Zabid resonates in the minds of some given its history as not just the former capital of Yemen (from the 13th to the 15th century), but also a center of learning (particularly the famous university in Zabid) and culture with more than 230 schools and mosques at its peak around the 14th century. In addition, … Continue reading
Taiz is at something of a crossroads in Yemen. It is close enough to the south to be touched by the separatist sentiments found there. It is close enough to the north to be caught up in the intrigues in the capital. It is close enough to the wilderness of Yemen to have Al Qaeda … Continue reading
This is the first view one gets of Jibla when approaching the city: Entering Jibla: The city sprawls over a hill and so to move around the city, one is almost always moving up or down a slope: Since the entrance to the city is at the bottom, one starts out by working their way … Continue reading
A first view of the city of Ibb from a distance… Ibb is at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet and the surrounding mountains ensure ample rainfall for the region, making this one of the greenest areas in Yemen: Interestingly (and coincidentally), the route we followed on the first days of our visit to Yemen … Continue reading
The process of raising bees and selling honey in Yemen is a little different (but most things are a little different in Yemen). Unlike everywhere else I am familiar with, where the bees are taken to the flowers, in Yemen, the flowers are taken to the bees. And the bees will be located next to … Continue reading
The Velvet Rocket 