15+ Things You Should Know Before Going To Beirut

Beirut, as the capital of Lebanon, has been a tried and true tourist destination for many adventurers from abroad who are looking for a taste of the Middle East and a little something extra.

After all, Beirut can't quite be labeled as "the Middle East" with its many paradigms and contradictions, and modern lifestyle.

However, although it's been generalized again and again with many clichés like "the Paris of the Middle East" and "the party capital of the Middle East," there is so much more to it than just that.

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But before you embark on a trip to this magical city of ours, you best be well-prepared for what you'll encounter during your stay--about the culture, what to do, and just getting by.

So don't just hop on that plane yet, check out these 16 things you should know before coming to Beirut, and take notes!

#1 It isn't some dangerous terrorism war zone

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Beirut may be many things, but one thing it is not is unsafe for foreign travelers. In fact, Beirutis welcome the opportunity to chat with newcomers and tend to be more than happy to show them around.

You're not going to find a gunfight in the middle of the day or get kidnapped for ransom, even if your government says so.

#2 Even if it's a one-way street, look both ways before crossing

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If I had to choose a word to describe Lebanese roadways, it would be "chaos." Probably the most dangerous thing you'll have to worry about during your entire stay, as a pedestrian, is crossing any road.

You really need to WATCH OUT.

Here in Lebanon, there's really no such thing as a pedestrian right-of-way or any kind of right-of-way, for that matter. Most people just get in where they can while expecting the unexpected to happen.

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So, before crossing any road, even if it's a "one-way," LOOK BOTH WAYS. Traffic lights are a suggestion, so are lanes, and so is a one-way, especially if on a motor scooter.

It sounds like madness, but it's also one of those charming elements that make Beirut so..., well... so Beirut!

#3 Don't bother exchanging your USD for LBP

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Although the official national currency is the Lebanese Pound, -or Lira, as we call it- almost all shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions accept dollars and euros.

You might get your change back in Liras , but that just makes it easier to get a man'oushe in the morning without breaking a big bill.

It's not really worth it to try to exchange your currency for LBP before you embark on your trip.

However, on your way out, you definitely should exchange back to your country's currency or any country you are heading to afterward, as most other places won't accept Lebanese money.

#4 Eat where the locals eat

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Beirut is full of glitzy restaurants and shiny hotels, which are all fine to enjoy, but if you really want to get a sense of the city and its food culture, try doing it like a local.

Particularly with Lebanese food, there are tons of amazing snack joints where you can get a tasty meal for pretty cheap.

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Places like BarBar in Hamra or Le Chef in Gemmayzeh have an amazing selection of shawarmas, manakish, and classic Lebanese dishes that are inexpensive and oh so delicious.