Tartus, Syria 🇸🇾
#684
34.893622, 35.885167
Nomad Score:
38%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Tartus is a coastal city in Syria known for its historical significance and Mediterranean climate. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 200,000 |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average speed is approximately 10-15 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD ≈ 2,519 SYP. Local ATMs may accept international cards, but check beforehand. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable. Bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | 220V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type C/D sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | MTN Syria and Syriatel are the main providers offering good coverage. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Limited international banks. Use local banks cautiously; some may accept prepaid cards. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options available on Airbnb and local guesthouses. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Limited. Cash is preferred; few places accept cards. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local short-term rental websites available. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Horizon Hotel offers budget-friendly lodging at around $30 per night. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Co-Working Spaces are limited. Consider cafes for reliable Wi-Fi, such as Café Al Kseir. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Café Al Kseir is popular with locals and has decent Wi-Fi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Networking events are rare; often find opportunities through expatriate groups on social media. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Check Facebook groups for expat meetups, though events may be infrequent. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis are available; negotiate prices upfront as ride-sharing apps are scarce. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | No established bike or scooter rental services currently. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Tartus Beach is accessible within the city. Good for a quick getaway. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Syrian Air operates some regional flights. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | International flights mainly through Damascus International Airport. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Direct access to the coastal highway connecting to other cities. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Tartus Bus Station offers connections to major cities. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | No public transport passes; services are mainly bus-based and paid in cash. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses and shared taxis are common for intercity travel. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Al-Hamish Hospital offers general health services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Limited availability; check local community boards for classes. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Local fitness centers are available, such as Mecca Gym. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundry services are available in local establishments. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | No specific food delivery app; local restaurants may offer delivery services. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Moutabbal' – a traditional eggplant dip. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegan options are limited; local taverns offer vegetarian dishes. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Bakery Al-Bashir is known for its traditional sweets. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets like Souk Al-Hamidia offer budget-friendly fresh produce. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Access to regional online retailers; Western websites may have limited shipping options. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Local grocery stores offer delivery, but options vary. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Nightlife is quiet in Tartus; few bars like The Tower Café exist. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Local beers are available, with some traditional brewing at local establishments. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Limited options, but local restaurants may offer traditional wines. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Popular stalls sell Shawarma and Falafel throughout the city. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Pasta and fast food chains are found in some areas. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The Tartus Castle is a historic site worth visiting. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Tartus Museum houses local artifacts. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | The ancient ruins of Amrit are nearby. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Cathedral of St. George is a notable church in the city. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Local festivals occur, but details may vary; check local postings. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Explore the old town area for a mix of culture and architecture. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Limited theater options; local cultural festivals may feature performances. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Souk Al-Hamidia offers a vibrant shopping experience. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local cafes host occasional live music performances. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Local artists may display work in public spaces. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Check local cooking schools for Syrian cuisine classes. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Limited galleries; check local community events for exhibitions. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | The Old Port showcases traditional Mediterranean architecture. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Tartus has a rich maritime heritage depicted in various sites around the city. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Nature reserves near the coast offer hiking opportunities. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Qadhmous National Park is about a 1-hour drive from Tartus. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Walking along the coast provides scenic views. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The cliffs near Tartus offer beautiful views of the Mediterranean. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Coastal areas attract various bird species, great for observation. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas on the beach allow for small bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and local postal services deliver packages, but international delivery may be limited. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops offer basic tech repairs, but options may be limited. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Local community centers may have tables available. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools exist in nearby cities; inquire locally. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Tartus Public Library offers reading space but limited facilities. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Community spaces host cultural activities, check local listings. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited availability; check local cafes for gaming opportunities. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos are available in Tartus. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,500 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $60,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,200 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $48,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $108,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,500 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $90,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $160,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,700 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $136,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | About 25% |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% |
| 🏦 Tax System | Progressive rates on personal and corporate income. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 30% |
| 🧾 VAT | No VAT currently applied. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No specific rules exist. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax is around 1% of property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | No formal property transfer tax; nominal fees apply. |