Beirut – the most populous city in Lebanon – enjoys an ideal coastal position alongside the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The Middle Eastern city, renowned as the crossroads of three continents, features an unlimited choice of accommodation options, entertainment and business opportunities.
Widely famous as a focal point for the region’s cultural life, with numerous archaeological sites, this award-winning city whose past dates back to the 15th century BC, undoubtedly established itself as a destination that appeals to all travelers’ demands.
Regarded as the commercially busiest city, with dramatic mountains rising behind it, the flourishing scene of Beirut boasts various cafes, restaurants and night clubs, not to mention the famous market at the martyr’s place known as Souk el Barghout. Beirut port and Beirut marina, as well as a vast of theaters and museums are also amongst the travel highlights. The city also provides travelers with some of the best shopping opportunities in the region. An extensive array of shopping streets in downtown Beirut, including Hamra Street, mar-Elias Street and Rue Verdun Street, as well as a variety of shopping centers, malls and souks, add another unique value to the city’s offerings. Besides all the opportunities in Beirut, the large portfolio of accommodation choices – from low budget to high-end hotels – makes it a perfect choice for family, business or cultural retreats.
Moreover, the city’s unique offerings make Beirut a natural choice for local, regional and international conferences and conventions.
One of Beirut’s leading meeting venues is Beirut International Exhibition and Leisure Center (BIEL) which is located in the heart of the city, and offers 15.000m2 of column free multi-functional spaces. However, in Beirut almost all hotels aim to meet business travelers’ demands. A large variety of hotels offer multi-functional, state-of-the-art corporate facilities with tailor-made services.
Visas can be obtained in advance at Lebanese embassies and consulates around the world.
Nationals of many countries can also obtain business or tourist visas upon arrival at Beirut Airport and at other of entry on the Lebanese border.
At Beirut Airport, Visa stamps can be purchased at a window directly across passport control.
The price of a 15-day visa is $17.
A single entry, three-month visa is $35.
Important note: Travelers holding passports that contain visas or entry/exist stamps for Israel are likelt to be refused entry into Lebanon.
For more information visit the General Directorate of general Security website: www.surete-generale.gov.lb
OR
Lebanon Ministry of Tourism website: www.lebanon-tourism.gov.lb
Summer season - June to September - usually enjoys temperatures ranging from 20 - 30°C and the driest weather with an average of 1mm of rainfall. August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 30°C.
On the contrary, January and February are the coldest months with a monthly low temperature of 10°C. January is also the wettest month with an average of 140mm. Snow in Beirut is rare and usually evaporates without accumulation, however, hail and sleet can occur quite frequently in winter.
Lebanese banks can also exchange travelers’ cheques very easily.
Tipping: In Beirut, standard rules of tipping apply. This means 10 per cent for restaurants if the service charge is not included in the bill.
Tipping is not obligatory: however, it is “common practice, yet it varies from place to place. Thus, tipping is discretionary, but expected.
BUSINESS HOURS Banks: Monday to Saturday from 8:30 to 12:30 Government offices: From 8:00 to 14:00 Post office: From 8:00 to 14:00 Shops and business: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 18:00
Beirut’s rich past witnessed numerous historical events that are still visible today through the various historical sites and attractions scattered throughout the city. The touches of world renowned civilizations have left marks on the face of the city, with their impact still apparent nowadays. Travelers can appreciate this influence in various museums, art galleries and archaeological sites, which are frequently visited by an increasing number of tourists. Beirut’s national Museum offers treasures of over 1,300 prehistoric Egyptian artifacts, Phoenician statues and Roman and Byzantine jewellery.
After a long day visiting the many historical attractions, travelers can relax and explore the mouth-watering Lebanese cuisine in one of the most elegant downtowns in the world.
The entertainment scene in Beirut is world renowned for its all-night parties and fun-loving people. As such there are hundreds of outlets and night clubs around the city.
Beirut’s offerings do not end here, as the religious diversity of Lebanon caters to different faiths, therefore the city is also known as one of the most sought after religious destinations.
The natural beauty of Beirut has also been a major factor for its high esteem, with the Mediterranean Sea embracing the city and the proximity of Lebanon’s mountains.