowning brows. Should you be bringing a computer to Damascus, have it in a bag on your shoulder—customs are less likely to search it then and make a fuss about permits.

Taxis The wisest approach to getting in to Damascus is by taxi and your best bet is to pay £5 up front at one of the desks of private hire firms you’ll find immediately in front of you as you exit customs. Outside it’ll be the same price but more chaos. Cars If you want to rent a car, Hertz, Avis, Budget and Europcar all have desks in the arrivals hall.

Bus If you have too much time or too little money on your hands, climb aboard one of either the airport bus, which leaves every half hour, or a microbus, which leaves when its driver feel likes it. Cheap and cheerful and a good way to get up close and personal with the locals from the word go.