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Lebanon Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 29, 2024, lebanon - level 3: reconsider travel.

Updated to reflect lowering the overall Travel Advisory to Level 3, information about southern Lebanon, the border with Syria, and refugee settlements in Lebanon, information on crime and political violence, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, civil unrest, and the “If you decide to travel” section.

Reconsider travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and armed conflict . Some areas, especially near the borders, have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to:

Southern Lebanon due to the potential for armed conflict;
The border with Syria due to terrorism and armed conflict;
Refugee settlements due to the potential for armed clashes .

Country Summary : U.S. citizens in Lebanon should be aware of the risks of remaining in the country and review their personal security plans. U.S. citizens are urged to avoid travel to southern Lebanon, the Syrian border, and refugee settlements in Lebanon.

U.S. citizens in Lebanon should be aware that consular officers from the U.S. Embassy are not always able to travel to assist them. The Department of State considers the threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut sufficiently serious to require them to live and work under strict security. The internal security policies of the U.S. Embassy may be adjusted at any time and without advance notice.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Lebanon. Terrorists may conduct attacks with little or no warning targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

The Lebanese government cannot guarantee the protection of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence and armed conflict. Family, neighborhood, or sectarian disputes can escalate quickly and can lead to gunfire or other violence with no warning.

Local security authorities have noted a rise in violent crimes, including political violence. Multiple unsolved killings in Lebanon may have been politically motivated.

Kidnapping, whether for ransom, political motives, or family disputes, has occurred in Lebanon. Suspects in kidnappings may have ties to terrorist or criminal organizations.

Unexploded landmines and explosive remnants of war are a hazard along the border with Syria. Heed land mine warning signs. Do not venture off the road into areas marked off with red and white plastic tape. Avoid roadside ditches, shoulders, and unmarked trails. Never touch anything resembling unexploded munitions.

U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests as these have the potential to turn violent quickly and with little notice. Protesters have blocked major roads, including thoroughfares between downtown Beirut and the area where the U.S. Embassy is located, and between Beirut and Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Lebanon.

If you decide to travel to Lebanon:

Visit our website for information on   Travel to High-Risk Areas .
Appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact with kidnappers/hostage-takers, media, U.S. and host country government agencies, and members of Congress if you are kidnapped, or taken hostage.
Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance.
Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the  Country Security Report  for Lebanon.
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Southern Lebanon – Level 4: Do Not Travel (See map below)

The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid southern Lebanon; that is, all parts south of the city of Saida, to include inland areas, as illustrated in the map below. Cross-border rocket, missile, and artillery fire continues to impact southern Lebanon on a daily basis and has caused a significant number of fatalities and injuries.

Border with Syria – Level 4: Do Not Travel

The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid the Lebanon-Syria border, which has seen clashes between Lebanese security forces and Syrian-based violent extremist groups. The U.S. Department of State also warns U.S. citizens of the risk of traveling on flights that fly over Syria, which include some flights to and from Beirut.

Refugee Settlements – Level 4: Do Not Travel

The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid travel to refugee settlements in Lebanon, which are prone to outbreaks of violence including shootings and explosions.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Lebanon travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 13, 2024 13:55 ET

In the event of an evacuation, Government of Canada assisted departures will only be available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents in Lebanon, as well as their accompanying spouse and dependent children. All travellers will require valid travel documents for their assisted departure. The required onward travel to Canada from a safe third location will be at your own expense.

Make sure your travel documents and those of your spouse and children are up to date and secure at all times.

You should consider leaving by commercial means now, if you can do so safely.

Security situation in Beirut and southern Lebanon

The situation in Lebanon remains volatile and unpredictable due to violent clashes along the border with Israel, including daily rocket and missile fire as well as air strikes. On January 2, 2024, explosions caused by suspected drone strikes occurred in the Dahiyeh district of Beirut, resulting in casualties. The attacks appear to be related to the ongoing conflict in the region and could lead to an escalation of hostilities in Lebanon.

Your safety and security could be at risk. If you intend to travel to Lebanon despite the advisory, you should consult local authorities and/or experienced local partners, plan a secure route, and monitor the security situation where you are travelling. Emergencies may require you to shelter in place with robust supplies of food, water and medications. Since October 2023, the Government of Canada has advised Canadians to leave Lebanon while commercial options remain available.

If you are in Lebanon, including in Beirut:

be extremely vigilant and aware of your surroundings
book a flight to leave the country
expect a heightened security presence
carry identification documents at all times
avoid the area along the borders with Israel and Syria
make sure your passport and travel documents are up-to-date, including those of your family
register and update your contact information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Lebanon to do so

Security situation

The security situation is precarious in Lebanon. Large-scale protests in response to the situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip have lead to civil unrest, particularly in Beirut. Protestors have targeted foreign embassies and international organizations.

The country faces a major economic crisis, resulting in severe shortages of basic necessities including medicines and fuel. Tensions and altercations between individuals waiting at gas stations and pharmacies have occurred outside Beirut. The economic instability has also affected the delivery of public services, including healthcare.

The crime rate is on the rise. Decreasing resources within security forces affects law enforcement capabilities.

Pre-existing sectarian tensions, coupled with the spillover of the conflict in Syria, are also playing a destabilizing role in the country.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

2SLGBTQI+ persons are discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics. Incitement to violence and attacks on 2SLGBTQI+ persons occur. On August 23, 2023, members of an organized group stormed a queer-friendly bar in Beirut and physically attacked clients.

There are reports of individuals using popular dating apps and websites to threaten, extort and blackmail 2SLGBTQI+ persons.

Beware of people who show a keen interest online
You could be the victim of a scam if you agree to meet with an online acquaintance
Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location
Inviting a stranger to your hotel room or apartment can be risky

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Areas South of Litani River

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) maintains additional peacekeepers south of the Litani River near the border with Israel due to the security situation. This region remains highly militarized and volatile. Rocket launches and border incidents resulting in casualties occasionally occur, provoking retaliatory attacks in this region and elsewhere in Lebanon.

Forces other than the Lebanese authorities exert significant control over parts of this region. Access restrictions may delay or prevent Canadian officials from providing assistance to citizens in these areas.

The international border between Lebanon and Israel is not entirely defined. UNIFIL enforces the Blue Line, which separates the two countries. Areas adjacent to the Blue Line are often heavily mined. The areas of Ghajar, Kfar Shouba Hills and Shebaa Farms are inaccessible from Lebanon. The border with Israel is closed.

Avoid all travel south of the Litani River, especially near the border with Israel due to ongoing military activity.

If you are travelling to the city of Tyre, use only the main coastal highway. Travel permits from Lebanese authorities and/or UNIFIL may be required to enter areas south of the Litani River that border Israel.

Southern Suburbs of Beirut

Armed groups are present in large parts of Beirut’s southern suburbs. These neighbourhoods are targets for organized crime and terrorist attacks causing deaths and injuries. Tactics used by terrorists include car bombing, suicide bombing and rocket fire. There is also a risk of kidnapping and you could be caught in violent clashes between armed groups.

North Lebanon

While Lebanese security forces have conducted operations in northern Lebanon to improve the security situation, some parts of the region remain unstable. Some of these areas have experienced inter-communal violence that can spread to outlying areas. Heavy weapons fire (machine guns, grenades and rocket-propelled grenades), sniper activity and terrorist incidents have occurred.

Extremist groups have sought refuge in northern Lebanon, including throughout Akkar District.

Border region with Syria

The security situation in regions bordering Syria has deteriorated as a result of the ongoing conflict. Armed groups as well as the Lebanese and Syrian military have carried out operations resulting in casualties. Tensions between armed groups have also increased in border areas, resulting in violent clashes and kidnappings.

The border is not always clearly marked.

North Eastern Bekaa Valley

The security situation in the North Eastern Bekaa Valley is volatile and there is an ongoing risk of sporadic violence, organized crime, and kidnapping.

Palestinian refugee camps

The security situation in Palestinian refugee camps and surrounding areas remains tense and unpredictable. Violence is common in some camps—particularly Ain el Helweh, near Saida, and Beddawi, near Tripoli.

Refugee camps are often located close to urban centres and are not always visibly demarcated. Exercise caution and remain aware of your whereabouts at all times in order to avoid unknowingly entering a camp. Palestinian authorities control the security in most camps and may delay or refuse to grant Canadian officials access to Canadian in these areas.

There’s a threat of terrorism. Attacks can occur at any time and any place in Lebanon.

Targets could include:

government buildings, military installations and schools
places of worship
airports and other transportation hubs and networks
public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Local authorities are on a high state of alert and carry out anti-terrorism operations across the country to prevent attacks. The potential for attacks and a rapid deterioration of the security situation remains across the country, including in Beirut.

There is a significant presence of terrorist groups in several areas of southern Lebanon, including in the southern suburbs of Beirut and the northern Bekaa Valley. Armed actors other than Lebanese authorities exert a large amount of control in some areas, and they may delay or prevent Canadian officials from assisting Canadians in the region.

Politically-motivated attacks also remain likely. A number of such attacks have taken place in the southern suburbs of Beirut.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during sporting events, religious holidays and other public celebrations. Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Lebanon is experiencing chronic fuel shortages. You may have some difficulties securing fuel.

There are frequent, prolonged and unpredictable closures of fuel stations. Long lineups have formed at gas stations, creating road blockades which have led to several accidents. Arguments and violent altercations, sometimes involving use of weapons have also occurred. Decrease in fuel quality has also been reported causing damages to vehicles.

Fuel and diesel shortages are also impacting other sectors such as:

telecommunication, including internet
water and waste collection
shops, cafes and restaurants

The difficulty to access fuel and diesel has led to frequent unplanned closures of power generators and interruptions in the delivery of basic commodities such as water, flour, and gas.

Medicine and medical supplies

There are shortages of medicine and medical supplies. When available, these may be very costly. Such shortages have also significantly affected the health care sector, with many private hospitals closing or reducing their services.

Ensure that your emergency kit is complete.

Exchange rates and foreign currency

In recent months, the value of the Lebanese Pound has depreciated quickly against the US Dollar. As a result, there is a high inflation on prices of most goods and services. The economic situation could affect your ability to pay for goods and services.

There is also a severe shortage of foreign currency. It is very difficult to access US Dollars locally. Change in foreign currency may also not be available. While ATMs are generally stocked with Lebanese Pounds, there may be limits on daily withdrawals imposed by certain banks.

Many stores and companies no longer accept credit/debit cards.

Plan accordingly
Ensure that you have access to adequate cash
Avoid carrying large sums of cash on yourself and keep foreign currency out of sight

Power disruptions

Power outages and rationing of electricity are common in many parts of the country, including in Beirut. They may affect critical infrastructure, such as hospitals. They could also affect other essential services such as food production and distribution.

Other services are often disrupted during such events, including:

public water supply
communications, mainly cellular telephone and Internet

Demonstrations

The deterioration of the security environment and the political uncertainty may lead to an increase in civil unrest at any time. Planned and spontaneous demonstrations related to the domestic and regional situations regularly occur in Lebanon, particularly in Beirut.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

The road to Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport is subject to sporadic closures, due to various factors including clashes between various local groups. Access to the airport may be unavailable for extended periods when the security situation deteriorates.

Avoid all areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
Allow extra time to get to and from the airport
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Kidnappings have occurred in the border areas with Syria, in the Bekaa Valley and could happen in other parts of Lebanon. In the southern suburbs of Beirut, foreigners and residents have been held against their will. Although most incidents of kidnapping typically involve Lebanese residents, foreigners have also been targeted. Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times.

Landmines and unexploded ordnance continue to pose a threat in some parts of the country, including south of the Litani River and near the northeastern border region.

Look for posted landmine warnings
Stay on paved roads
Avoid walking or hiking in these areas.

Petty crime has significantly increased since 2020. Purse snatching, pick pocketing, car thefts, and residential break-ins, occur regularly.

There are reports of thefts at Beirut’s international airport. Criminals have stolen goods from luggage, looking especially for medications.

Be vigilant in all crowded locations
Don’t carry large sums of money
Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times

Violent crime and sexual assault have also increased. Shooting incidents, especially at gas stations, have led to injuries and deaths of civilians.

There is a highly visible security presence throughout the country.

Exercise vigilance and appropriate safety precautions
Carry personal documentation with you and follow the instructions of Lebanese security authorities

Road safety

Congestion and aggressive driving are serious problems throughout the country. Drivers often don’t respect the rules of the road, and traffic laws are not consistently enforced. Be cautious when crossing streets, as drivers don’t always give pedestrians and cyclists the right of way.

Road accidents and serious road rage incidents causing injury or death are common in Lebanon.

Road lighting is sporadic and unreliable in urban areas and virtually non-existent in rural areas. At night, many drivers use their high beams exclusively, often creating a serious hazard due to blinding glare. Increased power cuts have led to interruptions of traffic lights in the city centre, including at major intersections.

Public transportation

Avoid public transportation, which is crowded, unsafe and unreliable.

Foreigners using shared transportation have been victims of armed robbery, either by the driver or other passengers. Most major hotel chains will have an agreement with a reputable taxi company and can arrange the taxi for you.

Don’t use shared or “service” taxis.
Always pre-arrange transportation with a safe and reliable taxi company.
Don’t hail taxis off the street and avoid using unmarked taxi services.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Lebanese authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Lebanon.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

Foreign Representatives in Canada
Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Student visa: required Work visa: required Business visa: required

As a Canadian citizen, you must obtain a visa to visit Lebanon. Ensure you apply for the proper type of visa for the specific purpose of your trip. Visas are available at Lebanese diplomatic missions abroad or at any port of entry into Lebanon.

Make sure your visa is valid for the duration of your stay. An expired entry visa must be extended by Lebanese authorities or you will not be allowed to leave the country.

Entry stamp

Your passport must show a Lebanese entry stamp in order to exit the country. If you acquire a new passport while in Lebanon, you must present your old passport containing proof of entry to authorities upon departure.

Travel bans

Local authorities may issue travel bans that won’t allow you to enter or exit Lebanon, regardless of your nationality.

You may also be denied re-entry to Lebanon if you left Lebanon as a refugee. To ensure that you are not subject to a travel ban to re-enter Lebanon, contact the Lebanese authorities prior to your departure to Lebanon

Regional travel

Travel to or from Israel is illegal in Lebanon. You may be refused entry into Lebanon if your passport bears an Israeli visa, an Israeli border stamp, or an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel, as such a stamp could indicate you visited Israel prior to visiting Lebanon.

South of the Litani River

Travel permits from Lebanese authorities and/or UNIFIL may be required to enter areas south of the Litani River bordering Israel.

Children and travel

Children travelling with only one parent may be required to provide an authorization letter from the other parent to exit Lebanon.

Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.

The flu occurs worldwide.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals).

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
Minimize exposure to insects
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Cases of locally-acquired Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) have been reported in this country.

MERS is a viral respiratory disease caused by the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV).

Some people infected with MERS-CoV experience no symptoms, while others may experience mild flu-like or more severe pneumonia-like symptoms. About one-third of reported cases have result ed in death.

Eat and drink safely , and avoid close contact with animals, especially camels. If you must visit a farm or market, make sure you practise good hygiene and wash your hands before and after contact with animals.

There is currently no licensed vaccine to protect against MERS.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

washing your hands often
avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.

Medical services and facilities

The medical services and supplies in Lebanon are being affected by the economic crisis and the fuel shortages. As such :

air conditioning and lighting may be turned off
non-essential medical treatment may be cancelled
some sections of hospitals may have reduced capacity or be closed
hospitals may refuse to admit patients due to the lack of space or supplies

Medical care facilities could be difficult to access and services can be expensive. Private facilities may not have access to basic resources and may be forced to close or reduce their services, increasing the pressures on the public health system.

Payment in advance is almost always required in private health care facilities.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Photography

It is prohibited to photograph or videotape government buildings or military personnel, equipment and installations.

Avoid photographing individuals without their permission.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Individuals charged with drug offences can expect to remain in jail and to be denied bail throughout the judicial process. This process often takes years.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Dress and behaviour

The dress code in Lebanon is more relaxed than most Middle Eastern countries.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

dress conservatively
behave discreetly
respect religious and social traditions

Ensure your travel insurance is valid for driving in Lebanon.

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

Lebanese law criminalizes sexual acts ''contradicting the laws of nature’’ and a ''man disguising as a woman.’’ These provisions may be interpreted broadly to arrest, detain and prosecute 2SLGBTQI+ persons. If you are convicted, you could face imprisonment.

Authorities regularly ban peaceful gatherings and events related to 2SLGBTQI+ issues.

2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Lebanon.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Lebanon. However, local authorities will treat dual Canadian-Lebanese citizens as Lebanese nationals.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Lebanon, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

Family law matters in Lebanon, including child custody and divorce-related decisions, are settled according to local religious laws.

Canadian custody documents, including Canadian court orders pertaining to custody, may not be automatically recognized or enforceable in Lebanon.

Relatives frequently place travel bans on Canadians. If you are involved in custody or other family disputes, consult a lawyer for advice on how religious law in Lebanon may affect your family situation.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Lebanon.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Lebanon by an abducting parent:

act as quickly as you can
consult a lawyer in Canada and in Lebanon to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The currency is the Lebanese pound (LBP).

There is also a severe shortage of foreign currency. It is very difficult to access US Dollars locally. Change in foreign currency may not be available. While ATMs are generally stocked with Lebanese Pounds, there may be limits on daily withdrawals imposed by certain banks.

Traveller’s cheques are not accepted and will not be changed by local financial institutions.

Lebanon is located in a seismic zone. There have been several minor earthquakes in recent years.

In the winter months, mountain roads, including the main Beirut–Damascus highway, may be temporarily blocked or become impassable due to heavy snowfall. Flash floods can occur, rendering roads temporarily dangerous or impracticable.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

police: 112
medical assistance: 140
firefighters: 175

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Beirut and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Situation in Haiti April 5, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Lebanon Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 29, 2024, lebanon - level 3: reconsider travel.

Do Not Travel to:

Southern Lebanon due to the potential for armed conflict;
The border with Syria due to terrorism and armed conflict;
Refugee settlements due to the potential for armed clashes .

Local security authorities have noted a rise in violent crimes, including political violence. Multiple unsolved killings in Lebanon may have been politically motivated.

Kidnapping, whether for ransom, political motives, or family disputes, has occurred in Lebanon. Suspects in kidnappings may have ties to terrorist or criminal organizations.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Lebanon.

If you decide to travel to Lebanon:

Visit our website for information on   Travel to High-Risk Areas .
Appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact with kidnappers/hostage-takers, media, U.S. and host country government agencies, and members of Congress if you are kidnapped, or taken hostage.
Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance.
Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the  Country Security Report  for Lebanon.
Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Southern Lebanon – Level 4: Do Not Travel (See map below)

Border with Syria – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Refugee Settlements – Level 4: Do Not Travel

The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid travel to refugee settlements in Lebanon, which are prone to outbreaks of violence including shootings and explosions.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, lebanon map, search for travel advisories, external link.

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Passports, travel and living abroad
Travel abroad
Foreign travel advice

Regional risks

This section has safety advice for regions of Lebanon. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .

The FCDO advises against all travel to Lebanon due to risks associated with the conflict between Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including airstrikes.

The FCDO also advises against travel to the following areas of Lebanon for security reasons:

Palestinian refugee camps

FCDO advises against all travel to the 12 Palestinian refugee camps. See Palestinian refugee camp locations on the UN Relief and Works Agency website.

Palestinian refugee camps are volatile environments where the Lebanese state has limited capacity to impose law and order. There has been a long pattern of violent clashes in particular in Ain el Hilweh camp near Saida in southern Lebanon.

The town of Hermel

FCDO advises against all travel to the town of Hermel and the surrounding towns of Arsal, Ras Baalbek, Qaa, Laboué and Nahlé.

Extremist groups have particularly operated in the city of Tripoli, Palestinian refugee camps, and in areas close to the Syrian border, including around Hermel and Aarsal.

South of the Litani River

FCDO advises against all travel to the area south of the Litani River, which includes the main Naqoura-Tyre-Saida-Beirut highway and areas to the west of it.

