Welcome to Yemen

People:
The local Yemenis are friendly people and are proud of their customs and traditions, history etc. and they are very eager to show them to you.

Photographing:

  • Don’t photograph women.

  • It’s a good manner to ask for permission when photographing a man.

  • General long shot for a general view of a market or a crowed can be taken.

  • Don’t take a picture of military building etc. 

Tipping:

Tipping drivers and guides is customary in Yemen, at the same time it’s up to the traveler. It is only to show the appreciation. If you are traveling with a tour operator you don’t have to tip waiters in restaurants but, only if you wish.

Clothing:

Loose and light trousers and shirts are the best option for both men and women, baggy trousers are ideal jeans, a sunhat or may be you can buy a local head cloth in the Suq, training shoes, a strong walking shoes, and your swimming wear too. (note: Nudity is not permitted, beaches & hotel pools are the only place for revealing swim wear).

Shopping:

Shops accept cash. Credit cards and traveler cheques are not accepted.

Souvenirs:

  1. Antiques, jewelry, old looking silver with pieces of amber, agat and other precious stones necklaces, earrings, noserings, bangles, chains, amulets, Jambiyas (curved daggers), guns, waterpipes, music cassettes.

    Everyday Items:

  2. Baskets, clay pots, beautiful and colorful fabrics, traditional Yemeni cloths.

  3. A variety of spices, the best Yemeni coffee (Bunn, Qishr) vacuum packed Mocha coffee ‘Yemen Cafe’ brand.

  4. Frankincense (another sensory indulgence).

  5. postcards & posters.

Health:

    This depends on your predeparture preparations. It is a wise idea to plan for a travel insurance policy to cover medical, loss & theft. In Yemen you wont experience more that upset stomach.

When to come to Yemen:

  1. Travel around the country at any time of the year is possible, but some seasons are more pleasant than others. The best time is from September to April.

  2. Sep. & Oct.; green fields from the summer rain, few visitors, best time to visit - (high).

  3. Nov. to Jan.; warm at day time cold nights, dry weather, also best time to visit - (peak).
    Feb. to Apr.; a popular time to visit owing to the Easter time - (high).