What to take into account when planning to visit Lebanon
Lebanon is a fascinating country with a rich history and culture. Situated between the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains of the Levant, Lebanon has something to offer everyone. Lebanon is a truly unique destination, from its stunning beaches and lush mountains to its vibrant cities. You may want to visit Lebanon for your next paid vacation. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or an action-packed adventure, Lebanon is the perfect place.
In this article, you will get to learn all that is required to help you achieve your plan to visit Lebanon.
What is it about Lebanon?
Lebanon is a country located in the Middle East. The population of Lebanon is estimated to be around 6 million people, and the capital city is Beirut. The official language of Lebanon is Arabic, but English and French are also widely spoken.
Lebanon has a long tourism history, and the country is well known for its beaches, ski resorts, and ancient ruins. The Lebanese economy is primarily service-based, with tourism being a significant contributor. However, political instability and violence have greatly affected the economy in recent years.
Security is a significant concern in Lebanon, as the country has experienced several terrorist attacks in recent years. However, despite these security concerns, Lebanon remains a popular tourist destination. eCommerce is also booming in Lebanon, with many businesses now operating online due to the country’s high internet penetration levels.
What to take along when you plan to visit Lebanon
If you’re planning a trip to Lebanon, you should take a few things with you. First and foremost, pack your patience. Lebanon is a country with a rich history and culture, and it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. So be prepared to take your time exploring all the country has to offer.
In addition to packing your patience, also be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes. Lebanon is a great place to explore on foot, and you’ll want to be able to walk around without getting too tired. Finally, don’t forget to pack some cash. While many places in Lebanon accept credit cards, there are still some places where cash is the only option.
When traveling to Lebanon, it is important to make sure that you have all of the necessary documents. This includes a valid passport and a visa. The visa can be obtained from the Lebanese Embassy or the Consulate. It is also important to make sure that you have your travel insurance policy with you.
List of essential items to take along when you visit Lebanon
- Your Passport and other necessary documents
- Money or Payment card
- International driving license( If needed)
- Health insurance card
- Dry waterproof jacket
- light cardigans
- A pair of casual trousers and a pair of shorts
- Quality T-shirts
- Pajamas
- Trainers, hiking boots, simple pair of shoes, flip-flops or sandals
- Swimming costume and beach towel
- Pair of protective sunglasses
- Hat or fez cap
Tourist visa requirements
Travelers to Lebanon must meet all entry requirements, including valid passports and visas. Passports must be valid for at least six months; visas can be acquired in advance at Lebanese consulates and embassies all over the world.
Citizens of many countries can also obtain a business or tourist visa on arrival at the Beirut Airport and other ports of entry on the Lebanese border. At the Beirut Airport, you can buy a visa stamp directly across from passport control.
Enjoy Lebanon’s cultural tourism when you visit Lebanon.
Lebanon holds a wealth of culture. Famous sites such as the mysterious Baalbek temple and the extravagant Jeita Grotto are only a sample of the time-honored cultural attractions found in this lovely nation.
Here are some of the principal cultural sites:
Baalbek
At an ancient crossroads lying on the west bank of the Nabataean Sea alongside the Syrian interior and northern Syria, Baalbek is famous for its large temples. Baalbek overlooks the eastern Bekaa plain and is the site of a landmark project that embodies Roman ambition, political acumen, and wealth.
Byblos
It is one of the world’s oldest cities and has been one of the few continuously inhabited sites. Their excavations reveal evidence that humans lived there during the 6th millennium B.C.
Anjar
An entire palace city from the time of the Umayyad dynasty lies in ruins. Anjar is a corruption of the name Ayn Gerrha, which was the name for this Middle Eastern city in Hellenistic times. Unlike other historic cities in Lebanon that are still inhabited, such as Tyre, Saida, Beirut, and Byblos, Anjar s glory did not last long, owing to the brevity of the Umayyad’s reign over it.