There is a UN peacekeeping presence in the area south of the Litani River due to tensions between Lebanon and Israel.

See Conflict affecting Lebanon for further information.

Syrian border

FCDO advises against all travel within 5km of the border with Syria due to the ongoing conflict in Syria and the fragile security near border areas.

Akkar district

FCDO advises against all travel to the Akkar district, including between 5km from the Syrian border and the Aabdeh, Halba and Qoubaiyat highway, due to the unstable security situation.

Area around Ain el Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp in Saida

FCDO advises against all travel within 2km of Ain el Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp in Saida, including:

the Saida section of Highway 51 and the Coastal Highway north of the Gaziyeh Road intersection
the Saida section of the Jezzine-Saida road westward of the Abboud Gas Station

Those travelling south from Beirut towards Saida along Highway 51 should turn east off the main highway at the Awali River junction before the permanent Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) security checkpoint.

Fighting between armed groups in the Ain el Hilweh camp has intensified following a flare up on 30 July. On 7 September, a number of injuries were reported. There have been reports of rounds reaching as far as Ghaziyeh Town (2km south). As a precaution, the Lebanese Armed Forces have created a roadblock on Highway 51 in the Ghaziyeh area and redirected traffic to alternative routes. Tensions remain high and could escalate without warning. Expect road closures and check travel updates.

Rachaiya, Hasbaiya and Khiam in the Beqaa Valley

FCDO advises against all travel to:

the towns of Rachaiya, Hasbaiya, and Khiam in the Beqaa Valley
the area between these towns up to 5km from the Syrian border

The Rayak-Baalbek highway

FCDO advises against all travel:

from the junction at Rayak along the highway to Baalbek
to the areas around the highway and towns along it, including Baalbek
to the area east of the highway up to 5km from the Syrian border and south of Nahlé town

Southern suburbs of Beirut

FCDO advises against all travel to the southern suburbs of Beirut, which includes:

the area south of the sports stadium and the Adnan Al Hakim road (which heads west from the stadium to the Beirut-Saida (Sidon) road), down to the airport
the neighbourhoods of Bir Hassan, Ghobeiry, Chiyah, Haret Hraik, Burj Al Barajneh, Mraije, Er Rouais and Laylake

FCDO advises against all travel to the city of Tripoli due to the compromised security situation and counter-terrorism operations.

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Lebanon Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Lebanon. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

Global Measles March 22, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

Chickenpox (Varicella)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
Flu (influenza)
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.

COVID-19 vaccine

Active cholera transmission is widespread in Lebanon. Cholera is rare in travelers. Certain factors may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Lebanon.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Lebanon. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Lebanon.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Lebanon. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Lebanon, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available.

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Lebanon.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Leishmaniasis

Sand fly bite
Avoid Bug Bites

Airborne & droplet

Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
Bite from an infected rodent
Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
Avoid rodents and areas where they live
Avoid sick people

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

Scientists do not fully understand how the MERS virus spreads
May spread from to others when an infected person coughs or sneezes
May spread to people from camels.

Middle East Respiratory virus syndrome (MERS)

Tuberculosis (TB)

Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Lebanon, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Lebanon. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
2-undecanone
Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Lebanon include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Lebanon. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

Use latex condoms correctly.
Do not inject drugs.
Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Lebanon’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Lebanon may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Lebanon, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
Follow all local laws and social customs.
Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Lebanon for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Latest update

We now advise:

Do not travel to Lebanon due to the volatile security situation and the risk of the security situation deteriorating further.

Lebanon (PDF 828.57 KB)

The Middle East (PDF 1.45 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Do not travel to Lebanon.

Do not travel to Lebanon due to the volatile security situation and the risk of the security situation deteriorating further.

See Safety .

Do not travel to Lebanon due to the volatile security situation and the risk of the security situation deteriorating further.
There is a possibility of an increase in armed conflict that could affect wider areas of Lebanon. This could result in Beirut airport closing, and you may not be able to leave for an extended period. Australians in Lebanon who wish to leave, should leave now while commercial flights remain available. If the security situation deteriorates and there is armed conflict, the Australian Government may not be able to assist you to leave in such circumstances. See our advice on ‘Armed conflict ’.
If you're an Australian citizen or permanent resident in Lebanon you can register on DFAT's crisis registration portal. We’ll be contacting registered Australians directly with important updates.
Read our Information for Australians in Lebanon , (also available in Arabic ), for advice on what to do if you're currently there.
Ensure your travel documents are up to date. Ensure you have passports for children born in Lebanon and current passports for all family members travelling with you.
Tensions are heightened due to recent events in Israel and Gaza.
On 2 January, an explosion occurred in Beirut's southern suburbs (Dahiyeh region). Daily military action is occurring in southern Lebanon, including rocket and missile fire, as well as airstrikes. The situation could escalate quickly or spread to other areas in Lebanon, including Beirut. This could affect your ability to move to safety. Avoid areas where military activity is ongoing.
Terrorist attacks could occur anytime and anywhere, including in Beirut. Suicide bombings and attacks involving improvised explosive devices (IEDs), air raids and kidnappings have occurred in Lebanon. Extremists may target foreigners. Take safety precautions. Always be alert to possible threats and avoid potential targets.
Large protests happen and can turn violent. Tear gas, water cannons and live ammunition may be used. Avoid large public gatherings. Celebratory gunfire often occurs and has caused casualties. Stay inside during celebratory gunfire or if you're caught in civil unrest. Follow the advice of local authorities.
There's a high threat of armed conflict south of the city of Sidon. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has a peacekeeping presence there. Israeli forces occupy the southern border town of Ghajar. Tensions remain high in the surrounding region, including the Shebaa Farms, where daily military action is occurring. Avoid areas of military conflict.

Full travel advice: Safety

Shortages of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies could occur without notice. Make sure you have enough medication with you, including if you need to depart Lebanon.
The public health care system is limited. Most reputable hospitals are private and expensive. You'll probably have to pay up front.
Health risks include possible water contamination, waterborne illnesses and air pollution caused by burning waste and backup generators. Avoid uncollected waste. Drink only boiled or bottled water from bottles with sealed lids.

Full travel advice: Health

Religious law and civil law are treated equally. All family law matters are based on local religious laws. Stop-orders that prevent you from leaving Lebanon may arise from family disputes. If you're involved in divorce, custody or other family disputes, speak to a lawyer before you leave Australia.
Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties are severe and include jail terms.
Serious crimes like murder and treason may result in the death penalty.
Lebanon recognises dual nationality. However, Lebanese authorities treat Lebanese dual nationals as Lebanese citizens. This may limit our ability to help you if you're arrested or detained.
Standards of dress and behaviour are modest in parts of Lebanon, particularly at religious sites. Public displays of affection may cause offence.
Be careful when taking photos. Photographing military personnel or sites, government buildings and major civil infrastructure, such as power stations and other installations is illegal.

Full travel advice: Local laws

Information on applying for a visa to enter Australia is available on the Department of Home Affairs Lebanon Visa Support website (also available in Arabic ).

You can get a tourist visa on arrival in Lebanon. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Lebanon for the latest details.
Always carry ID. You'll need to show it at road checkpoints. Lebanese General Security (border control) will check your name against a database of people wanted for or convicted of an offence. If your name matches an entry, you may be detained. You'll have to prove that the record doesn't relate to you. Carry supporting documents, such as a copy of your birth certificate or other official documents.
Flights to and from Lebanon may fly over Syria, where ongoing conflict may increase risks to civil aviation. Civil aviation authorities in a number of countries do not allow airlines from those countries to fly in Syrian airspace. Check with your airline or travel agent for updates and flight options.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

The Consular Services Charter details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Beirut .
To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Crisis registration.

If you're an Australian citizen or permanent resident in Lebanon you can register on DFAT's crisis registration portal. We’ll be contacting registered Australians directly with important updates and registration will make it easier for DFAT to contact you if assistance is required.

More information on returning to Australia can be found at Information for Australians in Lebanon .

Keep your registration details up to date so we can contact you.

You should only register if you’re in Lebanon and are:

An Australian citizen, or
An Australian permanent resident or
an immediate family member of an Australian citizen or permanent resident

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER on DFAT's crisis registration portal.

Applying for a visa to Australia

Security situation

We continue to advise Do Not Travel to Lebanon due to the volatile security situation and the risk of the security situation deteriorating further.

Daily military action is occurring in southern Lebanon, including rocket and missile fire, as well as airstrikes. On 2 January 2024, an explosion occurred in Beirut's southern suburbs (Dahiyeh region). The situation could escalate quickly. This could affect your ability to move to safety. Avoid areas where military activity is ongoing.

There is a possibility of an increase in armed conflict that could affect wider areas of Lebanon, including Beirut. If the security situation in Lebanon deteriorates, Beirut airport will likely close, and you may not be able to leave for an extended period. If the security situation deteriorates and there is armed conflict, the Australian Government may not be able to assist you to leave in such circumstances. See our advice on armed conflict .

To be well prepared to leave quickly, make sure you have:

up-to-date travel documentation
passports for children born in Lebanon
current passports for family members travelling with you
any medications you may need while travelling

If violence increases, roads and highways could become blocked. This includes routes to airports and borders.

Follow the advice of local authorities, including alerts to seek shelter. Monitor local media for updates.

If you need emergency consular assistance, contact the Australian Government's Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 62613305 (from overseas) or 1300 555 135 (in Australia).

Be extra cautious. The security situation is unpredictable and is affected by events including:

clashes across the Lebanese/Israeli border
conflict in neighbouring Syria
the threat of terrorist attacks
ongoing economic crisis, political and religious tensions

The ongoing crisis has reduced Lebanese law enforcement capacity.

Civil unrest and political tension

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Political changes in the region and international events may prompt large demonstrations or violence. Planned and on-the-spot demonstrations can take place.

Anti-government protests occur. Protests may target key institutions and sites, including banks. Some can be large and escalate into violent clashes between protesters and security forces.

Authorities use various measures to break up crowds, including:

water cannons
live ammunition

These measures have resulted in injuries.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent, including the use of weapons. You could be caught in violence directed at others.

During civil unrest and times of heightened tensions:

avoid all crowds, protests and demonstrations
pay close attention to your personal security
monitor the media and other sources for news on planned and possible actions
avoid areas where violence has occurred or is likely to occur
plan your activities to avoid potential unrest on days of national significance
be prepared to change your travel plans in case of disruptions

If you're in an area affected by clashes:

stay indoors and away from windows and balconies
follow the advice of local authorities

Stay indoors during celebratory gunfire, which has caused casualties, and often happens during and after political speeches, weddings, funerals and religious and new year holidays.

If transport disruptions affect your travel plans, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.

Leave Lebanon if you're concerned about your safety.

More information:

Demonstrations and civil unrest

In times of civil unrest, avoid areas of Beirut where protests are known to occur.

In Beirut, protests sometimes close main highways. Burning of tyres to block main roads is common. Groups protest against:

government policies
the situation in Syria
the security environment
the deteriorating social and economic situation

Civil unrest can affect the highways between central Beirut and the international airport. Armed clashes have occurred in some areas of Beirut.

Southern suburbs (Dahiyeh region) of Beirut

Don't go to the Dahiyeh region, including:

the area south of the Camille Chamoun Sports Stadium to the airport (south from Adnon El Hakim Road to Abbas El Mousawi Road). This includes the suburbs of Chiyah, Ghobeire, Haret Hreik, Bir el Abed, Borj el Barajne, Mraije, Roueiss, Lailake, Hay el Sellom, Tahouitit el Ghadir and Bir Hassan
east of the airport highway
west of the airport highway to El Akhtal El Saghir Road and south of the Coral Beach Hotel.

This area does not include the main airport highway (Hafez El Assad).

Security in the area is still unstable. You may be caught up in violent attacks between armed groups. Terrorist attacks may occur.

Palestinian refugee camps

Don't visit Palestinian refugee camps in any part of Lebanon.

Extremist groups operate inside camps. The security situation is uncertain and could get worse without warning.

The Lebanese state has no formal security presence in the camps. Armed clashes between rival groups happen. Violent crime is common.

Also avoid the general vicinity around the camps when there's heightened tension or armed clashes. Stray ammunition has caused casualties.

Tripoli and northern Lebanon

Don't go to Tripoli's Jabal Mohsen and Bab-al-Tabbaneh neighbourhoods. Violent clashes in the early stages of the Syrian conflict killed more than 200 people. The risk of civil unrest remains high and can turn violent.

In 2019, a lone wolf terrorist attack in Tripoli killed 4 members of the security service.

Lebanese authorities say extremists have taken refuge in northern Lebanon, including throughout the Akkar district.

North-eastern Beka'a Valley

Don't go to the north-eastern Beka'a Valley region, extending east and north from Rayak. This includes:

Hermel-Baalbek region
the towns Arsal, El Qaa and Ras Baalbek

Clashes between Lebanese security forces and militants are possible.

Other parts of the Beka'a Valley

Take extra care in the Beka'a valley, south of Zahle and Rayak, where the security environment is uncertain.

In August 2016, a roadside bomb exploded in Zahle. It killed 2 people and injured many others.

Regions within 5km of the Syrian border

Don't travel within 5km of the border with Syria, including:

north of the Halba-Qoubaiyat Road, northern Akkar
Hermel Wadi Khaled
the Golan Heights
Shebaa Farms

The conflict in Syria has led to repeated violent incidents in these areas.

Southern Lebanon

Don't travel to areas south of the city of Sidon (Saida).

Daily military action is occurring and could escalate quickly. This could affect your ability to move to safety. There's an uncertain security environment and there are also landmines and unexploded ordnance.

Avoid crowds and large gatherings. You could be caught up in violence directed at others.

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) maintains peacekeeping activities south of the Litani River.

Israeli forces are in the southern border town of Ghajar. There are still tensions in the surrounding region, including the Shebaa Farms, where military activities have taken place. Shelling has been reported.

Although the Lebanese Armed Forces and United Nations peacekeeping forces are present in southern Lebanon, the situation could change quickly.

You could be caught up in violence directed at others.

Avoid areas where military activity is ongoing. Be ready to leave at short notice.

Be extra careful in the city of Sidon (Saida) where there's a history of violence between Lebanese armed forces and local militia.

Don't visit the Palestinian refugee camp of Ein El-Hilweh. There are ongoing clashes between rival groups, including the use of heavy weapons and snipers. Many people have been killed or injured. Lebanese authorities have limited capacity to impose law and order.

Also avoid the general vicinity around the Ein El-Hilweh camp when there's heightened tension or armed clashes. Stray ammunition has caused casualties.

There's a threat of terrorism in Lebanon. Attacks could occur anytime and anywhere, including in Beirut. Tactics used by terrorists can include car bombing, suicide bombing and rocket fire. Foreigners may be targeted.

Security services are on a high state of alert and continue to carry out operations to prevent attacks.

If you notice a security operation is underway, leave the area straight away.

Targets associated with the Lebanese Government include:

government institutions, senior politicians, and officials
the Lebanese Armed Forces
infrastructure such as airports and public building

UNIFIL has also been targeted.

Terrorists may also target areas frequented by foreigners, such as:

buildings associated with embassies, foreign companies, and international organisations
schools and places of worship
hotels, clubs, restaurants and bars
shopping centres, markets and grocery stores
public transport
promenades, cinemas, outdoor recreation events and other tourist areas

Extremists have increased attacks in the lead-up to and on days of national and religious significance.

Always be alert to possible threats, especially in public places.

Report any suspicious items or activities to police.

To reduce your risks:

take official warnings seriously
consider the likely level of security at known terrorist targets when planning your activities
monitor the media for threats
follow the instructions of local authorities.

If there's a terrorist attack:

leave the affected area immediately if it's safe
avoid the area afterwards in case of more attacks.

Don't gather in groups after an attack. This also applies if you're evacuated from a building for safety or security reasons.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk. There is a risk of kidnapping along the border regions with Syria and Israel, where criminal gangs rely on ransom payments to make revenue. To reduce the risk of kidnapping:

always be alert to your personal security and surroundings
get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk
check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone
notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location
avoid talking about your money or business affairs
use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. More information:

Kidnapping

Crime in Lebanon has increased due to the declining economic situation.

It could include:

vehicle crime
petty theft such as bag snatching (including by motorbike riders)
home break-ins and armed robberies (especially at banks)
physical and sexual assault

Always be aware of your surroundings.

Female travellers

LGBTI travellers

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Climate and natural disasters

Lebanon experiences natural disasters and severe weather .

Lebanon is in an active earthquake zone.

Bush and forest fires occur in the summer months (July to September), especially in heavily forested areas. Avoid fire-affected areas. Monitor the media for updates.

Sand and dust storms are common. They may pose health risks, especially to people with breathing problems.

If a natural disaster or severe weather happens:

monitor the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

You'll probably need a specialised insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars upfront for medical care.

what activities and care your policy covers
that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

have a basic health check-up
ask if your travel plans may affect your health
plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

General health advice
Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Shortages of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies can occur without notice.

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or controlled substances, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Lebanon. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

what the medication is
your required dosage
that it's for personal use

Health risks

Health risks include possible water contamination, waterborne illnesses and air pollution caused by burning waste and exhaust fumes from diesel generators. Drink only boiled or bottled water from bottles with sealed lids. Drink only boiled or bottled water from bottles with sealed lids.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities and care in many of Lebanon's large private hospitals is generally as good as in Australia. However, the public health system doesn't work in the same way. Most reputable hospitals are private and expensive.

The ability of some hospitals to provide medical care may be impacted by the economic situation, shortages of medical supplies and frequent power cuts.

Doctors usually accept upfront cash payment for services. Treatment can be expensive.

Before treating patients, hospitals usually require a guarantee of payment such as:

confirmed travel insurance with medical cover
an up-front deposit

The American University of Beirut Medical Center has a decompression chamber.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

Crimes under Lebanese laws may not be considered offences in Australia. Religious law has the same standing as civil law, which incorporates family law, marriage, divorce and custody.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

All family law matters are based on local religious laws. This includes child custody and divorce decisions.

If you're involved in custody or other family disputes, speak to a lawyer before you leave Australia. Ask for advice on how religious law may affect your family circumstances.

Lebanon has not signed the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction . There is no quick method to return a child abducted by a parent to Lebanon back to Australia.

Lebanese nationals and non-nationals can stop family members from leaving Lebanon if there are pending family court matters. It won't matter if the family members are Australian citizens.

Authorities have stopped Australians and Australian-Lebanese dual nationals, including mothers with children, from leaving Lebanon. Relatives have legally placed border alerts ('stop orders') where there are pending family court matters. Stop orders are not difficult to arrange. Overturning stop orders can be a time consuming and complicated process.

The Australian Government can't prevent or overturn a stop order on an Australian citizen.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include mandatory jail terms.

Carrying or using drugs

Serious crimes, such as murder and treason, may attract the death penalty.

Access to some areas of Lebanon is restricted.

Authorities may detain you and take your camera if you photograph or film:

military personnel or facilities
government buildings
major civilian infrastructure (such as power stations)

LGBTI information

Same-sex relations are illegal in Lebanon. Penalties include jail terms of up to one year.

There's been an increase in anti-LGBTI rhetoric in the community. Some incidents of targeted harassment have occurred.

Advice for LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Australians may be charged under Australian law if they take part in conflict in other countries.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Lebanon recognises dual nationality. However, Lebanese citizenship takes precedence over the second nationality.

If you're a dual national, Lebanese authorities will treat you as a Lebanese citizen. This may limit the consular services we can provide if you're arrested or detained.

If you're a dual citizen re-entering Lebanon on your Lebanese passport or identity document, make sure:

your Lebanese documentation is up to date
you meet all entry requirements
Embassy or consulate of Lebanon
Dual nationals

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are modest in parts of Lebanon, particularly at religious sites.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Public displays of affection may cause offence in conservative and religious areas.

Some hotels ask for proof of marriage before renting rooms to couples. Hotels may refuse you accommodation if you can't provide proof.

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan is observed in Lebanon. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws during this time.

Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public or in front of people who are fasting.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.

