In Cypress in the 60s, the diplomats apparently helped get each other out, via their local connections.

Personally, I wouldn't go to places that house the extremists. A million-dollar paycheck won't bring you back to life.

I would have a GOOD map of the whole country, topo would not be excessive. Got friends there? They might know who could be trusted, and which way to jump. Could you keep some clothes with you like the locals wear? Makeup to darken your exposed skin?

And I wouldn't be 10 steps from my BOB, which would be a container like the locals use, not some brand-new REI backback.

Sue