Lebanon

Discovering Lebanon: My Unforgettable Adventures

Traveling for me is not just about moving from point A to point B, but above all, the opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture, to experience its flavors, scents, colors, and people. My recent trip to Lebanon was exactly such an experience – intense, colorful, and unforgettable.

Beirut: A City of Contrasts in Lebanon

My adventure began in Beirut, a city that never sleeps. It fascinates with the contrast of modernity and history, chaos, and peace. Walking through the Hamra district, I noticed how modern bars and cafes mix with traditional Lebanese shops. Beirut is like a mosaic – each piece tells a different story.

Culinary Odyssey in Lebanon

Lebanese cuisine is a true paradise for foodies. My taste buds were surprised by the richness of flavors and aromas. Tabouleh, hummus, falafel, and especially meze – various appetizers served at a communal table, made every meal feel like a small feast. Not to forget the Lebanese wine, which perfectly complemented the local specialties.

                                                                                                                                             Various spices:

Encounters That Change Perspectives

However, it was the people who made my trip so special. Lebanese are incredibly hospitable and open. Often, while sitting in a local cafe or wandering through the alleys of cities, we were approached by locals who wanted to share their story, offer help, or just chat. These spontaneous conversations gave me a deeper insight into life in Lebanon, its challenges, and beauty. Lebanon is not a highly touristic place, especially for people from Europe, which is why people would stop us on the street, asking how we liked it here and why we decided to visit Lebanon specifically. Everyone was very polite and open. However, what I noticed in downtown Beirut was a lot of children, refugees from Syria, who had lost their parents during the internal war in Syria. The children on the street beg for food. I took this very personally, although the people living there are accustomed to it. Additionally, these children, being deprived of care, are often exploited by adults for purposes such as earning money. We also visited a refugee district, where people live in tents or makeshift huts made of some sheets in extreme poverty. Moreover, in Lebanon, inflation is getting worse day by day, so the situation there is dramatic for refugees, because even native Lebanese are having a hard time. Refugees often do not have any documents at all. Children from the youngest age are sent to the streets to beg for food. One boy asked me to buy him a bottle of water. It is really sad.

Unforgettable Landscapes

Lebanon amazes with the diversity of its landscapes. From the magnificent Jeita Grotto:

through the majestic Cedars of God in the reserve, to the historical ruins in Baalbek:

In Baalbek, I deliberately covered my hair, wore long pants, and a loose blouse because Baalbek is very conservative, and I wanted to respect their customs regarding dress and not offend others. However, while visiting the ruins in Baalbek, many tourists were dressed in typical European fashion. Here as we go to Baalbek:

and here a photo of the mosque in Baalbek:

– each place was like a new chapter in a book that you didn’t want to end. The view from the mountains down to the valleys below was simply breathtaking. Interestingly, in the mountains of Lebanon, it is mainly Christians who live, for example, near the Jeita Grotto and in the mountains we visited. However, the majority of the population in Lebanon, and in cities like Beirut, Baalbek, and Tripoli, are Muslims.

Al-Bass Archaeological Site Tyre Sur South Lebanon:

Byblos:

Conclusion

The trip to Lebanon was for me not just about discovering new places, but above all, meeting people who, despite the difficult history of their country, do not lose optimism and warmth. Lebanon is a country full of contrasts, which teaches tolerance, openness, and values cultural richness. This experience taught me that travel is the best way to broaden horizons and understand the world in its incredible diversity. Lebanon will forever remain in my heart as a place where history intertwines with modernity, and tradition with hospitality. I can’t wait to return.