While in Lebanon
Lebanon has a good hotel
capacity, including a number of outstanding luxury
establishments. In Beirut there are also many small, well-run
hostelries. Several of the older large hotels have refurbished their
premises and once again offer an elegant and convenient place to
stay.
Hotel space
in the mountains is abundant, the majority in the second and third
class category. Generally open in the summer season, these are clean
but basic establishments perfectly adequate for short stays. There
are some grand hotels in the mountains as well, open year around.
furnished apartments, which offer self-service facilities, are found
throughout Greater Beirut and in other population centers.
Languages
Many people in Lebanon speak some French or
English in addition to Arabic, and often other language besides.
Foreign news papers and magazines are available and the prolific
local press publishes in French and English as well as Arabic.
Communication is definitely not a problem !
Relax and have a good
time
There is always something entertaining in
Lebanon. Traditional dances such as the dabbke and sword dances are
immensely popular and they perpetuate costumes of the distant past.
Both in night clubs and in private parties and celebrations ,
oriental or "belly dancing" is a
always a great attraction.
Known for
its night life before war , the Lebanese capital is still the place
to go for excellent night clubs and discotheques. About 24 km north
of Beirut, the Casino du Liban at Maameltein, is famous for its top
international shows and luxurious gaming facilities. With the
Lido de Paris in charge of entertainment, world-class shows can be
expected every evening.
Every sport
can be enjoyed in Lebanon including water skiing, snow skiing,
yachting and tennis. Clubs are open to tourists for golf, tennis,
karate and riding. the Beirut race course, set in its pine woods, is
a favorite with race goers.
Shopping
Few visitors to Lebanon can resist its
handicrafts, either in old style or tasteful modern adaptations of
traditional designs. there is pottery fashioned in the peasant
manner, glassware and cutlery. Brass and copper goods of all kinds
can be found , with attractive handworked designs. Exotic caftans
and abayas are always appreciated as gifts. Gold and silver prices
are especially good and skillful local jewelers charge moderate
prices for their work. As for clothing, everything is available -
from the top Paris designers to jeans and leisure ware.. Lebanon's
shopping arcades and busy main streets are crammed with shops
selling every necessity and luxury, both local and imported.
Transportation
Automobile rental companies provide self-drive
cars or cars with a chauffeur. Lebanese taxis are comfortable and
reasonably priced. Even cheaper is the "service-taxi"
which allows one to share the cost of a trip with other passengers.
Bus service is also available to certain destinations. |