Kurdistan is emerging as one of the must-see places as it is gaining worldwide travel bloggers’ attention owing to its exquisite natural beauty, cultural richness, and a great sense of history. So what is it that brings people to this exceptional place?
Kurdistan is famous for its unexplored gems and more recently has been gaining worldwide attention thanks to travel enthusiasts who saw the unique beauty of Kurdistan, such as Diana Lesko, who runs the blog “The Travel Detective.” In her post, ’21 Best & Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kurdistan, Iraq (2024)’, Diana shares her experiences, highlighting the region’s rich history and diverse culture. She emphasizes that “There are a plethora of mind-blowing places to visit: from historical sites to scenic mountainous regions.” In her guide, ‘Soran & the Rawanduz Canyon – Iraqi Kurdistan Travel Destinations’ Diana showcases breathtaking landscapes, from serene towns to dramatic canyons, a glimpse into Kurdistan’s remarkable beauty offerings.
Hear from the female solo-traveller and adventurer, Eva zu Beck, as she shatters preconceived notions about the region. As she says, “Iraqi Kurdistan is probably not going to be what you expected it to be.” As Eva explores the enchanting city of Erbil, this historically rich region, often overlooked, offers a unique blend of ancient culture and modern hospitality. Eva encourages travellers to explore Kurdistan, highlighting its safety, beauty, and the extraordinary experiences it offers. As she says “This is such an incredible region, people are really, really friendly. And I highly recommend that you visit.”
The Kurdish people are renowned for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. Blogger Jack, the owner of “Moving Jack”, with an extensive travel experience, explores the many attractions in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan region, in his guide, ‘Best 21 Things To Do In Erbil (Travel Guide) · Iraqi Kurdistan’, he shares his experience in Erbil while promoting the joy of engaging with locals, and learning about their traditions to create lasting memories, saying: “The Kurdish people are among the most friendly, open, and welcoming people I’ve ever met”.
Join the festivities of Newroz, a joyous celebration marking the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new Kurdish Year. Witness the vibrant bonfires, traditional music, and cultural performances that make this event a truly unforgettable experience. Jack also takes you outside Erbil and all the way to Akre in his Newroz guide ‘ Newroz: The Most Epic Kurdish Event in Iraq (Travel Guide)’ advising to experience the festive celebrations of the Kurdish New Year. He said in his article “Expect busy alleys and streets, but! with a fantastic friendly vibe.”
Björn Pálsson, the author of “Crazy Puffin Adventures” from Iceland is another one that stands out. The author challenges the opinions of many. In his blog ‘Reasons Why You Should Visit Iraqi Kurdistan’, Björn assures readers of the region’s safety and highlights the incredible hospitality of its people, urging visitors to uncover the truth about Kurdistan’s inviting essence.
Nowadays Iraqi Kurdistan is not what many people expect it to be. It’s quite far away from the dominant narrative of war and religious fanaticism that is fed by the media.