 Tahiti OverviewThe capital of Lebanon, Beirut is enjoying a growing revival of
its reputation as one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Middle
East. The city has survived a tumultuous history, with the
country's civil war nearly levelling it in the 1980s. Since then however, citizens have worked hard to restore the
city's image as the 'Paris of the Middle East'. Its diverse
population includes more than 10 religious groups, and the majority
have a reputation for being friendly and welcoming to tourists. The city's architecture is a blend of French colonial buildings
and religious structures sprinkled between modern skyscrapers and
apartment buildings. Beirut is divided into several districts,
including Ashrafieh, which is the focal point of Western culture in
the city; Hamra, home to an abundance of shops and restaurants;
Manara and Jnah, which are home to hotels and beach clubs; and
Ramlet el Baida, which features the city's only public (and sandy)
beach. |
