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When commentators were vociferously claiming that Iraq had gone to hell in a handcart following the invasion of ten years ago, I took my wife and son to Iraq for a holiday. I know that most people would think it … Continue reading →

The citadel at Erbil, Iraq. The city has been chosen to be the Arab Capital of Tourism for 2014. ERBIL, Iraq — Erbil is preparing to greet visitors as the Arab Capital of Tourism in 2014, a singular honor for a non-Arab … Continue reading →

Back in early February, I was sitting at home in England looking at the dank grey sky, when the phone rang. It was the office. “Oliver, we would like you to go to Kurdistan next week, start doing some research.” … Continue reading →

                Kurds of all ages have been quick to take up skiing in the pristine mountains of Iraqi Kurdistan. When 37-year-old Igor Urizar first happened upon the isolated mountain village of Penjwin, 300km … Continue reading →

In the troubled security and political landscape of Iraq, the autonomous northern province of Kurdistan has emerged in the past 10 years as an inspiring success story. The region’s progress is on full display in its capital city of Irbil, … Continue reading →

Kurdish women in traditional dress and men dance during Nowruz celebrations in the southern Turkish city of Mersin, March 21, 2003. Every year on March 21, the Kurds and other peoples across the Middle East celebrate the festival of Nowruz. It … Continue reading →

By Martin Fletcher – The Times In numerous trips to Iraq over the past decade the one commodity I had never encountered was fun. Terror, grief and despair yes — but not fun; at least, not until I visited Sulaimaniyah … Continue reading →

It’s also a hub of business. Volatile situation in Baghdad and everyday prowl of soldiers left him with no better choice than leaving his home and settling down with his two sons and wife in Erbil. Laith Selman, people call … Continue reading →

We need to do more to make this city tourist friendly. Erbil is undergoing major renovations to retain its heritage, enabling tourists to understand the history of this ancient city. A country is best known for its history, and through … Continue reading →

Tourists visit the Citadel of Erbil. Around four million people from across the world are expected to visit Kurdistan. The Kurdistan Region’s Tourism General Board has allocated 68 billion IQD to implement 77 tourism projects across the region. The board … Continue reading →