Beirut in Global Culture

The New York Times recently posted a list of the '44 Places to Go in 2009.' First on the list was Beirut, Lebanon, which made me so proud! Lebanon has gone through so much but still survive and comes out on top. I love visiting and I love hearing that those of who are not of Middle Eastern descent love visiting as well.

Here's the blurb on Beirut from the article:
(click on article to enlarge for better viewing)


Lonely Planet also listed Beirut as one of the 'Top 10 Liveliest Cities of 2009' per the following article:

Introducing Lebanon
Coolly combining the ancient with the ultramodern, Lebanon is one of the most captivating countries in the Middle East. From the Phoenician findings of Tyre (Sour) and Roman Baalbek's tremendous temple to Beirut's BO18 and Bernard Khoury's modern movement, the span of Lebanon's history leaves many visitors spinning. Tripoli (Trablous) is considered to have the best souk in the country and is famous for its Mamluk architecture. It's well equipped with a taste of modernity as well; Jounieh, formerly a sleepy fishing village, is a town alive with nightclubs and glitz on summer weekends.

With all of the Middle East's best bits - warm and welcoming people, mind-blowing history and considerable culture, Lebanon is also the antithesis of many people's imaginings of the Middle East: mostly mountainous with skiing to boot, it's also laid-back, liberal and fun. While Beirut is fast becoming the region's party place, Lebanon is working hard to recapture its crown as the 'Paris of the Orient'.

The rejuvenation of the Beirut Central District is one of the largest, most ambitious urban redevelopment projects ever undertaken. Travellers will find the excitement surrounding this and other developments and designs palpable - and very infectious.

Finally, Lebanon's cuisine is considered the richest of the region. From hummus to hommard (lobster), you'll dine like a king. With legendary sights, hospitality, food and nightlife, what more could a traveller want?

I leave you with some pictures of Lebanon:









2 comments

  1. I wish I could go to Lebanon. It is beautiful, even the Bible mentions the cedars of Lebanon. My dad lived in Beirut for a couple of years and loved it. Plus, one of my favorite families (the Abou Diwans!) are from there and the food is delicious. I just took a bunch of people to dine at a Lebanese restaurant here in Virginia. It was there first time experiencing Middle-Eastern food!

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  2. The LA Times also recently listed their top 10 must see spots around the globe, http://travel.latimes.com/articles/la-tr-ultimateworld8-2009feb08?content=%3EAsia%3C%2Fa%3E+and+warm%2C+winning+people.&single_page=y#show

    Interestingly, Syria made their list.

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