Maaloula to Bloudan

Maaloula to Bloudan

Maaloula is a town in Syria, located about 56 kilometers (35 miles) northeast of Damascus. It is known for its ancient Christian monastery, the Monastery of Saint Sergius and Bacchus, which is said to have been founded in the 4th century AD. Maaloula is also home to a small population of Aramaic-speaking Christians, who are one of the last remaining communities of Aramaic speakers in the world.

Bloudan is a town in Syria, located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) northwest of Damascus. It is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful mountain scenery and its many hiking trails. Bloudan is also home to a number of historical sites, including the ruins of a Roman temple and an ancient Greek amphitheater.

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Language

The official language of Syria is Arabic. However, a variety of other languages are spoken in the country, including Kurdish, Armenian, and Aramaic. In Maaloula, the majority of the population speaks Western Neo-Aramaic, an Aramaic dialect that has been spoken in the region for centuries. In Bloudan, the majority of the population speaks Arabic, but some people also speak Kurdish and Armenian.

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Currency

The official currency of Syria is the Syrian pound (SYP). However, due to the ongoing civil war in the country, the value of the Syrian pound has plummeted in recent years. As a result, many businesses in Syria now accept US dollars (USD) and other foreign currencies.

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Distance

The distance between Maaloula and Bloudan is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles). The journey by car takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

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How to Reach

The best way to get from Maaloula to Bloudan is by car. There are no direct public transportation routes between the two towns, so you will need to hire a taxi or take a shared taxi (service). Taxis are readily available in both Maaloula and Bloudan, and the fare is typically around 2,000 SYP (US$5) per person.

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Expenses

The cost of your trip from Maaloula to Bloudan will vary depending on your mode of transportation and your choice of accommodation. However, you can expect to spend around 3,000 SYP (US$7) per day on average.

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Best time to go

The best time to visit Maaloula and Bloudan is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, it is important to note that the weather in Syria can be unpredictable, so it is always a good idea to pack for all types of weather.

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What to Eat

Maaloula and Bloudan are home to a variety of restaurants and cafes that serve a variety of local and international cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes in the region include:

• Kebabs
• Shawarma
• Falafel
• Hummus
• Tabbouleh

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Where to Go

In addition to the Monastery of Saint Sergius and Bacchus, there are a number of other interesting places to visit in Maaloula and Bloudan, including:

• The Bloudan Amphitheater
• The Temple of Jupiter
• The Church of Saint Elijah
• The Maaloula Museum

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FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling from Maaloula to Bloudan:

1. Is it safe to travel from Maaloula to Bloudan?
   The security situation in Syria is constantly changing, so it is important to check the latest travel advisories before planning your trip. However, in general, the road between Maaloula and Bloudan is considered to be safe.
2. How long does it take to get from Maaloula to Bloudan?
   The journey by car takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
3. How much does it cost to get from Maaloula to Bloudan?
   The cost of a taxi from Maaloula to Bloudan is typically around 2,000 SYP (US$5) per person.
4. Where can I find more information about Maaloula and Bloudan?
   There are a number of websites that provide information about Maaloula and Bloudan, including the following:
• Lonely Planet
• TripAdvisor
• World Travel Guide