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Lebanon Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Sking in Lebanon Sking in Lebanon Sami Amer Lebanon is a small country in the Middle East (10 452 km²) its capital is Beirut. Until mid 70s, it was a very popular destination for both travelers and businessmen. Lebanon was considered as Switzerland of the middle east. The civil war changed that. Now that the war is over, Lebanon is getting back on its feet. But because of of the 2006 war with Israel and the Hizbollah conflict, Lebanon is one of the most unsafe places to visit. It'll take a long time before the country gets back on its feet. Baalbek is also on your must see list. The ruins are very impressive. Baalbek can be visited easily from the town of Zahle , which is worth a visit itself (best lebaneese food). On the coast you'll find several nice places to visit as well, such as Sidon , Tripoli and Tyre. The mountain scenery of Bcharre is great and you should try to find the time to go hiking there. Don't miss visiting Jeita cave, it's something you would not want to miss. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: MSN ________History Edit This Like other areas of the Middle East, Lebanon has a heritage almost as old as the earliest evidence of mankind. Its geographic position as a crossroads linking the Mediterranean Basin with the great Asian hinterland has conferred on it a cosmopolitan character and a multicultural legacy. At different periods of its history Lebanon has come under the domination of foreign rulers including Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Crusaders, Ottomans and French. Although often conquered the Lebanese take pride in their rebellions against despotic and repressive rulers. Moreover despite foreign domination Lebanon's mountainous terrain has provided it with a certain protective isolation enabling it to survive with an identity all its own. Its proximity to the sea has ensured that throughout its history Lebanon has held an important position as a trading center. This tradition of commerce began with the Phoenicians and continued through many centuries remaining almost unaffected by foreign rule and the worst periods of internal strife. Lebanon has a mix of Arab and Mediterranean cultures colored by Western influences, especially French. Although Lebanon traditionally considered itself the only Christian country in the Arab world by the 1970s the Muslim population was slightly greater than that of the Christians a situation that led to sectarian unrest and struggles for political and economic power. The civil war lead to foreign intervention and interference, such as the invasion of the Syrian and Israeli armies, as well as the presence of European and American peacekeeping troops. The war ended in late 1989, but the Syrian occupation lasted until 2005 when the assassination of Prime Minister Hariri lead to mass protests that culminated in the one-million people (a third of Lebanon’s population) gathering in downtown Beirut's Martyr Square on March 14, 2005. The Syrian army withdrew a month later due to the peaceful demonstration, which also toppled the Syrian-backed government, similar to what happened in the Ukraine . The peaceful movement was dubbed, the "Cedar Revolution." Free elections took place the following June. With a freely and democratically elected government and an educated population, Lebanon today has the best chance to regain its stature as the cultural and economical center of the eastern Mediterranean. __________Practical Information Edit This Currency The local currency is the Lebanese Pound (LBP) [Add Practical address] Exchange rate Edit This The Lebanese Lira is pegged to the US Dollar. The rate is about 1510 Lira to 1 USD. Most places accept US Dollars at an exchange rate of 1500 Lira to the Dollar. type: Money matters World66 rating: [rate it] ________Getting There Edit This Beirut is served by all Major European carriers- British Airways from Heathrow airport twice a day, Air France flies from 20 UK destinations via CDG to Beirut with 4 daily flights using 777-300 equipment. Alitalia, Lufthansa, Iberia, Turkish, Austrian, JAT, Swiss, Olympic etc all have flights to Beirut via their hubs. Flight time is around 4 1/2 hours using mostly A321/A320/B737 equipment although Middle East Airlines, the country's flag carrier, operates state of the art A330-200s offering inseat video and audio entertainment. They fly to most European cities. From Africa, MEA flies from Kano, Abidjan, Acca, Lagos to Beirut. Flight time is approximatly 7 hours. From Australia, Emirates flies via Dubai. American passengers must transfer in Amman, Cairo or Dubai.Alternativley, via any European hub. Contributors November 16, 2006 change by giorgio [Add Global transport mode] Kutrubes Travel in Boston offers tours to Lebanon. Edit This Offering vacations to exotic destinations such as Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Iran, Northern Ireland, Albania, Macedonia, Kosovo, China, Tibet, Russia, Croatia, and Sarajevo. type: general World66 rating: [rate it] martin fieber Edit This From Damascus, bus station Baramka, Beirut can be reached by taking a share taxi for 5 persons, which in March 2007 costs 700 Syrian Pounds per person (which is a bit more than 13 US dollars). Depending how long you are prepared to wait for other passengers to show up, you may want to pay extra (700 per seat). If you pay 3500 Syrian Pounds (about 67 US dollars) you have the whole taxi for yourself and you can leave at once. The other way around is the same price. A share taxi per person from Damascus to Amman, Jordan, is 600 Syrian Pounds (about 11,5 US dollars), same price the more.. type: By Road World66 rating: [rate it] email: martinfieber@hotmail.com __________Economy Edit This Economy—overview: The 1975-91 civil war seriously damaged Lebanon's economic infrastructure cut national output by half and all but ended Lebanon's position as a Middle Eastern entrepot and banking hub. Peace has enabled the central government to restore control in Beirut begin collecting taxes and regain access to key port and government facilities. Economic recovery has been helped by a financially sound banking system and resilient small- and medium-scale manufacturers with family remittances banking services manufactured and farm exports and international aid as the main sources of foreign exchange. Lebanon's economy has made