First Impressions of Iraq 🇮🇶 | 3 Days That Shattered Stereotypes

In just 72 hours, this trip rewrote everything I thought I knew about this "war-torn" country. Locals greeted me with unexpected warmth—their faces lighting up at the sight of a Chinese visitor, often asking for selfies with enthusiastic "Welcome to Iraq!" 📸 Exploring Erbil 🏰 Erbil Citadel: A 6,000-year-old UNESCO treasure where time stands still. Wander its honey-hued alleys, and you’ll see why it’s called the "oldest continuously inhabited place on Earth." (Golden hour tip: Climb the western ramparts for epic sunset views over the bazaar!) 🛍️ Qaysari Bazaar: A sensory overload—spice mounds in neon yellows and reds, silver Kurdish khanjar daggers, and the "Gold Souk" (where Iraqi brides shop for chunky, intricate jewelry). ☕ Hidden Gem: Try Iranian-style black tea at a tucked-away café—its smoky bitterness pairs perfectly with baklava so sweet it’ll make your teeth sing. Food Adventures (and Misadventures) 🐟 Grilled Masgouf: Iraq’s "national dish" sounded poetic—Tigris River fish roasted over fire, seasoned only with salt, saffron, and pomegranate molasses. My Sichuan tastebuds? Desperately missing chili flakes 🌶️. (Pro tip: Pack Lao Gan Ma next time!) 🍢 Kurdish Kebabs: Redeemed the meal—juicy, cumin-rubbed lamb skewers with charred tomatoes. Why Erbil Surprised Me Safety: Felt more relaxed than many European cities—women in jeans chatting at cafés past midnight. Affordability: A king’s feast for $10, taxis for $2. Contradictions: Land Rover showrooms next to donkey carts; 5G networks atop Bronze Age ruins. #IraqTravel #ErbilCitadel #Kurdistan #MiddleEastDiaries #OffTheBeatenPath