Why Lebanon is Famous for its Travel and Food Culture

The country, Lebanon, offers so much more than one can imagine. It is the country to fall in love with at once for its travel and food culture. Since a few travellers explore it, you will also be able to enjoy the authentic experience with the utmost safety. Lebanese culinary tradition is one of its kind, with a sumptuous variety of unique and irresistible cuisines.

Although Lebanon has many of the same cultural traits as the Arabs, it also possesses qualities that set it apart from many of its Arabian neighbours. Its natural and mountainous nature has historically provided a haven for various religious and ethnic groups. One of the Mediterranean region's most densely populated nations, Lebanon also boasts one of the highest literacy rates. Despite having few natural resources, Lebanon has remained a vibrant cultural hub for the Middle East for a very long time. It has also been one of the absolute attractions for tourists who believe in exploring places that are raw and authentic. 

If you are an ardent traveller and a foody, or a Lebanon trip is on the cards then this article will enlighten you with some extensive information about places to visit in Lebanon and Lebanese Cuisines you must not miss trying your hands on. 

Not to forget, your travel preparation list must include Lebanon travel insurance without which you can’t enter the country. 

Places to Visit in Lebanon

Beirut, Lebanon's capital, is home to some amazing tourist destinations known for their architectural beauty, and history plays an important role in their presence. It goes without saying that tourism in Beirut has exploded in recent years. The magnificent mosque complexes constructed by the Ottomans and Mamluks are matched by the broad avenues and boulevards created by the French colonial masters.

Here is a list of the city's top 5 attractions for visitors. Due to these amazing locations, Lebanon has been drawing a large number of tourists from all over the world:

National Museum of Beirut

One of the top sites to see in Beirut, this museum is home to around 100,000 ancient and mediaeval items discovered in and around Lebanon. The marble tomb depicting a Phoenician ship dates from the 19th to the 18th century BC. It has the most extensive collection of Phoenician artefacts in the whole world. You must not miss out on this wonder.

Beirut Souks

Souk means market in Arabic, and if you are out in Beirut and looking forward to some shopping, Beirut Souk could be the most fun place to shop. One of the fascinating sites to visit in Beirut if you're searching for a souvenir is the Souk al Ahad. Located away from the contemporary section of the market, the souk features the world's top luxury brands. This place is absolute heaven for shopaholics.

Roman Bath

A four-sectioned ancient public bathing establishment (thermae) that served as a gathering area for all Roman city residents. Today, one of these areas serves as a venue for cultural events and concerts, while the other is a Mediterranean garden and a popular tourist destination in Beirut. Don’t forget to add this to your itinerary.

Byblos

If you enjoy history and archaeology, Byblos, about an hour's drive from the city, is an excellent destination around Beirut. One of the first Phoenician settlements, has been inhabited continuously since 5000 BC. Do visit the National Museum of Obelisks, constructed between 3200 and 3600 years ago. The Sultan Abdul Majid Mosque and the Crusader Fort are other historical sites worth visiting around that area.

Pigeon Rocks, Raouche

The Pigeon Rocks, a natural wonder in the sea not far from the old Raouche, is regarded as one of Lebanon's greatest marvels. Rocks border the area and traces of human habitation. One may get a stunning view of the entire area when strolling along the Raouche's Corniche. You can experience a beautiful glimpse of the entire site.

Tourist attractions in Beirut, Lebanon, will indulge you in its unprecedented beauty that you can’t ignore. While you list down the places to visit in Lebanon, count the above-mentioned options in your list to witness all Lebanon encompasses.

Famous Lebanese Cuisines

Travelling to Lebanon to taste its exemplary cuisines is also not a bad idea at all. The country has introduced the world’s best Lebanese Cuisines that are exceptionally hard to resist. Let’s know the most famous Cuisines you must try when in Lebanon:

Halewit El Jeben- Sweet Cheese Rolls

The name Halewit El Jeben, which translates to "Sweetness of Cheese," is perfect for a dish that is tasty in every way. Semolina and cheese dough with Ashta cream complete the dish. It is either served with Ashta on top, folded into little rolls, or cut into thin, rope-like forms.

Hummus Dip with Pita Bread

Hummus is one of the most well-known and adored foods from the Levantine region. Traditionally, tahini paste, lemon juice, chickpeas, and a dash of garlic are combined to make hummus. It's a delectable savoury meal best complemented with pita bread.

Tabbouleh- Parsley Bulgur Salad

A distinctive Lebanese salad called tabbouleh is made with fresh parsley, mint, a little bulgur, finely diced tomatoes, onions, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.

Knefe- Sweet Cheese Semolina Pastry

In Lebanese dessert shops, Knefe is prepared on a large dish. It is presented in a little Kaake, a flatbread dough with sugar syrup on top. Usually eaten for breakfast, holidays, and festivities, it is a delectable and extremely indulgent Lebanese dessert.

Shawarma- Meat or Chicken Slices

Popular among Indians as well,  Shawarma is a must try to satisfy your taste buds.  The cooked meat is placed in pita bread sandwiches with fries, lettuce, onions, hummus, tarator (tahini paste), or garlic paste. It is one of the most sought-after foods in the country for its richness and delectable taste. 

Last but Not the Least!

If Lebanon is on your bucket list, the aforementioned guide will help you explore the country's unknown facts. We always suggest- you must plan your trip beforehand, starting from visa arrangements to planning your itinerary. And your travel preparation is incomplete without a Lebanon travel insurance plan. 

Here’s why!

A travel insurance plan safeguards against unplanned financial losses that may arise during your trip, no matter how well-planned your trip is. Medical or non-medical emergencies can put a halt to your excitement making you feel unsafe in an unknown country. With Lebanon trip insurance, you can stay financially covered for emergencies such as accidental hospitalisation, theft, loss of passport, trip cancellation etc.  So, if you’re planning your trip to Lebanon, you can consider buying Care Health Insurance’s comprehensive International Travel Insurance to make your trip even more worthwhile.

Disclaimer: Plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.