Iraq’s Most Brutal Sleepover 🇮🇶

We wanted to experience life as a local in Iraq so we headed 5 hours south of Baghdad to the Iraqi Marshlands where they call this place the cradle of civilisation. We certainly got the full effect as we slept in essentially a straw hut next to some barn animals for the night, it was a wild experience! Overall this was perhaps the most random adventure I have had yet and certainly in Iraq 🇮🇶
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[@nateb8282]

Can’t get over how friendly all the people seem. We really shouldn’t judge a book by its cover

[@BackpackerBen]

Well said mate

[@Pauldjreadman]

Wasn't Iraq closed off to the world at one point in time?

[@dr.foxysocks2459]

@@Pauldjreadman During Saadams rule. Also the US was an ally of Saadam and gave him chemical weapons to use against Iran in the 80's which made it funny in 2003 we were invading them for having weapons of mass destruction. that they ended up not having.

[@Bohjamf]

​@Pauldjreadman it still is, don't believe the influences because they are getting paid to spread misinformation

[@Mabja]

​@@Pauldjreadmanno one goes there because it is not safe

[@SilverfoxJB]

"Come with me Cat, I'll show you the world of luxury hotels' Are words Ben never said!. Cat is a total trooper, no complaints just goes along with Ben's mad ideas. Let's be honest is they needed the 'bathroom' in the night it was going to be horrific.

[@BackpackerBen]

😆😅🙌🏼

[@infrarot4052]

Imagine him getting the shits there...

[@annalou777]

@@infrarot4052that’s what I thought! 😬

[@RehyaDahhane]

You’re definitely one of the better travel KZbinrs out there. Always so respectful and humble. Good stuff!

[@BackpackerBen]

Appreciate it mate

[@AlterMann57]

I agree 100%! Ben, you often go the countries and regions that are not known as being tourist destinations for most westerners, but you show that people around the world can be very decent and kind. Having Cat sharing your adventures has been such an enhancement, you're both legends. I used to like Bald's vids, but his devotion to everything Soviet was getting a bit tough to take.

[@BobStallmanArchUser]

I agree it has been hard to not notice how respectfull he is compared to many youtubers specialy British ones. Class man.

[@Pauldjreadman]

@@AlterMann57 Come on? Not Soviet. I find his thing for Soviet hilarious.

[@anetakocisova1123]

absolutely agree!

[@MiguelFerreira-dc8bv]

Ben I have a message to Catarina...- Catarina acho que está na hora de fazeres os teus vlogs em Portugues e aproveitar para mostrar as tuas viagens com o Ben. Aposto que muita gente em Portugal ia gostar de ver! Há muito pouco conteudo de viagens em Portugues de Portugal. Abraço para o Ben e para ti! Boas aventuras!

[@bergenpines1]

Best video! Katerina you are one brave lady, not many like you out there! And I am a woman……

[@Oleca-ej7qo]

No doubt, poor Katerina has endured so many uncomfortable situations

[@gavinbarbara]

Another brilliant video. You guys are true ambassadors for all normal people on the planet. We don’t want wars, we just want to live together in peace.

[@7yep4336dfgvvh]

You don't speak for everyone though. Some people do want war. There's a lot to be gained from war especially if you pay for it with the lives of others

[@Pauldjreadman]

Exactly.

[@gavinbarbara]

Unfortunately you are absolutely correct.@@7yep4336dfgvvh

[@subculture2006]

@@7yep4336dfgvvh Its a good point. Today it is clear that many politicians want war, the huge corporations that profit from it want war, globalist organisations like the WEF want war. I suspect most normal people dont.

[@aronjohns4662]

No money on this planet would make me sleep there Ben especially with my girl. Kudos to the both of you I enjoyed that

[@BackpackerBen]

don't blame you 🤣

[@11buleria]

I would not want to sleep in most of the dirty places they stay. I’m too spoiled and need good hygiene.

[@gundisaluusmenendiz]

Ben, you're out'ta your fkn picking mind, you chose the wrong time of the year to do that mate!

[@tvendor]

What an adventure. One that I know I will never go on in my lifetime - but at least to have seem it done! Thanks Ben!

