Does anyone have any experiences of Syria (specifically Damascus), good places to go, cafe's etc? Looks like i am going to be posted their reporting for Ihlas Haber Ajansı for maybe 6 months (good chance to learn more than a few phrases of Arabic, probably along with countless police interrogations knowing my luck).

Rather you than me!

Who did you upset to get this plum assignment?

It wasnt exactly my first choice but at my age (24) you may aswell get the work and experience you can. I was pushing for Afghanistan, last posting was just under 3 months from October in Gaza, a little more lively than Syria, but you always live in hope of violence and revolution . Basically if you say no to go to one place then they then dont offer better places. Not much point going to Iraq as work wouldnt let me leave the hotel and i prefer to be out reporting. Turkish girlfriend isnt too over the moon about it but might see if i can drag her off there. Anything is better than sitting in an office.

I agree... sitting in office is boring. I dont know much about Syria but I can help u with Sudan!

You will enjoy your stay there, I loved it. But be sure to bribe everybody for anything (including police officers), ouch I meant Tips or Gifts (Cigarette, candy, Cash, anything)

Enjoy