Introducing Lebanon
Coolly combining the ancient with the ultramodern, Lebanon is one of the most captivating countries in the Middle East. From the Phoenician findings of Tyre (Sour) and Roman Baalbek's tremendous temple to Beirut's BO18 and Bernard Khoury's modern movement, the span of Lebanon's history leaves many visitors spinning. Tripoli (Trablous) is considered to have the best souk in the country and is famous for its Mamluk architecture. It's well equipped with a taste of modernity as well; Jounieh, formerly a sleepy fishing village, is a town alive with nightclubs and glitz on summer weekends.
Advertisement
With all of the Middle East's best bits - warm and welcoming people, mind-blowing history and considerable culture, Lebanon is also the antithesis of many people's imaginings of the Middle East: mostly mountainous with skiing to boot, it's also laid-back, liberal and fun. While Beirut is fast becoming the region's party place, Lebanon is working hard to recapture its crown as the 'Paris of the Orient'.
The rejuvenation of the Beirut Central District is one of the largest, most ambitious urban redevelopment projects ever undertaken. Travellers will find the excitement surrounding this and other developments and designs palpable - and very infectious.
Finally, Lebanon's cuisine is considered the richest of the region. From hummus to hommard (lobster), you'll dine like a king. With legendary sights, hospitality, food and nightlife, what more could a traveller want?
Travel Alert: The security situation in southern Lebanon is dangerous for travellers. Check out Safe Travel or the Thorn Tree travel forum for advice from travellers.
Last updated: Oct 26, 2009
Tips & articles
-
The Global World Cup
24 July 2010
Featured post: Spain’s big win — as seen from a tiny Spanish village. Fans around the world...
-
Travel literature review: The Media Relations Department of Hizbollah…
6 July 2010
This is part of series of posts where travel literature is reviewed by Lonely Planet staff and Thorn...
-
Meat-free travel: vegetarian hits and misses
23 November 2009
Here’s our pick of the perfect destinations for the best food without a face – and three for vegetarians...
Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
-
Jewish name = not getting in to Lebanon
by omarsadiki 0 replies, last post 31 July 2010
Hello all, I was recently detained, interrogated, and bounced from the Beirut Airport for having a Jewish name (My father is Jewish,…
-
Syrian Visa
by sarenity 3 replies, last post 31 July 2010
We are currently living in Turkey and planning a trip to Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Sinai then back to Turkey via Jordan and Syria. If we…
-
lettakia (syria) to lebanon by taxi?
by marco_787 5 replies, last post 29 July 2010
hi there in LP it says there might be taxi service between lettakia and beirut - but in 2007 the borders were closed. did someone travel…