[@BackpackerBen]

Everyone should experience the wet shed 🐄🪿

[@fcb10futbol15]

iraq isn’t dangerous iraqis love when people like you come

[@nabuko4344]

Its true the people are lovely, but its not safe….

[@BackpackerBen]

@@nabuko4344define not safe please

[@nabuko4344]

@@BackpackerBen the political problems in the country, the Chances on terrorist attacks that are pretty high and they still have dead sentence. That in my eyes shows that its not the safest of countries to be in but that doesnt take Anything away from the friendly people who life there.

[@rrrav2074]

⁠@@nabuko4344is the us a safe country?

[@nabuko4344]

@@rrrav2074 I am from belgium not usa.

[@irener1111]

Moral of the story it’s not the people it’s the government, everywhere, all around the world, the people are friendly the government causes the problems. Such a shame. Any Ben, it’s Katie and I, not me and Kat. Enjoy your journeys together!

[@Gunavati1]

Wanted to write the same. It is Kat and I, and not v.v.

[@R.u.n.e.]

Cath, this one is for you. We have seen all Bens videos, several of them twice and we rank Ben as our third favourite vlogger after Baldr and Bald. After you started to appear in the videos, for us the quality has improved considerably. It cant be an easy task to have a boyfriend who makes a living through his camera and act natural when the camera is pointed in your direction, and many become a bit weird and awkward. You, on the other hand, handles this in such an amazing way. Not only are you a natural beauty, but its so clear that you are yourself all the way. You add something to his videos that was necessary to make them even better. You dont play a role or fake anything. You are you and we totally LOVE it. Please dont ever leave Ben and please make sure you stay in his videos permanently! You are truely one of a kind and your natural charm can brighten up the most cloudy day. You two make such a perfect couple! Hugs from Norway. 😃❤️

[@RK-rf8rc]

Third worst behind that Welsh McDonalds lad and that sex tourist Australian in Belarus

[@Pauldjreadman]

Ben is like a timelord with a female companion.

[@beahindebars6800]

Those cows were adorable 😂😂 I like to think I've been quite adventurous whilst travelling but that trip? No way 😊

[@giannishen]

When you decide to go to that place, you should know to be kind to the cattle, sheep, chickens and geese! I decided to imitate your complaint: you are the first KZbinr who doesn’t like to give me red hearts, haha! Thank you for sharing such a special video, have a nice travel! 👍😄🙏

[@AlterMann57]

Wow! You both looked knackered at the end, and your trainers need to be tossed, but what an experience. Cat is such an amazing lady to accompany you in such a severely wilderness region. That beautiful lady is a true legend. You both look like you've enjoyed your time in Iraq, that whole region has been under such a bloody mess because of stupid politics. The people are wonderful, that's the most important part of these excursions. All the best to both of you on your next journey, take care.

[@thestarseeker8196]

Wake up babe Ben’s got another Iraq video 🔥🙏🏻

[@BackpackerBen]

😎🙌🏼

[@azul29156]

The contrast between that neat place you stayed in Thailand and the whole of Iraq is staggering.

[@anonymous2513456]

so different to when i was there last, the people are just as warm and friendly but there is nobody trying to kill you at the same time. 15 years ago this journey would not have been possible without a very high chance of being kidnapped or killed enroute. I'm glad it's more peaceful there now.

[@RealGunarson]

ever heard of elizabeth tsurkov or Stephen Edward Troell you need to rethink your statement Bud.

[@binesikwe82]

Thank you for showing the real people of Iraq - another great video with Kat!! 😊

[@pinakkoladaa]

I really like them travelling both together :) English and Portuguese! Very nice and peaceful couple!

[@VeraLucia-ij9xp]

meu sonho é conhecer o Iraque saudações e respeito a todos os Iraquianos eu do Brasil 🇧🇷❤️🇮🇶

[@dennisfischer8683]

Fascinating stuff you put out there. Keep them videos coming.

[@aronjohns4662]

The dream team in Iraq 🇮🇶👍

[@BackpackerBen]

you know it

[@georgefoord7087]

Katerina is a keeper with her positive attitude through everything

[@jepolch]

Great adventure, Ben and Kat. Thanks for sharing!

