Lebanon isn’t typically a popular holiday destination for Australian tourists. After all, the Australian Government has issued a travel warning. (I don’t want to disregard that but if you “re-consider your need to travel” as suggested, you’re the only one missing out.) Despite the ongoing political instability that has impacted the nation’s security for decades, the snow-capped mountains, deep-blue mediterranean sea, labyrinthine streets, old mosques and ancient ruins ensure the tourism industry remains strong.
Here’s 4 reasons why you should plan to visit this Lebanon this summer:
1. THE FOOD
Hummus, Tabouleh, fattoush, falafel, need I say more? If all you want to do is eat on your holiday, you won’t be disappointed. The quality of the food is world-class and even fast-food eateries like Zaatar w Zeit are better than any Lebanese restaurants you will find at home. For life-changing hummus, head to Babel at Zaitunay Bay in Beirut. For seafood with a spectacular view go to Al Sultan Brahim at Jounieh. For the world’s best $2 Falafel go to Falafel Abou Andre in Jounieh. For an Arabian feast try Em Sherrif Cafe at donwtown Beirut. For dessert, try the legendary Sea Sweet Patisserie. The best late-night dining is at Le Petit Cafe in Jounieh, it’s open 24 hours!
2. THE BEACHES AND BEACHCLUBS
Lebanon is a Middle-Eastern country with 200km of Mediterranean coastline which enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year. From North to South you be spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches and beachclubs but my favourite places to visit are below:
3. THE HISTORY
If you’re looking for more than delicious food and great beaches, you’ll be pleased to discover that Lebanon is home to the ancient city of Byblos, which is reputed to be the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities. Byblos is a coastal town, 40km North of Beirut and is set on a cliff of sandstone above sandy beaches and surrounded by cloud covered mountains. It was founded by the Phoenicians in 5000BC and is home to ruins from many civilisations including the Romans, Byzantines and Crusaders. Today, Byblos is a thriving tourist destination full of ancient wonder. Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets and shop at the souks, dine at a seaside seafood restaurant at the ancient harbour or visit the historic ruins of The Crusader Castle.
4. THE NIGHTLIFE
Lebanon is world famous for its nightlife and in the summertime the rooftop bars of Beirut really come to life. For the perfect night out, start at Iris on the roof top of the An-Nahar building in downtown Beirut for sunset drinks, live music and 180 degree views over the city and the Mediterranean. When you think you’re ready to dance the night away make your way down to the Beirut Waterfront to the infamous SKYBAR. It was nominated as one of the best clubs in the world and put Beirut nightlife on the map. If you’re to not ready to wrap things up when SKYBAR closes at 4am head to B 018. This club was designed to reflect its location, a former Palestinian refugee camp that housed up to 20,000 evacuees during the Lebanese Civil War. The club is underground and looks like a bomb shelter. It’s tables are shaped like coffins. At sunrise they open the retractable roof so you can dance under Beirut’s rising sun.