Monday, May 21, 2012
LEBANON "Land of the Cedars"
Lebanon is quite unique and unlike any other Middle Eastern country. With 250 kilometres of Mediterranean coastline, and two ranges of beautiful snowcapped mountains, it is strategically located at the crossroads of 3 continents.
Lebanon is the destination for any tourist seeking: breath-taking views of nature, majestic historical and archaeological sites, a mixed and a vibrant culture, and the best nighlife in the world, along with an exquisite cuisine and a unique experience all around.
Click on the other tabs to learn more about "what to see and do" in Beirut, Mount Lebanon, the Bekaa, North Lebanon and the south.
There is much to do and see when visiting Lebanon. Beirut is a must visit desitnation for everyone; couples, singles and families. However, beyond Beirut there is also much to be savored,... there's something for everyone.
If you're planning your trip in advance, we recommend touring the country and enjoying every region, with its hotels, resorts, shopping malls, souks, restaurants, cafés and the plain beauty of nature, as well as the kindness of the people.
After years of unrest, Lebanon is regaining its former reputation as "The Switzerland of the Middle East". Its mountains and its scenic beauty, were almost untouched by the civil war,.... and with a rebuilt downtown core, you have the best tourism destination in Lebanon, where the new meets the old.
TIME & HOLIDAYS
local time, business hours and holidays in Lebanon
LOCAL TIME
Lebanese local time is GMT + 2 hours. Daylight Saving Time takes place on the last weekend of March and resets on the last weekend of October.
Lebanese local time is GMT + 2 hours. Daylight Saving Time takes place on the last weekend of March and resets on the last weekend of October.
BUSINESS HOURS
Government Offices 8.00 am - 2.00 pm
Banks 8.00 am - 12.30 pm
Shops 8.00 am - 5.00 pm
Private Offices 8.00 am - 5.00 pm
Government Offices 8.00 am - 2.00 pm
Banks 8.00 am - 12.30 pm
Shops 8.00 am - 5.00 pm
Private Offices 8.00 am - 5.00 pm
Visa and Passport Requirements
Passports: Passports valid for 6 months are required by all.
Visas: Visas are required by all, except for the nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the U.A.E. and Jordan for stays of up to 3 months.
Nationals of the European Community, Common Wealth, American Continent, Russia and Japan can obtain their visa on arrival at Beirut International Airport or any other port of entry at the Lebanese border. Other nationals of Romania, Czech Republic and Thailand should contact the consulate at the Lebanese Embassy for details about how to obtain their visa.
Nationals of Arab countries but non-GCC (Algeria, Comers Island, Djibouti, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Mauritania, Somalia, Sudan, Tunisia, Yemen) can obtain their visa at the airport provided they are in possession of the following:
- A round trip non-refundable ticket
- A hotel reservation or residence address
- A US$2000 in cash or a check from a recognized bank
Cost: For those coming for tourism, a free visa is granted for one month, renewable for up to three months.
Restricted Entry: The Government of Lebanon refuses entry to holders of Israeli passports, holders of passports containing a visa for Israel, valid or expired, used or unused and passports with entry stamps to Israel.
To remain on the safe side and irrespective of your nationality, we highly recommend you check with your local Lebanese Consulate or Embassy prior to boarding the plane. Please do so as soon as you decide to come in order to have enough time to prepare and submit all requested documents.
CUSTOMS
The Duty Free allowance for entry into Lebanon is two bottles of alcohol and 500g of tobacco (400 cigarettes or 20 cigars). No duty is payable on personal possessions, and there are no restrictions on bringing foreign or local currency into or out of the country.
The Duty Free allowance for entry into Lebanon is two bottles of alcohol and 500g of tobacco (400 cigarettes or 20 cigars). No duty is payable on personal possessions, and there are no restrictions on bringing foreign or local currency into or out of the country.
GETTING THERE
The national airline is Middle East Airlines (www.mea.com.lb)
To/from the airport, a bus service operates to the city center. Taxis are also available. The airport has a all the facilities that any traveler requires and more; a tourist information desk, duty-free shops, post office, restaurants, bars, hotel reservations, bank/bureau de change, car hire and a VIP lounge.
The main ports are Beirut, Jounieh, Tripoli, Sidon and Tyre.
Several steamship lines connect Beirut, Jounieh and Tripoli with the rest of the world. Many cruise lines operate to Lebanon and the sea connection between the Cypriot port of Larnaca and Jounieh in Lebanon is frequent.
There are no passenger services operating at present.
