50 Tips and Hacks for Travelers from India to Lebanon (After Landing)

Welcome to Lebanon! Now that you've arrived at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, here are 50 tips and hacks to navigate your way through and get your Lebanese adventure started smoothly:

Arrival Process (1-5):

1. Immigration: Follow the signs for passport control. Have your passport, visa (if required), and arrival card ready for inspection.
2. Baggage Claim: Proceed to the baggage claim area corresponding to your flight number and collect your luggage.
3. Customs: Declare any items on the customs declaration form that require duty payment. Green channels are for those with nothing to declare.
4. Currency Exchange: Exchange a small amount of Indian Rupees (INR) to Lebanese Pounds (LBP) at the airport kiosks for immediate needs like taxis or refreshments.
5. Free Wi-Fi: Connect to the airport's free Wi-Fi to contact your accommodation or loved ones.

Transportation from Airport (6-10):

6. Pre-booked Transfers: If you pre-booked airport transfers, look for their representatives holding a sign with your name.
7. Taxis: Taxis are readily available outside the airport. Agree on a fare beforehand and ensure they use the meter. Carry smaller denominations of LBP for easier transactions.
8. Ride-Sharing Apps: Consider using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem if you have a local SIM card or international roaming data.
9. Public Transportation: Beirut has a public bus system, but navigating it might be overwhelming on arrival. Research routes beforehand if you're an experienced traveler seeking a budget option.
10. Car Rentals: Rental car companies operate at the airport. If you plan to explore beyond cities, consider renting a car with an international driver's permit. Be familiar with Lebanese traffic regulations and road conditions.

Staying Connected (11-15):

11. Local SIM Card: Purchase a local SIM card at airport kiosks for cheaper data and calls within Lebanon. Choose a plan based on your needs.
12. International Roaming: If you activated international roaming with your Indian service provider, you can use your Indian SIM card, but data charges might be high.
13. Airport Lounges: If you have a long layover or access through your travel class or credit card, explore the airport lounges for comfortable seating, refreshments, and sometimes even showers.
14. Download Offline Apps: Download offline maps, essential apps like ride-sharing or translation tools, and any online tickets or documents before leaving the airport Wi-Fi zone.
15. Power Adapters: Lebanon uses a different plug type than India. Use a universal power adapter to charge your devices.

First Steps in Beirut (16-20):

16. Left Luggage: If you have an extended wait between airport arrival and hotel check-in, consider using the airport's left luggage facility to store your bags securely.
17. Currency Exchange: Compare rates at different airport currency exchange kiosks before finalizing your transaction.
18. Basic Arabic Phrases: Knowing a few basic Arabic phrases like "hello" (marhaba), "thank you" (shukran), and "water" (meye) can be helpful for initial interactions.
19. ATM Withdrawals: Withdraw cash from ATMs using your debit card if you haven't exchanged enough currency. Be aware of withdrawal fees.
20. Tourist Information: Look for tourist information booths at the airport for maps, brochures, and recommendations on things to do and see in Beirut.

Settling In (21-25):

21. Hotel Check-In: Head to your pre-booked accommodation and present your confirmation details for a smooth check-in process.
22. Luggage Storage: Leave your luggage at the hotel if your room isn't ready yet and explore the city by dropping off your bags at the hotel's luggage storage facility.
23. City Map: Request a city map from your hotel reception for navigating Beirut and exploring nearby attractions.
24. Local Recommendations: Ask hotel staff for recommendations on restaurants, cafes, sights, and cultural experiences based on your interests.
25. Explore the Area: If you have time before check-in, consider venturing out for a short walk around the hotel's vicinity to get a feel for the neighborhood and grab a quick bite.

Communication and Daily Essentials (26-30):

26. Phone Calls: If you haven't purchased a local SIM card yet, rely on Wi-Fi calling through apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime if available on your plan.
27. Public Restrooms: Public restrooms might be limited, especially at tourist attractions. Utilize restrooms at cafes, restaurants, or your hotel when possible.
28. Drinking Water: Stick to bottled water to avoid any stomach issues. Many restaurants offer bottled water with meals.
29. Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants (around 10-15%) and for porters. Round up taxi fares or leave small change.
30. Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in souqs (markets) and with street vendors. Be polite and respectful during negotiations.

Exploring Beirut (31-35):

31. Walking Tours: Join a free walking tour offered in most major cities for a historical and cultural introduction to Beirut.
32. Public Transportation: Consider using public transportation like buses or service taxis (shared taxis) for a budget-friendly way to explore the city. Research routes and fares beforehand.
33. Ride-Sharing Apps: Utilize ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem for convenient point-to-point transportation within the city.
34. Taxis: Negotiate fares with taxis before getting in. Agree on a price and ensure they use the meter whenever possible.
35. Day Trips: Plan day trips from Beirut to nearby historical sites like Byblos, Baalbek, or the Bekaa Valley wine region.

Food and Local Experiences (36-40):

36. Sample Local Cuisine: Indulge in Lebanese mezze (small plates) - hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel, tabbouleh, and other delicious options.
37. Street Food: Try safe and popular street food options like manousheh (flatbread with toppings), grilled meats, and fresh juices.
38. Explore Souqs: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of souqs (markets) like Souk al-Hamidiyeh, bargaining for souvenirs and local crafts.
39. Coffee Culture: Experience Lebanon's strong coffee culture. Arabic coffee is traditionally served after meals.
40. Alcohol: Alcohol is legal in Lebanon, but be mindful of consumption in public places.

Safety and Security (41-45):

41. Be Aware of Surroundings: Stay vigilant in crowded areas, especially around tourist attractions, and keep your belongings secure.
42. Dress Modestly: While Lebanon is a modern country, dress modestly when visiting religious sites or conservative neighborhoods.
43. Learn Basic Arabic: Knowing a few basic Arabic phrases can help in communication and enhance your cultural experience.
44. Emergency Numbers: Save the emergency contact numbers for police (112) and ambulance (140) on your phone.
45. Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions to avoid any misunderstandings.

Making the Most of Your Trip (46-50):

46. Learn a Few Words: Make an effort to learn a few basic Arabic words beyond greetings to connect with locals on a deeper level.
47. Interact with Locals: Engage in conversations with locals to gain insights into Lebanese culture and hidden gems.
48. Support Local Businesses: Shop at local stores and try locally owned restaurants to contribute to the Lebanese economy and experience authentic flavors.
49. Embrace the Culture: Be open to new experiences, cultural differences, and unexpected encounters.
50. Relax and Enjoy: Lebanon offers a beautiful blend of history, culture, and scenic landscapes. Relax, enjoy the pace of life, and create lasting memories.

By following these tips, you can navigate your arrival in Lebanon smoothly and embark on an enriching adventure filled with cultural experiences and lasting memories.