[@briankent103]

It's Very Awesome you and Kat are willing to experience what most wouldn't. Much Respect!

[@BackpackerBen]

Yallaaaa

[@FahqTyrants]

Yalaaaa

[@CarpeD1em.]

Thanks for sharing these videos the Iraqi people are so humble welcoming and friendly. Even though I was there during the 2003 invasion the locals where friendly towards us

[@BackpackerBen]

Great people mate thanks for the comment

[@ashurbanipal7404]

Well, we're not friendly with the invading soldiers 😶

[@blacksabbathmatters3365]

Absolutely bonkers!! Top-notch content as always. You 2 stay safe and have fun!!

[@Tyblubearboy]

Another unforgettable journey Ben... Enjoyed it and as ever, stay safe mate 👍

[@budyeddi5814]

I'm shocked at how many Dodge Chargers and Chrysler 300C's there. Thanks for sharing

[@mikeg9893]

living the dream thanks for the longer vid take care

[@lukkyluciano]

An nasiriyah is where Jessica Lynch was captured.

[@robertmallac8398]

The history of this part of the world is 2nd to none, Sumerian, Babylonian Persian, Parthian, Selucid, numerous empires have come and gone, invaded by Greeks, Romans, Mongols, the might of the US war machine. Visiting this region would be something special.

[@WhatAboutYou123]

Yep, this place was royally fudged up by everyone over it's history

[@jasonmabie1770]

Thank you so much would an awesome video. Glad you guys had a chance to experience the culture.

[@rewanji]

Great content you two. I can’t stress it enough how made us all travel with you without moving. Cheers Ben and Catarina!👏🏻👏🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@pierreverschueren8382]

You can't escape the music on your travels, stay safe you two.

[@garyblack2858]

What stories you will have to tell your grandchildren! Incredible hospitality.

[@BackpackerBen]

Spot on

[@will_274]

Loving your adventures lately Ben. Marvellous.

[@champchamp9431]

Ben thank you for showing the real iraq we really appreciate mate god bless you and good Luck

[@leilah6789]

I met a wonderful friend in Wellington NZ who was from those marshlands about 20 years ago maybe more , his name was Ali .RIP

[@TravelbyDartTV]

It's a country where the ancient meets the modern, and the only thing more diverse than the landscapes is the tapestry of cultures. I haven't consider going to this side of the world but with this video, I started to appreciate their resilience and friendly vibes. Hoping that one of these days, my travel dart would land in this country!

[@JP-ln4ue]

It doesn't matter which country in the world, the majority of the people are always good. Take as you find. Looking forward to the next upload.

[@kevinhirst757]

Hey Ben, been watching for a while, and see that YOU are addicted to the journey, to motion.... Sure I could spend a month in Badhdad and not run out of places to explore!!! This is NOT a slag Ben, but the magic of your channel is the urge to move by whatever means of transpo available!!

[@TB.....]

Iraqis are cool. If everyone watched these videos I think everybody would start appreciating people that sound and look differently. So many genuinely generous people around the world.

[@English-wb4gq]

❤❤

[@paulvato]

What an incredible journey, thank you for sharing it with us.

[@BackpackerBen]

You bet!

[@ittisjartam8913]

I loved this video. Way out of my comfort zone.

[@globalmotortradersyt5514]

Love watching your videos brother!

[@BackpackerBen]

Glad you like them!

[@studiosys]

5 hr journey in a cab for 65 quid , is a b bargain Ben !!!!!! Imagine , in UK ,, 250 m ? Plymouth to London ? Would cost at least 400 quid ?

[@sourbaileys]

This experience seemed very unique. To see the lifestyle of the people outside of the cities is really cool. Amazing that these people who don't even speak your language would let you live with them, feed, bed and sing for you is just awesome. As uncomfortable it looked lol. Cool video Ben and Kat. Thanks for exploring like a champ.

