Accommodations range from deluxe to substandard. There are a number of five-star hotels in Damascus and Aleppo, as well as chains of deluxe hotels throughout the country. Budget hotels are very reasonable—clean, modest, well-run hotels catering to independent foreign travelers are available in Damascus, Aleppo, Hama and Palmyra. Some hotels state their rates in U.S. dollars, but it's also possible for you to pay the equivalent in local currency. A surcharge is often added when you pay a hotel bill with a credit card. Youth hostels can be found in major cities but require an International Youth Hostel card, and space must be reserved months in advance. There are limited camping facilities throughout Syria, recommended only for experienced campers. In general, we suggest staying in as nice a property as possible to minimize hassles.
