Libyan traveler Nouri Fonas praised Erbil’s modernization during his visit. Expressing surprise at the progress since 20 years ago, he felt welcomed by the local community. His journey included notable historical sites across Iraq, culminating in admiration for the mountains of Zakho. Previously trekking renowned landscapes worldwide, Fonas found Zakho’s mountains uniquely captivating.
Nouri Fonas, a Libyan globetrotter, has commended the significant transformation in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, highlighting its remarkable development, infrastructure, and organization during his recent visit. He expressed astonishment at the progress made, stating he would not have recognized the city had he visited two decades ago.
This visit marked Fonas’ inaugural trip to Iraq, where he felt an immediate sense of belonging among the local population, whom he characterized as warm and hospitable. His travels encompassed various historical sites, including Baghdad’s Al-Mustansiriya School and the ancient ruins of Babil, along with significant sacred cities such as Najaf and Karbala, before arriving in the Kurdistan Region to discover the Erbil Citadel.
An experienced traveler, Fonas has journeyed through various renowned landscapes, yet he expressed particular admiration for the mountains of Zakho in the Kurdistan Region, stating, “I have seen many of the world’s great mountain ranges, but nothing compares to the beauty of Zakho’s mountains.” His entry into Iraq occurred via the Ibrahim Khalil border crossing after an extensive route through the Caucasus, Cyprus, Greece, and Turkiye.
Nouri Fonas’s exploration of Erbil showcases the city’s remarkable growth and modernization over the past two decades, highlighting the warmth and hospitality of Iraqi society. His impressions of the beautiful landscapes, specifically the mountains of Zakho, further emphasize the region’s appeal to visitors. This journey not only illustrates the transformation of Erbil but also signifies the welcoming spirit of its inhabitants.
Original Source: shafaq.com