impressive gains since Prime Minister HARIRI launched his $18 billion Horizon 2000 reconstruction program in 1993. Real GDP grew 8% in 1994 and 7% in 1995 before Israel's Operation Grapes of Wrath in April 1996 stunted economic activity. During 1992-97 annual inflation fell from more than 170% to 9% and foreign exchange reserves jumped to more than $4 billion from $1.4 billion. Burgeoning capital inflows have generated foreign payments surpluses and the Lebanese pound has remained relatively stable. Progress also has been made in rebuilding Lebanon's war-torn physical and financial infrastructure. Solidere a $2-billion firm is managing the reconstruction of Beirut's central business district; the stock market reopened in January 1996; and international banks and insurance companies are returning. The government nonetheless faces serious challenges in the economic arena. It has had to fund reconstruction by tapping foreign exchange reserves and boosting borrowing. The stalled peace process and ongoing violence in southern Lebanon could lead to wider hostilities that would disrupt vital capital inflows. Furthermore the gap between rich and poor has widened since HARIRI took office resulting in grassroots dissatisfaction over the skewed distribution of the reconstruction's benefits and leading the government to shift its focus from rebuilding infrastructure to improving living conditions. GDP: purchasing power parity—$15.2 billion (1997 est.) GDP—real growth rate: 4% (1997 est.) GDP—per capita: purchasing power parity—$4 400 (1997 est.) GDP—composition by sector: agriculture: 4% industry: 23% services: 73% (1997 est.) Inflation rate—consumer price index: 9% (1997 est.) Labor force: total: 1 million plus as many as 1 million foreign workers (1996 est.) by occupation: services 62% industry 31% agriculture 7% (1997 est.) Unemployment rate: 18% (1997 est.) Budget: revenues: $2.4 billion expenditures: $5.9 billion including capital expenditures of $NA (1997 est.) Industries: banking; food processing; jewelry; cement; textiles; mineral and chemical products; wood and furniture products; oil refining; metal fabricating Industrial production growth rate: 25% (1993 est.) Electricity—capacity: 1.35 million kW (1997) Electricity—production: 5 billion kWh (1995) Electricity—consumption per capita: 1 380 kWh (1995) Agriculture—products: citrus vegetables potatoes olives tobacco hemp (hashish); sheep goats Exports: total value: $1.018 billion (f.o.b. 1996) commodities: paper and paper products 26% food stuffs 16% textiles and textile products 10% jewelry 8% metals and metal products 8% electrical equipment and products 8% chemical products 6% transport vehicles 4% (1995) partners: UAE 23% Saudi Arabia 14% Kuwait 8% Syria 7% Jordan 5% France 5% Italy 4% US 3% (1996) Imports: total value: $7.559 billion (c.i.f. 1996) commodities: machinery and transport equipment 28% foodstuffs 20% consumer goods 19% chemicals 9% textiles 5% metals 5% fuels 3% (1995) partners: Italy 12% US 11% Germany 9% France 8% Syria 4% UK 4% Japan 4% (1996) Debt—external: $2.3 billion (1997 est.) Economic aid: recipient: aid pledges of $3.5 billion for 1997-2001 Currency: 1 Lebanese Lira(LL) = 100 piasters Exchange rates: Lebanese Lira(LL) per US$1 — 1507L.L (December 2004) 1510L.L (December 2000) 1526.1L.L (December 1998) 1539.5L.L (1997) 1571.4L.L (1996) 1621.4L.L (1995) 1680.1L.L (1994) 1741.4L.L (1993) Fiscal year: calendar year ______People Edit This Lebanese Manifestation (2005) Lebanese Manifestation (2005) Paul Salameh Population: 3 505 794 (July 1998 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 30% (male 532 688; female 512 979) 15-64 years: 64% (male 1 060 903; female 1 174 236) 65 years and over: 6% (male 102 946; female 122 042) (July 1998 est.) Population growth rate: 1.21% (1998 est.) Birth rate: 22.66 births/1 000 population (1998 est.) Death rate: 6.51 deaths/1 000 population (1998 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1 000 population (1998 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.9 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.84 male(s)/female (1998 est.) Infant mortality rate: 1.64 deaths/1 000 live births (1998 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.64 years male: 72.08 years female: 76.33 years (1998 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.20 children born/woman (1998 est.) Nationality: noun: Lebanese (singular and plural) adjective: Lebanese Ethnic groups: Arab 90% Armenian 6% other 4% Religions: Islam 51% (5 legally recognized Islamic groups—Alawite or Nusayri, Druze, Isma'ilite, Shi'a and Sunni) Christian 49% (11 legally recognized Christian groups—4 Orthodox Christian, 6 Catholic and 1 Protestant) Judaism NEGL% Languages: Arabic and French (both official), Armenian, and English is widely understood and offical in more than 40% of all educational facilities. Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write total population: 94.4% male: 92.8% female: 96.2% (1997 est.) ::::::::::Aley Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo Aley is located in the mountains near Beirut, and features many nice traditional Lebanese castles and houses. It is also a popular area to hang out, with restaurants and such atop the mountains. It is a nice summer getaway because of the cool air. ::::::::Arnun Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i Although a relatively small town Arnun has an impressive sight: Beaufort Castle which sits atop a 1 000-ft/305-m cliff overlooking the Litani River. Many conquerors have walked along the battlements of this Crusader castle. However the castle was damaged during the civil war and it lies within the Israeli self-declared security zone. We recommend that travelers stay away from the area at this time. 40 mi / 65 km south of Beirut. :::::::::Baalbek Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Temple of Bacchus at Baalbec Temple of Bacchus at Baalbec RJ Powell Baalbek is a must visit in Lebanon. Even for people who visit Syria it is worth the detour from Damascus to see the impressive roman ruins of Baalbek. Located in the northern Bekaa Valley, it is one of the world’s oldest cities. It has the most impressive classical ruins in Lebanon and it’s one of the most important Roman sites in the Middle East. The main sight is the Temple of Jupiter. Only six of the original 54 columns are still standing but these alone give you an idea of the incredible height of