Beirut Travel Guide

Beirut Travel Information

Electricity

Electrical current is 110/220 volts, 50HZ. The European round two-pin plug is standard, as is the two-pin flat blade plug, two-pin flat blade plug with 3rd round pin, two-pin round plug with male receptacle pin and the �Schuko� plug.

Language

Arabic is the official language. French and English are also spoken.

Tipping

Tipping is customary in Lebanon. Porters, waiters, hotel staff, guides and doormen usually receive a 10-15% tip.

Safety Information

Although Lebanon still features on consular warning lists, it also remains a popular and largely safe travel destination. Situated in a volatile region of the world, travellers are strongly advised to remain vigilant at all times in Lebanon, and to avoid the areas surrounding the Israeli border. Any travel south of the Litani River is discouraged. Crimes such as burglary, petty theft, vehicle theft and break-ins are present in Lebanon, but are low by international standards. Visitors should be streetwise and exercise normal precautions.

Local Customs

A large proportion of the population in Lebanon is Muslim so modest standards of dress and behaviour should be exercised. In certain areas, public displays of affection may cause offence and during Ramadan eating, drinking or smoking in public places between the hours of sunrise and sunset are frowned upon as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. Possession, use and trafficking of controlled drugs are all serious offences in Lebanon and carry custodial sentences, and homosexuality is considered a criminal offence. Overstaying without the proper authority is also considered to be a serious offence. Photographing military personnel or installations and government buildings may lead to confiscation of photographic equipment, and possibly even imprisonment.

Business

Business attire in Lebanon is formal, usually a jacket and tie. Business cards are widely distributed and English is spoken by many local business people. General offic