Arrived In Damascus

Well, we’re back. Trip was fine, although 14 hours in a jam-packed airplane was not the most exciting part of the trip. We landed in Dubai on time and found our hotel right in the gate area. For a place in an airport, it was fancier than most places we’ve stayed. Had fish and chips at an Irish Pub, also in the airport. Flight to Damascus next morning was lovely—Jill says we are only allowed to fly Emirates Air from now on.

We are staying at the Hanania again, but they put us in a bigger room up four flights of stairs, but the room has more desks, more windows and its own terrace. As we walked to the hotel, several of the shopkeepers greeted us like we were old friends—a real sense of home away from home.

Spent Sunday at AAMAL. Jill met with her participants from March. Jill says they were even sitting in the same seats they had in March. She had a wonderful time with them and continues until Thursday. I found out my training was to begin Monday, then it was changed until next Sunday. We have learned to expect the unexpected.

It is great to be back in Damascus. Feels like we were here just a few weeks ago, everything is so familiar. Had dinner last night in our favorite restaurant, but this time the awning covering the courtyard was pulled back. Great to have that el fresco feel. The weather is wonderful—cool, dry and sunny. Only supposed to be 78 degrees today, down to 58 tonight.