1. Is travel to Lebanon safe?

   Safety is the first thing on everyone’s mind when you travel, especially for women. Contrary to what you may have heard, Lebanon is a safe country to visit. As someone who previously lived there, I walked and drove around solo frequently. However, you will want to mind your things when traveling and take regular precautions. The country has gone through significant economic strife in the last years, so you will see more panhandling in Beirut than ever before. Otherwise, be mindful as you would in your own home or city. Your safety is a priority and you will be accompanied on this trip by vetted guides. On any visit, it’s strongly advised not to travel close to the Syrian or Israeli border. The country continues to live on as they’re accustomed too but the situation is tenuous between the two countries now than ever before.

   We are monitoring the situation and hope humanity will prevail. To date, Lebanon has remained minimally involved despite the ongoing issues with Hezbollah and Israel. I’ve lived there through many dust ups before and can only hope the best, cooler heads and tempered leadership decisions. Hezbollah doesn’t represent Lebanon and is a small outlier.

2. Do you need a visa for travel to Lebanon?

   For US Passport holders, you will receive a Visa upon arrival in the form of a stamp that is good for 90 days. Before you fly, please check your passport’s expiration date as it will need to be valid for at least 6 months on the final day of departure. All others, please check your country requirements.

   Note, if any others wish to travel carrying different country passports, please check in with your Embassy.

3. Are there any passport requirements for travel to Lebanon? *No Israel Stamps!

   If you arrive with an Israel stamp on your passport, they will likely turn you away. In some cases, they will simply question you and allow entry. It’s rare and it’s not worth the risk so apply for a new one or second passport. The group trip intake call will cover these types of questions.

4. What is the local currency and how does it stack up against the US dollar?

   The local currency is the Lebanese pound, and it is quite volatile right now. It used to be $1 to 1,500 Lebanese Pounds. Now, it’s more like $1 to 50,000 to 100,000. Right now, businesses are back to taking USD so you shouldn’t have to ever exchange if you bring cash with you. We strongly caution you taking money out in country at a bank as you will be ripped off on the exchange. All those traveling with Trip Whisperer group or individually planned by our team will be advised closer to travel dates based on the current situation as it changes.

   The prices are back up to pre-pandemic so don’t expect a cheap destination but it is reasonable.

5. What should I pack for the trip?

   We will send a guide on ‘what to pack’ to the guests ahead of time. Women do not need to cover up (only more modest suggested in Tripoli only). Women dress freely and you don’t need to be conservative. Women regularly wear bikinis at the beach.

6. What is the local language?

   In Beirut, you will have no issue speaking English. The local language in Lebanon is Arabic, however, most people are French-educated, so they speak French, English, and Arabic - sometimes all in the same sentence! The only time you’ll have more Arabic-only speakers is up in the mountains, further north and far south, which we won’t be traveling through much. We will also have local guides who can help translate. You are welcome to try a few Arabic phrases - it’s not the easiest language to pick up but it is always appreciated when travelers try.

7. What is the weather like in Lebanon?

   Lebanon in June will be starting to warm up and expect summer temperatures of 80 degrees. You will want to dress in light clothes that breathe. The only time the temperature could be cooler is our nights in Baalbek and Douma - up in the mountains. Bring sunscreen and an SPF-proof hat and/or clothing to protect yourself. When we tour the Baalbek ruins we will be directly in the sunlight with little cover so you will want to be prepared. Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and water with you to stay hydrated.

8. Should I get travel insurance?

   We highly recommend travel insurance. A few recommendations are Allianz, World Nomads, or a comparison channel like InsureMyTrip.com. We are happy to provde you upon request.

9. What are my flight and airport transfer options?

   Depending on your home airport, we recommend flying through Europe and making a stop in Paris, London, or even Turkey since there are no direct flights from the US currently. We personally enjoy flying Qatar through Doha Airport as the airline’s service and accommodations are fantastic. Plan to arrive by May 31st as outlined in the itinerary to join the opening dinner.

   Once you have booked your flight, please share it with the trip organizers, so we can arrange the airport transfers. We provide transfers, so your arrival and departure are seamless and you don’t have to worry about currency, haggling with drivers and directions. Giving directions in Lebanon can be challenging for travelers— it’s like they don’t believe in addresses. We will be there to help you!

10. Can I join the Lebanon group trip solo?

    If you’re coming solo, we will do our best to pair you with another traveler that matches your travel style and gender. We want to make it cost-effective, so you don’t have to pay for single occupancy. This means you will share a room in these lovely properties and make a new travel friend in the process.

11. Will I have Wifi or access to Cellular data while traveling in Lebanon?

    Lebanon is unique in that most carriers don’t operate here. We will help you get a local SIM, e-SIM or hotspot upon arrival which is at your personal expense. Hotels will provide WiFi and bigger restaurants will likely have it too for free. For remote workers, if you ever need time to check your emails or quiet time to work a bit, let me know so I can provide you the space to do that.

12. How much should tip when going to restaurants in Lebanon?

    It is customary to tip 10%. Given the economic situation, we recommend tipping 15%, however, it’s at your personal discretion. A lot of these people have lost a lot of their income purely by the currency devaluation, so we want to be mindful.

13. What additional money should I bring?

    You will need a minimal amount of cash, since the itinerary includes all meals except two. In order to have some spending money for alcoholic drinks and/or souvenirs, we suggest bringing anywhere between $250-500, depending on your spending habits. Bigger shops take credit cards, but it is not always guaranteed so you want to be prepared and avoid taking money out in the country if you can. Vendors tend to offer discounts if paying in US currency as they are eager to get a much more valuable currency.

14. What is the refund policy for the group trip? *on hold for 2025

    The final payment is taken 60 days prior to departure in order to secure all the guides, reservations, and properties. The $750 deposit to secure your space is non-refundable. If the trip must be postponed or canceled due to events beyond our control (for example, a global pandemic / COVID surge), you will be offered the choice between a full refund or you can apply your payment to the postponed date.

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