Ras Bayrut Beyrouth, Lebanon Travel Guide
Local SIM cards from Touch or Alfa are available at the airport or official stores. Registering your passport is a must. Data can be costly; track usage. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants, offering reasonable speeds. Power failures might affect internet access, but backup generators are common.
LibanPost manages national postal services; international shipping can be slow. For critical international mail, use courier services (DHL, FedEx, Aramex). Arabic is the official language. French is widely spoken. English is common in tourist zones and among younger people. Some language differences exist in not as touristy areas.
Awareness of local operating hours and holidays smooths your daily exploration.
The majority of stores operate from 10 AM to 8 IN the evening. Malls extend hours until 10 PM. Smaller, traditional shops might have an afternoon break from 1 PM to 4 PM.
Banks usually open weekdays from 8:30 AM to 3 PM. Some branches may open Saturday mornings. ATMs are widely available across Beirut, but often dispense Lebanese Pounds at an unfavorable rate. US Dollar cash and reputable money changers are the ordinary choices for exchange. Compensair assists with flight compensation.
Lunch service starts around NOON - 1 PM. Dinner service begins from 7 PM onwards. Cafes open earlier for breakfast. Museums and attractions typically operate from 9 AM - 5 PM or 6 PM. Nearly all museums are closed on Mondays.
Lebanon observes Christian, Muslim, and public holidays. Banks, government offices, and some businesses close or have limited hours during these times. Public transport may also run less frequently.
Some coastal resorts or mountain establishments may close during off-peak months. Beach clubs may close in winter, and ski areas in summer. Check specific timings ahead of your visit for these spots.
Review holiday schedules when planning your trip to avoid unexpected closures.
Handshakes are standard greetings. Men shake hands with men; women with women. Wait for an opposite-sex individual to offer a hand first. Close friends kiss cheeks. Use 'Marhaba' and 'Shukran'. Dressing modestly is advised, especially for religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). Beirut's central areas are more liberal.
Tipping is common. Accept offers of food or drink; refusal can appear impolite. Eating with your right hand is traditional. Always get consent before taking photos of individuals, most notably women and children. Avoid photographing military or government buildings.
For specific accessibility insights, contact local NGOs or disability rights organizations before your trip.
Engage respectfully with Beirut's rich culture. Mindful interactions enhance mutual understanding.
Learning basic Arabic phrases is a sign of respect. Wear conservative clothing at religious sites or traditional areas. Patience and politeness are central in all interactions, especially with language differences. Seek permission for photos of individuals. Do not photograph military or government buildings.
When visiting mosques, remove shoes. Women cover heads, shoulders, and knees; men wear long pants. Maintain quiet during prayer times. Observe all posted rules. No flash pictures during religious services.
Lebanon's heritage is vulnerable. Support local craftspeople and cultural institutions. Visit museums, historic sites, and art galleries that work to preserve the country's past. Avoid touching or damaging artifacts at historical sites.
Your spending choices positively influence the local community. Choose locally owned hotels, restaurants, cafes, and tour operators. Hire local experts and drivers for their insights and direct support. Prioritize buying directly from artisans.
Your financial choices empower local businesses and individuals, fostering a local economy.
