Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens DO NOT TRAVEL to Lebanon due due to crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping, and Embassy Beirut’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens. Some areas, especially near the borders, have increased risk.
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/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
961
Local Emergency Phone
112
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Lebanon: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, rabies, anthrax, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.
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
Gifts are an important part of the Lebanese culture especially if you are invited to a Lebanese home. You can bring sweets, pastries, alcohol or flowers with you. It is better to give the gift with the right hand. The Lebanese receive their guests with warmth and a smile. You will see them perform three kisses and say “Marhaba”, just follow their lead!
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, December 26, 2023