You can get a tourist visa on arrival.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Lebanese embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders.

Make sure you meet all entry and exit conditions. If you don't, the Australian Government can't help you.

Border measures

For measures regarding travel between Syria and Lebanon, contact Lebanese and Syrian authorities.

Lebanon - Ministry of Public Health
Medical assistance overseas

Other formalities

Travel to Israel

It's against Lebanese law to travel to Israel.

If you're an Australian dual national of Lebanon or another Arab nation and you've travelled to or intend to travel to Israel, authorities are likely to arrest and imprison you.

Authorities can hold anyone for questioning for several days and then deport them.

If there's evidence that you've travelled to Israel, or intend to, you will be refused entry to Lebanon or will be deported. Evidence includes:

Israeli exit or entry stamps in your passport
Egyptian or Jordanian stamps from border crossings with Israel
travel itineraries or tickets that include Israel as a destination
souvenirs from Israel
airline tags on your bags

Border alerts

Lebanese Border Control checks all traveller names on arrival and departure against a database of border alerts ('stop orders').

Border alerts are raised if there are pending court cases or warrants for people:

who are wanted for an offence in Lebanon
who have been convicted of an offence in Lebanon
with pending family court matters (see Local laws )

If your name matches an entry in the database, authorities may detain you. You'll have to prove the record doesn't relate to you.

Carry supporting identity documents.

Travellers have been detained due to cases of mistaken identity.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with X gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

The Lebanese Pound is the official currency of Lebanon. Both the USD and the Lebanese Pound (also known as the Lebanese Lira) are accepted throughout Lebanon.

Currency exchange facilities and ATMs are widely available in Beirut and other large cities. Daily withdrawal limits may apply.

The Lebanese Pound has devalued sharply as a result of the ongoing economic crisis. This has led to high inflation and diminished the purchasing power of the Lebanese Pound. Make sure you have access to enough hard currency cash during your stay. Contact your bank and monitor media reports before you travel to Lebanon.

Local travel

Fuel and power shortages frequently occur, disrupting public water supply and telecommunication networks, including mobile and internet.

Expect delays and closures at service stations during fuel shortages. Acts of violence and security incidents have occurred at fuel distribution and storage sites.

Public and private sector industrial strikes occur occasionally, which may affect essential services, including telecommunications and the banking sector.

Shortages of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies can occur without notice.

Monitor the media for updates on changes that may affect your safety and access to essential services.

Road travel

If you plan to drive in Lebanon, you should hold an International Drivers Permit.

Armed security is present throughout Lebanon, including at road checkpoints.

Always carry ID. Follow the advice of security personnel.

Driving can be dangerous due to:

poorly maintained roads and vehicles
snow and ice in winter
traffic conditions
poor local driving habits
lack of streetlights and functioning traffic lights

There are many unexploded weapons throughout Lebanon, including:

cluster bombs

Most are in the south, especially south of the Litani River.

Minefields aren't always clearly marked. Those that are marked can shift away from signed areas.

To protect yourself from landmines:

ask local residents for advice
stay on sealed roads
avoid walking or driving cross-country

Roads may be blocked during demonstrations and civil unrest. This includes routes to and from the airport and border crossings.

Driving or riding

Don't use service (shared) taxis or taxis hailed on the street, especially late at night.

Only use taxis from recognised companies. Australian Embassy staff in Beirut have been advised to use Allo Taxi.

Flights to and from Lebanon may fly over Syria, where ongoing conflict could increase risks to civil aviation. Civil aviation authorities in a number of countries do not allow airlines from those countries to fly in Syrian airspace. For more information, refer to the Smartraveller page on air travel and check with airlines before booking. Flight paths are subject to change. Check with your airline or travel agent for updates and flight options.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes for adventure activities.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

check if your travel insurance policy covers it
ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

family and friends
travel agent
insurance provider

Call 140 or 81715076.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Beirut .

Australian Embassy

Embassy Complex Serail Hill Downtown Beirut Lebanon

Phone: +961 1 960600 Email: [email protected] Website: lebanon.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australian Embassy - Beirut, Lebanon Twitter: @SafirAustralia

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency outside of the Embassy’s business hours, or if you can’t contact the Embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre (CEC) on:

+961 1 960600 from Lebanon (and press 7 to speak to a CEC operator)
+61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Lebanon?

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

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Is Lebanon Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Lebanon : Safety by City

The Republic of Lebanon is a small country located in the Middle East region, counting 3.7 million inhabitants and with Beirut as the capital city.

It boasts a rather long coastline on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and shares a border with its warring neighbor Syria to the north and the east, and a much shorter border with Israel to the south.

Unfortunately, this country is considered unsafe since its neighbor Syria is in a long war that has left consequences on Lebanon, too.

If you’re planning on traveling to Lebanon, keep in mind that this is a country of immense natural scenery from beautiful beaches to mountains and valleys.

It is one of the few countries where you can go skiing in the morning and then casually stroll to the beach in the afternoon and Lebanese people take pride in that fact, even though this is actually possible only for a few days in the year when winter shifts to spring and/or summer shifts to autumn.

Warnings & Dangers in Lebanon

OVERALL RISK: HIGH

Generally, Lebanon isn't a safe country to visit, because of its complicated political situation and turmoil that took over the country and its neighbors. Be careful when traveling to Lebanon.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

When it comes to transport, it isn't too safe. Generally, the roads in Lebanon are in good condition, but the problem is the number of reckless drivers. Also, street names are non-existent so be prepared to a lot of roaming around, and if you plan on mountain driving, keep in mind that it is particularly hazardous. Traffic jams are the norm in Lebanon.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpockets do operate in Lebanon and tourists are commonly the victims of pickpocketing or bag snatching. Be careful in crowded places such as bus and train stations and keep your valuables in your accommodation.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH

Lebanon is susceptible to many natural disasters, like severe earthquakes which are the most dangerous threat to this country. They are probably associated with a tsunami. Minor natural hazards that hit Lebanon include floods, forest fires, landslides, and drought.

MUGGING RISK: HIGH

You should definitely be careful when it comes to violent crime in Lebanon. Organized criminal activity exists in the Beqa' Valley and includes drug trade that mostly has nothing to do with tourists, but there have been some kidnappings involving foreigners. Traveling in groups is recommended in this part of the country.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Lebanon. The threat comes from Islamist extremist groups that are known for targeting the Lebanese state, security services, and civilians, and even foreigners inside Lebanon. Extremist groups have been active within the city of Tripoli, Palestinian refugee camps and in areas close to the Syrian border.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Scams exist in Lebanon and you should use your wits while in this country. Double-check your change, never pay anything upfront and negotiate everything in advance. Be very careful around ATMs and be wary of people trying to distract you.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH

Lebanon isn't dangerous for women particularly, but it is advised for tourists in general, regardless of their gender, not to roam around unaccompanied by someone who knows the safe and unsafe parts of the country.

So... How Safe Is Lebanon Really?

Lebanon is a country filled with extremely friendly people, but you should know that there is a complicated political situation currently in Lebanon, which makes it unsafe to travel there.

For instance, traveling to eastern, southern, and northern areas which are close to the Syrian and Israeli borders is strongly advised against due to the spillover from the war with Syria and the conflict with Israel.

Also, you are recommended to avoid cities like Hermel, Dannie, and others close to the Syrian or Israeli border.

Lebanon’s capital, Beirut is still reasonably safe as are many other parts of the country, and the chances of something happening to you are small.

You should also be very careful in South Beirut, Baalbek, Sidon, and Beqaa valley, as they have also suffered sporadic clashes and/or had security incidents but these are sporadic events that aren’t too common and usually don’t affect foreigners.

What you should always keep in mind is that it is extremely important that you make sure to avoid any discussions related to politics or religion.

This country is home to a variety of ethnic and religious groups and any comment, and your comments might be taken as an offense even though they may not be malicious.

How Does Lebanon Compare?
Useful Information

Many countries do need a visa in order to enter Lebanon. Luckily, a one-month visa can be easily acquired on arrival at Beirut International Airport or any other port of entry at the Lebanese border. Make sure your passport is valid for at least the next six months. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Lebanese pound is the official currency in Lebanon. ATMs are widespread throughout the country, and credit cards are accepted in most establishments. US dollars are also widely accepted in the country.

The climate in Lebanon is the Mediterranean with long, hot and dry summers and short, cool and rainy winters. Lebanon's location the African continent and the eastern Mediterranean area determine the climate of the country.

Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport formerly known as Beirut International Airport, is Lebanon's primary airport. It is located 9 km from the city center.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Lebanon, since it covers not only the costs medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Lebanon Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Lebanon - Safety by City

Where to Next?

27 Reviews on Lebanon

Please relook at the risk number.

Please look into the actual facts on the ground. The risk should be at 60, but 35 is too low based on my many years of experience. As a woman I can freely walk and hold my bag and no one will approach or try to steal. Please fix the nunber to encourage tourists.

What about Jews?

Jessie, Lebanon is known to be very hostile to Jews, I actually agree with this site’s review. I can’t imagine a Jew walking around for a long period of time with more than a dew signs of being Jewish and not being attacked in any sort of way.

How will they know you are a jew? don’t be ridiculous.

Maybe that’s because Jews have a history of genocide. The Armenian/Greek/Assyrian genocide, the Holodomor, and the Palestinian genocide. I could go on. They are probably smart enough to know that as Israel’s neighbors, they could be next.

Fairy tales

Wow what fiction are you reading? “Palestinian genocide”? Fairy tales.

are you going to put a sign around your neck and say I am a jew? if you will do that, then this is called being provocative. If you walk around normally no one will actually tell you anything and they will be the friendliest around! stop spreading false new and false assumptions

lebanon is not pariticularly bad to jews. they are at war with Israel but I never heard stories of anything bad. if you have Israeli stamp forget getting in but that goes for everyone. Lebanon does not target specific people.

I have been around europe and i am always scared to visit even a single middle eastern countries for many reasons but i guess Lebanon will be my first choice.

Every season has a flavor in Lebanon don't miss it

I actually live in Lebanon and I think that maybe you should come and visit Lebanon then I am sure you will change a lot of what is written. Thanks

How is Lebanon 35 lol? It’s safer then most of the countries out there. Just avoid political and religious talk and you’re super safe. Rating should be like 65-70.

that aint true

no cause from the bombing

You mean 65-70 bombings? None of what you said correlates to a single fact about Lebanon. When you set peoples expectations high they hate it even more because you have to lie.

Increase the rating

Beirut is a safe country in general and 35 is a very very low rating. Also Beirut is the capital of Lebanon and not Israel.

Beirut is not a country. It’s a city which the article mentioned that it’s relatively safer than the border areas.

When people visits a country, they don’t usually stick to one city always. Tourists wants to explore other cities within the country and I think this article is reasonable.

Amazing Place to visit

My husband and i visited Lebanon in March 2019. At no point did we feel that we were in danger. We walked the sheets of Beirut. We rented a car and drove to the interior of the country including Bylbos, Bcharre, Zahle, Qaraoun, and the Bekha Valley. Traffic in Beirut is crazy, but outside the city it was fine. Roads were well marked. I cannot stress enough how safe we felt this entire time. As Americans, we were concerned that we would face hostilities. It was the opposite. The people were warm and welcoming. All over the country I saw optimism and hope for the future of the country. There was evidence of young entrepreneurs everywhere, especially in businesses related to tourism. This country is a jewel. Do not be scared off by biased reports.

Wrong rating

natural disasters risk is high? I think the one who wrote that shit ass article is high. Lebanon is one of the safest countries in the middle east and rating it 35 is really unjustified…

nice place but because of the explosion, it isn’t nice

Mafia country

I think Lebanon is a mafia country from the smallest person to the big leaders!

But it’s a safe country I can assure you, the women are open-minded! They are intelligent people but at the same time a bit naive because they destroy their beautiful country by stealing everything in it!

They don’t steal from you directly like in Egypt for example, but they scams you in everything, from the person who sells sandwiches to the big leaders of the country, they try always to save money and earn big money from you by giving you low-quality products but in the at the same time showing to you that this product is the best quality in the world.

They have this mentality in everything, and they are proud that they can do this when they are talking to each other! They are very happy and proud of it when they talk: “I ripped that person and stole his money”, and “his a pure and simple person” … but they forget that they are thieves!

I give you an example: one friend of mine went to fix his car and always he keeps a recording machine in his car to hear his wife what she talk and with who, he put the car in the garage and the next day he goes back to take it, they told him cannot fix his car all the gearbox is broken and need to change all or at least at the beginning need to take it out and see if they can change a part inside and then he can save a lot of money, in the same while he sees the workers laughing behind the car when the boss of the garage talk to my friend, so he was suspicious at that time but he cannot do anything, he said ok start to fix the car but first wait for a while to go the bank to see if his client send him money to his account today, if not he will call him to let him know to send money fast because he needs to fix the car urgently. , so he asks from the boss of the garage to give him two hours to solve the problem of money and the boss he said no problem take your time, the car is safe here , then my friend he go inside his car and take the small recording machine and he go to the nearest coffee to hear what they talk , and here the surprise: he heard the mechanical talk to the boss , that the problem is one fuse is broken and we need to change it ( this fuse is an electric small part cost normally 0.2$ To 0.5$ maximum ) and the boss he was angry and he shout on him and said : are you stupid ? We need to take off the gearbox , don’t speak anything to the client , how I pay salary for you ? If change this part only & he said to him : don’t speak to the client , when he came told him to speak to me only . And then my friend he go to the nearest police station to let the police come to his garage! But here the surprise, the police officers was his best friend of this boss , so he start to to talk to my friend , you put this machine in your car it’s illegal , and when He told him the reason of putting this machine inside his car , he ask the number of his wife from him and he want to call her and he want to arrest him , then my friend he scared a lot from his wife and he said to the police ok forget the case I will not speak to the garage boss anything , then the police he obliged him to sign a paper to not disturb the garage privacy anymore and he took his recording machine and he said to my friend if we know you make any problem to the garage boss , we will call your wife and bring her to show her the recording machine !!!!! So that’s why I told you at the beginning it’s a mafia country , so pay attention if you would like to visit this country because the law in the Lebanon that there is no low , BUT still really it’s a beautiful country who I definitely advice for visit ! Just keep your eyes open everywhere every time !!!

Your friend’s plan was not too smart.

Check your info before writing

Really? Pickpockets risk? You can walk around with all your jewels on!

Natural disasters risk?earthquakes and tsunami? Ridiculous…we haven’t have any of these in millions of years maybe!

Terrorism? In every country you have suburbs and mafia concentrated in small places!

Be real!who the hell wrote this article? Okay it isn’t like before but this is wayyyy exaggerated!

I’m just looking through this for school and I can tell just by reading the ratings, that this is way too over-exaggerated. Like come on why are some of these things so high, I have family in Lebanon and I can tell by what my family has told me too that it is nothing like this.

I am planning to travel to Lebanon this end of August 2022. Which is the best safest city to visit and by reading this article I am bit in two minds. Furthermore, is it too costly ?

Excellent and Best place I have ever been to

I strongly advise to visit this beautiful country as compared to what I have seen on the comments its not the same at all.

Visit on instagram “Livelove.tyre” “Livelovebeirut” “livelove.batroun” and check how lovely this country is!

The people are super friendly, generous and food is something YOU HAVE to TRy.

Dont forget to visit the best beaches, blue crystal sea and the nightlife in beirut!!!

Lebanon is fun but score is legit

This rating system is correct and everyone claiming otherwise 100% wrong. Lebanon doesnt deserve a higher safety score and the citizens dont strive to prove that wrong, with stupid things like firing guns straight up in the air and many negligent discarges.

I love lebanon

This article is slightly exaggerated I am an American female, I went to Lebanon alone, for the first time in may of this year I was there for a month, I stayed in gymayze, rented an apartment there by myself. I honestly felt more safe in Lebanon than I do in the states. I walked the around alone during the day and night, in the us I carry a gun because of how bad crime is where I live. I never felt the need to have to be armed at all. yeah theres issues on the borders just stay away from those areas. I don’t know what information this article was based on, but in 30 days i saw more people helping people that I have ever seen in the u.s. I am actually getting ready to board a plane in a few hours to go back. I happened to meet the love of my life there. Lebanon definitely has an economy crisis lights, water all that aren’t on a lot. However as far as the people and the safety value I think this article doesn’t do Lebanon justice at all.

The score should be lower, Hezbollah, a known terrorist organization with its own military and missiles it there, what other countries have that kind of thing? do you see that in Italy? Canda? The UK? No!

This is not a safe environment and terrorist organizations such as this should not exist, don’t travel here!

all the readers please this website is very good but do not believe the part of pickpocketing risk and natural disaster is not true

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Is it Safe to Travel to Lebanon? Tourist Advice

A personal account from our contributing writer Erin Henk

Is Lebanon Safe? text oerlay on a city view of Beirut

It was two days before my family and I were scheduled to move to Beirut .

In the midst of the chaos of packing and shedding the seemingly endless amounts of stuff we’d acquired from nearly four years of living in Paris, I was trying to check “get a haircut” off my to-do list. As sat in the salon chair, zoning out, my phone started buzzing with texts from faraway friends.

“Oh my god, huge explosion in Beirut!”

“It looks like a nuke just went off.”

I immediately scrambled to find out more information, my fingers frantically typing and scrolling. What was going on? What was happening and what did this mean for Beirut? And (selfishly) what did it mean for us?

We were about to embark on a big move that would start a new chapter in our lives. Perhaps this would mean that our plans would have to change?

What unfolded over the next few days in the tale of the Beirut Port explosion of August 2020 was the heartbreaking and enraging story of unbelievable negligence and corruption. The explosion killed more than 150 people, injured more than 5,000, and left thousands more homeless, jobless, and traumatized.

This was all due to a large stockpile of highly-explosive ammonium nitrate, which had been left sitting in a warehouse for about six years while no one in government bothered to do anything about it until a fire is said to have started in the warehouse.

We decided to forge ahead with our plans to move once we learned more. My husband left for Beirut two weeks after our initially scheduled date to start his new job. My son and I followed about three weeks later.

“Are you sure?” asked everyone from my cardiologist to my close friends when we said that we, indeed, were still moving to Lebanon.

But this is Lebanon….

With a history that includes 15 years of civil war and chaos, terrorism, along with neighbour issues with Syria and Israel , Lebanon, and Beirut in particular, still hasn’t completely shaken its reputation for being synonymous with war and violence.

While we haven’t looked back since coming here, it’s understandable that in a country like this, nestled in the heart of a region like the Middle East, many may wonder whether or not it is really safe to bring your family to Lebanon?

Depending on who you ask, Lebanon is likely going to be a place where opinions on safety for travellers may vary, particularly for families.

While a certain amount of instability and unpredictability comes with the territory in Lebanon (so to speak) it is nonetheless a place where you can bring your family, have wonderful experiences, and forge some lifelong memories, as long as you keep your wits about you and follow some basic safety guidelines and practices.

Lebanese Civil War

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A tiny nation (about a quarter the size of Switzerland), Lebanon’s more recent history has been tumultuous and complicated and warrants more explanation than we can include here. But here’s a very brief overview:

From 1975 to 1990, the nation was plagued by a complex civil war in addition to separate occupations by Syria and Israel. Today, tensions remain with Israel to the south.

Syria’s civil war has also brought between 1-1.5 million (estimates vary) displaced Syrians into Lebanon as well since it began in 2011, which has put a strain on already weak infrastructure and services.

In addition to the current Syrian crisis, the country is also home to about 475,000 Palestinians (again, estimates vary); many of whom are deemed stateless by the Lebanese government, live in designated camps, and are denied government assistance and legal residency.

Contrary to the old rumours, Lebanon is not a hotbed of terrorism. This reputation most likely comes from the fact that the country is the birthplace of Hezbollah . However, if you avoid the Hezbollah-controlled areas of the country, there is no need to let this be a reason for you to not travel to Lebanon.

While tensions between Hezbollah and Israel ignited into a month-long war during the summer of 2006, Lebanon has been largely free from war and widespread violence since the end of the civil war.

