In Damascus

Nice breakfast at the Sheraton. Spending one more night here. Off to the Museum first. I hate museums; same old boring artifacts – and our guide carries on and on. I enjoyed the panoramic view much better. Which we went to see while the Museum closed – then we came back for the “optional” lunch, Which only seems to be “optional” in that you pay for it. Then walked through the souk – which was quite crowded even though most shops were closed. We then walked the “straight” street. Not sure why it is called the “straight” street. Seems to be like our Main street or the UK’s High street. Mark found cheap beer – Syrians do not seem to observe Islamic practices very rigorously. Our guide showed us the Jewish street – apparently vacated in a hurry. Supposedly he government has told them to come back or they will lose the property; I’m guessing they wisely won’t accept the invitation. After an arch (was that the Gate of St Paul? – I find it so hard to listen to the guide), on to the Christian quarter. Got to see the church of Ananias – where St Paul was baptized. Of course it was just a house then. But it is amazing to be in the same streets as St Paul. And to hear the guide tell his story just like any other history lesson – no need for “political correctness” here. Lit a candle – guess my prayer will be answered later as I find Mark in the courtyard drinking one of the beers he bought. On to the church of St Paul Then to dinner in the Old City. We had a bizarre Turkish dancer – who came out every 15 minutes and danced in circles. Supposedly a smoking ban in public places was imposed five days ago. But people are smoking. Both cigarettes and those bong things. The bongs actually smell better. I hate smoke. Back to the hotel quite late and a very early start tomorrow. Mark had a Turkish coffee so he kept waking up and actibg bizarre. Or maybe he was just sleep walking. I cannot tell the difference.