Yemen:

Old Arabic legend and the Yemenis say that Al-Yaman is derived from the word Al-Yumn (blessing and prosperity). This meaning agrees with the name "Arabia Felix". Others say the name Al-Yaman derives from yumna meaning “to the right of the Ka’aba”, the Muslim’s holiest shrine in Mecca. The Arabs orient themselves towards the right direction because the right side is considered a symbol of fortune.

Yemen is like nothing you've ever seen before -the land of the Queen of Sheba- with a history dating back to over 3000 yrs. Many of its towns and villages predate the arrival of Islam to the country in the eighth century. Yemen was very wealthy because of its trade in frankincense, myrrh, spices and silver.

Sana`a:

In the heart of old town Sana’a one can easily believe that time has stood still for centuries – it’s one of the oldest towns in the world. Legends say that Sam, the son of God’s messenger Noah, founded the city. Renowned as a refuge of peace, it was a place where fighting was not permitted.

Multi-storied houses built from clay tiles with alabaster windows and white-
chalk facades still adorn the old town. At the shops in the narrow winding streets of the souk, one can purchase everything: jewellery of amazing beauty, uniquely shimmering cloths, frankincense and a multitude of aromatic spices.

Yemen Facts & Travel:

Travel tips
Yemen is a very safe travel destination, despite the unfavorable publicity in the media. All tourist locations can be visited without restrictions.

Language
Arabic is the official language; however English is widely understood and spoken in the larger cities.

Climate
Yemen is endowed with a varied topography so the climate varies accordingly. For the most part, one can say there are two long seasons: summer and winter.

In the mountain areas of Sana'a, Ibb and Taiz, the weather is moderate during summer with June temperatures in Sana’a averaging in the mid-90 F=35 C during the day and the low 80s F= 28 C in the evening.

During the summer, temperatures and humidity are high in the coastal areas of Aden, Mukalla and Hodiedah. Rain may occur occasionally due to the monsoon, which moderates the temperature in the coastal areas during summer.

Seasonal rains usually fall during June/July, so it is recommended that you bring your coat and umbrella.

Electricity
The voltage in Yemen is 220 V. Five star hotels provide both options, 110 or 220 V. Adapters may be needed to operate electronic equipment.

People and Dress Code:

The people in Sana'a are friendly and helpful.  Seeing men in their traditional dresses, and Jambia "a curved dagger" should not keep you from approaching them and talking to them.  Most women dress in the black "Abaya"

with some still wearing the traditional colorful robes and veils.  For visitors conservative and casual clothes are suitable. Ladies should dress modestly and avoid tight clothing, short-sleeve shirts, and short skirts.

Other Interesting Information on Yemen

Government: Parliamentary Republic.
National name: The Republic of Yemen
National Day: 22nd of May
President: Ali Abdullah Saleh (1990)
Prime Minister: Abdul Qader Bajamal (2001)
Area: 550.000 km²
Population: 20,727,063 (2005 estimate/growth rate=3.5%)
Capital: Sana'a: 1,778,900 and largest city (2003 est.)
Other large cities: Aden: 568,700
Hodiedah: 426,100
Taiz: 317,600
Monetary unit:Rial (YER)
$1USD=approximately 198 YER
Ethnicity:Predominantly Arab; but also Afro-Arab, South Asians, Europeans
Literacy rate:50% (2003 est.)

For more information about Yemen please visit the website:

http://www.yemen-nic.net/English%20site/index.htm