Today, Lebanon’s biggest problems are mainly rooted in the impacts of an incredibly grave economic crisis, an unstable and corrupt government, and inadequate and overstretched infrastructure and services, all of which can understandably cause civil unrest.

The World Bank has called Lebanon’s enormous economic and financial crisis one of the top 10 most severe crises globally since the mid-19 th century [source: World Bank ]. Compounding this is the government’s lack of initiative and consensus to enact reforms to alleviate the situation so as to avoid upsetting the lifestyles of a privileged minority. (Ahem, corruption.)

The Lebanese pound has lost 90% of its value since 2019, which has plunged about 4 million families into poverty in roughly just two years [source: Save the Children ].

As a result of such astounding depreciation and inflation, many Lebanese people who are paid in the local currency have seen the value of their salaries shrink to unlivable levels, making staples like food, medicine, and fuel largely unaffordable. (For example, many employed by the military or police who previously earned about USD 1,000-1,500 per month have seen their salaries shrink to USD 50-100 per month.)

As a result, much of the population is simply unable to support themselves or their families. However, with a large diaspora, a portion of Lebanese people are very reliant on remittances from family abroad to keep them afloat. Others who are fortunate enough to be paid in US dollars or who have bank accounts abroad can still live relatively comfortably.

That said, however, a visitor can easily see the contradiction of today’s Lebanon, one in which millions are struggling while restaurants and hotels remain full (with Lebanese people and not exclusively foreigners), traffic is a big issue, and new businesses are still opening up. (I’ve seen several open up in my own neighbourhood alone in just a year and a half.)

Devastation and rebuilding work from the Beirut port explosion

What Do The Travel Advisories Say About Lebanon Now?

You should always check relevant government advisories before planning to travel to Lebanon. But beware that some may outright warn you against visiting the country at all.

For example, at the time of writing, the U.S. Department of State had Lebanon marked at Level 4 Advisory, which instructs people not to travel to the country due to “crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and Embassy Beirut’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens.”

Others like Canada and the UK say to exercise a high degree of caution due to the security situation and the risk of a terrorist attack if you plan to travel to Lebanon.

Also, keep in mind that the situation here is dynamic and can change rapidly. If coming to Lebanon, it is wise to register with your embassy before your arrival and sign up for alerts if you can.

There are definitely areas of Lebanon you should avoid, of course, especially if you’re travelling with children. Some of the main areas are the following:

This area is generally safe. However, Beirut’s southern suburbs have high rates of criminality and kidnappings, including the Camille Chamoun Sports City Stadium near Rafik Hariri International Airport; and the neighbourhoods of Bourj el Barajneh , which is Hezbollah controlled.

It’s recommended to avoid going to the Bab al-Tabbaneh and Jabal Mohsen neighbourhoods in Tripoli, where occasional clashes have happened between Sunni and Alawi Muslims. These neighbourhoods are far from the city centre so you should be fine to visit Tripoli itself.

North of Tripoli is the Akkar District , which is also recommended to avoid.

Avoid all areas within 10 km of the Syrian border due to landmines.

This is an area heavily dominated and controlled by Hezbollah. It is also the region where you can visit the incredible historic ruins of Baalbek .

While it’s best to check the security situation immediately beforehand to see if there have been any changes on the ground, the ruins are normally totally safe to visit . You will see the distinctive yellow Hezbollah flags displayed in the site’s immediate vicinity, but don’t panic. The same advice goes for the cities of Zahlé and the ruins of Anjar , which are also in the region.

Avoid all areas to the south of the Litani River , near the Israeli border, excluding the coastal city of Tyre .

There are 12 Palestinian refugee camps in the country, such as Shatila in Beirut and Ain al-Hilweh in Saida, which should be avoided.

Lebanon Travel Safety

Lebanon is incredibly diverse, especially since it’s so tiny. There are about 18 different religious groups represented here and Beirut itself is quite cosmopolitan and international; you’ll find people from all over the world here.

Previously known as the Paris of the Middle East, the city has been known for its nightlife and party scene, so people here are generally open to different types of cultures and dress. Arabic, French, and English are widely spoken by many, which should also help you navigate around the country.

As a whole, the Lebanese love children, so it’s likely that your small children will get a lot of attention during your visit.

The following are some things to be aware of during your trip:

The economic crisis has definitely made things more tense and unpredictable in Lebanon. Since the revolution of 2019, when people (rightfully so) began protesting government corruption, unemployment, and a host of other things, demonstrations have continually flared up in different places in and around Beirut; some have occasionally blocked highways for several hours, making it difficult to travel by car.

Revolution in Beirut Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque

To be safe, steer clear of such protests as best you can; signing up for embassy alerts could be of help to keep you abreast of the situation.

The economic crisis compounded by the impacts of COVID-19 has caused an increase in criminality, so it’s best to take standard precautions when carrying cash and valuables around the city and at tourist sites like the ruins of Baalbek.

You will most certainly encounter many people who will ask you for money, many of them children. It’s not unusual to be approached multiple times on a daily basis and it’s heartbreaking to witness.

Some people can get a bit aggressive when asking for money. (I’ve had people asking me for more, saying what I gave them was not enough.)

Children especially can be quite persistent, but it’s all understandable considering the situation in the country. (Since many children can be forced to beg due to trafficking and other harmful reasons, I usually try to give away food as much as possible.)

If you don’t want to give, just bear in mind that you may likely have to say a firm “la, shukran” (no, thank you) or “no, sorry” to get the message across.

Also, keep in mind that if you dine on the street side you are guaranteed to be approached multiple times. You may prefer an inside table instead.

You may also be approached around certain historic sites by people who want to be your guide and immediately start spouting some historical facts. Again, a firm “no thank you” should do it. (You may find a similar story over in our safety guide to Egypt !)

Infrastructure is undeniably poor in Lebanon. This means safety standards are lower. The public electricity is only available a few hours per day so you may encounter stores and restaurants without power, or power cuts happening while you’re out to dinner, for example. Don’t panic. It’s normal.

Most hotels, especially larger ones, will have generators, making the cuts last only a minute or two. Smaller, family-owned or boutique hotels may have periods (typically during the night) when the power cuts for several hours.

Many medicines for chronic conditions are currently unavailable in Lebanon due to the situation so be sure to come prepared with your own supply of any necessary medication.

Also, many of Lebanon’s top professionals, like doctors, have left the country since the start of the economic crisis. But there are still reliable hospitals in Beirut where one could go for urgent medical care, such as:

Lebanese American University Medical Center-Rizk Hospital
American University of Beirut Medical Center

Safety and Getting Around in Beirut with kids

With the exception of the corniche, Beirut isn’t the most pedestrian-friendly city, so it’s wise to pay attention when walking around. Uneven, jagged and disappearing sidewalks can be dangerous.

Also—and it might be needless to say here—but be extremely careful when crossing the street. No one really plays by the rules of the road in Lebanon, and most drivers go the wrong way down one-way streets and think nothing of it.

Frequent power cuts also often mean traffic lights often are not working. I am still amazed by how many drivers surmount this hurdle and safely get from one place to another.

Apps like Uber and Bolt are widely used in Beirut and work well to help you get around. However, not all cars will have working seatbelts or will be in the best condition, so be prepared for that.

Another option is to book taxis in advance through local companies like Allo Taxi (which has an app you can download) where you can know the price and type of vehicle beforehand.

Street taxis have red and white license plates, but they can be confusing to take so it’s probably best to arrange transport through the alternatives.

Use bottled water , even for brushing your teeth, as the water is not safe to drink.
Trash collection and sanitation can be an issue and one can frequently one can find trash blocking sidewalks and walkways. It’s another reason to be careful where you are walking.
Gunfire is not uncommon to hear in Beirut. It can often be attributed to birthday celebrations and funerals. If you are outside and hear gunshots try to move inside as quickly as you can.
You will often see a heavy military presence in Beirut especially. While travelling through the country, you will encounter military checkpoints. They are nothing to be necessarily nervous about. Be polite and friendly and have your ID on you always just in case. (I’ve never once been asked for mine.) Also, refrain from taking photos of anything related to the military as it’s forbidden.
Finally, there’s money . Be aware that the prices of many things change on a daily basis so it’s always wise to verify the price of something before you buy.
Be sure to bring cash with you (preferably in USD) to avoid using ATMs and fluctuating exchange rates as much as possible.

In a nutshell, research the country’s security situation before your trip, practice street smarts, and keep these points in mind. There’s no reason you and your family can’t have an amazing trip to this beautiful country.

Don’t miss our further family-friendly guides to exploring Lebanon with kids:

Best of Beirut with Kids
12 incredible places to visit in Lebanon
The best time to plan a trip to Lebanon
What to pack for your trip to Lebanon

Save this to Pinterest for Later

Take me back to the Lebanon with Kids homepage

This post was written by contributing writer Erin Henk. A humanitarian aid and development worker, she has lived with her family in Beirut since 2020. Facts correct as at the time of publishing May 2022.

The Family Travel in the Middle East team of travel writers are all parents based in the Middle East, sharing first hand experiences and reviews from across the region to help you plan your next family adventure.

Find me on: Web | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

You may also enjoy:

Beyond beirut: 8 best day trips from beirut, 25 best things to do in beirut with …, 12 incredible places to visit in lebanon, when is the best time to visit ….

U.S. State Department Urges Americans To Leave Lebanon, Not Travel There, Amid War

Breaking News Reporter, HuffPost

The U.S. Department of State is warning Americans not to visit Lebanon and directing any Americans already there to promptly leave amid the intensifying Israel-Hamas war.

“The Department of State urges U.S. citizens in Lebanon to make plans to depart as soon as possible while commercial options are still available. We recommend that U.S. citizens who choose not to depart prepare contingency plans for emergency situations,” the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon said in a security alert Thursday.

U.S. citizens in Lebanon needing emergency assistance can contact the Department of State using a crisis intake form provided on the agency’s website. Family members of U.S. citizens in Lebanon can also submit a form on their behalf.

🚨 We have updated our Travel Advisory for Lebanon to Level 4: Do Not Travel. We urge U.S. citizens not to travel to Lebanon. We recommend that U.S. citizens in Lebanon make appropriate arrangements to leave the country; commercial options currently remain available. We… — U.S. Embassy Beirut (@usembassybeirut) October 18, 2023

On Oct. 7, Hamas — a militant group located in Gaza — launched a massive attack on Israel. Israel retaliated and launched airstrikes at the blockaded territory in what is now the deadliest of the five Gaza wars on both sides, with hundreds of thousands displaced, thousands killed and injured, and dozens held captive.

The Lebanon-Israeli border has experienced acts of violence amid the ongoing war, including back-and-forth shellings between Israeli soldiers and Lebanon’s Hezbollah fighters, a group that has threatened to enter the war.

The department raised travel to Lebanon to a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” due to “the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges between Israel and [Hezbollah] or other armed militant factions,” according to an earlier travel advisory released Tuesday by the State Department.

“Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Lebanon. Terrorists may conduct attacks with little or no warning targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities,” the advisory wrote.

“The Lebanese government cannot guarantee the protection of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence. Family, neighborhood, or sectarian disputes can escalate quickly and can lead to gunfire or other violence with no warning.”

Protests have also erupted in Lebanon, as well as in neighboring Mideast countries, following a strike on a Gaza hospital that killed thousands of people, and have resulted in clashes between protestors and security forces.

The travel advisory included a list of steps Americans should consider if they decide to travel to Lebanon, including avoiding demonstrations and crowds, monitoring local media for updates and reviewing Lebanon’s security report .

Thousands of Americans were stuck in Israel after flights were abruptly halted on Oct. 7 when Hamas first attacked. As of Tuesday, over 6,000 U.S. citizens have successfully left Israel and the West Bank, the State Department told The Washington Post .

The Department authorized voluntary and temporary departure on Tuesday from U.S. Embassy Beirut for family members of the U.S. government personnel, as well as some non-emergency personnel, because of unpredictable security in Lebanon, according to the advisory.

The Lebanon travel advisory follows a week after the Department also raised its advisory to Israel and the West Bank to a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel.” The Lebanon borders of Israel and Syria, as well as refugee settlements have also been listed in the Department’s travel advisory as a “Level 4: Do Not Travel.”

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From our partner, more in u.s. news.

Is Lebanon safe?

By Joan Torres 217 Comments Last updated on April 5, 2024

Update safety Lebanon Lebanon is going through a political crisis 1) In October 2019, thousands of demonstrators took over the streets of Beirut . The situation hasn’t really improved. 2) The problem with Iran is making things even tenser. 3) The massive bomb blast made things even worse However, I got recent reports from travelers who say that everything seems normal, from a traveling point of view at least, and the only strange thing they notice is that the Lebanese Pound is fluctuating like crazy.

Today, many people are continuously asking me:

Is it safe to travel to Lebanon? Is Beirut safe?

That’s because, unfortunately, many travelers believe that safety in both Beirut and Lebanon is an issue.

But guess what! Lebanon, including Beirut, is one of the safest countries in the Middle East. The only reasons why it’s not considered as such are the media and inaccurate Government travel advice and warnings.

With one of the lowest crime rates in the world today, Lebanon can brag about having the lowest number of Islamic extremists in the Middle East.

This article aims to tell you the reasons why.

In this Lebanon safe guide you will find:

Table of Contents

How safe is Lebanon?
Non-safe areas
How to visit the sensitive areas of Hezbollah

The isolated case of Tripoli

Solo female travel
Extra: Lebanon and Beirut safety tips
More Information

Remember to get travel insurance for Lebanon I strongly recommend IATI Insurance as it has COVID-19 coverage + 5% discount Get your 5% discount if purchasing via this link

You may also be interested in which countries in the Middle East are safe to travel?

6 Reasons why Beirut and Lebanon are safe

1 – contrary to what people say, there is no war in lebanon and beirut.

For some reason, people in the West tend to associate Lebanon with war. And I wonder: ” Why? ” Whereas it’s true that the country did suffer 25 years of Civil War, this ended in 1991. It was more than 25 years ago!

Furthermore, the Lebanese-Israeli war took place in 2006, but it lasted for one month only. For the past 10 years, the country has been able to enjoy peace!

Read: A travel guide to Beirut

2 – In Lebanon, there’s no place for extremism. Did you know that more than 40% of the population are Christians?

Lebanon is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world and today, several different religious groups coexist peacefully.

Did you know that more than 40% of the population are Christians? No?

Did you know that Sunni Muslims (the branch of Islam that ISIS draws its followers from) only make up 25% of the population?

In this country, there’s no place for extremism . Have you ever heard of any Lebanese who has radicalized and joined ISIS? Normally, they come from Syria , Saudi Arabia , Jordan or even Turkey.

Lebanon is so culturally cluttered, that the chances of a person radicalizing are low.

Read: 50 Tips for traveling to Iraqi Kurdistan

3 – This is the most liberal country in the Middle East

On the other hand, although religion plays an important role in the life of most families, from a religious point of view, Lebanon is the most liberal country in the entire Middle East.

It has the largest number of atheists (especially among young people), beer is available everywhere and drinking alcohol in the street is allowed (and quite common). Surprised?

For the first time in history, Saudi Arabia they started issuing tourist visas. Read: Tips + How to travel to Saudi Arabia

4 – It shares a border with Syria. OK, so what?

Lebanon shares border with Syria . Yes, so what? They are two different countries. The border between them is highly guarded and controlled. The chances of the Syrian conflict moving into Lebanon are non-existent.

Learn: Is it safe to travel to Syria nowadays?

5 – The investment in military security is huge

We can’t forget that Lebanon is located in a highly turbulent region. The military presence aims to prevent any sort of potential conflict.

Soldiers and checkpoints are found in absolutely every corner of the country, especially in Beirut. The Lebanese people love the army.

They are accepted in society because it makes them feel safer.

Read: The ultimate 10-day itinerary to Lebanon

6 – Crime rate and kidnappings are non-existent

As in most of the Arab countries, the crime rate is practically zero. No robberies, no violence. In Lebanon, you can walk around without a worry anywhere at any time, even women.

Read: A travel guide to Palestine

NO-GO zones when traveling to Lebanon

I just told you the reasons why Lebanon and Beirut are safe places to travel to.

Does it mean that you could wander freely across the whole country? No, absolutely not.

Whereas it’s true that 95% of the country is safe, the remaining 5% might not be. Why?

Because the few radicals who live in the country are found in those areas. These areas are dangerous, not only for the simple fact that you may meet some extremists, but, since the area is so close to Syria, it also suffers from spillover from the Syrian conflict.

Where are these no-go zones?

Basically, the north-eastern portion highlighted in red. Don’t even get close to this area. The rest of the country is safe. Please note that the below map is an approximation .

Update 2018: The army managed to kick out many of the ISIS troops. The security in this tiny part of Lebanon has also improved.

Safety in Lebanon & Beirut: Visiting the sensitive areas of Hezbollah

There are a bunch of areas which, even though they are not classified as dangerous, are considered sensitive. Why? Because they are controlled by Hezbollah.

What does ” sensitive area ” mean?

Hezbollah areas have always been the target of terrorist groups, such as the Islamic State.

In fact, the last suicide bombings that occurred in Lebanon (don’t worry, there is one attack per year) happened in Hezbollah areas. They are partially restricted and no journalism of any sort is allowed.

To understand it better I recommend you read: The day I was accused of being an Islamic State spy in Lebanon

Which Hezbollah areas are sensitive?

Shia Muslim neighborhoods of Beirut, for example, Bourj el-Barajneh
Some refugee camps , for example, Ain al-Hilweh in Saida
Hezbollah territories located in the south of Lebanon, close to the border with Israel

Things to keep in mind when visiting a Hezbollah area

Don’t even think of taking pictures or let anyone see you with a camera

Some locals may be hostile and you might be kicked out for no reason. If you have the chance to go with a Lebanese, then do it

Foreigners will always be treated as suspicious . You’ll pass through several checkpoints where you’ll be checked and interrogated over and over

In these areas, there are no tourists . Many of the residents can’t understand why someone would to come to their area for tourism purposes.

Repeatedly, you’ll be asked by the locals: ” What are you doing here ”?

Simply, answer: ” Nothing, I am just a tourist and I am walking all around the city ”.

Today, Hezbollah areas are relatively safe. I say relatively because there’s one suicide bombing per year, approximately. To be safer, stay away from crowds .

Before heading to any of those areas, check the current situation with a local Lebanese. The areas close to the Israeli border require a special permit . To get it, go to any police station in either Saida or Beirut . You will get it instantly.

Keep in mind that this permit gives you access to the area, but it doesn’t allow you to take pictures or do anything silly.

For more information, read visiting Bourj al Brajneh

Important to mention: These areas have no appeal for tourists. The only reason why you would want to go there is that you are tremendously curious and need to know what the hell is going on in there. I visited everything. In the border with Israel , I was detained by the authorities. In the Shia neighborhood of Bourj el-Barajneh, some locals kicked me out, pacifically, but for no reason. However, I didn’t experience any issues when I visited the Palestinian refugee camp of Shatila. If you are as freaky and curious as I am, the experience is definitely worth it.

The UK travel advice to Lebanon says that Tripoli is not safe.

Tripoli is a city located in the north of Lebanon and the second most important one. Why do governments consider it dangerous?

Since the Civil War, there have been one-off clashes between Sunni and Alawi Muslims who reside in the neighborhoods of Bab al-Tabbaneh and Jabal Mohsen, respectively. Throughout the years, these clashes have killed several people.

This is a one-off conflict happening in a specific area, far away from the city center. It’s a fight between two small districts and doesn’t go beyond them.

The rest of the city is totally cool and safe. I spent four days in Tripoli, and to be honest, it was one of the highlights of my trip.

I also have to admit that, since I’m an extremely curious human being, I also went to Jabal Mohsen.

And what can I say?

Life there was merely normal. Again, clashes and bombings happen once a year, not more.

Read: 80 Useful tips for traveling to Iran

Is Lebanon safe for solo female travelers?

I just am portraying Lebanon as a great, safe country to travel to but, what about solo female travelers?