The best international routes are via Turkey and Aleppo–Homs and Lattakia in the Syrian Arab Republic along the north–south coastal road, and also the Beirut–Damascus trunk road. Bus services are available from Europe. For details, contact the Ministry of Tourism or the Lebanese embassy near you.
CURRENCY
The local currency is the Lebanese Pound, or as locally referred to, the "lira". The terms livre (French), pound (English), and lira (Arabic) are used interchangeably, and the currency's abbreviation is LL (Livre Libanaise) or LBP (Lebanese Pound).
In Lebanon you can also pay in US dollars. Money or travelers checks can be exchanged at banks, exchange shops, and major hotels. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Diners Club) are accepted at most large establishments throughout the country.
ATMs are also widely available in Beirut and larger cities, and will usually dispense both U.S. dollars and Lebanese pounds.
* click LL value for picture of the bill or coin
Every foreigner or Lebanese person residing abroad, and whose stay in Lebanon does not exceed three continuous months, is entitled to ask for a VAT refund. A VAT refund is NOT applicable to services (hotels, telecommunications, car rentals, guided tours, etc), foods and beverages (restaurants, cafes, supermarkets), fuel, or tobacco.
The goods must be transported in the tourist’s personal luggage and must have been bought from a VAT registered retailer. The total value for each invoice from each store must exceed 150,000 LL per day.
Food and Drink in Lebanon
Lebanese cuisine is widely acknowledged to be the finest in the Middle East. The country's gastronomic tradition is characterised by the use of an extremely wide variety of locally produced, and therefore extremely fresh, vegetables served in all forms and shapes with an abundance of fresh herbs (mostly coriander, parsley and mint). A meal is always concluded with a wide range of fresh fruit, including melon, apples, oranges, persimmon, tangerines, cactus fruit, grapes and figs, which are all grown locally. Excellent Lebanese food is available everywhere. Beirut also offers a large choice of international restaurants which offer dishes from all over the world.
CLIMATE & WEATHER
the four seasons in Lebanon
Springtime (April-May) is one of the most pleasant times to visit Lebanon. The near perfect weather, 0-15°C (32-60°F) in the mountains and 15-25°C (58-72°F) along the coast, makes it a great time to enjoy a Mediterranean spring. Lebanon's archaeological treasures are on full display during the spring months, with snow-topped peaks in the background and bright wildflowers springing up amid the ruins.
The Spring weather also makes it a fantastic time for outdoor activities. Particularly popular are hikes through one of the Cedar tree reserves (Al-Shouf, Horsh Ehden, Tannourine) or treks down into the majestic Qadisha Valley. After a day of activities in the mountains or sightseeing on the coast, you can spend cool spring evenings sampling Lebanon's delights at one of the country's many open-air cafés and restaurants.
Summer (June-September) in Lebanon is made for beaches, mountain escapes, and cultural festivals. The clear skies and warm temperatures along the coast, 20-32°C (68-90°F), lure Lebanese and tourists alike to the waters of the Mediterranean. The atmosphere here is a mixture of trendy “see and be seen” and utter relaxation. Archaeological sites are also available at this time, and for a change of pace, we recommend heading to the mountains, where plenty of outdoor activities await you in cooler temperatures: 6-22°C (45-70°F).
For arts enthusiasts, summer is when Lebanon hosts a large number of festivals, featuring both local and international performers. The largest of these festivals are held at historic and archaeological sites, serving as breathtaking backdrops for performances. The international festivals attract premier talent in a variety of performance areas, ranging from opera or jazz to renowned dance companies and famous comedians. For festivals on a smaller scale with more of a local flavor, many villages throughout the country host summer fairs or festivals. This is also the season for nightlife, entertainment, and shopping.
Fall (October-November) brings cool, crisp weather that is perfect for taking in Lebanon's rich historical treasures. Temperatures range from 5-20°C (40-68°F) in the mountains and from 15-28°C (60-85°F) on the coast. Since these months are outside the summer and winter high seasons, there will be fewer crowds and better deals on accommodations.
Don't miss wine tasting at the vineyards in the Békaa Valley, the citrus harvest in the South, and apple picking in the North. Hire a small outfitter to take you on a trip along the ancient olive route to see the harvesting of the olives, learn how olive oil is pressed, and purchase Lebanese olive oil and olive oil soap.
Winter (December-March) presents visitors to Lebanon with a host of contrasts. Winter along the coast is a mild affair, characterized by warm days and cool evenings, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-67°F). As such, it is a wonderful time to visit the many historical and cultural attractions along the coast, including the ancient cities of Jbail (Byblos), Saida (Sidon), and Sour (Tyre).
