Even though Lebanon is among the smallest nations globally, it also takes pride in being one of the most culturally varied countries in the world, where numerous different faiths peacefully coexist.
Beneath its rich and captivating past, the finest entertainment options, delicious food, and a progressive and western-influenced social scene, it's easy to overlook the fact that you're truly in the center of the most volatile area on the planet.
Capital: Beirut
Population: 6 million (112th)
Languages: Arabic is the official but French is widely spoken among many educated people.
Area: 10,452km² (161st largest country)
Practically all Western nationalities can get a FREE 30-day visa on arrival at the airport.
You can fly to Beirut from many European cities like Madrid, Frankfurt, Paris, and London. Also from Istanbul and Dubai.
In terms of traveling overland, the border with Israel remains closed but you can easily enter from Syria.
The legal money is the Lebanese Pound. The current exchange rate is: 1 USD = 15,000 LBP On the underground market, it's possible to swap it for as much as 100,000 LBP.
Budget: starting at $35 a day for budget backpackers.
