Douglas Easton Travel Blog - Douglas Easton Travel

March 06, 2009

Beirut, Lebanon

Beirut has long been one of the Mediterranean's most chic destinations, often referred to as the "Paris of the Middle East." A gateway between European and Middle Eastern cultures, this modern, vibrant city, like the Phoenix, has risen from the ashes of civil war and foreign occupation and become something spectacular.

In January, 2009, the New York Times rated Beirut as the #1 travel destination in the world, beating out iconic travel spots such as Rome, Phuket and South Africa. (http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/01/11/travel/20090111_DESTINATIONS.html) Indeed, Beirut has it all: a sunny, temperate, Mediterranean climate; fascinating and well-preserved archeological sites; soaring, snow-capped mountains (with excellent skiing); a gorgeous coastline and beaches; world-renowned nightlife; gourmet restaurants (serving food that has earned the city a justified reputation as the culinary center of the Middle East); and superb shopping. On top of this, the Lebanese are universally flattered to be visited by tourists... rarely have we encountered a people so welcoming.

While planning this trip, we had no idea what to expect. False rumors, lingering perceptions, biased media reports and government warnings conflicted with glowing first-hand accounts provided by both friends and bloggers who had recently visited Beirut. We determined to keep an open mind while keeping a close eye on current events.

What we concluded, after a week of touring the country, is that American perceptions of Lebanon are no longer reflective of reality.

Highlights of our visit have been the cathedral-like caves of the Jeitta Grotto; the stupendous temple of Baalbek and the ruins at Byblos; the vibrant energy of the newly-rebuilt downtown Beirut; and the amazing food.

Undeniably, there exist reminders of a time when the city was wracked by war. Portions of it remain unreconstructed. Yet these are few and far between. What exists today is something entirely new....a city steeped in hope and pride, one which has regained its preeminence as a world capital.

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