Introduction
At the crossroads of two continents, Yemen stands as the very incarnation of traditional Arabia. Fascinating but unstable, Yemen travel is only for the truly adventurous; violent clashes in 2011 further highlighted this.
Those that do take a tour of this most traditional Islamic country will discover a fascinating destination. The capital San'a is an ancient and intoxicating citadel sat on an old trade route; it has the largest preserved medina in the Arab world, distinctive Yemeni tower houses, Ottoman bathhouses and competing minarets and mosques. Elsewhere, explore the colonial port of Aden, which is sheltered by huge lava mountains watch craftsmen shape wooden boats in the Red Sea village of Al-Khawkha or scramble up to Shihara, one of Yemen's most famous fortified mountain villages.
Outside of the cities, hike and explore the Haraz Mountains, discover the monuments and ruins of Marib and Baraquish, which formed the cradle of Yemeni civilization or climb to the top of Dar Al-Hajar in the green Wadi Dhar valley, on top of which sits the famous Rock Palace.
For a truly unique experience, head to the surreal island of Socotra, off the eastern coast of the country; dubbed the Arabian Galápagos, the secret to eternal life is reputedly hidden here amidst a wealth of unique flora, endemic reptiles and strange landscapes.
