Mediteranean Archives

Beirut, Lebanon, is a historically rich city that offers its visitors ancient ruins, remarkable cuisine, and relaxing beaches. This city also happens to be Lebanon's star city when it comes to tourism. In this Beirut guide, I will share with you some of the best things to do and places to stay in Beirut. But before I do that, let me address the burning question: Is it Safe to Visit Beirut in 2022? There's no denying that Lebanon has been at the center stage of some bloody conflicts. With Syria and Israel at its border, there's a constant influx of both Syrian and Palestinian refugees in the country. Apart from the country's geographical location, its past is also filled with stories of warfare and death. The Lebanese civil war ended in 1980, and the country is still going through unrest because of Hezbollah and the Syrian conflict. Statistically, Lebanon stood at 141 in a list of 163 countries in the Global Peace Index 2018. That might sound alarming until you consider that it is the safest country in the Middle East. What's more, this country consistently welcomes a higher number of tourists. To put it simply, even though the statistics and history peg this country as relatively unsafe, it is still a generalization. The question is, does that generalization apply to all of its cities? No. Beirut happens to be one of the safest cities in the country. Beirut has consistently maintained this reputation in the eyes of international travelers because of its liberated and modernized atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, high level of development, and an overall secure environment. Since it welcomes tourism every year, the government ensures a safe environment continually. Now that you know it is safe to travel to Beirut in 2022, let us begin with the best things to do when you're there! Top 7 Things to do in Beirut Shopping at Beirut Souks When it comes to having a cultural and exciting shopping experience, Beirut is known for its 5000 years old market. Yes, you read that right. No, I didn't add two zeroes by mistake. Beirut souks are the commercial district of Beirut. Historically, this area of the city was the commercial center where people would come to buy everything under the sun. Today, these markets house all the famous luxury brands and provide an unparalleled shopping experience that is both traditional and modern. Mar Mikhael's Vibrant Nightlife As I already mentioned, Beirut is a relatively modern city and is favored among tourists. If you're missing the nightlife typical of any modern tourist destination, head to Mar Mikhael without a second thought. This district is dotted with bars, clubs, and restaurants open till late. Moreover, when this area comes alive at night, it is with a distinct tinge of hipster culture worth experiencing. The Unmissable Cuisine A platter of mezze is an instantly recognizable feature of typical Lebanese life, and you can't call your visit to Beirut a success if you haven't had any. Lebanese culture is heavily into food, and indulging in the traditional culinary experiences is the right way to visit Beirut. The city always welcomes visitors to new restaurants, eateries, and cafes. There are also some unchallenged contenders such as Enab, Tawlet, Motto, and Dar Bistro & Books. A Leisurely Stroll at Hamra Street I loved taking casual, relaxing strolls in the city of Beirut and enjoying the locals in their element going about their business. Beirut is a small city which makes it very pleasurable to walk around. One such place is Hamra Street. Also known as Rue Hamra, it is one of Beirut's main streets and serves as a diplomatic and economic hub of the city. Here you'll also find the campus of the American University of Beirut. It has an archeological museum that houses artifacts that take you to the country's turbulent past. To cure stomach growls, you can head to the Meyzan or T-Marbouta, where you can enjoy one of the best mezze. Both these places are within walking distance from Hamra street. The Temple of Bacchus in Baalbek Baalbek is a small town about a two-hour drive away from Beirut. It has a special significance when it comes to visiting Beirut because of the Roman temple of Bacchus. It is an 1800-year-old domineering marvel of Roman architecture built to honor the Roman wine god Bacchus. Greeks called this temple Heliopolis(The city of the sun), and it is a celebrated sanctuary of the ancient world. It also has the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is connected deeply with the Lebanese tourist industry worldwide. Here you'll find the ruins reminiscent of the glory of the Roman era and its imperial columns a symbol of the fantastic architectural craft of Romans. This temple comes alive with plays and concerts at the Baalbeck International Festival every summer. Achrafieh-The Upper-class Beirut District Another rewarding experience during a Beirut evening is to head to the Achrafieh. It is an upper-class Beirut suburb within a 10-minute drive from Hamra Street. Amidst the modern houses of this old district, you'll find French manors that seamlessly intertwine the city's past with its modernized present. This district is also home to Metropolis Sofil, the one, and only arthouse cinema to catch a movie and bring a fulfilling end to a Beirut night. The National Museum of Beirut Beirut's National Museum is the perfect place to be after a stimulating nightlife experience or a cuisine escapade. This museum houses the bronze statues from Byblos, the marble sarcophagi from Tyre, and many other artifacts that take you to the city's archaic past. For a more interactive experience, you can watch a short audiovisual film covering everything from the museum's history and how the exhibits were secured during the brutal civil war. https://youtu.be/g0dlIXEEQps Best Places to Stay in Beirut It is not possible to enjoy this diverse city to the fullest if you don't have a lodging experience that is comfortable, luxurious, and up to the standards. For me, it is something that can not be compromised, which is why I have compiled a list of some of the best places to stay in Beirut. As for the districts/areas, some of the best ones that come to mind are Downtown Beirut, Hamra, Achrafieh, and Raouché. Let us now take a look at the list. Le Gray Le Gray is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious, glamorous, and exclusive lodging experiences you can have in Beirut. Back in August 2020, it was closed because it was affected by the catastrophic bomb blast, but it is all set to make a comeback in spring 2022. This hotel offers exquisite dining, an infinity pool, breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, opulent spas, volcanic hot stone massages, and anti-aging facials. Le Bristol Hotel Yet another unparalleled luxury experience, Le Bristol hotel brings together the best of modern and traditional Lebanon. On top of the fine dining, this hotel has a luxurious ballroom, gleaming rooftop pool, hipster rooms, parquet flooring, and classic but classy furniture. Dar Al Achrafieh Dar Al Achrafieh is a niche lodging experience set up in a home constructed back in 1929. Staying here gives a feeling of exclusivity and luxurious isolation, and with its soaring ceilings and Art Deco furnishing, it is a photogenic place to be. It is a balanced mix of Lebanese and Bohemian themes, its twin rooms showing off vibrant hues of blue and coral. It has been specially themed and decorated to perfection by the host Jamil and lies at a short distance from the Soho of Beirut, the "Gemmayze Street." InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut The InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut is perfect for people who want to be close to the ocean. It is situated close to the coast overlooking the turquoise waters of Corniche waterfront and gently bobbing boats at Beirut's harbor. It is a luxurious and elegant hotel, and its white and gold hues are a testament to that fact. Comfy seating, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centers, three restaurants, and a few other amenities make this place a no-brainer Beirut lodging experience. Time for a Beirut Vacation With this guide in your hand, you're all set for an exciting, remarkable, and memorable Beirut vacation this year. All that's left to do now is book your tickets and pack your bags!