the building. The columns are said to be the largest in the world. Though smaller than the Temple of Jupiter the nearby Temple of Bacchus is a wonderfully preserved architectural beauty. Take your time walking around its outer portico marveling at the intricately carved stone. From this position you also have a good view of the huge stone blocks that formed the foundation for the Temple of Jupiter—some of the blocks are believed to weigh more than 1 000 tons. Finally enter the Temple of Bacchus at its eastern end walking up the flight of stairs and through the ornate doorway. Baalbek can be seen as a daytrip from Beirut or it can be visited together with Zahle. :::::::Bcharre Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see bcharre bcharre This splendid mountain resort is perched above the eastern end of the beautiful Kadisha Gorge. The town’s red-tiled roofs olive groves and mountain scenery remind us of a Greek village—or half a dozen other scenic spots along the eastern Mediterranean. Although it’s popular both as a cool summer retreat for coastal dwellers and a winter base for snow skiers Bcharre can seem downright dead in the off-season. Sightseeing options are limited to several churches and the Gibran Museum which pays tribute to Khalil Gibran Lebanon’s most famous author and Bcharre’s native son. Bcharre is also a convenient base for visiting the Cedars of Lebanon or hiking in the 30-mi-/50-km-long valley below. Note that the road leading east from Bcharre over the mountains into the Bekaa Valley (and to Baalbek) is open only during the summer. 40 mi/65 km northeast of Beirut. ::::::::Beirut Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo_1 History Beirut was built on the largest rocky promontory of the coast the near center of the country. Later it would become capital of the modern nation, but in ancient times its deep harbor and central location were not so apparent and the city was overshadowed by more powerful neighbors. Its earliest name was "Birot," a Semitic word meaning "well" or "source" . When the city states of Sidon and Tyre began to decline in the first millennium B.C., Berytus, as it was then called, acquired more influence, but it was not until Roman times that it became an important port and cultural center with its famed Roman Law School. After Roman power waned, Greek influence dominated in the Byzantine period beginning in the 4th century A.D. Later, the Crusaders held the city for some 200 years. It was only at the end of the 19th century, after 400 years of Ottoman rule, that Beirut began to develop and modernize. Modern Beirut, which has well over a million inhabitants, remains the cultural and commercial center of the country. Although the city center was left in ruins by the war, business was taken to other parts of Beirut and commerce continued as usual. In the 1990's, however, plans were made to reconstruct and develop this war-ruined area. Over a period of 25 years the project will turn Beirut into a city that is modern yet retains its familiar eastern flavor. Such landmarks as Martyrs' Square, the Parliament Building, the Serail and the traditional souks are all part of the new design that covers 1.6 million square meters. Extensive archaeological investigations into the city's past are also being carried out under the general redevelopment plan. :::::::::Beiteddine Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo_2 The Palace of Beiteddine makes one of the most popular day trips from Beirut. The road leading up to the palace is beautiful. It leads through the Chouf Mountains and you get great views. The palace was completed in the early 1800s. It was designed by Italian architects and made by local artisans. The palace is quite complex. Terraces, courtyards, small passages and rooms: you never know where you are and you haven't got a clue hot get out again. Don’t even try until you’ve seen at least the baths, the kitchens, the harem, the reception room and the nicely landscaped gardens. There are several museums and exhibitions on site including the Ethnographic Museum the Joumblatt Memorial Exhibit (honoring the late Druze leader) and a nice collection of Byzantine mosaics displayed in the former stables. In addition, do not forget the famous Beiteddine festival that has become a tradition every year. If you're a fan of Music, Culture, Art and Beauty and happen to be in the neighbourhood during July and August, make sure to pass by and enjoy one of summers' richest in entertainment evenings. ___________Festivals Edit This An international festival is held at the palace every summer in July or August. Check BeitEddine site ::::::::::Broummana Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Best city in Lebanon. ::::::Cedars of Lebanon Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Upload image in a larger size Upload image in a larger size Today a cedar tree graces Lebanon’s flag but few of the fabled trees remain. If you want to see them it will require some effort on your part. The best place to get a look at the famous trees is at the grove on Mt. Makmal (about 5 mi/10 km east of Bcharre). At 6 000 ft/1 800 m above sea level (take along a sweater) a cluster of large old cedars survive. There are two entrances to the park: one off the main road among the souvenir stands and another one further up the road on the way to the ski resort (this entrance seems to stay open later). In the midst of the trees is a strange piece of art. A French artist who’s involved in the campaign to protect and plant cedars carved a sculpture out of the trunk of a dead tree rather than let it be chopped down. Also see if you can pick out the two trees called Adam and Eve—their trunks are joined at the “hip.” Mt. Makmal is 45 mi/75 km northeast of Beirut. :::::::Deir el Qamar Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see DEQ Winter time DEQ Winter time Selim Bitar On the road between Beiteddine and Beirut Deir al-Qamar is a very scenic town with many well-preserved historical buildings. Nearby is the famous Castle Mousa. It was built by a man with a strange fetish for things medieval. It belongs in a category with Bavaria’s Neuschwanstein and Disneyland’s castle but trust us it’s even less authentic. ::::::::::Ehden Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Just You Can see it in Horsh Ehden Just You Can see it in Horsh Ehden T.I.T.O (Technical Institut Of Tripoli) Horsh Ehden is a mountainous ecosystem