Cost of Living in Hamah: An Expensive or Affordable City?

Hamah, a city located in western Syria, is considered one of the most historical cities in Syria. It is a city that attracts tourists from different parts of the world due to its rich history, unique culture, and beautiful landscapes. However, for people who intend to live in Hamah, one of the significant factors to consider is the cost of living. It is essential to know the cost of living in Hamah to make informed decisions about your expenses and budget planning. In this blog post, we will investigate various expenses you may incur while living in Hamah and determine whether it is an affordable or expensive city.

Accommodation Costs in Hamah

One of the most significant considerations when moving to a new place is the housing cost. The cost of accommodation in Hamah depends on the area, amenities, and size of the apartment. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Hamah is about 12,000 SYP ($27), while a three-bedroom apartment costs around 35,000 SYP ($80) per month. For people who plan to buy a house in Hamah, a one-bedroom apartment costs about 6,917 SYP ($15.70) per square meter, and a three-bedroom apartment costs around 9,890 SYP ($22.50) per square meter. These prices may vary depending on the location and facilities.

Utilities Costs in Hamah

Apart from accommodation, utility bills are also essential expenses to consider when living in Hamah. The average monthly cost for electricity, heating, cooling, and water usage for a 85 square meter apartment in Hamah is around 4,000 SYP ($9). Internet and mobile phone services are also affordable and cost about 6,000 SYP ($14) and 3,000 SYP ($6.80), respectively, per month.

Transportation Costs in Hamah

In Hamah, the public transportation system consists of buses, taxis, and collective taxis. The cost of public transportation is relatively cheap compared to other cities in Syria. A one-way bus ticket in Hamah costs around 100 SYP ($0.23), while a taxi ride starts from 400 SYP ($0.90). For those who prefer to use a personal car, gasoline costs around 200 SYP ($0.45) per liter.

Food Costs in Hamah

Food is a significant expense for any household, and the cost of groceries and dining out should be considered when calculating the cost of living in Hamah. The average monthly cost of groceries for a family of four is around 70,000 SYP ($160), while a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around 1,300 SYP ($3). However, the cost of dining out may increase depending on the type of restaurant and the level of luxury. For example, if you opt to dine at a high-end restaurant, you should expect to spend around 6,500 SYP ($15) for a three-course meal with a drink.

Entertainment and Leisure Costs in Hamah

The cost of entertainment and leisure activities in Hamah depends on your interests and lifestyle. For instance, the cost of a movie ticket in Hamah is around 500 SYP ($1.14), while monthly gym fees are about 5,000 SYP ($11). Hamah has several tourist attractions and cultural events that you may want to explore. The entrance fee to the Citadel of Hamah, a historical site in Hamah, is around 500 SYP ($1.14) per person. If you plan to visit museums, the entrance fee ranges from 500 to 1,000 SYP ($1.14 to $2.28) depending on the museum.

Conclusion

Hamah is a relatively affordable city to live in compared to other metropolitan cities worldwide. The cost of living in Hamah is mainly affected by housing, utilities, food, transportation, and entertainment expenses. The findings suggest that the cost of living in Hamah is significantly lower than other cities in the Middle East, especially the capital cities.Moreover, living in Hamah provides an opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the city. Syrian cuisine is an attraction in itself, and there are several restaurants that offer affordable meals for budget-conscious individuals.In conclusion, the cost of living in Hamah is relatively affordable, making it an attractive city for anyone looking for an affordable and culturally rich living experience.

Insider’s Guide to Hamah: Discovering the Hidden Treasures of this Ancient City

Hamah is a city filled with ancient mosques, bathhouses, and impressive Roman ruins. However, delving deeper beyond the typical tourist haunts will offer unique and unforgettable experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you beyond the well-worn paths to discover the hidden treasures of Hamah.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems Worth Exploring

While exploring Hamah, make sure to visit the following hidden gems:

– The Azem Palace: Built-in 1740, this magnificent palace was once the residence of the Ottoman governor of Syria. Today, the palace has been renovated and acts as a museum that showcases the city’s traditional dress, furniture, and handicrafts.

– The Citadel of Masyaf: This ancient castle was built in the 11th century. It played a vital role in Syria’s history and was often fought over by militias and Crusaders. Today, it is a popular destination for history lovers.

– The Roman Water Wheels: The Norias of Hama date back to the Byzantine and Roman Eras and were used to distribute water throughout the city. Visitors can take a boat ride and watch the iconic water wheels in operation while admiring the beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Dining Spots: Savoring Hamah’s Unique Cuisine

Hamah’s traditional cuisine is a blend of Levantine and Turkish flavors, resulting in delicious dishes using fresh ingredients. Don’t miss these popular local dining spots:

– Al-Nawfas: This cozy restaurant is located in the old city of Hamah and offers traditional Syrian mezze, grilled meats, and juices.

– Al-Amir: At this restaurant, you can savor local dishes like hummus with meat, yogurt soup, and stuffed vegetables.

– Diwan al-Sultan Ibrahim: This restaurant is housed in a restored Ottoman mansion and serves traditional Syrian and Turkish cuisine.

Cultural Experiences: Discovering Hamah’s Rich Culture

Hamah is a city filled with history, art, and culture. Here are a few experiences you can’t miss:

– Visit local markets known as souks, where you can shop for local crafts, textiles, and spices.

– Attend the Hamah Cultural Festival: This festival features local dances, music, and art. It is usually held in late August and early September.

– Visit the An-Nuri Mosque, the city’s most significant and famous mosque. It dates back to the 7th century and is built on top of ancient ruins.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from Hamah’s Past

Hamah has a rich and long history filled with fascinating stories. Here are a few worth exploring:

– The Hamah Massacre: In 1982, the Syrian army attacked the city, killing at least 17,000 people and destroying most of the old city.

– The Battle of Hamah: In 1981, the Muslim Brotherhood led an insurgency against the Syrian government. The Syrian regime crushed the revolt after a significant battle in the city.

– The Hamah Uprising: In 1964, the Ba’ath Party took over Syria in a coup d’état. Hamah became a center of resistance, and the uprising was among the most substantial threats to the regime.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Exploring Hamah with a Different Perspective

Go beyond the regular tourist attractions to discover hidden treasures that will leave you with unforgettable memories:

– Take a pottery class: Learn how to make pottery from local artisans at Al-Nuri Mosque.

– Hike the mountain in Masyaf: Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside while hiking in the mountains.

– Attend a local wedding: Syrians are known for their hospitality, and if you have the chance to attend a traditional Syrian wedding, take it. This experience will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip.

Hamah is a city that will take you by surprise, with lots of hidden treasures to discover. This guide will help you explore the city’s hidden gems, savor local cuisine, appreciate the culture, understand the local history, and experience something unique. What are you waiting for? Start planning your visit to Hamah now and step off the beaten path to discover the hidden wonders of this ancient city.