Jeita Grotto
Expertly sculpted by billions of years of erosion, the Jeita Grotto is a wonderful sight for those visiting. Six kilometers wide, 18 kilometers deep, and once only accessible by boat through an underwater river, the cave system is magical and fascinating.
The Cedars
Lebanon’s cedars exceed 1,800 feet in altitude and are known for their majesty and longevity. Exceptional in warmth and flame retardant, the fruit of the cedar tree was highly coveted in many ancient lands, including Egypt and the Phoenician colonies of the Mediterranean.
Enjoy Lebanese cuisine when you visit Lebanon.
The gourmet paradise of Lebanon is partly due to its terrific Mediterranean climate, which allows fruits and veggies to grow naturally in abundance here. With an array of spicy and delicious food, Lebanese cuisine has a unique taste that is often compared to other nearby countries.
You may like to sample Hors D’oeuvres, Salads, Entrées, Soups, Fish, Main Dishes, Meat Dishes, Chicken Rice and Sweets.
Also Read: How to apply for a Lebanon Medical Treatment Visa
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I have to know before traveling to Lebanon?
Don’t assume everyone is Muslim in Lebanon. There is more to Lebanon than just the city of Beirut. Traveling to Lebanon felt comfortable as a solo female traveler. You will see many checkpoints showing the army’s heavy presence in Lebanon. Be mesmerized by the totality of Lebanon. Carry a pen in your hand luggage when you travel to Lebanon.
What is needed to visit Lebanon?
U.S. citizens traveling to Lebanon for tourism frequently obtain a single-month visa on arrival at Beirut International Airport or other ports of entry. This visa can be extended. Details on the extension may be obtained at a local office of General Security (Sûreté Générale).
What should I avoid in Lebanon?
Palestinian refugee camps (specifically Ain El Hilweh in Saida unless you are with a guide), Within 5 kilometers of the border with Syria, The Hermel area. Even the southern suburbs of Beirut are “no-go” due to possible crime and extremism.
What should I pack for a trip to Lebanon?
Backpacking Lebanon. A piece of rainwear. One piece of thick clothing. Some thin clothing or cotton long-sleeved tops. A cardigan denim shirt. One pair of leggings. Some pairs of jeans and trousers. 2 pairs of shorts.
Is Lebanon safe in 2023?
Lebanon is deemed too dangerous to travel to, so reconsider your travel plans due to crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping, and lack of support from the U.S. Embassy in Beirut.
How much is a Lebanon visa on arrival?
There is no fee for the Arrival visa with a validity of one month and one entry. The fee for Lebanon on an Arrival visa is 17 USD for one entry and is valid for three months. The cost depends on your nationality.
Do I need to conduct a PCR test to travel to Lebanon?
All passengers arriving in Lebanon must hold negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test results from one of the local testing labs; negative PCR test result validity must not exceed 48 hours between the sampling date and boarding the flight from the country of origin.
Is Beirut safe for solo female Travellers?
Should you go to Beirut, Saida, Tyre, and Byblos don’t worry about safety, but if you go to Tripoli or other locations in southern Syria near the Syrian border, watch out, but don’t panic.
Is there a dress code in Lebanon?
Your clothing choice is your choice, and many other people dress similarly. But, again, consider your surroundings and how conservatively the community is when dressing up, as certain communities are typically more conservative than others.
How long does it take to obtain a Lebanon visa?
Visa upon arrival on arrival once per month at first, renewable for three months. Single-entry visa in advance, 15 days, one month, or three months; multiple-entry visa in advance, three months. If applying for a visa in advance from the embassy, you must enter Lebanon within three months from the date of the issue.
Can you drink alcohol in Beirut?
You may consume as much alcohol as you choose. Lebanon has drive-through bars. There are no restrictions on alcohol (except when driving, of course). There are many bars, bistros, pubs, and nightclubs.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Lebanon is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from the stunning scenery to the delicious food. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Lebanon!
