Update from land of Terrrrrrrrrorrism.

[heliochrome85]

Life here in the capitol of a somewhat socialist country is pretty good. school is free, cost of living is relatively low.(tomatoes are 10 cents a KILO, vs. 3.99 a pound) truth be told, i could live here if it werent for my missing lola immensely. the other day, naturally, was the 4th. while there is no reason why anyone here should celebrate it, the american embassy is down the street, and the official residence for the ambassador is next door to my house. they had a huge party for the 4th for the embassy's employees. it was kinda strange since Syria hasnt had a US ambassador for a few years. in any case, it reminded me of home. tomorrow, im heading into the old city in the morning for a photo shoot. its largely sunni, but there is a sizable shiite population. strangely enough, in those areas, you can tell its shiite because there seems to be a prevalent banner depicting Hassan Nasrallah, (head of Hezbollah), Bashar al assad( syrian president) and Ahmedinijad and its praising them. I hadnt seen that on my last trip. I hope its not a sign of the future here. It is a sign of growing iranian influence in this country. I hope all you guys are in good health and had a great 4th. 10 more days, ill be back.

OH

and i went last night to the Syrian Motorshow. I saw cars that would make you cry(chinese copies) and moan(gtr). Pics are on my phone, but suffice it to say, i took a couple brochures for my favorite car( SSangYong) and if you want a brochure for the ugliest cars ever made, i can try to send you one when i get back.

feast your eyes...http://www.smotor.com/en/showroom/main.html

[rn79870]

We're missing you Helio. Hurry back and bring the pictures with you. Have a great vacation and a safe flight back.

[Cold_Zero]

strangely enough, in those areas, you can tell its shiite because there seems to be a prevalent banner depicting Hassan Nasrallah, (head of Hezbollah), Bashar al assad( syrian president) and Ahmedinijad and its praising them. I hadnt seen that on my last trip. I hope its not a sign of the future here. It is a sign of growing iranian influence in this country.

No offense, helio. I hope they keep that **** in Syria and out of Lebanon.

When you get back in town, maybe you can show us some good Middle Eastern cuisine. I am in the mood for some shawarma.bud