Yemen

Yemen’s most iconic destination is the ancient city of Sana’a, whose old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with strikingly unique mud-brick tower houses adorned with white gypsum patterns. The surreal architecture and narrow alleyways reflect a civilization that dates back thousands of years. Another breathtaking location is Socotra Island, often referred to as the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean,” renowned for its alien-like Dragon’s Blood Trees, endemic flora and fauna, and pristine beaches. The city of Shibam, dubbed the “Manhattan of the Desert,” showcases some of the earliest examples of vertical urban planning, with hundreds of mud skyscrapers reaching for the sky amidst a desert backdrop. The historic port city of Al-Mukalla offers whitewashed buildings and a beautiful harbor view along the Gulf of Aden. The remote Haraz Mountains are also stunning, with terraced farming villages clinging to steep hillsides and offering panoramic views and remarkable hiking opportunities.

Yemeni cuisine is aromatic, hearty, and distinct. One of the most beloved dishes is Saltah, a bubbling meat and vegetable stew served in a hot stone bowl and topped with a spicy fenugreek-based froth known as hilbeh. Mandi is another staple: rice cooked with spiced lamb or chicken, prepared traditionally in a tandoor oven, infusing the meat with deep smoky flavor. Fahsa is similar to Saltah but chunkier and often made with shredded lamb. For breakfast, locals enjoy Ful medames (mashed fava beans) or flatbreads like Malooga and Tameez served with honey and ghee. Snacks include Bint Al Sahn, a buttery honey cake layered like a croissant, and Shafoot, a tangy yogurt-and-herb-soaked bread dish typically eaten cold. Black tea with cardamom and clove or Qishr, a lightly fermented coffee-husk drink with ginger, is often sipped throughout the day.

Travel within Yemen is severely limited due to the ongoing conflict. In times of peace, shared minibuses and taxis were the most common forms of transportation within cities, while intercity travel relied on private drivers or shared 4x4 vehicles. Roads, particularly in the mountainous regions, can be narrow and treacherous. For travelers able to reach Socotra, flights from the UAE or mainland Yemen are limited and subject to political changes. If visiting the island, renting a 4WD with a local guide is essential, as public transport is virtually non-existent. In the future, should stability return, travelers are advised to hire a local fixer or guide who can facilitate safer and more informed movement within the country.

In times of stability, Yemen is incredibly affordable. Local eateries serve hearty meals for a few dollars, and accommodations in less touristy cities often charge minimal rates. Budget travelers can save by eating at local markets, sharing rides with locals, and using local guesthouses. In Socotra, camping is common and an excellent way to reduce costs while immersing yourself in the island’s pristine nature. If conflict subsides and tourism resumes, local SIM cards for cheap data access, staying with families through cultural exchange programs, and shopping at open-air souks for food and souvenirs will further help travelers stretch their money.

Traveling to mainland Yemen remains extremely dangerous due to armed conflict, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping risks. Most governments strongly advise against all travel to Yemen. Socotra Island is an exception and has been relatively stable in recent years; however, access is limited and often requires arrangements through specialized agencies in the UAE or other safe third-party countries. If you choose to travel to Socotra, exercise caution, register with your embassy, avoid political discussions, and always remain with a trusted local guide. Comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation is essential. Always check the most current advisories from your government’s foreign affairs department before considering travel.

Yemen is a deeply conservative Islamic society, and cultural norms should be respected at all times. Men and women should dress modestly; women are advised to wear long dresses and cover their hair, while men should avoid shorts. Greetings are formal and involve placing the hand over the heart or a handshake between the same genders. Public displays of affection are inappropriate. It is customary to remove shoes before entering a home, and if invited for a meal, it is polite to eat with the right hand and accept tea or coffee when offered. Photography of people, particularly women, should only be done with explicit permission. Avoid discussing politics or religion unless prompted and always speak respectfully.

Vietnam is a rewarding destination for a wide range of travelers. Budget backpackers will find it incredibly affordable and full of social hostels and street food delights. Mid-range travelers can enjoy comfortable boutique hotels, immersive cultural experiences, and easy intercity connections without splurging. Luxury travelers will appreciate five-star service in historic properties and secluded beachfront resorts. It’s also a great fit for slow travelers who wish to explore regional differences at a relaxed pace. Families will enjoy Vietnam’s kid-friendly culture and outdoor adventures, while digital nomads can base themselves in cities like Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City with reliable Wi-Fi and coworking options. Whether you’re seeking history, adventure, cuisine, or coastline, Vietnam delivers it all with warmth, color, and unforgettable flavor.

For low-budget travelers, accommodations in mainland Yemen were historically available through guesthouses and hostels in cities like Sana’a and Al-Mukalla, often charging very modest nightly rates. These offered shared bathrooms and basic but welcoming hospitality. On Socotra Island, budget travelers often camp or stay in basic eco-lodges near Hadibo or Arher Beach. For mid-range travelers, options like the Summer Land Hotel in Al-Mukalla or Socotra Eco-Tourist establishments provide comfortable rooms with local charm, basic amenities, and a more personalized experience. For high-end travelers, options are currently extremely limited, but in Socotra, private eco-camps or lodges organized by international adventure travel agencies can offer more premium experiences with guided services, all-inclusive meals, and private transfers.

A frequent mistake is underestimating the security situation in Yemen and attempting to travel without proper planning or trusted local contacts. Always research the latest safety updates and consider using a travel agency with experience in the region. Another common error is taking photos of people or sensitive locations without permission, which can be offensive and even dangerous. Travelers also sometimes ignore local dress codes, particularly in conservative areas, leading to uncomfortable encounters. Additionally, failing to carry enough cash can lead to significant issues since electronic payments are rarely accepted. Lastly, attempting to chew qat without understanding its effects or cultural significance may come across as disrespectful or unsafe for foreigners.

Grab is a must-have ride-hailing app that works across the country and is more reliable than traditional taxis. Google Maps is helpful for walking directions but not always accurate for driving routes in rural areas. For language translation, Google Translate with offline Vietnamese downloaded is a useful companion. Currency conversion apps like XE Currency are essential for managing large denomination notes. Booking.com and Agoda work well for accommodations, while Klook and GetYourGuide offer vetted tours and experiences across Vietnam. Wi-Fi is widely available in cities, but travelers venturing to remote areas may want to get a local SIM card (Viettel or Vinaphone are good options) for coverage and data.

For travelers on a short trip, a 10-day itinerary might include landing in Hanoi, spending a night cruise in Ha Long Bay, continuing to Hoi An for three days of culture and beaches, and finishing with two days in Ho Chi Minh City. Those with two weeks can add a night or two in Hue and perhaps a detour to the Mekong Delta for river exploration. Adventure-focused travelers may prioritize time in Sapa for trekking, Phong Nha for caving, and Da Lat for canyoning. Foodies will want to explore street food markets in Hanoi, Hue’s royal cuisine, and Saigon’s café culture, perhaps even booking cooking classes in Hoi An.

Yemen is home to one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world—Sana’a, which dates back over 2,500 years and is known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Socotra Island, a part of Yemen, boasts over 700 endemic species of flora and fauna, making it one of the most biologically unique places on Earth. The famous “Dragon’s Blood Tree” of Socotra oozes a red sap historically used as dye and medicine. Yemenis have practiced the art of building vertical cities for centuries, and Shibam is often referred to as the world’s first skyscraper city. Qat (or khat), a mildly stimulating leaf, is widely chewed socially in Yemen and has significant cultural and economic importance.