I am fully aware that a man’s experience is going to be very different from a woman’s, especially in Muslim countries, where men tend to be more conservative.

However, many female travelers claim that Lebanon is a relatively easy country to travel to, much easier than any other Middle Eastern destination , as it is a country where both liberal and conservative people coexist peacefully.

For a more detailed analysis, read: Tips on how to travel to Lebanon as a woman

You may also be interested in solo female travel in Pakistan

Extra: Beirut and Lebanon safety tips

Consider going on a tour.

I always encourage people to travel independently but I can also understand why some travelers may prefer to travel on a tour, especially in a place like Lebanon.

I recommend you book them via GetYourGuide , as they always work with a wide range of local guides and tour operators, and you can book your tour with just one click.

So far, these are the tours they offering for traveling in Lebanon:

Beirut city tour – Explore one of the most fascinating cities in the Middle East. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
Jeita, Harissa and Byblos – Trip to one of the most stunning caves in the world and historical cities. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
Wine tour – Lebanon is well-known for its wine and, in this tour, you will visit 3 different wineries from Beqaa Valley. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
Baalbek – Some of the most outstanding Roman ruins outside of Rome. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Stay safe by planning your trip ahead – Best books for traveling to Lebanon

The best way to travel to Lebanon safely is to plan your trip properly. For this, I recommend the following books:

Lebanon Travel Guide by Bradt – This is the most updated book guide about Lebanon. Bradt is my favorite brand because they always provide plenty of local insights and travel tips for independent travelers.

The Middle East Lonely Planet Guide – It has only one chapter about Lebanon but the information is updated, so it might prove useful.

You may also like: Best books on Pakistan Best books on Central Asia Best books on Georgia

Use Couchsurfing

In Beirut, Couchsurfing is a big deal and there are plenty of events every week. I suggest you look up for these weekly events and get to know some Lebanese people. Actually, there is a group of local attendants who are organizing trips for foreigners almost every week.

Do you use a VPN when you travel? Remember that, in this type of countries, some websites might be blocked and your online activity might be monitored by the Government. Therefore, in order to navigate safely, you should use a VPN. Read my tutorial: How to find (and why use) the best VPN for traveling

As I mentioned previously, don’t go to the northeast of the country and watch out when you are in Hezbollah areas.

And remember to check my other all my other guides about Lebanon:

Beirut travel guide A 10-day itinerary for visiting Lebanon

For more content to the region, don’t forget to check all my travel guides to the Middle East, plus:

Best places to travel in the Middle East Where in the Middle East is safe?

And don’t forget to check my Syria travel guide !

Conclusion: so, is Lebanon safe to visit?

Is Lebanon safe? The answer is yes, but you need to keep in mind that this country has gone through several conflicts and is located in the heart of the most turbulent region in the world.

Travel safe and cautious. If you have any question, leave a comment below. I’ll be happy to answer. Cheers.

More information for traveling safely in Lebanon

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All our guides to Lebanon

Travel Guide to Lebanon
Beirut Travel Guide
Solo Female Travel Guide in Lebanon
The day I was accused of being an Islamic State spy

Check more safety guides

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Is Middle East Safe?
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Is Pakistan Safe?
Is Sudan Safe?
Is Syria Safe?
Is Tunisia Safe?

217 comments

Lebanon sounds like a beautiful country. While I was volunteering in Calais, we sometimes managed to send containers or food and clothing to the refugee camps there, so I can’t really get away from the association in my head. I don’t think I would be scared to travel there, but it must feel quite mad to have the chaos and suffering of Syria so close.

Hi Katie, thanks for your comment. That’s great that you were volunteering in Calais and helping the refugees. I also did some volunteering in a Syrian refugee camp in Iraq. It was a beautiful experience! Which camps in Lebanon did you send containers? I know a couple of them. I understand that you can’t take it out of your head, but a refugee camp in Lebanon isn’t different than the ones in France. Lebanon is just giving refugee to all the Syrians who are escaping from the war.

Hello Joantow!

I’m born and lived in Sweden my whole life, though I’ve been traveling to Lebanon every second year since I’ve been a child. I’d like to add that I’m a shia muslim and the hezbollah areas you’re refeering to is not as what’s described, although I fully agree with everything you’ve stated very well!

It might be because maybe you’re not a lebanese descendant and you’re seen as a kind of threat or sucpicious. I’ve been to every single part of lebanon except some sunni places cause we are not the best of friends. I can agree with you that questions will be asked when traveling to hezbollah areas but that’s because we’ve been targeted by israeli zionists and isis, (something you might already know). Though I would never say it’s not safe in any of the hezbollah areas, especially if you know someone there. My friend is Swedish, blond and doesn’t look anything like a lebanese, he traveled with me and I took him on many lebanese tours, the shia hezbollah areas was where he felt most welcome and at home, but maybe that’s because he was with me… Anyhow great article!

I have never thought of visiting lebonon but im sure its a very interesting place. Its good to know that crime rate is zero

Hi Jenni, unlike what people think, the crime rate is zero in not only Lebanon but, across all the Middle East. I don’t know what is the reason behind it. I think it’s just a cultural a thing. Seriously, Lebanon is this sort of country where if you forget a $100 bill on the table of a café, you’ll find it there when you come back.

I like what am hearing because I’ve being wondering how safe my wife is ,as Ghanaian. But from all that I’ve read , I feel she is save. thanks

I too was wondering as a black man how safe it would be for me to travel to Lebanon

The Lebanese were pretty racist but since the rich have been employing Ethiopian servants they have slowly become more tolerant, and in 2018 I noticed an Ethiopian cafe had opened near Bourj Hamoud (the Armenian area). If you speak Arabic and tell them off for staring they’ll be mortified. Also Lebanon receives Somalian visitors from the Gulf, I met a lovely couple while in my hostel, she was Lebanese and he Somalian. Both spoke brilliant English too.

Believe me you are missing a lot!

Now I want to go to the RED ZONE! I just like to live life dangerous. 😀 Seriously, great write up and I hope to get out here soon

hahaha… You are crazy man. There have been a lot of reports of kidnapping in that area plus it’s a war zone and there’s continuously fight. I think that even if you wanted to go, you wouldn’t be able to pass beyond the check-points.

Hey guys.. im from lebanon. Lebanon is the most safe country you could ever see.. and the most beautifull ..

Me too I am from lebanon it is so safe but I don’t think tripoli is that dangerous but never leave money on a table because of course it will be gone depending on wich place did you put it

Hi there! I’m traveling to Beirut for work soon. Our legal team has recommended we dress very subdued with long pants and covered arms. Is this really necessary??

Not Beirut, like not at all

Tripoli looks amazing. I was surprised to read that the crime and kidnapping rate are non-existent though I guess once you think about it, makes sense. We Americans are just programed to be afraid of those areas.

I think the problem is in America and in the rest of the world. I’m from Spain and here everybody is also really scared about this part of the world. Our media only shows things related to ISIS, war and suicide bombers. But once you are on the ground, things are really extremely different

Glad to see people like you who have an open mind! I live in Canada but have a Lebanese background and visit all the time which stops me from viewing my beautiful country as a foreigner would. I hope you consider to visit us one day! We are very welcoming:)

This is so interesting because whenever you search about Middle east countries negative feedbacks would promptly be the result. Thank you for sharing! safe travels to you!

Except for Syria, Yemen and some parts of Iraq, the Middle East is a super-safe!

Hehe. The Middle East is not a country! It’s a region!

Yeah, and who said that?

Happy to hear that Lebanon is still safe to travel to. I’ve never been to the Middle East yet and want to go badly, so this just may be an amazing idea. Thanks for the inspiration!

Hi Anto, glad it inspired you and hope you make your way to Lebanon. If you need anything, let me know!

Lebanon as a country is safe but the issues in Lebanon are its people .. Unfortunately they have destroyed it

The issue is our government, not the people. Fortunately for the past 2 days, our people have finally decided to protest against our corrupted government.

I want to travel to Lebanon by next week, is it safe to visit Beirut Lebanon with the current protest going on now

I kindly would like to disagree with you as I believe that its people are what make the beautiful country as amazing as it is. Everyone is like family! Sure there may be a couple bad people… but they are everywhere around the world. Cheers!

I totally appreciate your insights and take on Lebanon. While you felt safe, it might be different for a woman, especially one traveling solo. It would be cool if there were a map of the Hezbollah areas so we’d know what to avoid.

Hi Debra, I don’t think there’s any problem for a solo woman traveler. The country is pretty liberal and unlike in other Middle Eastern countries, people wouldn’t be starring at you just for being a woman. As I said, 50% of the population are Christian, so they are pretty used to uncovered and more liberal woman. Even outside of the capital, you get to see women wearing western (and slightly provocative) clothes.

hello Bebra, i am jhonney and i live near hezbolla areas, and i have friends there, its totally safe and you are welcome, you just need to show them that you are just a traveler.. please dont believe the media.. good luck 🙂

Im lebanese and i can 100% assure u even in Hezbollah territory women’s are safe every lebanese is raised to respect women if u ever have the chance to visit u will be amazed how free women are in here and there is no dressing code u can wear what ever u like and from Beirut to Jbeil parties never ends

I always wanted to visit Lebanon, I found their cuisine so delicious, but I was worried about safety. Thanks for letting us know that is safe to travel. Obviously one has to be careful everywhere he travels.

Food is definitely one of the highlights of traveling in Lebanon! Yes, it’s safe but you need to watch out 😉

It’s sad that we’re in a time when “one bombing per year” is considered “safe” but that being said I would definitely go to Lebanon. I love visiting places that basically don’t have anything to see but give a very distinct insight into local life.

Hi Lydia. Thanks for your message. Yes, it’s weird to say that ”one bombing per year” is considered safe but seriously, there’s nothing happening beyond than that. How many bombs and gunshots have occurred in the USA in the last couple of years? Not one per year, but many. And still, the USA is considered a safe country. Yes, you are right, Lebanon is not a place for sightseeing, but a country to enjoy the local life.

Not a place for sightseeing? I went for the first time and was blown away with the amazing sights to see. From the cedars of god, the city of Byblos (Jbail), Medieval and biblical age castles, Roman ruins throughout the entire country, to one of the biggest, oldest and the most amazing underground caves known to man called the Jetta grotto… this is one of the most beautiful sight seeing countries on the planet. The list goes on and on for things to do and see in Lebanon. That doesn’t even include historical sights in Beirut. It’s one of the oldest and most important port cities in the history of civilization. Tons to do and see.

I am so glad you got to live the full experience and see our country’s beauty!

Hmmm I have never considered going to this place but its good to know that parts of it is still safe. I’d probably visit other countries first

Hi Joan Thanks a lot for your lovely report about Lebanon.Very inspiring! I´m planning to go there on September and so, I´m trying to get as much info as I can, maily regarding the security topic. I would like to hear your opinion about 2 points: 1. I´ve heard that Baalbek is a Hezbollah area. So, is Baalbek included in your sensitive areas? 2. What do you think about reting a car there? Any issue with that? How about the road conditions? Thanks in advance for your help. Tereza

Hi Tereza, apologies. I don’t know your comment went to my spam folder. Anyhow, thanks for your comment. Good that you’re planning a trip to Lebanon 🙂 1 – Yes, Baalbek is a Hezbollah area but is not as sensitive at the southern part of the country, meaning that you don’t need a permit and you can go there freely. No need to be alarmed 2 – If you can afford it, renting a car can be great. Petrol is as expensive as Europe though as they don’t have black gold resources. The roads are good. I would just worry about how the people drive, as they are pretty crazy. Have you ever driven in the Middle East, India or any country like that?

Thank you so much for letting people know how beautiful and safe Lebanon is. My husband is Lebanese and we will be visiting this summer. It will be my third time there and cannot wait. They used to call it the Paris of the Middle East and that it truly is. Thank you again for clarification as many do not know and are uncertain of their safety and the beauty that there is.

Hi Amy, Yeah, Lebanon, or Beirut in this case, used to be called the Paris in the ME and what people don’t know, is that this capital is a Westernized city where people in the West can have the same fun they have back home. The mix of cultures is fascinating and I’m really jealous that you have the chance to go there so often! Thanks for your comment!

I was enlightening by ur article and the first of its kind i have found. My husband wants me and my 2 year old daughter to travel with him to jabal mohsen next week as his father is unwell. I am quiet worried after reading what i can find and dont know of we should go. I know my husband wouldnt put me in danger but i also feel like he wants his father to meet our daughter and will do this at any cost. I have no idea of what it will be like as my husband doesnt talk to me about it and keeps telling me i will see when we are there and i will enjoy it. Do you know anything about my rights while im there and my rights for my daughter?

Hi, Holly, Glad that you’re going to Lebanon! all I can say about Jebel Mohsen is what I said in my article. There’s been some tension going on but, it was an occasional fight and now it’s been quite for such a long time. Furthermore, it was not a conflict related to terrorism but a religious conflict between a different kind of Muslims themselves. As per your question, in Lebanon, 50% of the population is Christian. This means that the Muslims are already quite used to treat and deal with more liberal women. In Lebanon, you don’t need to worry about anything. Have a nice trip

Hi…..just a quick warning. I travelled to Lebanon with my daughter when I was 24. I have been stuck here for 8 years. This is under Marronite law…… Very similar to Sonny law. No rights for woman. I’ve paid lawyers…. 100, 000 dollars…. Still here… Tried to go through Syria…. Hezbollah scared us and made us go back……. I even lived all around the country. In tyre…. Close to isreal…. Still no way out. British govenment have done nothing….. We r british citizens…. My daughter was born in the u. K. I can’t extend my worry for u!!! Please don’t go….. It sounds suspicious…… I’ve been poisoned recently 5 times… My daughters almost 8…. She won’t eat because of this….. There are no human rights…. A holiday here ok….. Don’t Bring your child here!!!!! Please!!!!

@Millie, stop spreading out bullshit

I’m very sorry to read this, but its all lie. I went my self with my family and feel like we are at home., for a good to week, people are very friendly welcoming.

Honey what ur saying is not true and if ur being held against ur will u can put a phone number in here and i can get u out of the country in a minute western embassies are bery powerful in lebanon and for any western people who visit Lebanon if u ever been arrested u can stay quite and ask for ur embassy if u didnt kill someone u will be out in no time and u will get an apology something the local dont get and that’s from experience as an ex policeman for 8 years

Awesome article man.I’m really happy that you had the experience to visit and share the most beautiful areas in Lebanon.Everything you’ve said is 100% true.I really recommend everyone to visit lebanon.One of the most beautiful and safest countries in the middle east.We haven’t got any terrorist attack since 2015. Thanks again joan. Proud to be Lebanese

Hello, Moe! I’m very happy to hear this nice feedback from a Lebanese. I’ve to Lebanon twice and spent 1 month in the country, so I got quite a lot of nice local insights! Yeah, Lebanon is 100% safe and I also recommend and promote it very much! Cheers mate!

My husband has lived in Lebanon his entire life except the last 2.5 years and he’s actually back there right now (I’ve never been) and after reading the comments, I asked my husband if its true that there is zero crime (no stealing, rape etc) and it’s as safe as what I’m actually reading about in these comments and he just laughed at me and replied “what do you think the jails here are full of criminals for? They didn’t just end up in jail for scratching their arses”? It’s like any other country in the world…Food for thought..

haha, Hi Shay, your husband comment is hilarious. Yeah, Lebanon is such a misunderstood place and is a country like any… just because it has a neighbor immersed in war, doesn’t mean that it’s dangerous!

Very well written. I have lived in Lebanon for about 7 months and I agree with pretty much everything written in the article. I would add that – to stay safe – one should never get into an argument with another driver over who had a right of way. Driving in Lebanon can be a bit of an adrenaline sport, and whilst most people are just fine (though on the road it’s “everyone against everyone”), one can occasionally encounter a real lunatic (the higher concentration of which seems to be among the shabby bus drivers).

Thanks for your words 🙂 Yeah, I agree, lol. Some of these bus drivers are real lunatic! But probably, I would also be a lunatic if I was continuously driving on those roads!

Thanks for the info! My partner and I are about to start our 1 weeks trip to Lebanon. We have rented a car and plan to travel by ourselves (my partner is used to driving in the Middle East). But I was wondering if it is a good idea to travel alone to Baalbek or would it be safer to go with a tour/driver? Any advice on how to visit Baalbek is welcomed!

Hi! If your partner is used to the crazy Middle Easter driving, then you will be more than fine! Baalbek is safe place, don’t worry about that. Cheers 🙂

My family and I just went there in June and Baalbek was safe and worth the drive. My daughter vlogged our trip to Lebanon and you are welcome to check it out and hope that it makes you feel more comfortable. Here is one link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrScyBfSkao we were there for 3 weeks and she has a vlog for each one. Enjoy!!

I’m Lebanese and man, those sensitive places you went to, I have never been there despite my almost 20 years in Lebanon. Lol you really must be curious. Also I recommend anyone who visits Lebanon to visit the Mount Lebanon governorate mostly. It has Beirut, the most mountains and ski resorts, most grottos, most monasteries, most beaches and nightlife spots, and ruins and ancient cities like Byblos. It’s typically the mostly Christian area especially between the Jbeil-Keserwan districts.

Hey! Thanks for the tips. I visited some of these places you mention and yes, they are awesome! All the best Nizar 🙂

Hi Joantow, My 22 year old granddaughter and have plans to vist Beruit in December for 10 days. We have already booked our flights and reserved out Hotel in the Harma district of Beruit. We also plan to visit the village of my parents birth in the Bekaa Valley. The village is on the border and Syria is visible from there. Did you travel to the Bekaa Valley. Is it a dangerous or waht you call a sensitive area? My Lebanese cousin who lives in Beruit is going to drive us there. Will we be stopped an questioned at checkpoints along the way? Has the recent resignation of Harri, the Lebanese prime minister, made Lebanon less safe?

Hello George, the entire country is completely safe, except for the tiny dot which I am mentioning above and anyways, a few months ago, the small ISIS spillover from Syria was finally expelled by the Lebanese authorities, so I would say that now it’s even. safer. You don’t have to worry about anything, especially if you go to touristic places such as Baalbek. As per the prime minister issue, no one knows what will happen, not even the Lebanese themselves, but there are no signs that the country became less safe according to my local friends. Cheers and enjoy Lebanon

Actually, the resignation made the Lebanese unite and the authorities become more awake, which means it’s like the safest time now.

Then it’s awesome 🙂

Ur a lebanese so there is no worry ur visiting ur country its ur place ur land and ur heritage and if ur with a lebanese living in here u jabe nothing to worry about and bekaa people as 90% of the lebanese are very generous and wants everyone to see lebanon in the best picture possible

Specifically, Aita Al Foukar is safe?

And please post any interesting updates as you learn them- pertaining to politics and Lebanon’s continued stability and safety- my concern is that you mentioned there is 1 suicide bombong per year- I do t think that’s happened yet this year- I hope it doesn’t, but I sure hope it doesn’t when my father and daughter are there-very worried mom!!

Hi, Yes I always try to update this post with the latest updates. I don’t know what’s Aita al Foukar, sorry. And as per the suicide bombing, 1 per year it’s just an average. What I meant is that in the past 6 or 7 years there’s been maybe 5 o 6 suicide bombings. That should not concern you at all. The likelihood of being caught by a bomb is soooo low. It’s more likely that you get overrun by a car this morning in your hometown.

Just to make things clear, those suicide bombings ended in 2016. They always attacked the southern suburbs of Beirut, which are considered the Hezbollah headquarters. That happened when ISIS was still in the red spot, but since the border is safe now, the whole country is safe, no need to worry.

I have been living in Beirut for the past year, and feel very safe here. Yes, there are areas in Lebanon (and even Beirut) that should be avoided, depending on one’s comfort and, to a degree, origin. I would not sway anyone from visiting Lebanon, but suggest that you visit your country’s Embassy or Foreign Ministry website for the latest travel info (btw. the U.S. Department of State info on Lebanon is typically exaggerated, given historical context, and should be taken with a grain of salt). The Lebanese seem to be quite weary of fighting, and even if the Hariri resignation leads to the worst (which I doubt it will), another civil war (meaning internal war) is unlikely. This being said, one can never rule out an incident of some sorts, and it would be a lie to say that Lebanon is as safe as, for instance, Switzerland. The statistics show far more bombings than one-per-year, and many messed up people levitated here for decades. It would be naive to think they just disappeared or grew up.

