"Arabic is a must" Top 5 Page for this destination Sanaa Favorite Tip by JohnniOmani

Favorite thing: If you plan on backpacking Yemen and without the services of a local travel company then you must speak Arabic. I feel lucky that I can get by in Arabic and my studying paid off because not many folks speak English in Yemen. Yemen is a destination that really challenges you if you are alone and some phrases in Arabic go a looong way in this country. Taxis, hotels and shops require the language but dont be discouraged to travel independantly. You can travel alone if you have a guide book but remember that you cant show most Yemenis the Arabic script because a lot of locals cant read or write. It is possible to find some folks that speak broken English but dont rely on it completely. You will have to rely on your language skills making the experience a challenge but a challenge you wont soon forget :)