on the Northern Mount Lebanon chain. It ranges from 1300m to 1950m in altitude and is located 3.5km north of Ehden and 100km from the capital Beirut. After much lobbying by the Friends of Horsh Ehden the forest was declared a Nature Reserve by the Lebanese government in March, 1992 (decree# 121). The area set aside for the reserve comprises 1000 hectares of public land of which 350 are forested. Horsh Ehden is internationally acknowledged to be the southernmost limit for the growth of the species of Cilician Fir Abies cilicica. This unique forest is a mixture of trees. More than 35 different species notably conifers, such as the Cedars, the High Juniper broadleaves such as the maple and the endemic wild apple. A number of water sources can be found in Horsh Ehden, the most important of which are Ain Al-Baq, Nabaa Jouït and Ain Al-Baiada. The wilderness qualities of parts of Horsh Ehden and of the adjacent mountain areas provide the ideal setting for walks, cross country skiing and other related activities. The summer resort of Ehden lies at an altitude of 1500m, surrounded by breathtaking mountains overlooking the timeless Kadisha valley. Origins of the name "Ehden" The origins of the name, Ehden are obscured by time and myth. One explanation is that it is derived from the word "adon" reffering to the mountains. Equally Patriarch Stephane El Douaihy wrote that it was derived from biblical Eden. His work on the subject is kept in Vatican Library. ___________Bars and Cafes Edit This [Add Bar] Drop In Edit This Restaurant in Al Midan - serving food & drinks - with an upper deck. World66 rating: [rate it] ::::::::::Jbeil Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Byblos @ night Byblos @ night The ancient city of Byblos or Jbeil, 37 kilometers North of Beirut, is one of the oldest towns in the world, its history goes back over 9000 years. It has been continuously occupied by many civilizations for seven thousand years. Phoenicians, Egyptians, Assyrians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Crusaders and Ottomans all left their imprint on the city. The traces they left in this area make it one of the richest archaeological sites in the Middle East. It became an important trading port during the 3rd century BC and the commercial and religious capital of the Phoenician coast. Located at the foot of Lebanon's timber bearing mountains, it was an ideal port for cedar wood and oil which was traded with Egypt for gold, alabaster, linen and papyrus. The Greeks called this port Byblos, after the Greek word for papyrus. It was here that the ancestor of the Greek alphabet was developed. In this way Byblos gave its name to the Bible. Out of the devastated ruins of old temples, successors tended to build new ones as symbol of the predominance of their religion over the older one. This way, traces of the oldest civilizations are still visible in for example in was the "Temple of the Obelisks", so called because of vast amount of miniature obelisk stones found within. In the modern town, the Roman-medieval port has been restored, and nearby are the excavated remains of the cities past. The old part of town is still dominated by the 12th-century crusader castle, which is one of its main attractions. Here you’ll also find a Greco-Roman amphitheatre overlooking the sea and the tombs of Phoenician kings in which the oldest alphabetic inscription was discovered. ___________Beaches Edit This Lebanon has amazing beaches along the shore from the north (Jbeil) till the south (Rmeilleh). The advantage of theses beaches is that even in winter you can go eat at the restaurants and enjoy the wonderfull view of the sunset. ::::::::Jounieh Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo Think of a Lebanese Monte Sereno and you are close. Jounieh is the place where Beiruti's go to have a little fun. There are of course many Casino's but every other form of nightlife is available as well. Jounieh’s setting is one of the most beautiful along the Lebanese coast. For the best view of the crescent-shaped bay take the steep cable car up to Harissa. At the other end of the cable car line you transfer to an incline car which takes you up to the lookout point surrounding the shiny white statue of the Virgin of Lebanon. If you want to go still higher you can climb the ramp around the statue’s base—the closer you come to her lowered outstretched hands the narrower the ramp becomes…and the pushier the people get. The view is spectacular though and the virgin seen from close up has a sweet sad charm all her own. __________Zabbougha Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Zabbougha Lebanese Villages in mount of lebanon Zabbougha Lebanese Villages in mount of lebanon KAI Zabbougha is in the Lebanese mountains, one of the greatest lebanese villages approximately 51 km from Beirut. The current approximate population is 300. There are about 60 houses. The altitude is 950 meters. There are many roads to reach Zabbougha: You can travel through Bikfaiya, Bteghrine, and Kfar Aaqab. There is a steep and winding road that reaches the village from the backside and cuts up through the mountain, from either: Bikfaiya, Himlaya, Bou Mizen then to Zabbougha - Lebanon. Or through highway Balloune, Daraya, then to Zabbougha. And one last road from Kafarzibyan, Bkaatouta, Kfirtay, Wade El Karem, finally to Zabbougha. Zabbougha is located to the northwest of Kfar 'Aaqab, at the foot of Mt. Sannine, in the governmental district of Baskinta (which is under the jurisdiction of the El Matan region of Lebanon). In 1907, its Maronite inhabitants numbered 228, while the Catholics (these were from the children of Min'em Ma'loof) numbered 26. In 1907, Zabbougha with its two factories for the unwinding of silk, produced 2,500 okes of silkworm cocoons; one of the mentioned factories (in the area of Al' Aqaba) had 40 wheels, and belonged to Lutfallah Yoosef Al Haj. The second one (in the area of Al Muraatiseen, on a hill above the village, to the west of Kfer 'Uqaab) had 38 wheels, and belonged to Rufaeel Al Haj. The factories no longer exist. :::::::::::Sidon Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see x This is a picture of Saida sea castle. Sidon (currently named Saida) is the Capital of South Lebanon. Saida is rich with historical events... The sea castle is one witness of Saida's history. If it happens that you visited Lebanon, don't miss visiting Saida, escpecially if you like the