[@lovingyourshow]

Wow, your videos continue to amaze. Thank you and hello Kat so glad you are with Ben on this epic adventure

[@BackpackerBen]

Many thanks 🙏🏼

[@harvey22]

The picture of the two by firelight was too, too romantic. What a great video. Keep them coming. Richard in Reno

[@user-JustMe67]

That's what it's all about, unique experiences!! And it's great to see both you and Kat have these experiences together.Great content as always!

[@BackpackerBen]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@commoneuropeanstarling]

Your vlogs get better and better!!

[@BackpackerBen]

cheers brooooo!

[@rickyseymour4137]

This was different, good luck, with the rest of the trip.

[@yeezusair1472]

Really great video

[@jebpleace1167]

Top notch Ben you guys always spot on !! Kat is a trooper 🤣🤣

[@somelikeithot444]

Great video Ben.Very adventurous u bothvr.Pretty sketchy driving there I thought?Not knowing where u r going?Be safe out their.😊

[@TwoMadExplorers]

Unreal video Ben mate, really showing how beautiful these people are

[@BackpackerBen]

🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@toddburgess5056]

LOL @ the goose 🪿 entering the sleeping quarters and the bull eyeballing Ben 🐂 👀

[@kaasirose24]

Love your videos- especially Kat- what a beautiful strong woman-stay safe 🇦🇺

[@MrProcrastinato]

More brilliant content Ben! Great dynamic between you an Kat. Laughed out loud when you shouted at the geese and the shaking like a sh*tting dog comment. Keep it coming! Good man

[@BackpackerBen]

Awesome, thank you! ;)

[@whatisthishandlegarbage]

Another night of torture! Nice. Travelling always seems exciting when you imagine exploring new land. But when you actually go, all the discomforts of travelling quickly make it a miserable expeirence. At the end, you tell yourself it was worth it because it was worth seeing.

[@BackpackerBen]

Top comment mate

[@samvdberg78]

Once again, absolutely interesting watch of a part of the world still somewhat of a mystery to me. And seeing the people living there, and what Iraq is like now. It is very cool and way more real seeing it from your and Catarina's perspective, rather than the news.. Beautiful window to the world!

[@BackpackerBen]

Appreciate it mate! Thanks for watching

[@user-bt9xn6vp4b]

Another great video Ben

[@BackpackerBen]

Thanks again!

[@Mott0707]

Luv your videos. You and Caterina should get married you both are prefect together. It's amazing how so many people that you have shown us are so friendly in different countries. And i love how you go to places most youtubers wont go. Stay safe my friend.

[@wayneoriordan6749]

Your vids are awesome mate keep up the good work

[@BackpackerBen]

Appreciate it Wayne!

[@Pauldjreadman]

This is one of the best travel vlogs I have ever seen. I love everyone was respectful of Cat. The scenery was breathtaking.

[@BackpackerBen]

Glad you enjoyed it! 🫡

[@Pauldjreadman]

@@BackpackerBen Ooooh yeah

[@dougieranger]

Some experience there guys. Stay strong.

[@BackpackerBen]

😎🙌🏼

[@awsomemodels]

No words ben 😂 you two are legends for doing this .

[@bobe.4302]

Sleeping in the marshes sounded so nice. Lol I give you two a lot of respect for being so adventurous. 👍🇺🇸

[@aroundnorth]

Another great adventure both of you look little tired and in need of a hotel room, i had imagined it was a cozy 🛖 just for the two of you it looked more like a storageroom.

[@akabill79]

Ben best thing I ever bought for travelling is a headband with ear phones it’s Bluetooth connect to your phone and phone on portable battery …it’s amazing whilst travelling

[@chrishancock1990]

Ben I am gobsmacked you are in Iraq, you're really living up to "going to places you probably shouldn't" 😂

[@BackpackerBen]

YALLAAAAAAA

[@julianklimek7041]

Right on Bud!

[@user-iv3qd9tz1n]

Thanks Ben , Kat it's tiring big fish huge shallots in the meal funny about geese cows but not no sleep for you guys " loving the videos looking forward to the next subscriber Australia ❤

[@leilahamaoui3564]

Absolutely amazing how friendly and willing to help the people of Iraq are, beautiful! 🥰

[@unityistheonlysolution3485]

Ben, Kat …. I love you two! I don’t get any opportunities to travel abroad, and your travel videos really help that situation. You two make a great pair! - Jason/Freedom Fighter Until Death/Vermont, FRA (‘FRA’, meaning “The Failed Republic Of America”)

[@BackpackerBen]

Appreciate it my man 🫡

[@carmenarellano9]

Increíble, abrazos desde Mexico!

