Journey to Erbil, Iraq: Where Ancient History Meets Kurdish Hospitalit

🌄 Scenic Road Trip from Sulaymaniyah to Erbil The breathtaking landscapes along the way reminded me of Xinjiang's vast grasslands! Passport checks became routine (3 times today!) – as the only obvious foreigner, I attracted curious glances (and even some awkward caught-in-the-act stares!). At lunch, a friendly Kurdish guy asked for a selfie and added me on social media – typical Kurdish warmth! 🏙️ Exploring Vibrant Erbil Arrived in Erbil (Kurdistan's capital) and headed straight to the Grand Square: A massive fountain ⛲ surrounded by lively cafés and restaurants The adjacent Qaysari Bazaar buzzed with energy – spices, textiles, and the hum of bargaining 🏰 The Crown Jewel: Erbil Citadel (UNESCO World Heritage Site) 6000 years of history – one of Earth's oldest continuously inhabited places! First mentioned in Ur III Dynasty records, pivotal during the Assyrian Empire Built by Babylonians & Assyrians, later shaped by Persians, Greeks, and Sassanids 🎭 A Special Backstage Tour Despite official closure for renovations, a kind Kurdish soldier (shoutout to "Uncle Wang" for negotiating!) let our group in for free – his way of saying, "You came all this way, how could I turn you away?" 🇮🇶💛 #Erbil #IraqTravel #Kurdistan #AncientWonders