50 Tips and Hacks for Travelers from India to Lebanon (Before You Travel)

Lebanon offers a beautiful blend of ancient history, stunning mountains, and vibrant cities. Here are 50 tips and hacks to ensure a smooth and enriching experience for Indian travelers:

Visas and Immigration (1-5):

1. Check Visa Requirements: Confirm visa needs for Indian citizens well in advance. Lebanon offers visa on arrival for some nationalities, but it's best to check with the Lebanese embassy in India or their official website http://newdelhi.mfa.gov.lb/india/english/visas1.
2. Passport Validity: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity from your arrival date.
3. Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
4. Fill out Arrival Card: Prepare the arrival card (provided on the plane) with flight details and Lebanese address (if any).
5. Carry Documents: Keep your passport, visa (if required), travel insurance documents, and onward/return tickets easily accessible.

Currency and Money Matters (6-10):

6. Currency Exchange: The Lebanese currency is the Lebanese Pound (LBP). Research currency exchange rates before you travel. Consider exchanging a small amount of INR to LBP at the airport for immediate needs.
7. ATMs and Debit Cards: ATMs are widely available in major cities. Check with your bank about international transaction fees and inform them about your travel dates to avoid blocked cards.
8. Credit Cards: Major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in cities, but carrying some cash is recommended for smaller towns and taxis.
9. Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants (around 10-15%) and for porters. Round up taxi fares or leave small change.
10. Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in souqs (markets) and with street vendors. Be polite and respectful during negotiations.

Booking Flights and Accommodation (11-15):

11. Flight Options: Several airlines offer flights between India and Beirut, Lebanon's capital. Consider connecting flights and compare prices with budget-friendly options.
12. Peak Season: Lebanon experiences peak tourist seasons during summer (June-August) and around Christmas/New Year. Book flights and accommodation well in advance to avoid inflated prices and limited availability.
13. Accommodation Options: Choose from luxurious hotels in Beirut, budget-friendly guesthouses, or traditional boutique hotels. Research neighborhoods based on your interests (beach, nightlife, historical center).
14. Homestays: Consider unique homestays for a cultural immersion experience, especially in villages.
15. Confirmation Emails: Ensure you have confirmation emails for all your flights and accommodation bookings.

Planning Your Itinerary (16-20):

16. Must-Sees: Research Lebanon's must-sees based on your interests. Popular options include the ancient city of Byblos, the Jeita Grotto caves, the Phoenician ruins of Tyre and Sidon, the Bekaa Valley wine region, and the historical city center of Beirut.
17. Hidden Gems: Look beyond the popular tourist spots and discover hidden gems like the Baatara Gorge waterfall, the Moussa castle, or charming coastal towns.
18. Day Trips: Plan day trips from Beirut to explore nearby areas like Byblos, Baalbek, or the Chouf mountains.
19. Festivals: Check Lebanon's event calendar for festivals happening during your visit. Immerse yourself in the local culture through music, food, and celebrations.
20. Off-the-Beaten-Path: Venture off the beaten path and explore villages in the mountains or along the coast for an authentic Lebanese experience.

Packing Essentials (21-25):

21. Lightweight Clothing: Pack comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather.
22. Modest Attire: For religious sites or conservative villages, pack clothing that covers shoulders and knees for both men and women.
23. Swimwear: If you plan on visiting beaches or pools, pack appropriate swimwear.
24. Sunscreen and Hat: Lebanon has strong sunshine. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection.
25. Comfortable Shoes: Be prepared for walking on cobblestone streets and uneven terrain. Pack comfortable walking shoes.

Culture and Communication (26-30):

26. Learn Basic Arabic Phrases: Learn a few basic Arabic phrases like "hello" (marhaba), "thank you" (shukran), and Yalla (let's go!). These will be very helpful during your trip!

27. Dress Code: Lebanon is a modern country, but dressing modestly is appreciated in religious places and conservative villages.
28. Social Etiquette: Greetings involve handshakes and eye contact. Public displays of affection are generally avoided.
29. Photography: It's polite to ask permission before photographing people, especially in religious places.
30. Cultural Sensitivity: Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Health and Safety (31-35):

31. Vaccinations: Research any recommended vaccinations for travel to Lebanon.
32. Medical Kit: Pack a basic medical kit with essential medications like pain relievers, diarrhea medication, and bandaids.
33. Travel Health Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies in Lebanon.
34. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of bottled water, especially during hot weather.
35. Sun Safety: Apply sunscreen regularly and avoid excessive midday sun exposure.

Food and Local Experiences (36-40):

36. Lebanese Cuisine: Indulge in delicious Lebanese cuisine - mezze (small plates), fresh seafood, grilled meats, and Arabic sweets.
37. Street Food: Try safe and popular street food options like falafel wraps, manousheh (flatbread with toppings), and fresh juices.
38. Fruit Bargaining: Haggle politely for fresh fruits and vegetables in souqs (markets).
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.

Transportation and Getting Around (41-45):

41. Airport Transportation: Pre-book airport transfers or taxis for a smooth arrival experience.
42. Public Transportation: Beirut has a public bus system and shared taxis (service taxis) for budget travel. Research routes and fares beforehand.
43. Ride-Sharing Apps: Consider using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem for convenient transportation.
44. Taxis: Agree on fares beforehand when using taxis. Carry small denominations of Lebanese Pound for easier transactions.
45. Car Rentals: For exploring beyond cities, consider renting a car with an international driver's permit. Be aware of traffic regulations and road conditions.

Mobile Data and Communication (46-50):

46. International Roaming: Check with your Indian mobile service provider for international roaming packages in Lebanon.
47. Local SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival for cheaper data and calls within Lebanon.
48. Free Wi-Fi: Many cafes, restaurants, and hotels offer free Wi-Fi.
49. Staying Connected: Download offline maps, essential apps, and translation tools before your trip to stay connected even with limited internet access.
50. Power Adapters: India uses a different plug type than Lebanon. Pack a universal power adapter to charge your devices.

By following these tips and hacks, you can ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and enriching travel experience in Lebanon. Remember to research specific details closer to your departure date and embrace the unique culture and beauty of this fascinating country.