My Homeland

On the eastern side of the Mediterranean Sea, my homeland The Republic of Lebanon, a small country of 10452 square kilometers. It takes around 7 hours direct flight from Lagos to Beirut (the capital).

The population is around 6.7 million out of which 1.5 million are refugees (Syrians and Palestinians). The Lebanese around the world are spread across all continents, majority are in Latin America (Brazil) followed by North America. There are 18 religious’ groups (mainly split between Muslims 62% and Christians 34%). The native language is Arabic. Most of the population speak French (due to France colonial rule in the past). Now the new generations and the schools focus are towards English (widely used in Business across the country). The economy is mainly oriented towards services and tourists while industries and agricultures are the minorities.

There are four seasons across the year. Cold and rainy winters, hot and dry summers, while autumn and spring are warm and pleasant. Compared with other neighbor countries, Lebanon is considered to be the most attractive location for visitors and tourist activities throughout the year.

Cedar tree is the national symbol of Lebanon, covering the mountains. This tree represents strength and eternity. It is written in the bible “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon” (Psalm 92:12).”

For the lovers of museums and history, a visitor can enjoy more than 30 locations (https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g294004-Activities-c49-Lebanon.html) spread across the country.

One of the spectacular and amazing locations made by nature is Jeita Grotto (https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g2624572-d318145-Reviews-Jeita_Grotto-Jitta_Mount_Lebanon_Governorate.html). This cave was formed since millions of years and it was among the finalists to be classified one of the 7 wonders of Nature.

Temples can be found in every region of our country. One of the most incredible monuments is Baalbek which was constructed by the Phoenicians since more than 2000 years. (https://lebanonuntravelled.com/8-roman-temples-in-bekaa-valley).

Due to the geographical diversity in Lebanon, the mountains are considered to be strategic locations for the skiing addicts visiting the resorts to practice this hobby. Majority of the foreign skiers are European due to the fact the slopes, length and pistes are unique in the region. Resorts and facilities are very well organized and prepared for those visitors (https://www.booking.com/ski/country/lb.html).

Away from the cold and snow, the summer is hot, but the humidity is mid-range. Swimming pools and beach resorts are spread across the coast. Water activities and competitions are being organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports which attract multiple nationalities. Many places can be explored by the lovers of scuba diving. If you wish to discover the city from above, parasailing is your choice.

Beirut and the surrounding cities are famous with the variety of nightlife activities throughout the week (pubs, bars, casino). While in Lebanon, a visitor can enjoy a wide range of foods from different types of cuisines. The foods are made of fresh local ingredients. Lebanese food is ranked 41 In the World By “TasteAtlas”.

If you are planning your next vacation, don’t hesitate to put Lebanon on your schedule.