From Richard Beeston in Baghdad
TIRED of long waits at packed airline check-in counters? Looking for an exclusive holiday destination with guaranteed sunshine, unique historical sites and plenty of adventure? Iraqi Airways may have just the answer.
Beginning next month, Iraq’s troubled national carrier is planning to resume direct scheduled flights from Baghdad International Airport (formerly Saddam International Airport) to London for the first time in 15 years to lure visitors to one of the few countries in the world that has no tourists.
But getting from the airport into the city is probably the hairiest part of any trip. The drive down the airport motorway, considered the most dangerous stretch of road in Iraq, is littered with the debris of roadside bombs and destroyed vehicles. US diplomats usually fly into the city by helicopter.
Many Western arrivals into Baghdad, noticeable by their short hair, tattoos and paramilitary clothes, are highly paid security guards. On arrival they are often handed a flak-jacket, helmet and assault rifle and driven off at high speed by colleagues in an armoured convoy.
This is also an option for visitors, who can hire their own security detail, complete with bullet-proof vehicle, medic and armed guards, for the half-hour drive into Baghdad. AKE, a British security company, offers the most competitive rate at about £2,000 one way, roughly double the cost of the return air fare from London.
Alternatively there is the option of taking a humble Iraqi taxi for about £10, but with no guarantees of reaching your destination alive.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,7374-1757773,00.html
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