Photos

In my travels, besides meeting the people, one of the most rewarding experiences has always been to sample and, in most cases, to enjoy the same foods that the everyday people eat. For those of you that are interested, I can tell you, the best friends that you will ever make in this life, are the ones that you're humbly willing to break bread with.

A common misconception among world travelers is that "if you eat it, you're gonna pay". I am living proof to say that is not always the case. Sometimes it happens, and even if it does, it usually provides immunity from future attacks of the "bug" and there is no substitute for the opportunity to experience the everday life of the people and the places we visit.

Very common throughout Iraq is the showerma, filaffel (forms of subs) and kebobs. I'm buying for everyone today so, here a street vendor prepares our lunch of showermas - vertically grilled lamb meat, sliced into a waiting split pita-type bread with extra fat, cut from the top of the stack.

Enjoy!!!