Socotra

Socotra or Soqotra (Suquṭra) is a small archipelago of four islands in the Indian Ocean. The largest island, also called Socotra, is about 95% of the landmass of the archipelago. It lies off some 240 kilometres (150 mi) east of the Horn of Africa and 380 kilometres (240 mi) south of the Arabian Peninsula. The island is very isolated and through the process of speciation, a third of its plant life is found nowhere else on the planet. It has been described as the most alien-looking place on Earth. Socotra is part of the Republic of Yemen. It has long been a part of the 'Adan Governorate, but in 2004 it became attached to the Hadhramaut Governorate, which is much closer to the island than 'Adan (although the closest governorate would be Al Mahrah).

The People and Culture of Socotra :

The island’s population has now reached 100.000. The people speak the unique Socotri language. 

Due to the island’s isolation and the fact that human activity has been kept to a minimum, about 30 per cent of its flora is unique to the archipelago. Domestic animals – camels, assess, goats, sheep and cats 

Socotra History :

First arrivals and ancient trade :

One is certain when socotra was first settled, nor indeed who those first settlers. The prevailing view is that south Arabia tribes arrived as early as 1000BC, when incense was ” the gold of the east”. The ealiest European settlement occurred around 330BC when Alexander the great was thought to have ordered an invasion by a small greak troop, some of whom made Socotra their home. By 1000 BC, the socotra population was describe as a mix of Greeks, Indian and Arabs, who were herders, farmers, craftsman, traders and priests. Recent cave explorations have discovered antique earthen- ware dating back to 3rd century and pre-Islamic inscription referring to the Tadmor kingdom of the same period. New clues about ancient visitors, mostly from India, were also found, adding evidence to socotra’s strategic importance in ancient trading between east and west .

The early invaders :

By the 15th Century, Socotra had fallen under control of Mahri tribes originally from areas near Qishin on the Arabian mainland. In 1507, the Portuguese invaded Socotra in an attempt to control access of trading vessels, into the red sea. Almost the entire Arab garrison at the ancient port of Suq on the north coast east of Hadiboh was killed. Weakened by diseases and lack of supplies, the Portuguese occupation soon ended, following an attack by Mahri troops in 1510. The original fort was restored and expanded over the years, although today only ruins remain, mingled with stone coral, and cement homes of present days- villagers .

Modern history : 

British interest Began in the early 17th century when their trading fleets used Socotra as a port for water replenishment and for stocking of aloes and other local produce. Several attempts by the British to set up a coaling station on Socotra failed. The Mehri Sultan continued to control Socotra even after the fall of Aden into Brtish hands in 1839. From the late 1800s, until 1967 when south Yemen gain independence, Socotra was considered part of eastern Aden protectorate. Socotra’s isolation provided a safe haven from the difficult birth of the unified republic of Yemen in 1990. Today, Socotra is administered under Hadramaut governorate of the republic, through their representative centers in Hadiboh and Qalansia .

Socotrans Today :

Reflecting their complex origins, the Socotrans are as unique as they are div ers, being a distinct racial mix of early Arabian, Indian, and African tribes. Their divers origins are united through their native tongue, Socotri, and their devotion to Islam. Their main sources of livelihood are live stock rearing, fishing and date palm cultivation, supplemented by seasonal work on the mainland. In recent years, fishing has become the largest income earner for Socotra. Increasingly, there are more skilled workers; mechanics, carpenters, drivers, teachers, clerks, physicians and medical personnel, as well as traders and other opportunistic investors in the few burgeoning coastal towns.

Climate :

Socotra is characterized by the Higher mountains, reaching 1525 m a.s.l and located in the north -western part of the island. The eastern and western part of the island receives some rain during fall and winter while the western part of the island is arid.

Climate and weather patterns vary throughout the island, but generally Socotra is classified a tropical arid area. The most important seasonal variations are :-

October To February  –  This is the best tourism season in terms of nice weather and climate and this is the time of year when the island receives most, much new beautiful period, though note that if it rains on the north side of central plateau , it is clear and sunny on the south. 
It is also only rain for a day or two, rarely goes on for longer, but brings a vital to Socotra. In spring from march to may temperatures usually rise above 40 c, but the sea in this period of the year very calm and visibility is excellent and it is the best period for swimming, snorkeling, relaxing on the very pure white sandy beaches. From June to September the island is accessible only by plane, because of exceedingly strong monsoon winds and access by sea is virtually impossible due to high seas and strong winds all around the island, during this time fishing is impossible and many people move from the northern part to the mountains to escape the winds, and to harvest their date palms.

     Flora and Fauna :

 

Socotra is considered the jewel of biodiversity in the Arabian Sea. In the 1990s, a team of United Nations biologists conducted a survey of the archipelago’s flora and fauna. They counted nearly 700 endemic species, found nowhere else on earth; only Hawaii and the Galapagos Islands have more impressive numbers.

Transport                                 :  

Public transport on Socotra is limited to infrequent minibuses to Qulansiyah and to the villages on the northeastern coast; car hire usually means hiring a 4WD car with driver.

Ships connect the only Socotra port – 5 km (3 mi) east of Hadibu – with the Yemeni coastal city of Al Mukalla. According to information from the ports, the journey takes 2–3 days and the service is used mostly for cargo.

