Lebanon Travel Tips

The local currency is the is the Lebanese Lira (LL) and in terms of notes, is issued in LL50, 100, 250, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000 denominations. Coins are issued in LL500, 250 and 100 units.

Almost all banks will exchange foreign currency and visitors will likely find they will offer the best rates. Alternatively, some hotels may offer exchange services otherwise bureau de change booths are fairly commonly found in the big cities. ATMs are available in the major cities and rates are usually low. Using an ATM machine is a safe and convenient way of obtaining your money. Traveller’s cheques are not advised, although they can be changed at banks and bureaux de change. If you do bring traveller’s cheques, always bring them in either US Dollars or Pound Sterling.

There are no restrictions with regards to the import or export of either foreign or local currencies.

Tourists are permitted to bring in two litres of spirits and 500 grams of tobacco (400 cigarettes or 20 cigars). One litre of eau de cologne and 100g of perfume is allowed while personal belongings should not exceed LL2000,000. Those aged under 18 years are permitted half the specified quantities for duty free except tobacco and alcoholic beverages, which are forbidden. Arms, ammunition, narcotics, immoral publications and recordings are all banned as are antiques without an export license.

230 volts AC / 50Hz

Visitors are not required to have any specific vaccinations prior to entering Lebanon although those travelling from countries where yellow fever is present will need the necessary certificates declaring them free of the disease. Tap water is considered safe to drink although the chemical composition may differ from water elsewhere so visitors may prefer to drink bottled water to be on the safe side. Hygiene standards in restaurants and bars are high, generally speaking, and the chances of getting food poisoning are relatively low. Visitors who do take sick for whatever reason will find a good standard of healthcare in the hospitals with most doctors capable of speaking either English or French. Travel insurance with adequate provision for medical care should be taken out by all foreign visitors.

Emergency: 112

On December 22, 2006, the US Department of State website was advising US citizens to defer travel to Lebanon on account of rising political tensions which might present safety issues to visitors; the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office website was advising similarly. Those proposing to travel to Lebanon for any purpose should check the information available on their home country’s related government website for the most recent information available on the issue. There is a serious risk of danger from unexploded bombs which can, and have been, accidentally detonated. This risk is greatest in the south of Lebanon although caution should be displayed throughout the country.

Israeli warplanes have attacked all crossing points on the border with Syria apart from the one at al-Arida on the coast. While these crossings are now passable, there remains a high risk of increased tension which could lead to attacks. There is a high threat of terrorism in Lebanon and because of this, visitors should carry identity papers at all times and be extremely vigilant.

Emergency: 112

Lebanese meeting for the first time or greeting friends will generally do so only with a handshake, visitors should do the same. Casual dress is considered suitable in tourist areas although in some parts of Beirut, locals tend to dress slightly more formally. Formal wear is also best worn to reputable bars and restaurants. Visitors should be aware that the country is divided between a Christian and Muslim population and take care to observe due reverence when visiting any religious buildings.

Tipping is not considered compulsory but is gratefully received and should always be offered provided you feel like you have received satisfactory service. Gratuities of 10 to 20 per cent of a bill would be considered acceptable. Tipping porters or taxi drivers is largely discretionary.

The international dialling code for Lebanon is +961. The country has its own mobile phone providers who may or may not have agreements with US and European companies; visitors are advised to check with their own service provider ahead of travelling.

GMT +2

All nationalities require a valid visa to enter Lebanon, but fortunately citizens of Australia, Canada, the US, New Zealand and most EU countries can obtain a visa on arrival for stays of up to three months. If you are from a country which does not have this agreement, you should contact you nearest Lebanese embassy for more details.