I agree, it’s mostly because of the number of refugees we have, especially from the Syrian war. Those are about 2 million above the 4 million population of Lebanon.

Excellent comment to the Thread John! In my humble opinion, most probably the best!

Hello there, I’m planning to travel with the ship from Northern Cyprus via Turkey to Tripoli in summer. It’s good to hear some positive opinions about this place, since our German goverment keeps warning about it in a dramatic tone. I can’t imagine that the situation is too dangerous for a one- or two nights stay before heading to Beirut. Nice blog, keep up the good work 🙂

Hi Lukas! Awesome, I didn’t know the ship from Cyprus to Lebanon was working… May I ask you how much are you paying and if it leaves every day? Is it a ferry or a cargo ship? Regards,

Totally agree. This shouldn’t even be a question or doubt. But I understand if people are slightly anxious before the visit because I know I was. I was very scared of Pakistan despite it being just so near to where I live (Delhi). But it is only after I travelled with my family there that I lost the fear. Travelling does that to you and you should never be afraid of new places. A point of thought, though – always go with someone you know to new places that are known to be calamitous. Thanks.

Hi Richard! Yeah, totally agree! Once you step into the country’s soil, you see that it’s just a normal place! Newspapers only show us the tiny bad part of it! Cheers mate!

Wow a great read, interesting and has really put my mind at ease before I head out to do some volunteer work with orphaned refugee kids. Thanks keep exploring x

That’s absolutely great and would like to hear about your experience when you come back 🙂 Good luck!

Thanks for such great insights and informative blog post!

I don’t mean to rain on anyone’s parade, but do not throw caution to the wind. Lebanon is a fabulous country. I’ve been 2x in the last 10 yrs.. The 1st X I was there I was kidnapped by Syrians. They eventually let me go; it was not a pleasant experience. The 2nd X i was there, it was without incident. If the political climate with Israel on one end and Syria on the other end were more stable, I’d love to live in that country because the people are AMAZING! Nevertheless, Lebanon is not in Europe. It is in one of the most precarious spots for any country; especially a country that is riddled with intellectuals, gorgeous people, well-dressed, polite, ingratiating, and outgoing. Lebanon is my most favorite country in the world. Why? The people make that city AWESOME! Even though I would love to be there, today, I’m too afraid…frighten to venture back there with ISIS on one end and the Jews on the other end and Hezbollah and its recklessness with Iran at epic-center. It’s a ticking time bomb. If it is not imperative for you to be there; do not go until Syria, Israel, Iran, and Hezbollah are stabilized.

Hi there, what do you mean by you were kidnapped by Syrians? Syrian is such a broad term. Which kind of Syrians, for what purpose and which year?

It was horrible. It was in the past. I was let go by God’s grace. It is finished!

Hello, I live in Lebanon, and there is no danger right now. ISIS is completely dead in Syria and Iraq, and the whole Lebanese-Syrian border is protected by the Lebanese and Syrian army respectively. As for Israel, nobody wants any escalation from either side, and plus Israel is currently building a wall along the border. Hezbollah on the other hand has no members of its military branch on Lebanese territory except in Hermel, which is on the border with Syria and is has nothing for a tourist to see. Even with that it is still considered safe. I say if you’ve been to Lebanon in the past 10 years then now is definitely the best time of all to be here. Just beware of “Syrians” lol.. Kidnapping did use to happen a lot in Beqaa, but now again it’s safer than ever.

My daughter and dad were just there in December and had a great time and felt completely safe and secure.

FANTASTIC! Thanks for your input Vicki. Cool.

Nazir, that’s GREAT news! Thank you for taking time to respond. You’d better extend me your Email address so that I can make sure I AirBnB with you and you make certain I’m safe for 3 – 5 weeks while working and enJOY Bayreuth, Lebanon and other cities too. I’ve been to countless places around the world and the people (their energy & synergy) in Lebanon by far exceed cultures from all around the world. I’ve been as far away as Uruguay to New Zealand (the worse ever is New Zealand)…and Lebanon is still TRUMP! No, NOT DonaldJTrump. …’trump’ as in Champion! Kidding aside, I was kidnapped in February 2003. It was not funny at all. The experience was harrowing.

Lol I’m glad you actually loved this country the most and call it trump, even with what happened! 2003 was a bad time for the whole world actually, and don’t forget that there was Syrian occupation in Lebanon back then. Anyway, I’ll hand you my secondary email just for security: [email protected] , so when you’re here feel free to ask me anything! Btw, it’s Nizar not Nazir, and it’s Beirut, Bayreuth is a city in Germany.. Sorry for bringing out the grammar nazi in me Lol

GREAT! You must be the Ambassador for the country Nizar. You most definitely have the pulse! Will be expecting you to overshadow my trip for the 3 – 5 weeks beginning at the end of May, early June 2018. If I had known everything was stable and secure, would have arranged to be there since early 2018 to realize project. When I arrive it will be ‘Tourist (High) Season’ and all the entire world will converge on Beirut and all the prices will go through the ceiling. I.e., hotels, AirBnB, HouseTrip, Motels… stores etc… We’ll see. Again, much thanks! Yeah… it’s Birut, Bairut, Beirut. عيسى عيسى, … my bad …I placed your country in Bavaria. LoL! …is all good!

Lol that’s no problem! And you’re welcome, thank you as well, hopefully one day I’ll be an ambassador because why not lol.. There definitely would be a lot of tourists and higher prices, but if you look on the bright side, beach season would have started and all resorts would be open by then. Hope you can make it and enjoy!

Great article-we’re visiting Beirut and hopefully areas outside the city in May for 10 days. Can’t wait. We’ve previously visited Jordan (twice) which is amazing and I’m hoping The Lebanon is as fantastic as you describe. Obviously we will adhere to advice about no-go areas but we know how much false information is spread by governments with their own agenda on the Middle East

Hi Nita! Yeah there are a few NO-Go areas but even there the situation has improved since last summer. I am sure you will have so much fun. I was planning to come back in May as well but I have to delay my trip for one or two months for some reasons!

I am just just back from a week in Lebanon most time spent an hour from Beruit working with refugee children an amazing experience in an amazing country.. Already booked to return for longer!

WOW, must have been an amazing experience! I am sure you enjoyed it!

Lebanon sounds beautiful! I’ve been thinking about traveling here this summer but I have some concerns. Is there much racism? I am Biracial but I’m often confused of being of Middle Eastern descent because of how light my skin is. I know I shouldn’t worry but i can’t help but worry about how the media has portrayed people of color in the Middle East and the hostility against Americans.

Lebanon is the most culturally diverse country in the Middle East and, perhaps, Europe, as well. Therefore, I don’t think that it is a racist country plus all the young people dream of America.

Hi – Is it safe going to Baalbek from Beirut next week ? John

Ho John, Yes it is completely safe. Just be careful about the crazy middle eastern driving 😉

Chicago sees its most violent week of the year: 9 killed, 76 wounded may 8th 2018 food for thought. http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-met-chicago-weekend-violence-20180507-story.html read all the crazy stuff that happens here. I’m sure there is some countries you don’t want to go to. Wonder if there is a post from non Americans asking if Chicago is safe to visit? You are gonna find violence an crappy people no matter were you go.Travel smart an enjoy this beautiful planet an all its great people an cultures. 🙂 enjoyed your blog post! Cheers!

Thanks for your insightful comment Mo! Yes, many people judge countries from dangerous when actually, in their home countries there is so much shit going on! We need to be more analytic and read many different media sources. Have a nice day!

Hi. What about Baalbek? Is travel there safe seeing as so close to the Syrian border.?

Yeah, Baalbek is safe no problem. Yes, it is close to Syria but the border is a pretty high mountain

Hi! Loved to read ur article about Lebanon. I’ve always liked to explore other countries cultures since im born and living in sweden (father from Peru and mother from sweden). Im thinking about travelling to Lebanon. Any specific places that I should visit?

Best regards, Sebastian

Hey Sebastian, good to know that you want to travel there 🙂 Here’s my list of suggested places to visit in Lebanon: https://againstthecompass.com/en/things-to-do-in-lebanon/

I am part Lebanese and have dreamed of visiting. We have always been afraid to go because of our American passports. We are now considering this adventure! Kibbeh and grape leaves from the mother country are worth it!

You definitely should, Annie, and get to know your roots!” You made me miss Lebanese food by the way 🙂 !

Very poor travel advice. Terms like “non-existent” used in article to describe risky areas substantiated with facts or recent statistics? Nah. This is tripe, the State Department travel.state.gov is your source and they say reconsider travel plans to Lebanon.

Hi Jake, thank you so much for sharing your opinion but clearly, you don’t really know what are you talking about… The FCO advice is extremely biased and, on many occasions, it is just based on UK interests, so claiming that it has to be your source of information means that you are not very well-informed or, in any case, a very unexperienced traveler.

Actually, I am answering you now from Abkhazia. Do you know where is it? Abkhazia is an independent republic. It is actually an independent country but it is not recognized by any other besides Russia, Veneçuela and a few others. Today, Abkhazia has become and extremely lovely place, full of Russian tourists and just peace everywhere. The UK advises against all travel to Abkhazia. Why? Basically, because they don’t recognize it as country, so they are not very interested in you to see what is going on there. Moreover, there is also not diplomatic representation, so they claim that if something happened to you, you would be there on your own. So, should I stay home or go somewhere else just because of this weak advice? There is a higher chance of being killed in a car accident in front of your house than being killed in Abkhazia.

On the other hand, the FCO also advices against traveling to all countries where there is (or used to be a long time ago) a potential risk of terrorism or any kind of hostility. In some countries, this might be very high, like Yemen for example, but, in others, it is extremely low, like Lebanon. What happens is that even if there is only a 0.0001% of chance of terrorism, they will tell you not to go because, if the unlikely happened, they can blame you for not following their advice. If you had the decency of reading the entire article, you will see that the FCO tells you not to go to Tripoli and all the surrounding area. This is actually quite funny because Tripoli is one of the safest places in Lebanon. There used to be some fight in one neighborhood which is on a mountain, separated from the main city and, in any case, it was a fight between people from the same neighborhood, which didn’t go beyond that. That was some years ago and just ask to any local or anyone who has been there and he will tell you that it is extremely safe. It is funny that, according to the FCO, this area of Tripoli is an orange area but the whole Mexico is green, where there is a muuuuuuch higher chance of getting kidnapped there than in Lebanon. Dude, what I am telling you is that, on many occasions, it based on UK interests.

And yes, the crime in Lebanon is practically non-existent. Actually, I am extremely tired of having to look after my bag every time I am in a café or just being pickpocketted in my home-city Barcelona. In Lebanon, the crime rates are ridiculously low and you could forget your phone in a restaurant, come back after a few hours and, in most occasions, it will still be there.

And you think this is tripe? Well, this article was used during a trial in Canada against a father who wanted to take the custody of his daugther, because the mother (who was Lebanese) wanted to take her to Canada. According to the judge, the article was an extremely reliable source and an excellent analysis of the situation in Lebanon.

Dude, I am not blaming you for always following the FCO advise. If you want to stay at home and don’t enjoy life, it is up to you 😉

Hi, I want to visit Lebanon in the summer but am having a dilemma because I am dual nationality, one of the nationalities being Israeli. I am planning on going to Beirut and then to help in a refugee camp- I would really like to learn about the culture and experience the place. It sounds like an amazing place to see but is the risk too high for someone with my origins in terms of the various groups that are active around there? I would obviously not draw attention to this when there and will not go on the Israeli passport (!) Any comments would be helpful… the FCO advice is so different to what people who have been say that I don’t know what to think!

Hi Momo. I have a friend who is Lebanese but has an American passport and she has been to Israel on her USA passport, without any problem. They just can’t know what is your actual origin because there is no information exchange between the two countries. That is all what I can say, and I believe that it should not be different if it was the other way around, unless you have an Hebrew name, in that case I do’t know what to tell you.

No my name is not a Hebrew name. I know of blogs by people who have typically Jewish names and it has been fine for them too by their account. I just wondered what the bloggers on here think, or if they have heard of / know of anyone in a similar circumstance. I agree with you that there is no way they can know, though.

Hello! I’m traveling to Lebanon next week, to stay with a friend (native Lebanese). We’re spending most of our time in Beirut, where he lives, but are planning on going to Tripoli and Hermel city. I’m aware that the UK home office advises against all travel to these area. I’m just wondering if you know for what reason? And, is it safe to go there? As in, providing you’re cautious and don’t do anything stupid, would you advise against visiting? We’ll be traveling with two Lebanese locals and a driver from Beirut. Thanks!

Hi Robin, the reason is that there have been one-off clashes between Sunni and Alawi Muslims in one specific neighborhood quite isolated and far from the city center, a couple of years ago. That’s why. Ask you friends and they will tell you it is safe. However, since the UK advises against traveling there, just bear in mind that your regular travel insurance will not cover you during your stay in Tripoli.

Hi Joan. Thanks for your reply! That’s very good to know! My friend says we’ll avoid any ‘volatile’ areas. What about Hermel city? Would you say it’s fine to visit that area. The FCO warns against all travel there too. Also, any ‘must see’ places and tips/advice?

Hi, Just wanted to say that my wife and I visited Lebanon last year and it was an amazing place to visit. The people are warm and friendly. I had read all the travel advice from the government but never once felt unsafe. We took shared taxis which your told not to take but they are a great way to get around Beirut and cheap too. Hired a driver to take us to a few places, no problem there too, such a lovely old man who had great knowledge of the places we visited, Byblos and as far down as tyre. We enjoyed Lebanon so much 2 of our friends are on holiday there now from our recommendations. We are also going back in September this year, can’t wait!! My advice to anyone would be go and try Lebanon once and no doubt you’d go back again. Just use your head, follow the local customs and you’ll have a great time.

Amazing! Thank you for this detailed super feedback and glad that you’re coming back again in September!!

My father worked in Beirut in the late 1960’s and raved about Baalbek. I have finally decided to visit in October as it seems ok post the election. Is it easy and safe to visit Baalbek currently and the odd vineyard. Any restaurant recommendations in the old area of Beirut? Any other recommendations for a 5 day trip?

Glad you decided to go! Baalbek is very safe, you don’t need to worry about anything 🙂 As per restaurant recommendations in Beirut, here I suggest a few options: https://againstthecompass.com/en/beirut-travel-guide/ As per your 5-day trip, here you can find my 2-week itinerary, so you can choose your favorite places: https://againstthecompass.com/en/things-to-do-in-lebanon/

Have you decided to go. I’m looking to go soon. Wanted to see if anyone had been there recently.

Couch-surfing is very convenient! My friends always travel like that!

This might be a dumb question, but how is the language barrier in Lebanon? I see that the official language is Arabic, so being from the United States, will I have trouble traveling / getting around if I travel there without knowing someone inside Lebanon prior to going?

Hi Kyle. Most educated people speak both English and French. Outside of Beirut, it may be tricky to communicate but, in the end, with Google translator and gestures you will be more than fine.

Hello Against the Compass . Me and my wife, we are planning to visit Lebanon in November. We really want to visit Beirut but it is our first trip in Middle East. Before I read your article, I was worried about the safety of this trip. I feel much more calm now .

The plan is to stay 3 nights in Beirut. We’ll have 1 and a half day to explore Beirut and maybe we do a day trip in Byblos. i) What do you suggest? ii) It is worth the trip to Byblos? Thank you in advance!

Hi there! Your plan sounds good but I would consider that you make a trip to Baalbek instead of Byblos. It is completely up to you but the ruins of Baalbek are some of the most impressive Roman ruins outside of Rome. The ones in Byblos are not as impressive and one goes there to wander around the old city, which is filled with expensive seafood restaurants. It is pretty, I don’t deny that, but I just prefer Baalbek. This is just a personal opinion!

I have visited Lebanon many times, the first being in 1989 during the civil war when there was a lull in the fighting. Unfortunately the war flared up while I was there and the only airport in Lebanon closed due to the heavy fighting so I had to escape to Syria and beg for a visa at the border (there is no Syrian embassy in Lebanon). This is something to keep in mind especially as Syria is now a different place and not somewhere to escape to. Personally I have not enjoyed my trips as much as many of you have. Beirut is extremely hot, humid, overcrowded and polluted. There is a huge issue with refuse collection. The landfill site is full and no other landfill site has been set up. During rainy periods masses of waste flows through the streets. There has been a spike in respiratory infections as a result. I first went to Baalbek in 1992 which was astounding and glorious. I took my children in 2010 and it was a whole different experience. It had become fenced off with an entrance fee and hawkers relentlessly followed and pestered us to the point where it was unbearable. The Jeita Grotto is truly astounding and immense. I visited these in 1997 with a baby and a toddler. I was a little anxious as the safety railings were minimal. Recently there was a fatal fall so hopefully the authorities have finally improved the safety railing as a result. My children and I usually get food poisoning when we go to Lebanon unless I do the cooking and we only drink bottled water. We are also allergic to the numerous, pesticide resistant mosquitoes which seem to be around for about 8 months of the year. Lebanese go out of their way to be hospitable but the favourite pastime in Lebanon is gossiping so it is more about being liked and showing off than true hospitality. The economy is very bad, unemployment is high, all the divisions are still there and lots of Lebanese are trying to get out of the country. Yes, Lebanon is a fascinating country with a long history and beautiful places to visit but go there with your eyes open.

Hello, what a great article of Lebanon. We are from Mexico and next year we are planning to go to Israel and are considering extending the trip to Lebanon for one week. We have been in Jordan and our guide told us there are some countries in the ME that if you have been in Israel you might not get the permite to enter. Is it true? And if so, is Lebanon one of these countries? Thank you!

If Lebanon finds out that you have been to Israel, you won’t be allowed to enter. However, Israel doesn’t stamp passports anymore but there are a few rules and exceptions. This article explains everything: https://againstthecompass.com/en/avoid-israeli-passport-stamp/

I was considering visiting Lebanon in February during winter to avoid the bulk of tourism. I have a Lebanese friend in country that has informed me greatly on the peoples and places. She is Christian so there are many places she has not been herself just for safety precautions.

My question is, seeing that Lebanese people are generally what I’d call egocentric, how would travel be for a black American? What are the perceptions and race relations? I worry that Lebanese are so outspoken and blunt that I’ll face instances of racism even unintentionally.

I’d hate to find myself in a situation or provocation that escalates because I may not be prepared for my reception by locals. My Lebanese friend has assured me that she can handle it and that most probably would remark in Arabic so I won’t understand their negative comments anyways.

Hi, to be honest, if you are a foreign tourist, I don’t think Lebanese have any problem based on your race or nationality, so you should be fine. Moreover, I don’t understand why you say that Lebanese are so egocentric, as I felt totally the opposite. Whereas it is true that, in the capital, some wealthy Lebanese may seem arrogant, like in most worldwide capitals, other than that, which is the remaining 98% of the population, people were super kind and hospitable.

Hello again,

I was able to travel to Lebanon in April. Even after all the positive reviews, there was still anxiousness on my part. I’m happy to say that the 2 week stay was in deed safe. Of course the first few days I was weary of the young males trying convince me to purchase their wares. My friend laughed at my naïveté, responding with a warning never to buy anything from these types of solicitors. Anyways, they were harmless in the end.

I had so much fun in Beirut. The residents treated me very kindly. Friendly, yet outspoken, I was a bit uncomfortable with the unabashed commenting. The egocentrism I spoke of was in reference to what my Lebanese contacts informed me about prior. I didn’t mean anything terrible by using that wording. It is more of a conceitedness, vanity or possible borderline narcassisim that isn’t at all expressed in a harmful or purposely negative manner. For instance, one of the Lebanese girls accompanying my friend was told she should lose some weight! I thought it to be so rude but the Lebanese girls assured me comments on appearances are commonplace and not meanspirited in nature. That Lebanese are blunt with other Lebanese people. Chalked it up to being a cultural thing so I kept an open mind.

