There was a time when Lebanon and Beirut were places to avoid. But in 2010, Beirut has been declared as the biggest hotspot for travelers and vacationers. The Republic of Lebanon is located on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, bordering Syria and Israel. Exploring the Middle East offers a cheaper and more adventurous option for travelers than the usual US/Australia option. And for people looking for a vacation with a difference, Syria and Lebanon are becoming increasingly popular. Lebanon is the crossroads of the Mediterranean basin and the interior of Arabia. As such, it is an area rich in history, culture, and ethnic diversity. In an increasingly homogenized world, it is no surprise that tourists seeking a truly authentic experience choose Lebanon and Syria.
Jordan, Turkey, Egypt, Syria and Lebanon are becoming more popular according to Tom Hall, travel editor for Lonely Planet travel guides. The region’s history, warm hospitality, and affordability make it a must-see destination. Beirut has gone from being a war zone to being “the most glamorous tourist destination of 2010”. Beirut was a place of excitement and adventure, but part of that was due to the danger of the city. A journalist from The Guardian said that 20 years ago the city’s attraction was like “the kind of psychotic ex-lover you worry might strangle you in your sleep”.
But now, Beruit has changed. It has a rebuilt downtown, complete with a Dunkin’ Donuts. The city is made all the more beautiful by its damaged, exciting and glamorous history, it has been compared to being ‘the Elizabeth Taylor of the Mediterranean’. With two new hotels in town, it now has that international luxury appeal; The New York Times has named Beirut its number one destination in the world.
Lebanon is packed with beautiful, vast mountains, warm and friendly people, cool bars, and sublime food. According to national newspapers such as The Guardian and The New York Times, the city boasts the most incredible bars in the world, surpassing London by a mile: “Beirut is incredibly glamorous. The people are so cosmopolitan. The nightlife is so sophisticated. “.