 Yemenia and Felix Airways fly from Socotra Airport to Sana'a and Aden via Al Mukalla (RIY - Riyan Airport). The Sana'a service operates daily, while Aden flights are on Mondays, as of December 2009.

 

Hotel in the Island  of Socotr :

However there are four hotels in Hadibo: Taj Socotra Hotel, Hafijj Hotel, Socotra Hotel, and Summer land Hotel. These hotels may not be the most luxurious, but they do provide air-conditioning, televisions, and refrigerators in all of the rooms. Most of the rooms at these hotels have their own bathroom, but there are a few rooms at the Hafijj Hotel and Socotra Hotel that must share bathrooms. Fortunately, there is a restaurant in each of the hotels with simple yet delicious cuisine. Considering Socotra is a fairly new eco-tourism destination, their facilities are decent. In addition, there is also another hotel at the airport as well as multiple guest houses around the island.

The most popular lodging is actually camping on the beaches. There are several campsites that allow tourists to barbeque on the beach with beautiful mountain views in the background. Tourists can choose to purchase camping tour packages which include a driver or guide that will show tourists around the beaches as well as provide meals during their stay. It is a fantastic way to enjoy the beauty and wildlife of the island.

 

    Visit Socotra in the Best Time: 

                        

Climate is an important consideration. And this depends on your interest. Nature enthusiasts should go from early October to late April. The monsoon occurs in July till mid-August (during July in the south east and south west of the island, wind surfing activity can be arranged). Generally, wildlife and natural viewing is best from the end of January through May.

Rainy Season :                            

End Of April – Mid of May , Mid Of August –Mid Of September and usually it rain in the after noon or in the night .

Religion :                                     

All the people follow Islam.

Telephone and Internet  :                                  

Telephone service:  Telephone are available for use in Hadibo : country code (+967), followed by a one digit number for an access provider (5). After the international and access codes, the number should be six digits long, including three initial digits for the geographical area (660).

The cheapest way to make international phone calls is to purchase a telephone card and call either from telephone booths or using a mobile phone. Telephone cards can be purchased at most shops in the city’s central market. The GSM system is not operable on the island, only CDMA phone cards will work.

Internet:Internet access is slow and expensive (costing about $5 per hour). Internet cafés can be found in the town of Hadibo.

Power supply in Yemen and Socotra :  

220v AC; plugs are generally two-pin and multiple plugs. 

Chewing it over :                                  

Qat is the most popular drug in Yemen, with effects similar to amphetamine. Chewing starts after lunch, with men and women in separate rooms. Leaves are plucked and gently crushed between the teeth until a wad builds up in the cheek. It's a social activity and chewers' conversation often centres on politics. Qat is a stimulant, so chewers without religious scruples often wash it down with whisky in order to sleep.

    Do and See                                                        . 

  

 Camp :                            

With a bit of water for washing, a good meal and warm sleeping surrounded by virgin nature, camping on the beaches will provide a very special break from the every day routine in civilization!

Hiking:                             

The Scant, Tinnera, Firmihin, Dersmotin regions, are the most popular destinations for trekkers. Hiking is for everyone and even for those who are less athletic. However for more difficult and high altitude trails, it is recommended to be accompanied by a local guide.

Camel back ride :            

It is an opportunity to get to know and enjoy the spectacular scenery and relaxed the rhythm of ancient time. This is more of a less active adventure. The camel back rides provide a more relaxing ride over plateaus and colorful panoramas and mountains.

Surf:                                

Socotra has excellent conditions for surfing. The best time to come for this activity is during the monsoon season from June up to late August. In July the wind speed can reach up to 60 mph and you have to be aware of such conditions. Since the winds and be very rough it is recommended that only experienced surfers participate.

Scuba dive/ Snorkel:        

Dive into the tropical warm weather filled with coral reefs. Enjoy swimming among the hundreds of species of fish and marine life such as barracudas, monkfish, dolphins, rays and even mantas. Diving for all ages and levels.

Bird watching tours:          

This is for anyone who has an interest in birds. Excellent way to view nature and the highly diverse bird population while avoiding harming any wildlife.

Local boat safaris and fishing: 

Take one of the organized tours and be taken to incomparable destinations. The trip to Shouab beach is a half day tour to discover the beauty of this remarkable destination. With the clear water and white sands you can snorkel and relax. While driving the boat, dolphins can be seen swimming right next to the boat ,also go on a fascinating fishing experience with some of the locals.

Remarkable volcanic caves: 

Explore the Hoq Cave with its overwhelming beauty and variety of crystal decorations.
Beaches Shouab, Qalansia, Arher, Noget, Amaq among others .
Wadis and fresh water pools Homhil, Wadi Dirhir and others .

Eat and food :                        

Socotra is a remote island and therefore their cuisine is limited and simple. Local restaurants often serve fresh fish, chicken, goat, rice, and potatoes. The fish is highly recommended and all meals are typically served with flat Arabic bread.

There are also restaurants at each of the five hotels with a simple menu similar to that of the local restaurants.

Oranges, bananas, cucumbers, tomatoes, cheese, bottled water, and soft drinks can all be bought at shops in town. Vegetables can be bought also but they are more expensive because they must be shipped over.

If you are camping in Socotra, your driver/guide will be responsible for your meals (typically some amazing freshly cooked fish), if the tourists would like to be liked by the local community, they should tip the driver and the guide. Relying on the driver and the guide and not tipping them is not good, so help please .