Anyways, after my 3rd or 4th day in country I had no safety concerns. Felt safer in Lebanon than I do back home in the United States by far. The beautiful landscapes were amazing. I also haven’t visited many places with as much history aside from the UK. The food was superb, specifically a dish called warak enab. I had fallen in love at first bite! Had a less than favorable reaction to something called shawarma(?). My friends informed me even they have stomach issues sometimes when having the chicken version. Spent 3 days in the hotel but no big deal there. Eat from what appear to be “Established” restaurants and possibly avoid street food if you have a weaker digestive system perhaps.

Seemed as if the people treated me even more nicely than they treated the Lebanese natives I toured with. When I asked about why, the friend that invited me to Lebanon stated, “You’re American, we love foreigners, especially westerners if only for the similarities we see in ourselves. You also are a tourist with which we will be just as fascinated to hear of where you come from, rather than seeing it on TV, as you are hearing about our country from the peoples perspective.” I took this to mean they’re aware media doesn’t quite portray Americans and Lebanese alike, in a fair light. So there was that. Also, Not one instance of hate speech or discrimination due to my race or citizenship. A man at a nightclub we visited even told me that black Americans are poorly depicted in the media which had shown him mostly negative stereotype given his limited contact with said peoples. He was pleasantly surprised with how respectful and easy going those he’d meet are. I told him of the worries about my race that I’d had prior to the stay in country. He bought me a drink and told me something I’ll never forget, “You are a man. I am a man. We as men should not shape our being from gossip by people that exist only for conquering this world through division”. That was the deepest thing I’ve heard in a good while. Anyways, we enjoyed some laughs together over current affairs like celebrity mishaps, Trump and even Lebanon’s poor infrastructure. I was shocked that nothing is off limits when it comes to Lebanese banter.

I’ve seemingly written a whole book here just to say that I very much enjoyed my visit to Lebanon. Again, Lebanon is as safe as most any country. The people are so accommodating, endearing, astonishingly beautiful inside and out as well, and welcoming. I guarantee it is rare to be shown such a great guest experience, not only in the Middle East, but almost anywhere else in the world as you’re able to receive in Lebanon. 10/10. Recommend anyone on the fence about visiting to book their flight already. You most likely will not regret it. May even find that Lebanon’s spirit is so intoxicating to the point you’ll forget all the misconceptions about the country. My heart will forever remain in Lebanon, where it was captured by it’s citizens amazing wealth of life. For all of Lebanon’s shortcomings, the people in my opinion were it’s most interesting tourist attraction. Go for the lovely landscapes, ancient history, atmospheric nightlife but return there because of the classy, extraordinarily individualistic people that populate the country!

Thank you so much to the creator of this blog for sharing content that convinced me to “risk” traveling Lebanon. Was my most enjoyed travels as an adult by far. Will attempt a trip to the Netherlands and then back to Lebanon as soon after as possible.

(Actually entertaining the idea of relocating to Lebanon for an extended period. Any information on this topic would be much appreciated)

Thank you! Totally needed this!

Me, too! What an awesome trove of information. Thanks so much for this. And speaking of excellent resources, thank you, Joan, for your blog! Lebanon’s been #1 on my wish list since I was old enough to point it out on a map and savor my second-generation Lebanese mother’s cooking. I’m finally visiting for the very first time in October, all crazy with excitement while researching and taking care of travel insurance (huge thanks for the info on that, by the way), adding to the mile-long list of restaurants, etc. One quick question for you, Joan: do you have any favorite places or recommendations for where to see live music in Beirut? Any suggestions are welcome, especially places showcasing Lebanese artists. Thank you so much for what you do, and safe travels!

Hey man, thanks for your kind message! I didn’t really party or go out when I was there, so I can’t certainly tell. However, I am pretty sure that you can find something in Gemazyeh street, which is the street with the largest number of ”cool” bars

Yeah, thank you for the report, much appreciated 🙂

I was considering visiting Lebanon in March as the weather starts to change. Is there anything regarding the safety situation that has changed since writing this article?

Also in the event that protests, demonstrations, or incident occur, what advice would you give to a potential traveler?

The security situation hasn’t changed since then. if you see a public demonstration, the normal advice would be telling you to stay away from it, even though I wouldn’t see it a very big problem

RE: “one of the safest countries in the Middle East”. You’re pushing the concept of relative safety. If Lebanon had 99 terrorist bombings in 2017 and all the other countries in the middle East had 100, Lebanon is, in fact, “one of the safest”. However, it’s still not safe. You do your readers a huge disservice by speaking in relative terms and not absolute terms. Per your logic, a crashing jetliner is “safe” moments before it hits the ground. After all, no crash has happened and nobody is dead … yet. When dealing with people lives, don’t offer half baked ideas. If you’re going to claim safety, define your use of the term. You may feel “safe” surrounded by war that has not have filter over into your little community. Others may have a broader definition of the term that they feel keeps them possibly alive longer

Thanks for sharing your opinion but you seriously don’t know what are you talking about. It seems that you haven’t even been there, yet, you are giving non sense statistics. Go to Lebanon, see it with your own eyes and then we can discuss about it

I agree. Although the article is very inspiring and apprecitable, some of the terms used seem quite generic and not supported by hard data or facts. A balanced review would encourage the reader to think logically. Surely, the media has very much exagerated things and even spred false news. however, Ignoring facts like 2006’s 33 day war, could lead the reader to question all the other postitive points of the article. Instead the author could simply state the fact that there have been incidents just like some of European countries. E.g With all the bombings and stuff London is still one of the most visited cities in the world.

The author may have partly, unawares, used personal experience as the base for travel being safe in Lebanon. After all, the blogs are about the author’s travels and experiences. That would be expected since we are being informed partly from occurances or lack thereof during time in country and partly from the author’s own research. No need to be hostile, if you feel there is error in one’s wording or judgement. Better to enlighten with your own research data from a non-emotional state. Or create your own blog with research refuting what you consider “counterfactual” information shared here.

hello, Now that the war is winding down in Syria does anyone know if it is safe to take a bus from Palestine to Lebanon via Jordan? My boyfriend lives in Palestine and we would like to travel to Lebanon together since I have only been to Palestine I thought it would be nice to see more of the middle east that way.

You mean Palestine – Jordan – Syria – Lebanon? Yes, it is safe. I am actually doing this same route in January but Saudi Arabia instead of Palestine.

My daughter want to visit Beirut and from there to balbek.is it safe for 27 years old woman travel along.i worry about her.in Lebanon she has a family.but visiting a balbek no one.is there any group travel service they have perhaps from Lebanon tot balbek.my email address is [email protected] you can email me. Please I worried for her so much.thank you dear!

I don’t know about travel services. I am sure you can find plenty of them online. And yes, overall it will be safe for her

l’m from Ghana and I wanted to know that ls there any job in Lebanon for young woman’s?

Hello. This is a travel-related blog, so please, only travel-related questions

I am planning to Travel from India to Jerusalem and from there to Lebanon. Do i need to get the visa beforehand or can i get an on arrival Visa. Also, how safe is it to travel from Jerusalem to Lebanon.

As per the visa, I don’t know what are the requirements for Indian people. As per the safety, you can’t travel from Jerusalem to Lebanon. The border is closed

Hi, my friend and I are visiting Lebanon in February. We are considering visiting Laboueh, Ras Baalbeck, St Maroun Caves and Kamouh el Hermel. Are these places safe for a day trip?

Hi. All Lebanon is safe to visit now

I had the pleasure of traveling near Lebanon (to Israel). Hopefully one day the Middle East can be seen as a great place for tourism. They have such beautiful weather and great food.

I think it can already be seen as a great place for tourism 🙂 !

Hey Juan, I know Lebanon but I am going to hike sections of the Lebanon Mountain Trail for the first time in April. Especially those in the north look great to me (2-4), do you know if they are safe? Tashea and el-Qemmamin are not that close to Hamra and Sharbin (which you marked on your no-go-zone-map) – but not that far either.

And if you have any additional recommendations or advice ragarding the LMT I am happy to hear that too 🙂 ! Cheers

Hi Lucy, I don’t know anything about this trail, sorry!

Hi Joan In terms of safety , what about Bekka valley and also Baalbek ruins . Ive hired a car and would prefer to drive myself as i really enjoy driving

The driving in Lebanon is crazy, but not more than other Arab countries and the more countryside you are, the fewer cars you find, so in Bekka Valley you’ll be just fine!

Pls am traveling to Lebanon to work as house help, pls is it safe for me to go now?

Lebanon is safe for anyone

Hey, do you think it is still safe to go to Lebanon now considering the current situation between the US and Iran? Do you think Lebanon will be affected?

Nobody even knows what will happen with Iran yet, so nobody can’t really tell. But in any case, I don’t think Lebanon would be affected

I am on of those people who thought Lebanon might not be safe for traveling. However, what you have described here, has completely changed my perspective. If all this is true then no doubt Lebanon is the safest place to travel in the middle east!

Iam jay from lebanon, no matter how much we tell you about lebanon that it is a safe, touristic, religious, traditional country, you only need to paxk your bags and book a ticket for this summer, you will definetely not regret it. You can reach me for any help or support.

I met an indian friend here at philippines, he is asking me if i am available to go to lebanon for a job at some restaurant or hotel. I just want to ask if, is it safe to work at lebanon as an overseas worker? Until now i am still thinking about it. It would be very helpful for me to know some informations about the offer.

it is safe for any kind of person, but this blog is more travel-related

Nasrullah has said that if the USA attacks Irsn, Hezbo will stack US interests. And we’d love to go to Baalbek but are hesitant because of that. Any late word?

Lebanon is not for one group of people as Joan said u habe sunni, shia and christians if u have no ties to any government (Spy) or something related u have nothing to worry about and the local really dig foreigners if u like check the american singers and stand up comedians who came and made parties in here and u will know how much safe it is for u

Please correct my typos on my last comment lol

I noticed that you mentioned ISIS as a part of Sunnis . What is your point ???As a Sunni Muslim , isis is not part of us so when you talk about extremists , think about billions of people that you might hurt . By the way , the prime minister of Lebanon is a Sunni Muslim . Thanks

I never said ISIS is a part of Sunnis

Check all your comments . Thanks

Just to refresh your memory . This is your article .

Did you know that more than 40% of the population are Christians? No? Did you know that Sunni Muslims (the branch of Islam that ISIS draws its followers from) only make up 25% of the population?

In this country, there’s no place for extremism. Have you ever heard of any Lebanese who has radicalized and joined ISIS? Normally, they come from Syria, Saudi Arabia, Jordan or even Turkey. Lebanon is so culturally cluttered, that the chances of a person radicalizing are low.

Yeah, I perfectly know what I wrote and once again, I never said ISIS is part of Sunnis.

What I mean in that sentence means is that the people from ISIS are Sunni (this is a fact, not an opinion) and here was trying to analyze (through several reasons), why in Lebanon there is no room for extremism.

I think you really should improve your reading comprehension man

Your article is dead to the point bro at first i wasn’t gonna keep reading cause i thought its a lebanese were writing it but i kept reading just to see where the article is going and i was amazed how accurate u were thank you for the article and ur kind words i would gladly send u my info if u ever visit again u will have a friend that can take u where ever u want and for the people who doesn’t know we are the only ME country that raised a european flag (Spain) after a revenge attack on isis for the Bombing in spain and again u can add a friend to ur list in lebanon whenever u decide to visit again

thanks for your kind words man, I really appreciate them, and sure, I’ll save your email for the next time I go back to Lebanon, cheers!

I lived in Syria for a few months in 2005, but only visited Lebanon for the first time in 2013, to get as near to Syria as I could. It was February and you could cut the air with a knife, in Tripoli, Baalbek and South Beirut. At Cola Bus Station, where there were banners with President al Assad on display. In Tripoli they were selling FSA paraphernalia, and that group, to my mind, was a front for the Syrian Brotherhood, the instigators of the Syrian war. There had been fights going on each night since 2005, when Syria withdrew its troops from Tripoli, between some Alawites and the Sunnis. I heard the gun fire and on the Friday the Imams in the various Mosques were arguing. I’ve been since then and the atmosphere has been different. My view is that Mr Hariri, following his father’s death, would have thrown in his lot with the Sunni Islamists, had it not been the invasion of the foreign factions. The Brothers would at least accept a Parliamentary type system, but some of the invaders seemed not to be able to read the Quran even. I returned in the autumn of 2014 and the tables had turned somewhat as there had occurred the kidnapping of the Maronite soldiers by IS, in Arsal, on the border with Syria. There were demos outside Zahle, in Bekka that had moved to the Beirut Parliament by 2015. I believe Mr Hariri was frightened by then, and was ready to defend Lebanon. He is not an Islamist for sure. At one point he told an American business woman, I met at the airport, that he was second on the IS hit list. She’d been on a delegation to Lebanon. It was shortly after, that he went to Saudi where Britain got to him for sure and another change began. I’ve been watching, and Mr Hariri had befriended Tony Frangieh, a family friend of President al-Assad, to stand against Mr Aoun for the Presidency. I understood his point about Mr Hariri’s father’s assassination but they still don’t know who was responsible. It seemed to me as an onlooker, and a member of Stop the War in Britain that it would have been counter-intuitive for Syria to have been responsible. My bet is on Britain, but maybe it was the Israelis at its behest. Don’t worry I always suspect my own ruling class as it is very powerful but hides behind America. Meanwhile in Tripoli there have been been regional swings towards Sunni governors who are far more inclined to Islamism than Mr Hariri. Lebanon is so divided into factions, that are also divided, it can be easily be disrupted. The last elections looked promising but now the people are at it again, much to Britain’s joy, it need war.

Hi, is a permit required for Sidon and Tyre. Since we are planning to stay a few days in Tyre and visit Sidon on one of the days. But we don’t intend to visit any other area around. Can anyone clarify. Thanks in advance.

No permit required for these 2 cities 🙂

You do need a permit to travel further south, I think there’s a turtle refuge on the Israeli border.

I have read through the entire comments above and replies from you Joan, and I am inspired. I am in Cyprus at the moment and was considering taking a day trip to Lebanon, specifically Beirut. Do you think that having probably only about 12 hours in the city it would be worth it ?

Hey Dave, as far as I understand, the ferry goes to Tripoli, right? This means that you’ll need to take a bus to Beirut, which is 2-3 hours one way, plus the time you need to find and wait for the bus. Just being realistic here. Lebanon is really worth a visit but I would personally just stick to Tripoli, which is much more Lebanese than Beirut btw, I mean more traditionally Lebanese. Beirut is a big city. If you won’t have the chance to visit Lebanon in the next couple of years I’d definitely go.

I had been in Lebanon in January for two weeks. It was a great experience. I love Beirut, we also visited Tripoli, Sidon, Biblos, Balbeeck. We used shared taxi, and we didnt have any problem. I think is a great place in ME.

We come to Lebanon as tourists from Russia on November 4, 2019. Will we be able to travel around the country in our rent car, due to rallies and road closures? Byblos, Tyr, Baalbek

Hi Vladimir, nobody knows, the roads just get blocked very spontaneously

Extremism has tarnished the name of some countries in the middle east. Due to that, a general misconception has formed about all countries in that area

I am thinking of visiting Lebanon with my family in the 3rd week of November, 2019. I wonder what situation is like in the country as of November. Have the protests stopped? Are the streets of Beirut still overrun and are they still blocking the roads? Please update!

I have just come back. During my stay I visited South Beirut. I would not advise anyone to go there. I have been all over Lebanon including the border towns with Syria and felt safe. South Beirut is a whole different ball game.

Yes, the South would be, if the Israelis manage to invade, that will be their only route through to Syria. I’m going to Lebanon at the end of March and I’m praying Lebanon hasn’t broken into civil war before then. I hope to get a visa for Syria from Beirut before it’s too late and it’s too expensive for me to return to Syria. With the guides an’ all. I’ve been expecting a civil war to happen since the demonstrations about the build up of rubbish on the streets in 2017. Call me a pessimist but it is extremely likely, particularly as one commentator says the people are calling for President Aoun’s resignation. It was the Maronite factions that began the civil war in 1979 and they were divided between Gea Gea’s right wing Lebanese Forces, that executed people on behalf of the Israelis, and Aoun, a staunch supporter of Sadam Hussain, late President of Iraq, and who wanted to be PM. That would have been a direct infringement of the constitution. As for Hizb Allah that party seems the only one ready to defend the country against the Jews and the Sunni Islamists. As Said Nazrillah has given up the idea of a Shiah Islamic state, it is that party that has my vote. Anyway I love Baalbek, and my Shiah friends there are proud to be Lebanese. Interestingly Baalbek is no longer a red zone, but a yellow one on the British government site and neither are, the mainly Palestinian, Shatila/Sabra districts of Beirut. There is a huge problem with the latter in that many Palestinians who were given refuge in Syria, live as refugees in those camps, and some have huge sympathies for the Syrian Brothers. The whole situation in Lebanon is more murky than dangerous at the moment, but watch your backs everyone and don’t soak up any propaganda.

Hi guys, I’m planning on spending my honeymoon in Jounieh from the 17th of December. Is it safe to travel to Lebanon?

We just returned from a 10-day trip to Lebanon. We traveled extensively throughout the country, without incident, visiting small countryside villages and large cities, famous historical sights and more. We did not experience any threatening circumstances or unpleasant inconveniences. It is a shame if you pass up the opportunity to visit this great, friendly country, based on travel advisories or media reports.

Our group visited such places as the Las Salinas Resort, near Tripoli, with its 5 swimming pools, bowling alley, 4 movie theaters and health center with every conceivable feature (visit their website). Also, we had the pleasure of visiting the beautiful Chateau Belle-Vue Winery and Le Telegraphe de Belle-Vue Hotel, in the small village of Bhamdoun. What a great story it offers!

At all turns, we were welcomed and received and unequaled hospitality and great food at every meal. Don’t pass this up. It’s possibly safer in Lebanon than in your own neighborhood.

thanks for sharing your great experience 🙂

The border between Lebanon and Syria was far from secure during the early years of the Syrian war. In 2014 a number of Maronite soldiers were captured by Islamic State at Hermel in North Bekka Valley, the protests outside the parliament in Beirut lasted 4 years. After that it was notable that PM Hariri who I suspect had supported IS up to then conscripted or recruited more troops into the army, they were particularly deployed in North Bekka and North Tripoli. Also Hariri and the Hizb’Allah leader Hasan Nasrillah stopped the displaying of paraphenalia on the streets, and the gun fight battles that had raged in Tripoli capital for nearly 20 years. I’ve never seen anyone drinking in the streets in Beirut only outside cafes in the Ashrafiyyeh and Germayzi areas. The Christians are divided over Syria in Lebanon, and during the civil war the Maronites were divided in two, with one side supporting Iraq and the other the Israelis. The latter employed guards at the airport along with the Syrian and the Lebanese government to check passports and luggage before people were allowed to pass through the actual customs. Lastly there were reports in the Lebanese Daily Star of 2 Christians from Tripoli joining IS. Having said all that I like Lebanon and have travelled around on my own apart from the Hermel region that doesn’t have public transport. I found Syria far less factionalised or sectarian and believe that’s why Britain stirred up the crap there.

Hi thanks for the absolutely amazing content! There is a travel guide where Lebanon is rated 3. Reconsider to travel and 4. Do not travel. 1# I have 3 days business trip in February, is it ok to travel; 2# Also it is too expensive to use mobile and internet. Is it any other cost benefit and value for money option? May I have A$AP your advice? Once again thanks a lot. Thanos

Hi Thanos, yes, it should be OK to travel and yes, mobile internet is crazy expensive, but if you only have 3 days, there is no point in buying a SIM card. You can just connect to WiFi when available. Enjoy!

I am a lebanese who is currently sitting in Tenerife and enjoying the sun while reading this article. For anyone thinking about going there, trust me its a very intresting experience. Thank you for sharing!