Lebanese sweets... ::::::::::Tripoli Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Tripoli (Trablos), some 85 km north of Beirut and the second largest city in Lebanon, shares in the long history of the Levantine coast. It was the center of a Phoenician confederation with Sidon and Tyre and Arados Island -hence the name "Tripolis" meaning "triple city" . The modern city is extremely rich in monuments from the Crusader and later Mameluke times. From the foot of the Citadel, the old town extends towards the busy international port. Tripoli is famous for its ancient markets, furniture, sweets and artisanat. Here are walls, the monumental gateway and inner courtyard of the Castle of St. Giles, built by the Franks. Distinguished remnants of the Mameluke period are the Mosque of Teynal, and the Mosque of Al-Attar. Islamic religious schools known as "madrassas" bear witness to the brilliance of Tripoli in the Middle Ages. The ancient bazaars, towers, khans (caravansaries) and baths add oriental charm to the modern city, which is now a prosperous industrial and business center. :::::::::Tyre Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo_1 Tyre (Sour) was built in ancient times on a small rocky island near the coast. In the 10th century B.C. King Hiram of Tyre constructed two ports and a temple on the mainland sector of the city. This was the era when the famous industries of Phoenician glass and purple dye were developed. Behind the walls of the old city the Tyrians successfully defied Nebuchadnezzar for 13 years. Alexander the Great also laid siege to it for 7 months, finally overwhelming the island city by constructing a great causeway from the shore to the island. Over the centuries, however, the causeway was silted up, turning Tyre into an isthmus. In biblical times it was in Qana (Cana) near Tyre that Jesus turned water into wine at the wedding feast. In 1980, modern Tyre's impressive Roman and Phoenician remains prompted UNESCO to make the town one of its world heritage sites. Despite its location in the deep south 79 km from Beirut, where conflict often occurred during the war, Tyre has become a prosperous town notable for its many high-rise buildings. At the same time the inner city has retained its industrious maritime character and its old-style houses. :::::::::Yater Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see A little village in Southern Lebanon. It ranges from 700m to 750m above the sea level it is about 30 minutes from city of tyre and the sea shore, an attractive place in the summer. ::::::::::Zgharta Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The new cultural center in Merdashia Zgharta The new cultural center in Merdashia Zgharta by zgharta.com Zgharta is 150 metres above sea level and lies between the rivers of Jouit and Rashein. It is 23 kilometres from Ehden, 7 kilometres from the coastal city of Tripoli, 91 kilometres from the capital of Lebanon, Beirut and 82 kilometres from the nearest Syrian city, Tartous. Its history and people are closely associated with the village of Ehden, see separate page for the history of Ehden. Origins of the name “Zgharta ” Various explanations have been given as to the meaning of Zgharta. The majority are of the opinion that it relates to meanings relating to fortresses, citadels, barricades and the like. One writer has suggested that it derived from the Aramaic word “zaghar” meaning the fortress or alternatively from the syriac word “zeghartay” meaning the barricades. The creation of Zgharta There is some evidence that the area of Zgharta was inhabited in 200 BC and that in the 2 nd and 3 rd centuries there were fortifications. Its present day existence and its close association with the village of Ehden begin in the16 th century. The story of that beginning is recorded in a manuscript in the Syriac language, which belonged to Romanos Afandi Yammine son of Father George Yammine and is now held by his grandson Youssef Boutros Romanos Yammine. It describes how people of Ehden had acquired “the farmland of Zgharta”: “ On the eve of the 24th of January 1515, Al-Ghazali, Governor of Damascus along with Sannan Pasha, Minister of Sultan Salim, had reached Ehden travelling along the route of Damascus-Beqa Valley-Dahr al-Kadib-the cedars. They were transporting funds to Sultan Salim who was in Egypt. They were welcomed as guests by Sheik Iskandar son of Ehden’s leader, whilst other members of their travelling entourage were guests of the people of Ehden. Heavy snow falls and extremely freezing conditions lasted two full days prompting them to stay five days in Ehden where Sheikh Iskandar and Bishop of Ehden Kiriakos Douiehi provided for their guests great hospitality, generosity and kindness. Responding to a request by their guests, the people of Ehden endeavoured to clear the heavy snow off the road as far as Hayrouna valley overlooking the coast, accompanying their guests to safety where they made their farewells to them with fitting accolades”. In April 1516, Bishop Doueihi and Sheik Iskandar received a letter from Al-Ghazali, saying on being told by his minister, Sannan Pasha of their and peoples hospitality and assistance, Sultan Salim asked that he rewarded them which he promised the Sultan he would. On his return to Damascus Al- Ghazali invited the people of Edhen to meet him in Tripoli. At the request of Sheikh Iskander he agreed to provide the people with a place to live away from the harsh winter conditions, which they faced in Ehden. Al- Ghazali readily agreed to this request. Accompanied by his officials Sheikh Iskandar and Bishop Douiehi went to choose a suitable place in the Al-Zawiyi region. They chose a derelict farm, which contained a few demolished houses and a tower in the middle, situated between the rivers Joueit and Rashein. Al-Ghazali, on the return of his officials with the measurements of the site, promised to obtain a “Shahani firman” (decree) from Sultan Salim whereby ownership of the land would pass to the people of Ehden. Some eight months later, 1517, the “Shahani firman” was granted but it was addressed to Sheikh Iskandar. Having collected the firman in Damascus and returning to Ehden the people there were aggrieved that the firman was addresses solely to Sheikh Iskandar, fearing that he and his relations could claim sole ownership. Bishop Douehi representing the people put this to Sheikh Iskandar and as a result he swore at the Mar Mama church that the given