“I was bowled over. Syria is one of the best places I’ve been and not what I expected at all. People were so open and friendly. The infrastructure was modern. The itinerary was fantastic. The food was ace. There was no hard sell in the souks.

“People think Syria is dangerous, yet it is really safe. I am definitely going to go back!

“I think it would suit couples or travelers in their late 30s to 50s who have been touring and have a disposable income.”

Paul Neave, Gold Travel Counsellor, Edinburgh