[@jaanasch6672]

I just want to say Thank you for showing me the world!

[@howardcollins6748]

You both are incredible Bravo regards Howard from Cyprus

[@BackpackerBen]

Cheers for watching mate!

[@SimplySammyK]

9:00 he was so adorable, seemed so excited to see you!

[@Sniperboy5551]

You’re very good at marketing your videos. Clickbaity title and Cat in the thumbnail, I couldn’t resist! In all seriousness, I’ve loved these Iraq videos. Such a beautiful country, I wish more people would visit.

[@chriscooper1263]

I do like the videos with both of you. Its nice.

[@hamzahalbaqqal8213]

4:06 He told you this isn't whiskey!!🥃 it's tea🤣

[@user-qi6xl8hg2j]

Really giving me new ideas for destinations, Early in the year I did Australi, NZ, Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora, 3 days ago I just got back from India, Baghdad has been o my bucket list since Iwas a kid ever since I saw The Thief of Bagdad on black and white telly, btw newbie subb,

[@Slykkpkins]

This one is quite an adventure, sleeping out in the marsh lands, which i thought Iraq was all sand. Thanks for sharing this, travelling to far off obscure places and the people you meet are all so friendly. You both endure what comes and show your appreciation. Safe travels always.

[@BackpackerBen]

Appreciate the comment mate!

[@mohammedadel514]

Iraq has mountains in the north and east, sand in the west and marshland in the south

[@Slykkpkins]

Thank you.

[@ashurbanipal7404]

Hasraa, what are you talking about, brother? I am from Iraq and in my entire life I have never seen a desert There are empty lands, but they are fertile and arable. There is only desert in the west, and no one lives there.

[@Slykkpkins]

@@ashurbanipal7404 thx, now im informed,. I would like to visit there soon.

[@marty3076]

I've watched a few marsh vids before. I think you perhaps experienced the ghetto part of the marsh. Didn't look as nice as the others. Although great adventure yourself and Kat definitely need some pampering after that. 😊

[@Rianewjob01]

Fascinating video. You and Kat are incredible, intrepid travellers. Your decency and respect towards people is an inspiration.

[@BackpackerBen]

Thanks my man

[@subculture2006]

You guys make a great double act. Next to Bald and Bankrupt you're now the best out there IMO. I suspect your subscribers will start to rocket upwards now.

[@user-en3sf9ji2y]

Absolutly loved watching this adventure 😂😂😂😂😂🎉thank you for bringing the exotic places to us

[@ahvidaneidavirgilluminous8754]

Great one

[@pieterschalkwyk8354]

Hey Ben, After a night out like that I believe you definitely need and deserve a beer.

[@johnbir8321]

That was some amazing experience….

[@JohnSmith-bt2pv]

Boss that Ben...a night under the Stars on the Marshes.Bet the sky wa sproper switched on,No light Pollution.Nice fire an Bibs ye uncle

[@jamoon469]

Saving this for later, have to get my dinner cooked...US thanksgiving today!

[@coast_2coast]

mate this is wild, iv been watching your videos for a long time now. Sleeping in a pitch black straw hut on a mash in iraq in the middle of nowhere surounded by gaurd geese has gotta be up there

[@BackpackerBen]

Don’t forget the gurning cows 🐄

[@coast_2coast]

😂

[@I.D-This]

Great content again, you guys love your sleep deprivation, Ben I reckon that cow had the hots for you.

[@giraffesinc.2193]

IRAQ???? Beautiful Katarina will need another week or six in a 5-star hotel after this! Happy Thanksgiving from the USA!

[@jasonwilliams3601]

Amazing adventure.

[@Tonyshandle]

Genuinely curious how you found this place 😄 Felt like Kat was a bit out of her comfort level (can't blame her)