Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens Reconsider Travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and Embassy Beirut’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens.Some areas have increased risk. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 90 days after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. NO Israeli stamp or visa should be found in your passport. Travelers should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.
US Embassy/Consulate
[961] (04) 543 600; US Embassy in Beirut, Awkar-Facing the Municipality, Main Street, Beirut, Lebanon; BeirutACS@state.gov; https://lb.usembassy.gov/
Telephone Code
961
Local Emergency Phone
112
Vaccinations
See WHO recommendations
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Mediterranean; mild to cool, wet winters with hot, dry summers; the Lebanon Mountains experience heavy winter snows
Currency (Code)
Lebanese pounds (LBP)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, D, G
Major Languages
Arabic, French, English, Armenian
Major Religions
Muslim 61.1% (30.6% Sunni, 30.5% Shia, some Alawites and Ismailis), Christian 33.7%, Druze 5.2%
Time Difference
UTC+2 (7 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time); daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Baalbek; Beirut (includes National Museum and Corniche); Cedars of God Nature Preserve; Byblos; Beiteddine Palace; Kadisha Valley; Tyre
Major Sports
Soccer, basketball
Cultural Practices
When invited to a home bring a gift for the host; it is considered polite to additionally bring chocolates for the children of the house.
Tipping Guidelines
Waiters are usually tipped 10-15%, but check your bill as some places automatically add a 15% service charge. Hotel porters and parking valets appreciate small bills as a gratuity.
Souvenirs
Jewelry, copperware, glassware, brass tea sets, baskets
Traditional Cuisine
Tabbouleh — a salad made with tomatoes, parsley, bulgur, and onions mixed in a sauce of lemon juice, olive oil, and salt; often served with Kibbeh (ground lamb, bulgur, and seasonings baked, fried, stuffed, or served raw)
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Tuesday, October 18, 2022
