• Beirut

Bordered by Syria, Israel and the Mediterranean Sea, Lebanon has made significant progress toward rebuilding the damage that was caused during the 16-year civil war which ended in 1991. The infrastructure that was devastated during this time has almost completely been rebuilt although there are pockets of rural land which are still operating on basic amenities. Lebanon is a fascinating, colourful country of great cultural and religious diversity, evident in any busy town in the country but particularly in Beirut, the capital of Lebanon. Beirut is well-equipped to deal with tourists and the influx of local people who come here to conduct their business affairs. It is very much a city of commerce. Banking, textiles and tourism are important contributors to the country's economy. Food production is also important in Lebanon. The extremely fertile Bekka (Al Biqa) Valley, which is located between Lebanon's parallel mountain ranges forming the backbone of the country, is where citrus fruits, olives, tobacco and all manner of vegetables are grown. Lebanon's climate and altitude (over half of the country is above 3,000 feet) ensure plentiful supplies of exotic fruits, delightful colours and fragrances for the passing visitors. Lebanon has many places of special interest to explore; tourist villages, hill towns surrounded by lush valleys laden with fruit, mountainous terrain to climb for the reward of spectacular views and the city of Batroun - said to be one of the oldest in the world.

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