The real draw during the winter, however, is Lebanon's winter sports. With six ski resorts catering to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, Lebanon has something for everyone. Winter is the rainy season in Lebanon, which translates into plenty of powder at the higher elevations where temperatures range from -5-5°C (25-40°F).
If timed correctly, a visit during the tail end of the ski season affords visitors the opportunity to ski in the morning and take a relaxing swim in the Mediterranean in the afternoon. Also, the country's famous nightlife, entertainment, and shopping do not slow down during the winter months.
LANGUAGE
While Arabic is Lebanon's official language, English and French are widely spoken. Most Lebanese speak at least two or three languages, and visitors find NO problems communicating. Many establishments provide signs, menus, and information in both Arabic and English/French.
While Arabic is Lebanon's official language, English and French are widely spoken. Most Lebanese speak at least two or three languages, and visitors find NO problems communicating. Many establishments provide signs, menus, and information in both Arabic and English/French.
CLOTHING
Generally there are no particular cultural rules for this matter in Lebanon. Diversity appears also in the Lebanese clothing. For instance, mini skirts can be seen beside Islamic veils. However, wearing revealing clothing, is to be avoided in certain places such as the souk of Tripoli or Sidon, as well as when visiting religious places. This rule is totally reversed, when enjoying the nightlife.
Generally there are no particular cultural rules for this matter in Lebanon. Diversity appears also in the Lebanese clothing. For instance, mini skirts can be seen beside Islamic veils. However, wearing revealing clothing, is to be avoided in certain places such as the souk of Tripoli or Sidon, as well as when visiting religious places. This rule is totally reversed, when enjoying the nightlife.
BARGAINING
It is common to bargain the fare with a taxi driver, a street sellers or a store owner when buying clothes or souvenirs. However, bargaining for some products such as food is considered to be ill mannered.
It is common to bargain the fare with a taxi driver, a street sellers or a store owner when buying clothes or souvenirs. However, bargaining for some products such as food is considered to be ill mannered.
Also, don't bargain at fancy stores, or for any fixed fares like a cinema ticket or the price of a magazine / newspaper. Otherwise, bargain away, and you will be amazed how much of a discount you could sometimes get!
TIPPING
You usually tip porters, waiters, hotel staff, guides, doormen,… etc. The average rate in restaurants in 10-15%, whereas with other service providers it’s anywhere between 2,000 LL and 10,000 LL (depending on the service provided, as well as how pleasant it was).
You usually tip porters, waiters, hotel staff, guides, doormen,… etc. The average rate in restaurants in 10-15%, whereas with other service providers it’s anywhere between 2,000 LL and 10,000 LL (depending on the service provided, as well as how pleasant it was).
HOLIDAYS
Thanks to its diverse population and different religious groups, Lebanon has a full calendar of official holidays. Although all banks, government offices, and schools are closed on holidays, it is often possible to find shops and restaurants open for business.
Thanks to its diverse population and different religious groups, Lebanon has a full calendar of official holidays. Although all banks, government offices, and schools are closed on holidays, it is often possible to find shops and restaurants open for business.
(This schedule is subject to the government administrative decisions every year).
| New Year | 1 day | St. Maroun's Day | 9th February |
| Labor Day | 1st May | Martyr's Day | 6th May |
| Ascension | 15th August | All Saints Day | 1st November |
| Independence Day | 22nd November | Christmas Day | 25th Dec & 7th Jan |
| Holy Friday (Eastern) | 1 day | Easter (Eastern) | 1 day |
| Holy Friday (Western) | 1 day | Easter (Western) | 1 day |
| Eid Al-Fiter | 3 days | Ashoura | 1 day |
| Eid Al-Adha | 3 days | Mawled Nabawi | 1 day |
| Islamic New Year | 1 day | Al-Isra' Wal-Mi'raj | 1 day |
Fixed Dates:
Varying Dates:
HEALTH & SECURITY
enjoy a healthy and safe vacation in Lebanon
HEALTH
No vaccinations are required for entry into Lebanon. However, similar to travel to other foreign countries, hepatitis A and B vaccines, as well as the typhoid vaccine are recommended; also make sure that your tetanus-diphtheria and measles vaccinations are up-to-date.
No vaccinations are required for entry into Lebanon. However, similar to travel to other foreign countries, hepatitis A and B vaccines, as well as the typhoid vaccine are recommended; also make sure that your tetanus-diphtheria and measles vaccinations are up-to-date.