land known as “ Zgharta would be distributed equally between the people of Ehden”. In the next century a visitor to Zgharta recorded “Zgharta is strictly a Maronite town. It represents a horrific nightmare for its enemy. Its youth is dressed in traditional clothing; white shirts decorated with yellow stitched embroidery, strongly tied “sherwal” pants along with long boots and topped by headband reflecting enormous heroism. Zgharta is a small village surrounded by an enclosure, and has a fortress beside the church of Virgin Mary. Zgharta used to be a drawn line between danger and worship, situated between Tripoli and the mountain. It would receive initial attacking strikes, then reply by returning those strikes back hitting the hearts of their enemy, and therefore, its people have been renowned and recognized as excellent fighters” 1602 Father Ghodar, Jesuit Priest. Another later visitor in 1831 records that “From Tripoli I left for Zgharta, which is two hours away. Its land ids full of olive, mulberry, vines, apricot and lemon trees” In 1885 Zgharta incorporated the village of Ardate. The town of Zgharta was divided into five sectors in 1932: Saydeh Sharki (the area to the east side of Notre-Dame of Zgharta church), Saydeh Gherbi (west of the Church), Slayeb Shemali (northern side of the crossroads), Slayeb Janoubi (southern side of the crossroads) and Maaser . To be a citizen of Zgharta, you have to be registered in one of these five sectors.

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http://travelpuppy.com/lebanon/generalinfo.htm Lebanon General Info Lebanon General Information - TravelPuppy.com Area 10,452 square kilometres (4036 square miles). Population 3,700,000 people (the official estimate for 2003). Population Density 344 people per square kilometre. Capital Beirut. Population of Beirut 1,171,000 (the official estimate for 2003). Geography Some key geographical facts: Lebanon lies to the east of the Mediterranean. It shares borders to the north and east with the Syrian Arab Republic and to the south with Lebanon / Palestinian Territory. Lebanon is a mountainous country and between the 2 mountain ranges of Jebel Lubnan (Mount Lebanon), Mount Hermon and the Anti-Lebanon range lies the fertile Bekaa Valley. Approximately half of the country lies at an altitude of over 900 metres (3,000 feet). Although a small country, Lebanon is packed such a variety of scenery that there are few places to equal it in beauty and choice. The famous cedar trees grow high in the mountains, while the lower slopes bear grapes, plums, apricots, peaches, figs, olives and barley, often on terraces painstakingly cut out from the mountainsides. On the coastal plain, bananas, citrus fruit and vegetables are cultivated, with radishes and beans grown in tiny patches. Government The government in Lebanon is Republic. The Head of State has been President Emil Jamil Lahoud since 1998. His term of presidency was set to end in November 2004 but was controversially extended by another term (lasting 3 years) when the constitution was amended to allow Lahoud to remain in office. The Head of Government has been Prime Minister Rafiq al-Hariri since 2000. Language The official language in Lebanon is Arabic, followed by French as the 2nd language, English is widely spoken. Armenian is spoken by a small percentage of the population. Religion Islam and Christianity are the main religions in Lebanon. Islam (predominantly Shi’ite) accounts for approximately 40 % of the population’s beliefs. Christian denominations, mainly Greek Orthodox, Maronite, Armenian and Protestant account for another 40 %. Other religions account for the remaining 20 % (including a very small Jewish community). Time Zone Greenich Mean Time (GMT) + 2 (GMT + 3 from April to September). Electricity 230 volts AC, 50Hz. ____Lebanon Communications Lebanon Communications - TravelPuppy.com Fax International facilities are available. Faxes can be sent from centrales (state telephone bureaux) in main towns and from most hotels (which often add 25 % to the official rates). Internet The main ISPs are Cyberia, IDM and Terranet. There are Internet cafes in Tripoli, Beirut and most major towns. Telephones International Direct Dialling service is available. The Lebanon country code is 961. The Outgoing international code is 00. Cellular phones are widely used and are possible for hire to visitors. Mobile telephones Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) 900 network is operated by Faldete and MTC. Post Post to Europe usually takes 2 to 4 days, and between 4 to 7 days to the United States of America. Press There are more than 30 daily newspapers published in Armenian, Arabic and French and over 100 publications appear on a weekly or monthly basis. Beirut Times and The Daily Star are published in English and there are numerous English language weeklies, primarily Monday Morning. The best selling Arabic dailies are Al Dyar, Al Anwar, Al Liwa’, An Nahar and Al Safir. The most essential daily in French is L'Orient-le Jour. Radio BBC World Service and Voice of America can be received. From time to time the frequencies change and the most up to date can be found online. ___________Lebanon Festival - Events Lebanon Festivals and Events Guide - TravelPuppy.com For a complete list of special events please contact the Ministry Of Tourism (see Contacts section). The following is a selection of special events happening in Lebanon in 2005: January 10: Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice). Febuary 6 to Febuary 10: International Weddings Exhibition. Febuary 15 to March 20: Al Bustan Festival. July to August: Baalbeck International Festival and the Beiteddine Festival. September 4 to September 21: Freikeh Festival, Beit - Chabab. September 8 to September 12: Ayloul Festival Forum, Beirut. October 2 to October 9: Beirut Film Festival. ________________ Lebanon History Lebanon History - TravelPuppy.com The Lebanon, over the course of history, provided an inaccessible haven for tribes and religious groups escaping from repression and persecution in other parts of the Middle East. The principal groupings in the country are the Maronites, Christians who exclusively among Eastern Christians, maintained links with, and secured support from, their co-religionists in Europe including the Greek Orthodox Christians. Also, the Shia Muslims, who arrived in Lebanon to escape persecution from the Sunni majority elsewhere in the