I just returned from Beirut. It’s incredible how the media narrative differs from the reality on the streets.
▲ 30 r/lebanonfriending+3 crossposts

I just returned from Beirut. It’s incredible how the media narrative differs from the reality on the streets.

Hi everyone. I’ve always been fascinated by Lebanon's resilience, so I decided to visit shortly after the recent bombings to see the situation for myself.

Beyond the headlines, what I found was a city of incredible contrasts—where Roman ruins, mosques, and cathedrals stand side-by-side amidst the tension. The hospitality of the Lebanese people, even in these times, is something I think more people should know about.

I put together a video of my walk through the city to show the human side of Lebanon right now, away from the sensationalism. If you're interested in the current state of the country from a traveler's perspective, feel free to check it out.

youtu.be
u/manbla78 — 5 days ago
▲ 39 r/BiblicalArchaeology+7 crossposts

Exploring the hidden Christian heritage of Syria: From St. Paul’s house to the world’s best-preserved Crusader Castle.

Hi everyone! I just finished a journey through a side of Syria that many people don't know still exists. While the country is often associated with conflict, I found a rich, living history that traces back to the very beginnings of Christianity.

In my latest documentary, I take you through:

  • Damascus: Visiting the House of Ananias, where St. Paul recovered his sight.
  • Maaloula: A mountain village where the local community still speaks Aramaic (the language of Jesus).
  • Krak des Chevaliers: Exploring one of the most important and well-preserved medieval Crusader castles in the world.
  • Valley of the Christians: Seeing how these ancient traditions survive in a modern landscape.

It was an eye-opening experience to see how these communities coexist and preserve their millenary culture. If you're interested in history, archaeology, or the cultural diversity of the Middle East, you might find this journey interesting.

I'm happy to answer any questions about the safety or the logistics of traveling to these specific sites!

youtu.be
u/manbla78 — 19 days ago

I visited Odesa during the war. This is what daily life under air raid sirens looks like.

I recently traveled to Odesa to document what everyday life is like in a city that continues to function despite the constant threat of missile and drone attacks.

During my visit I experienced air raid alerts, visited public bomb shelters, walked through the historic center, the Potemkin Stairs, and the port, and spoke about how residents have adapted to years of war. I also included the story of José de Ribas (José de Rivas), the Spanish-born founder closely associated with the city's early development.

My goal wasn't to cover the frontline or military operations, but to show what normal life looks like in a city living under the constant possibility of attack.

I'd genuinely appreciate any feedback from Ukrainians or people familiar with Odesa. If I got something wrong or missed important context, I'd be happy to learn.

youtu.be
u/manbla78 — 28 days ago
▲ 10 r/Syrian+2 crossposts

I entered Syria in 2026: Exploring the "Capital of the Revolution" and life among the ruins

Hi everyone! I recently traveled to Syria to see firsthand what the country looks like today, specifically visiting Homs and Hama.

Homs was known as the "Capital of the Revolution" and suffered a brutal 3-year siege. Walking through the city center is surreal—you see markets full of life and people selling fruit right next to buildings riddled with bullet holes and mortar impacts. It feels like the war ended just five minutes ago, yet life continues with incredible resilience.

In this video, I also explore:

  • Hama: Home to ancient water wheels (Norias) and a city with a heavy history of resistance.
  • The "Forbidden Zones": Visiting abandoned luxury hotels that are now ghost buildings and seeing how the landscape changes as you move between former rebel and government-held areas.
  • Daily Life: What it's like to walk alone in Syria right now (it's surprisingly welcoming!), the local hospitality, and even stumbling upon a local gun shop.

Syria is a country of intense contrasts—deep scars of war mixed with a hopeful and vibrant population.

I'd love to hear your thoughts or answer any questions about what it's like to travel there currently!

youtu.be
u/manbla78 — 1 month ago
▲ 15 r/Syrian+2 crossposts

Walking through the ruins of Aleppo: Where war ends and life begins 🇸🇾

Hello everyone.

I recently visited Aleppo and wanted to share my experience. I was blown away by the hospitality and the spirit of the people I met in the bazaar and near the Citadel. Even though the scars of the war are everywhere, seeing the reconstruction work and the shops reopening gives me so much hope for the city’s future.

I made this video to show the world that Aleppo is more than just a war zone—it's a place where life is finding its way back. Thank you for watching and supporting the video! 

Link to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7rwEAeCOeI

youtu.be
u/manbla78 — 2 months ago
▲ 31 r/Syrian+3 crossposts

Is it safe to travel to Syria in 2026? My recent experience in Damascus 🇸🇾

Hi everyone!

I recently traveled to Syria to see firsthand what the situation is like for travelers in 2026. In this video, I document the entire process of entering the country and my first impressions of Damascus.

I know there are many questions and concerns regarding safety and the current state of the country, so I wanted to share this footage to provide a current perspective. Whether you are curious about the culture, the logistics of the trip, or just want to see how the city looks today, I hope you find this helpful!

You can watch the full journey here:
https://youtu.be/KbPhynRA7HI

I’d love to hear your thoughts or answer any questions you might have about the trip. Cheers!

youtu.be
u/manbla78 — 2 months ago
▲ 18 r/Moscow

Just got back from Moscow — and yes, traveling there is absolutely possible

I wanted to share a video I filmed during my recent trip to Moscow, as I still see many people assuming that traveling to Russia is currently impossible or that the country is completely closed off to tourists.

The reality is quite different. While there are some restrictions and a few extra steps compared to traveling within Europe, visiting Russia as a tourist is still entirely possible.

In the video, I show what Moscow looks like today: the atmosphere in the streets, public transportation, prices, safety, and my overall experience exploring the city. I also cover some practical information that may be useful for anyone considering a trip there.

https://youtu.be/eYy9bDGpkq8

Feel free to check it out and ask any questions about visas, flights, payments, internet access, or traveling in Russia in general.

Thank you for yout time!

u/manbla78 — 2 months ago