Although Beirut's tap water is considered safe to drink, it's probably best to drink bottled water as the Lebanese do.
Good medical care is available especially in urban areas, and doctors generally speak French and English. Public facilities exist, but for high quality care, private clinics and hospitals are more recommended.
SECURITY
In Beirut, as in other towns and villages, streets are particularly safe day and night. The culture encourages the community to watch out for all members; hence random violence is seldom experienced by both locals and visitors.
In Beirut, as in other towns and villages, streets are particularly safe day and night. The culture encourages the community to watch out for all members; hence random violence is seldom experienced by both locals and visitors.
That being said, you might be more concerned about the general safety situation in the country, political turmoil, or the possibility of a war or instability. Before you plan your trip, you it is recommended that you consult with the Lebanese embassy where you live. Ask them about the situation in Lebanon, and whether or not travel to Lebanon is recommended at that time. Also, if you decide to visit Lebanon (or any other country for that matter), it's a good idea to connect with your country's embassy at your destination, and even register in case they need to get in touch with you.
Lebanon has passed the time of war, and its citizens are peace loving and friendly people. However, the region in general is unstable, and Lebanon is unfortunately a place where this instability has manifested in the past. However, Lebanon is safer than many other nations, and the situation there is relatively predictable.
Life is for living, and when you visit Lebanon, you will see how the Lebanese make that saying a reality.
ACCOMODATION
Lebanon has a large hotel capacity, including a number of outstanding luxury establishments. There are also many small, well-run hostels, as well as furnished apartments, which offer self-service facilities.
Lebanon has a large hotel capacity, including a number of outstanding luxury establishments. There are also many small, well-run hostels, as well as furnished apartments, which offer self-service facilities.
TRANSPORTATION
Service - The best and cheapest way to get around is by taxi or a shared taxi known locally as "service". Taxis and service are usually Mercedes cars distinguished by red number plates. Service taxis follow a pre-set route and will stop wherever you want.
Service - The best and cheapest way to get around is by taxi or a shared taxi known locally as "service". Taxis and service are usually Mercedes cars distinguished by red number plates. Service taxis follow a pre-set route and will stop wherever you want.
If you are standing on a street they usually stop and honk. Shout your destination and if he nods then get in. Fares are not listed anywhere, but payment is usually a standard charge of 1,500 LL unless you are going to another city which you may have to take more than one service.
Taxi - The same service car can become a taxi, if you pay the fare of the other four seats. This avoids stopping and starting to let other passengers in or out and you will be deposited right outside your destination.
Apart from the taxis that can be stopped on the streets, there are numerous taxis that have meters and that can be called in to your hotel.
Bus - Buses are also available, covering some parts of Beirut and a few other destinations around the country. There are both private and state-owned buses from different sizes which can take you anywhere for only 500 LL.
There are two bus stations in Beirut: one outside the museum for destinations North of Beirut, and another at Cola Bridge for destinations South of Beirut.
VAT (VALUE ADDED TAX)
The VAT is a 10% tax paid by the consumer on most goods and services. Tourists departing from Lebanon are entitled to a VAT refund on goods purchased during their stay.
The VAT is a 10% tax paid by the consumer on most goods and services. Tourists departing from Lebanon are entitled to a VAT refund on goods purchased during their stay.
Beirut International Airport
Beirut International Airport (BIA) is a vital facility that plays a major role in linking Lebanon with the outside world and enriching the business and tourist sectors of the economy. Its latest development is resulting in a substantial increase in the number of tourists, and attracting major airline companies and increasing transit traffic.
BIA is located in the Khaldeh suburb south of the capital and around 8kms distant from Beirut downtown. It became operational in 1954 and is the only civil airport of the country.
The old airport was renovated in 1977, and the present runways were rehabilitated between 1982 and 1984. The execution of the first phase of the new airport started in 1994 and was inaugurated in 1998.
However, the second phase was inaugurated on the fifth of July 2000 and the operation started on the sixth of June 2002. The total area covered by BIA is around 7 million square meters and the overall area of the terminal building is 150,000 square meters.
BIA has been redeveloped to handle 6 million passengers per year and to receive 30 aircrafts at the same time. It has 84 passenger counters, 21 passenger gates, and the parking area has a capacity of 2250 cars. Future development plans aim at handling 16 million passengers by the year 2035.
Passenger Services
- Duty Free Shops
- Banking in Departure and
Arrival Lounges
- Currency Exchange
- ATMs
- Tax Refund for VAT
- Restaurants
- Public Phone
- WiFi Internet Access
- Car Parking
- Car Rental
- Taxi