About Lebanon
Lebanon is a small yet diverse country nestled in the eastern Mediterranean, known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage. Here are some aspects to know about Lebanon:
Geographical Diversity:
Mountains & Coastline: The country is characterized by its varied geography, with the rugged Lebanon Mountains running parallel to the Mediterranean coast.
Valleys & Plateaus: The Beqaa Valley, nestled between the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon mountain ranges, is known for its fertile lands and vineyards.
Cultural Heritage:
Historical Significance: Lebanon boasts a history that dates back thousands of years, with evidence of Phoenician, Roman, and Ottoman influences evident in its architecture, ruins, and cultural practices.
Religious Diversity: It's a land where various religious communities coexist, including Maronite Christians, Sunni and Shia Muslims, Druze, and others.
Cuisine:
Lebanese cuisine is internationally renowned for its flavorsome dishes like falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, and shawarma. The mezze, a variety of small dishes, is a staple in Lebanese dining.
Cities and Landmarks:
Beirut: The capital city is a vibrant hub with a mix of modernity and history, offering bustling nightlife, cultural sites, and a beautiful coastline.
Byblos (Jbeil): One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities globally, Byblos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient ruins and picturesque harbor.
Baalbek: Home to colossal Roman ruins, including the Temple of Bacchus and Temple of Jupiter, showcasing the country's rich historical past.
Cedars of God: These ancient cedar trees, a symbol of Lebanon, are located in the mountainous regions and hold significant cultural and historical importance.
Natural Beauty:
Scenic Landscapes: Despite its small size, Lebanon offers diverse landscapes, including mountains, valleys, and a beautiful coastline along the Mediterranean Sea. It's great for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and enjoying beaches.
Warm Hospitality:
Lebanese people are known for their warmth and hospitality, welcoming visitors with open arms and a strong sense of community.
Lebanon's complex history and cultural tapestry make it a fascinating destination with a lot to offer, from historical sites to delicious cuisine and breathtaking natural beauty.
NOT DRIVING IN LEBANON
Do not take any taxis from the streets !
It is easy to use taxis for long-distance journeys or walk around Beirut by foot. You can call Taxi companies and request cars. Here are some taxi companies:
READY TAXI in Beirut +961 1 397 993 (by phone only)
Comfort Taxi: +961 76 744 510 (WhatsApp and phone)
RELAX TAXI in Jounieh region : +961 3 952 293 (Whatsapp and phone)
Star Taxi: +9613 408 705 (also on WhatsApp)
Allo Taxi : They have an app which we recommend using: allo.taxi/home
UBER is always an option, consider switching the payment mode to cash.
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DRIVING IN LEBANON
Download the offline card on google maps, it can be useful to save your internet!
Drive Cautiously: Be aware of local driving habits and drive carefully.
Driving Behavior: stay alert, some drivers might drive closely or switch lanes abruptly. They don’t always respect lines. And don't be surprised to see more cars than lanes in certain situations.
Traffic Rules: Expect faster-moving traffic on the right side.
Speed Limits: Typically 50 km/h in cities, 80 or 100 km/h on ”highways”
Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road at all times.