Lebanon Travel Forum

Hello,

We are planning to visit Lebanon in March for 3 days.

What is situation in southern Lebanese cities of Tyre, Sidon? Are there any places in Lebanon where you wouldn't recommend to go? (just to note, I have been to Middle East - such places as Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, United Arab Emirates).

What is the situation with public intercity transport, are the busses to such places as Baalbeck, Tyre, Sidon, Tripoli frequent from Beirut?

The minibuses or 'vans' as they are known in Lebanon are frequent to all of the places you mention.

Sidon will be fine. Tyre will probably be OK too. It really depends how close you want to get to the zone of conflict. But, in only 3 days, you are not going to see that msny plsces.

Check out the site: www.fco.gov.uk - will tell you the spots to avoid under travel advice, country profiles - think it includes Tripoli. Lebanese locals can probably advise you better though.

Thanks for the site.
It was really helpful. One of my friend who recently made a visit could use this information for quick reference

hi im yves im from lebanon ..if u need any advice plz dont hesitate to ask..i live in beyrouth... the situation in all the country is very stable u dont have to worry about nothing .. all other rumors that u hear are still rumors ..the public transport system in lebanon is not very reliable but u could rent a car get a GPS and make ur tour by urself..it s not that hard ... the budget u ll put for public transport is better to be invested in a rented car.

My question also relates to yours:

I'm planning a trip to Lebanon(also in combination with Syria and Jordan) in October 2009. My trip will include the same "classical" highlights as you have given. Some say that public transport is the best way to go and discourage renting a car (for various reasons: bad roads, crazy driving, ...), others say that you can better spend your money in renting a car than wasting it to unreliable public transport. Can I conclude that both options are possible (so all sites can easily be reached by public transport!), but that it's up to you to decide on which transport you take?

I can speak English and French, would that be enough to get around in Lebanon and take public tranport, arrange lodging, ...?
Since I travel in October, would prior reservation in ho(s)tels be required?
Can I obtain a visa for Lebanon when crossing the border with Syria near Krak?

Many thanks for your help!