Islamic world, and the Druze, a heretical Muslim sect founded in the 10 th century. The colonial powers that subsequently occupied Lebanon, the Ottoman Turks and the French, were content to leave these divisions more or less to themselves. The Turks took control of the area in the 16 th century during the major development of the Ottoman Empire and remained there until the end of World War I. With the termination of that empire, the French were granted a League of Nations mandate to administer Lebanon until independence in 1941. From that time, the dissimilar communities cohabited in relative peace with political power divided between Christians, Shia and Sunni Muslims. On this basis, Lebanon developed a thriving economy based on providing business services, finance and banking, transport and trade facilities, for other countries in the region. This situation prevailed until the 1970's when the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), which had been disqualified from Jordan in 1971, established itself in Lebanon with the tacit agreement of the Lebanese. The influx of a large new community with a powerful armed wing upset the relatively delicate political balance in Lebanon. The PLO’s presence finally led to the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982. By then Lebanon had been engulfed in a 6 year civil war between right wing Christian militias (the Falange and the southern militia led by Saad Haddad, and later the forces led by General Michel Aoun) and various alignments of Muslim and Palestinian forces. Among the latter, the most significant were the Amal movement and the more radical, Iranian inspired Hezbollah organisation. Hezbollah, in particular, which grew from the radicalisation of the Shia population, bore the brunt of the consequent fighting against the Christian militias and the Israelis. It is now a important political force in Lebanon. After the war began in 1976, the capital Beirut was split across the ‘Green Line’, dividing the city between the Christian conquered east of the city and the Muslim west. Central Government all but broke down, despite recurring attempts to find some kind of political resolution. The Israeli invasion succeeded in driving most of the Palestinian guerrillas out of Lebanon, but failed in its principal political objective of installing a Christian subjugated government in power. The Israeli occupation earned Tel Aviv a great deal of international criticism. However, following the election of a coalition government in Tel Aviv, the Israelis withdrew in early 1985 to a self declared security zone in the south controlled by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) and their locally recruited Christian proxy militia, the South Lebanon Army (SLA). The security zone became the scene of an attritional guerrilla war between the Israeli Defence Forces / South Lebanon Army and fighters from Hezbollah which came to an end in 1999 when the Israeli government decided to pull their troops out of the region (with their departure, the South Lebanon Army immediately collapsed). In the rest of Lebanon, the Syrian army proved to be the ultimate broker and sponsor of a political settlement of the civil war. This process started in November 1989 with the election of a National Assembly. A new President, Elias Hrawi (who succeeded his assassinated predecessor René Daowad) became 1 of a troika, Prime Minister Salim al-Hoss and the speaker of the parliament, Hussein Husseini, were the others, which led the official administration in the Muslim areas of Lebanon. By the end of 1991, the Syrians, with tacit Western acceptance following their participation in the United Nations anti Iraqi coalition, were in control of Beirut and most of the north and centre of the Lebanon. Legislative elections were held in the country in August and September 1992. Christian groups boycotted it a decision they later appeared to regret as it allowed the Muslim parties, including Hezbollah, to take complete control of the parliament. President Elias Hrawi’s 6 year term was due to expire in November 1995 but, after parliament decided to alter the constitution, his term was extended by a further 3 years. While this angered Christian leaders, it was quite acceptable to Sister Syria (as official pronouncements have it) which still maintains a large troop employment in Lebanon. The 1996 elections returned Hariri to maintain as premier and the ex-Amal guerrilla leader, Nabih Berri, as speaker of the assembly. The original division of responsibilities between president and premier, which saw President Hrawi take charge of foreign policy while Prime Minister Rafik Hariri looked after the renovation programme, was also confirmed. That division has remained ever since and much of Lebanon, and Beirut in particular, has recovered to something near its pre-war condition. Hariri resigned his job in 1998 and, at the same time, Hrawi was replaced by Jamil Lahad as president. However, Hariri, now a dominant figure in Lebanese politics, was reinstated in 2000 following the most current general election which saw 17 parties share the 128 national assembly seats. In April 2003 the government was dissolved after heavy Syrian pressure behind the scenes, and reconstituted with Hariri remaining as Prime Minister but without any important Christian participation. Relations with Israel have deteriorated in the last 2 years. There have been occasional outbreaks of fighting and exchanges of fire between Hezbollah guerrillas based in the south of Lebanon and Israeli forces across the border. Moreover, the 2 governments have been immersed for the last 12 months in a serious argument about the allocation of water resources, this is 1 of the most sensitive issues in the region. In addition, the tricky issue of the Syrian troops stationed in the country continues to simmer, unresolved. In September 2004, the United Nations Security Council adopted a resolution that foreign troops must leave Lebanon, pointedly referring to Syria. Parliament voted to extend President Lahoud's term by 3 years, but prime minister Rafiq Hariri unexpectedly departed. In February 2005, Hariri was killed in a substantial car bomb attack in Beirut. This triggered mass protests about the presence of Syrian troops in Lebanon, from those both for and against. The cabinet of Prime Minister Omar Karami resigned after 2 weeks of anti Syrian rallies sparked by the assassination. The United