Wish you were here – in Iraq!

When families sit down over the Festive season to plan next year’s holiday it’s pretty safe to assume that Iraq is unlikely to figure very highly – if at all!

For over two decades the country, which houses the cradle of civilisation, has been an international pariah. Since the invasion in 2003 our televisions and newspapers have been full of images unlikely to inspire many to visit: British soldiers on fire clambering from armoured vehicles while being pelted with stones, the bloody aftermath of suicide bombers and airstrikes on Bagdad.

But could this all change and quickly? Figures from Iraq’s Ministry of Tourism show international arrivals have gone from zero in 2005 to around 1.3m in 2009, reflecting a return to something approaching normality as the country rules itself combined with an absence of foreign troops on its streets.

A few minutes on the internet and you will see that things are starting to happen, you can book a tour of the country and even find out how previous visitors have rated Iraq’s hotels, B&Bs, tourist attractions and restaurants!

Initially its history and religious destinations are likely to be the biggest driver for tourism. Cities such as Najaf will once more become sacred destinations for pilgrims rather than a scene of bloody battles.

Of course the Kurdish north of the country largely escaped the ravages of war and runs its own affairs and has a far more pleasant climate for western visitors.

Direct flights from a number of countries such as Germany, Norway and Greece will no doubt pave the way for others.

Time is a great healer and as memories of harsh conflict fade and providing no more flare ups occur then Iraq just could become the tourist destination of the future.