Lebanon, a land where history whispers through the cedar trees and the Mediterranean Sea kisses ancient shores, is a land of profound contrasts and timeless beauty. At the crossroads of East and West, it has welcomed civilisations from the Phoenicians to the Ottomans. The bustling streets of Beirut, a city that pulsates with life, are a vibrant tapestry of cultures and stories, where modernity dances with tradition.
Venture beyond the capital and you'll find majestic mountains hiding villages frozen in time, where the scent of jasmine fills the air and hospitality flows as freely as the legendary wine. But it is in Lebanon's resilience - its ability to rise again and again from the ashes of conflict - that you will find the soul of this nation. To travel here is to step into a living history, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered.
Mediterranean; mild to cool, wet winters with hot, dry summers; the Lebanon Mountains experience heavy winter snows
Arab 95%, Armenian 4%, other 1%
When invited to a home bring a gift for the host; it is considered polite to additionally bring chocolates for the children of the house.
Tabbouleh — a salad made with tomatoes, parsley, bulgur, and onions mixed in a sauce of lemon juice, olive oil, and salt; often served with Kibbeh (ground lamb, bulgur, and seasonings baked, fried, stuffed, or served raw)
Upper middle-income Middle Eastern economy; economic activity hurt by economic depression, COVID-19, and port explosion; hyperinflation and sharp poverty increases; banks have ceased lending; new financing facility helping with recovery
Lebanon