States of America, amongst others, have been steadily mounting pressure on Syria to withdraw its troops. However, in March 2005, pro-Syrian former Prime Minister Omar Karami was asked by the president to form a new government. It is not known what conclusion current events shall take. ________________Lebanon Getting Around - Internal Travel Lebanon Internal Travel - Getting Around Lebanon - TravelPuppy.com Air There are no internal flights in Lebanon. Road The traffic in Lebanon drives on the right. Speed limit signs, traffic police and traffic lights are present but may not always be respected and driving, especially in Beirut, can be quite unpredictable. Due to limited public transport, roads in Beirut are over congested. The worst times for traffic jams are 7.30 am to 9.30 am and 4.30 pm to 7.00 pm. Bus Intercity buses run by private companies are economical and efficient. Several hotels also offer complimentary bus and other transport services. Taxi Intercity taxis operate throughout Lebanon and Beirut. Travel is generally shared and prices are negotiated in advance. The town taxis have red licence plates and an official tariff. There is a surcharge of 50 % after 10.00 pm. Car hire Self drive cars are available, however chauffeur driven vehicles are recommended, please check with the Ministry of Tourism. It should be noted that the price of petrol is extremely expensive in Lebanon Documentation An International Driving Permit and Green Card are necessary. Urban Public bus services are available in Beirut, and although bus services have recently been expanded, service taxis remain the most widely used travelling option. _______________Lebanon Public Holidays Lebanon Public Holidays - TravelPuppy.com Year 2007 January 1 January 6 January 20 January 29 Febuary 9 March 31 April 6 April 7 May 1 May 6 May 13 August 15 October 13 November 22 December 20 December 25 New Year’s Day. Orthodox Armenian Christmas. Islamic New Year. Ashoura Feast of St Maroun Mawlid (Prophet’s Birthday). Good Friday. Orthodox Good Friday. Labour Day, Martyrs’ Day. Liberation of the South. Assumption Day Eid al Fitr Independence Day. Eid al Adha Christmas Day. Note Muslim festivals are timed depending on local sightings of various phases of the moon and the dates given above are approximations. During the lunar month of Ramadan that precedes Eid al-Fitr, Muslims fast during the day and feast at night and normal business patterns can be interrupted. Many restaurants are closed during the day and there may be restrictions on drinking and smoking. Some disruption may continue into Eid al-Fitr itself. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha may last anything from 2 to 10 days, depending on the region. Useful travel links _______________Lebanon Visa - Passport Lebanon Visa and Passport Information - TravelPuppy.com Passport Required? Visa Required? Return Ticket Required? British Yes Yes A Yes Australian Yes Yes A Yes Canadian Yes Yes A Yes USA Yes Yes A Yes Other EU Yes Yes A Yes Japanese Yes Yes A Yes Restricted Entry The Government of Lebanon refuses entry to holders of Palestinian and Israeli passports, holders of passports containing a visa for Israel, valid or expired, used or unused and passports with entry stamps to Israel. Passports Passport valid for 6 months required by all except nationals of the Syrian Arab Republic arriving from their country with a valid national Identification. Visa Required by all except nationals of the Syrian Arab Republic (for unlimited stays, provided arriving directly from the Syrian Arab Republic, please check with Embassy for current regulations), nationals of Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (for stays of up to 3 months), and transit passengers continuing their journey by the same or 1st connecting aircraft, provided holding onward or return documentation and not spending the night at, or leaving, the airport. A The following can collect their visas on arrival at Beirut International Airport or any other port of entry at the Lebanese border, providing passport holders do not possess an Israeli stamp, and they hold return or onward tickets: 1. Nationals of countries listed in the table above, except nationals below, who must obtain a visa prior to arrival: Czech Republic Estonia Hungary Latvia Lithuania Poland Slovak Republic Slovenia 2. Nationals of: Liechtenstein Monaco Norway Andorra Hong Kong (SAR) Mexico Iceland Argentina Brazil Chile China (PR) Malaysia Peru Singapore Panama Costa Rica Switzerland New Zealand Venezuela The above list is subject to regular changes. All visitors requiring a visa are advised contact the Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy) before leaving for details about where to obtain their visa, please see Contact Addresses section. The cost of different types of visa Single Entry, Visitor and Business: £25 (single-entry) Multiple Entry, Visitor and Business: £50 Transit (available at the border): US $25. Conversions for the cost of visas: £ 10 : US $18 £ 20 : US $36 £ 30 : US $55 £ 40 : US $73 £ 50 : US $91 £ 60 : US $109 £ 70 : US $127 £ 80 : US $146 £ 90 : US $164 £ 100 : US $182 £ 110 : US $200 £ 120 : US $218 £ 130 : US $236 £ 140 : US $255 £ 150 : US $273 Validity Visitor visas are generally issued for stays of up to 3 months. Application to Consulate (or Consular Section at Embassy), please see Contact section. Application requirements A Visitor must have: Validity Visitor visas are generally issued for stays of up to 3 months. Application to Consulate (or Consular Section at Embassy), please see Contact section. Application requirements A Visitor must have: 2 completed application forms. Fee payable by cash or postal order only. For Visitor visas, a letter of invitation from Lebanese host or verification of accommodation booking from travel agent. 2 passport size photos. For Business visas, a letter of invitation from the Lebanese host company and / or the applicant’s company in country of origin. Stamped, registered, self addressed envelope for postal applications. A valid passport. Note Children under the age of 18 require written consent from their parents / guardian before their visa can be processed. Working days required 1 to 2 days. Temporary residence Rules and regulations for temporary residence will be arranged in Lebanon. For details of student and employment visas, please enquire at Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy), see Contacts section.