Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SOUTHERN YEMEN
Yemen's south is the richest and most developed region of the country. It's also the greenest
and most fertile and has long been considered the breadbasket of Arabia. There is a huge
amount of historical, cultural and geographic variety in this area. In the far south is the run-
down, sweltering port of Aden, the former British colony and old capital of the south. Fur-
ther north, and in complete contrast, are the lush and cool highland towns of Ibb, Jibla and
Ta'izz, where rain falls year-round. Until recently this was the safest and easiest part of the
country in which to travel, particularly for those reliant on public transport. During re-
search for this topic, this whole region remained off limits to travellers following the unrest
of 2011, but as we went to press word started coming through that although Aden, a town
with deep problems, remains closed to tourists, Ta'izz, Ibb and Jibla were reportedly about
to re-open.
We have been unable to conduct on-the-ground research in Southern Yemen since late
2009/early 2010 and information contained here is a combination of that period, and re-
mote updates conducted by phone and internet.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Ibb
03 / POP 213,000
Situated 194km south of Sana'a, Ibb boasts a strategic position on a high hill in the western
foothills of the Ba'adan Mountains. Settled since early Islamic times, the town grew into an
important administrative centre during the time of the Ottomans. Today it's largely, and un-
justifiably, ignored by most travellers. This is a shame because its chaotic market area and
pretty old town are a pure delight to explore, and when combined with nearby Jibla, Ibb
makes for a perfect overnight pause on the journey between Sana'a and Ta'izz.
Ibb and its governate enjoy one of the highest rainfall levels in Yemen, which has given
rise to the nickname 'the green province'.
Sights & Activities
The large and boisterous central
market
area in Ibb is a noisy clash of colours, sounds and
smells that feels more Indian than Yemeni. It's one of the most enjoyable markets in the
country. Immediately behind the market is the whitewashed old quarter, which, aside from
