LEBANON

Health & vaccination

No special vaccinations are needed for a stay in Lebanon. Medical facilities in Lebanon have an excellent standard, and due to the proximity of Beirut from anywhere in the country, assured at any time. In order to prevent cases of diarrhea, however, we recommend to avoid drinking tap water.

When it comes to the Corona virus (COVID-19), we follow the recommendations made by the German Federal Foreign Office as well as the local authorities and the German Embassy on site. In case of any change of the health situation, the tour might be subject to according changes we will inform you about as soon as possible.

Language

The official language in Lebanon is Arabic. The Lebanese dialect is close to the Syrian and Palestinian ones. All young Lebanese speak at least either English or French, both lingua franca in the country.

Local currency

There are two official currencies in Lebanon, which are bound to each other, the Lebanese Lira/Pound (LBP), and the US Dollar (USD). You can officially pay with either currency throughout the country. It might happen that after paying in once currency, change will be given in form of the other. Oftentimes, the currencies are even getting mixed. One USD currently amount to 1.5000 Lebanese Lira.

It is very easy to exchange money (Euros or US Dollars) anywhere in the country or to withdraw cash with a debit or credit card, as the banks have numerous branches. We recommend to take a part of the money in cash, and take a debit or credit card with you as well. Withdrawal fees might vary according to the regulations of your home bank.

Security

The issue of security plays a big role in Lebanon.

In planning out tours, we follow the recommendations and statements issued by the German Federal Foreign Office. Our route only leads us through areas deemed safe by the Office. While doing so, we keep close contact with the German Embassy and local authorities on the ground. In case of any change of the security situation, the tour route might be subject to according changes.

Visa

Visa are provided upon arrival at the airport in Beirut. It is thus not necessary to apply for a visa at the Lebanese Embassy in Germany. To receive a visa upon arrival, you need a passport with a minimum six months validity at the time of travel. The visa is free of charge.

Visa regulations might change at any time. If so, we will inform you in time before the tour start. Please let us know as soon as possible if you have any Israeli stamps in your passport, and/or do not wish to travel with your German passport.