Revisiting your site and forum for the latest updates on the travel situation in Lebanon – thanks so much to you, Joan, and to everyone else for posting your stories and suggestions! I finally made my first trip over there in October 2019, did a two-week tour with a group, and loved it so much that I’m already planning my next trip over this year, even as the situation unfortunately seems to be escalating. One can never predict the future, but it just feels like now’s not the time to forget this corner of the world, but to be an ambassador for it, instead. Thanks again for your inspiration!

Hello. We are booked to travel to Beirut for a week in mid March 2020 for leisure. Some of stories about situation in country rather alarming! Flights already booked but holding off on booking hotels etc. in case flights cancelled or UK Foreign Office warn against travel. I realise country in a difficult position economically and politically and that things can change. Any advice?

Do not change anything! you will have a 1 of a kind experience in our country , never has the economic situation been stable in our country 🙂 we know how to manage, i can help for advice accomodation and tours for very reasonable prices…from 1 traveler to another a female passionate about her country…you can email me for all/any info

How is the travel restrictions with Covid-19? I have a booked a trip with Hotel from 22. June to 24. June. I just want a guided tour and taste the famous food. I’m from UK but on other business in Istanbul and wanted to use the opportunity to return to the region. I have previously visited Syria before the war and it was a fantastic holiday.

I totally agree i think your more likely to get hit by car anywhere in the world than let alone a terrorist attack besides all the capitalist/corporate/socialist global crime that is run by central banks, insurance, slavery, chemicals (there is a pill for every thing these is that not crime!) and full shit global media…

It is a so sad and it’s a shame for country like Lebanon with such a beauty of landscape, foods weather and people to be divided simply because Muslim groups have created such division between themselves. I am a Muslim I believe in one god and my dear friends are both Shia and Sunnis. Muslims must create a message in mind that in the Middle East we must come together to Unite to show the the whole Middle East is a beautiful place for people to visit, live and travel. I pray and hope for the day soon….

“Did you know that more than 40% of the population are Christians? No? Did you know that Sunni Muslims (the branch of Islam that ISIS draws its followers from) only make up 25% of the population?”

WHAT?! This is pretty… Islamophobic. And I’m an Orthodox Christian btw. Not that it matters

Its just annoying with so many creeps catcalling and stalking, you can’t do anything without those creepy men showing up.

Amazing Article… That’s exactly true what you mentioned… You almost know More than us (citizens). When foreign write such articles it means kroe than true

More* than true

Beirut is safe? Sure, if you don’t mind being kidnapped or blown up by some lunatic from Hezbollah. The U.S. State Dept. has issued a travel warning, which is still in effect, for Lebanon. It is most certainly NOT safe to travel there.

I get that you traveled to Lebanon a few years ago so this is outdated. But at this point this is just irresponsible to leave this up because the security situation has changed rapidly. MTV News just reported that in the past two months there were more weapons purchases than at any time in history. Hezbollah has openly assassinated multiple critics for the past few months. Thefts have increased a lot and armed robbery is becoming more common as the economy deteriorates. The Lebanon you saw 2 or 3 years ago is not the Lebanon that exists today. Lebanon is a memory. I’m sure some tourists come here and end up completely fine. But should you be just saying it’s totally safe in 95% of the country? Absolutely not. Lebanon is my favorite country in the world and I wish I could say to come here but people should not be coming right now.

Idk why u would post something extremely incorrect like this. I’m Lebanese and ur giving people misleading information, Lebanon rn is probably one of the most dangerous countries in the world, extreme corruption, which leads to people doing anything including killing and robbing. Don’t go to Lebanon if u not Lebanese.

I have traveled to several countries in the Middle East (Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Syria, Iran), and I have to say that your article is really misleading… it is very dangerous to give wrong information to people regarding safety in Lebanon. For me, by far, Lebanon is the most dangerous country of the 5 countries I mentioned (yes, I found it way more dangerous than Iraq or the parts of Syria where I went to). Many parts of Beirut are really dangerous, as well as many other parts of the country, and locals do always warn tourists about the safety issues in Lebanon. It is hard to imagine how many weapons are in the country, and so many areas of the country are controlled by armed militias. It’s a wonderful country, but it is definitely not the safe country described in this article.

Well wish me luck I’m going to Lebanon in September. The country has suffered for appointing a president Britain doesn’t like, Mr Aoun, but that’s the way it is. Lebanon is never far away from civil war either I’m afraid, my first time was in 2013, and it was a knife edge, since many Sunnis were, including Hariri (the former and later Prime Minister) were on the point of joining Islamic State. Lebanon is patronised by the big powers, and I suspect the Russian contribution will or has stopped, because of Ukraine and the American invasion of Poland. It’s funny everyone pounces on Hizb’ullah, that was hardly the worse perpetrator of the civil war. I’d say the most dangerous group was then was the Maronite militia led by Mr Geagea, the Philange, that was commited to the Israeli cause and did the Israeli’s work for it. I know it stood guard at the airport, checking passports along with the Syrian and Lebanese armies. There’s no innocent faction in Lebanon they are all armed to the hilt. Yes I guess crime has risen but that’s what poverty does.

This article is absurd. Lebanon is most certainly not a safe destination. Stop spreading false information. At present, stay away from Lebanon, unless you don’t care about getting killed, maimed, or kidnapped.

You are being ridiculous, I was there in Sept, I only stayed in Beirut and Balbek, my usual places but went to Syria for a week and no-one said boo to me. It was as I’d left it in 2018 apart from my country, Britain, making waves for it, but no change there.

Could the author please update this travel report due to the mixed messages in the comments. Thank you!

Hi Helen, Lebanon was good last September, or at least it was in Balbek and Beirut. I’ve been there loads of times and don’t tour, I just stay where I know people. The country has hardly any power, so it will be cold now. All the cars were back on the road and the black-market economy was legal (don’t ask). The tourists in my hostel were nearly all young, a lot were adventuring to Syria, to say they’d been I presume, but Syria and Lebanon needs an economy boost. Lebanon has been ostracised by Britain yet again and then every country follows. This time the excuse is that the country can’t decide on a president, but before the current one it didn’t have a president for a decade. Anyway all I was hearing was that President Aoun was no good and it is true that he did start the civil war back in 1979 but they have to blame someone. Also Britain hates him.

yes, very safe but to always ask before visiting any (not public places).

I came back from Lebanon in Feb. As a solo woman, I really enjoyed traveling there. You are correct about instability of the exchange rates. The exchange rate had altered every hour when I was there. Taking uber and service was a pain in the neck as I always needed to bargain for a lower price.

i went further south from Tyre with the locals and we saw the actual border with Israel and Palestine. It was a beautiful area and heavily guarded. Despite the post-war and the conflict, it seemed pretty normal there.

Thanks for sharing your experience there. I hope more travelers will visit Lebanon in the future. It was really a special place with multiculturalism, great food, mixed religion and post-war vibes.

Thanks to you for the review!

Hi, can anyone here can give us a ok to travel to Lebanon still in this year? Super thanks and congrats to this Blog!

Yes, I’m also interested in the situation now. I have tickets to visit Beirut from 24-28 of may 2024, but I’m wondering if it’s worth the risk. Especially because it is also Resistance and Liberation Day celebrated on may 25th.

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Canada issues 'avoid all travel' advisory for Lebanon as fighting intensifies with Israel

Canadians are being urged to avoid all travel to Lebanon as fighting intensifies along the country's southern border with Israel.

"Avoid all travel to Lebanon due to a deteriorating security situation, civil unrest, the increased risk of terrorist attack and the ongoing armed conflict with Israel," the updated travel advisory from Global Affairs Canada warns. "In the event that the armed conflict intensifies, commercial means to depart the country may be impacted."

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Posted Wednesday , the upgraded travel advisory comes after Canadians were previously told to only avoid travelling to southern Lebanon due to clashes between militants and Israeli forces.

Hezbollah, a powerful Lebanon-based militant group and political party, has been trading fire over the border with Israel following the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas from the Gaza Strip . The clashes have reportedly resulted in deaths and injuries on both sides, as well as the deaths of civilians and a journalist in Lebanon. As Israel focuses on the conflict with Hamas in its south, there are fears that long-simmering tensions with Hezbollah will continue to escalate along Israel's northern border, potentially opening up a new front in the war.

"There are violent clashes along the border with Israel, including daily rocket and missile fire as well as air strikes," the travel advisory stated. "If you are already there, you should leave while commercial options remain available."

Hamas and Hezbollah are considered allies as well as terrorist organizations by countries like the U.S. and Canada. Following a civil war in Gaza, Hamas has governed the Gaza Strip since 2007. Hezbollah currently holds 15 seats in Lebanon's 128-seat parliament. Both have battled Israel for decades.

An "avoid all travel" advisory is Canada's most severe travel risk level. With Lebanon added to this list, it joins the likes of Afghanistan, Ukraine, North Korea, Russia, Iraq and Libya. Canadians are currently being advised to "avoid non-essential travel" to Israel, and avoid all travel to parts of Israel that border Lebanon, Syria and Egypt as well as the Palestinian territories, with the exception of Ramallah, Jericho and Bethlehem.

Approximately 14,500 Canadian citizens and permanent residents are registered in Lebanon. On Sunday, Canadian officials urged them to consider leaving Lebanon as soon as possible.

"This is simply not the time to go there," Global Affairs Canada's assistant deputy minister for consular security and emergency management Julie Sunday said during a weekend briefing . "The situation is volatile, and if you don't need to be there you should consider leaving, while commercial means are still available."

Global Affairs Canada did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Avoid all travel to #Lebanon due to a deteriorating security situation, civil unrest, the increased risk of terrorist attack and ongoing armed conflict with #Israel . If you are there, consider leaving by commercial means if safe. For more information: https://t.co/Sfb8Jtdfpe pic.twitter.com/zuYUWJ7GVN — Travel.gc.ca (@TravelGoC) October 19, 2023

With files from CTV News Senior Digital Parliamentary Reporter Rachel Aiello

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Fear and loathing: The US travel guide to the world

The US state department really wants travelling Americans to be wary of the ‘dangerous’ world their country helped create.

The current US state department “Lebanon Travel Advisory”, updated on June 6, urges US citizens to “reconsider travel” to the diminutive Middle Eastern nation “due to crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and Embassy Beirut’s limited capacity to provide support to US citizens”. Three significant “high-risk” sections of Lebanese territory have been assigned the even more dramatic “Do Not Travel” warning: the Lebanese-Syrian border, the Lebanese-Israeli border, and refugee settlements.

As a US citizen myself, I can definitively say that the greatest danger I felt during my recent 10-day stay in the country – where I have been a frequent visitor since 2006 – was at the top of Beirut’s seaside Ferris wheel, which somehow continues to make its rounds despite the notorious Lebanese electricity shortage that has plunged much of the landscape into darkness.

Years ago, the Ferris wheel operator commented to me that the only time the giant wheel had ceased functioning for an extended period of time was during the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982. This incursion killed tens of thousands of Lebanese and Palestinians, primarily civilians, and culminated with the Israeli-backed massacre of up to several thousand unarmed people in the Beirut refugee camps of Sabra and Shatila – speaking of the “dangers” of refugee settlements.

The US, it so happens, gave the Israeli government the green light for the whole 1982 affair. Twenty-four years later, just prior to my inaugural visit in 2006, yet another bloody Israeli attack on Lebanon transpired with considerable assistance from the imperial hegemon, which went about rush-shipping precision-guided bombs to the Israeli military while also endeavouring (ultimately unsuccessfully) to charge its own citizens hefty fees for the luxury of evacuation from Lebanon.

Makes you wonder about US priorities – and about “Embassy Beirut’s limited capacity to provide support to US citizens”.

At any rate, the upshot is that the state department has no business warning about “terrorism” and “armed conflict” in Lebanon when it has spent various decades underwriting Israel’s literal terrorisation of the country. And yet the only mention of Israel in the travel advisory occurs in the context of the “Do Not Travel” specification: “There have been sporadic rocket attacks from southern Lebanon into Israel in connection with the violence between Israel and Hezbollah,” – the Lebanese political party and armed group that arose as a direct result of the 1982 invasion.

To be sure, Lebanon has the regrettable distinction of being perennially associated with the phenomenon of “terrorism” – that catch-all excuse for the US to remain perennially at war and to ensure that the arms industry never goes hungry. The general US public, however, has never quite been up to speed regarding the precise details of the Lebanese situation beyond the often fabricated, politically expedient sensationalism that is regularly on display in the establishment media as well as, of course, in the travel advisory section of the state department website.

And guess what: Americans who are toxically and debilitatingly conditioned to fear the outside world, and particularly specific parts of it, are unlikely to ever rectify their misconceptions to allow for the possibility of common humanity – or for the possibility that there should perhaps be travel advisories for, say, US elementary schools and other recurrent venues for mass shootings .

Meanwhile, my own country’s established role in making much of the world very dangerous for much of humanity has not prevented me from being on the receiving end of an almost obscene level of hospitality from the residents of assorted “Do Not Travel” areas. Hitchhiking through Lebanon a month after the 2006 war, my female travel companion and I were relentlessly welcomed and cared for along the Lebanese-Syrian border, the Lebanese-Israeli border, in Palestinian refugee camps, and throughout other areas the US had helped reduce to rubble.

In the final days of the war, Israel had inundated swaths of the country with millions of cluster munitions, many of which failed to explode on impact and which to this day pose a potentially lethal hazard to anyone who stumbles across them.

Talk about reasons to, um, “reconsider travel” to certain zones.

In 2016, I conducted a weeklong solo hitchhiking trip along the Lebanese-Israeli border and was once again subjected to all manner of frighteningly generous hospitality. Ditto for the generosity I encountered that same year in Iran – which also presently boasts a “Do Not Travel” warning on account of the “risk of kidnapping and the arbitrary arrest and detention of US citizens”.

In lieu of kidnapping, I was gifted a bunch of books in English by a humble bookseller in the city of Isfahan – the topics of which spanned Mao Zedong to the KGB to Peg Bracken’s Instant Etiquette Book, published in 1964. This man also escorted me to Soffeh Mountain south of the city, which he said I could not leave Iran without viewing up-close, and provided a snack called “Cheetoz” for the excursion.

And in February 2022 I visited Cuba for the second time – which, like Iran, has long suffered under a pernicious US embargo that amounts to a de facto war. The state department’s Cuba travel advisory, updated June 13, begins with a warning about the perils of the so-called “Havana Syndrome” – a mysterious anti-American ailment that spontaneously materialised in 2016 but that has now been pretty much debunked by the CIA itself.

My own activities in Havana included executing a spectacular fall while jogging on the seaside Malecón, where the only witness to the event was a 43-year-old man named Eraudis from the Cuban province of Guantánamo. Perched atop the seawall, he apologised that he could not carry my scraped-up self back to my house since he had no legs. These, it turned out, had been blown off more than 20 years earlier by a landmine outside the US’s illegal offshore penal colony at Guantánamo Bay.

The world is a scary place indeed.

And, in case the individual US travel advisories are not enough, there is also a handy state department “Worldwide Caution” that is continuously in effect to remind Americans that everyone is out to get them.

But back to Lebanon and the perils of life for the average Lebanese resident, such as the egregious state negligence that resulted in the August 2020 port explosion that blew up a good part of Beirut. Of great public concern, too, are the country’s criminal levels of socioeconomic inequality – fervently endorsed by the US – that were far from resolved during the civil war of 1975-1990, and that have now only been exacerbated by the current Lebanese economic Armageddon .

Regarding travel to the aforementioned “high-risk” areas in Lebanon, the state department advises US citizens to “draft a will” beforehand. Additional totally normal precautions are also encouraged: “leave DNA samples with your medical provider”; “establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones”; and “be sure to appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact with hostage-takers, media… and Members of Congress if you are taken hostage or detained”.

A link is furthermore provided to “FBI Travel Tips”, which range from the ostensibly polite but actually Orientalist advice to “plan your wardrobe so that it does not offend the locals” to more patently ludicrous suggestions like: “Do not gossip about character flaws, financial problems, emotional relationships, or other difficulties of your fellow Americans or yourself.”

The FBI also warns that: “Unlike the United States, most other countries do not have legal restrictions against technical surveillance.” This from an agency that is predicated on, well, spying.

They say that laughter is good for the soul. I suppose I must thus thank the state department travel advisories for providing a source of considerable amusement – even if politically convenient imperial xenophobia is not really a laughing matter at all.

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeera’s editorial stance.

Content Search

Lebanon + 2 more

Lebanon Annual Country Report 2023 - Country Strategic Plan 2023 - 2025

Attachments.

Key messages

Food security in Lebanon improved driven by the increased coverage of humanitarian assistance by WFP, the Government, and partners in addition to the slight improvements seen in some economic indicators in 2023. However, the overarching and persistent economic and political crises, coupled with funding gaps, are putting at risk the food security gains witnessed so far.

In 2023, WFP played a pivotal role in strengthening the Government's nascent social protection capacit. It is vital to continue this support in 2024, to enable the Government to run nationally-owned unified social safety nets in the near future.

The increased coverage of humanitarian and safety net assistance and the easing of some of the key drivers of food insecurity resulted in all population groups assisted in Lebanon experiencing improvements to their food security situation in 2023.

Macroeconomic improvements in the second half of the year, including a stabilized informal exchange rate, enhanced food supply chains, and more employment opportunities tempered the rapid depreciation of the Lebanese currency and high food price inflation witnessed in the first quarter of the year. As a result, the prevalence of acute food insecurity decreased from 25 percent to 19 percent between May and October 2023.

Despite these positive developments, Lebanon continued to face a deep socioeconomic and political crisis in 2023. A prolonged presidential vacuum, hindering the execution of an economic recovery plan and escalating tensions along Lebanon's southern borders since October 2023 has added to the complexities of the crisis.

In this challenging context, WFP continued to play a critical role in maintaining people's access to food and essential needs and strengthening the capacity of national institutions.

WFP is committed to supporting Lebanon’s priorities in the humanitarian-development-peace nexus. Core planning frameworks, including the Lebanon Crisis Response Plan (2017-2023), the Emergency Response Plan (2021-2023), and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2023-2025), guide WFP's collaboration with the UN. WFP Lebanon’s Country Strategic Plan (CSP) also aligns with Lebanon Reform, Recovery, and Reconstruction Frameworks (3RF) and the country’s commitments to Sustainable Development Goals 2 and 17.

In 2023, WFP supported over 1.3 million refugees and 840,000 Lebanese nationals, with an equal distribution of assistance between men and women[1], and 4 percent persons with disabilities. In addition, WFP implemented cash transfers for an additional 416,000 Lebanese individuals through the Government’s Emergency Social Safety Net. During 2023, WFP demonstrated an increased accountability towards affected populations by ensuring safer and more dignified access to assistance for marginalized people.

Following the rapid depreciation of the Lebanese pound and rising communal tensions at redemption points in the first few months of the year, WFP and UNHCR successfully advocated for the re-establishment of the use of US dollars as an optional disbursement currency to Lebanese pounds for Syrian refugees in May 2023. This shift resulted in significant operational improvements at redemption points and a substantial rise in the purchasing power of assisted families.

Moreover, WFP prioritized inclusivity for persons with disabilities. Field monitors conducted door-to-door validation and food distribution. WFP also adjusted food distribution sites and cash redemption points to make them more accessible for people with physical disabilities. The Country Office implemented reasonable workplace adjustments and integrated disability-inclusive training in livelihood programs. WFP call center played a vital role in gathering information about persons with disabilities and delivering targeted responses to prioritize and address their needs appropriately. In line with the strategic vision, WFP deepened support to national institutions to sustain the benefits derived from humanitarian assistance and strengthen national social safety nets.

2023 was a critical year for WFP and the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA) to consolidate lessons from the implementation and scale-up of national safety nets. WFP and the World Bank collaborated to merge the two

Syrian Arab Republic: 2024 Humanitarian Needs Overview (December 2023)

Syrian arab republic: earthquake humanitarian dashboard (hct coordinated response), 6 feb - 11 may 2023, syrian arab republic: annual report - 2022 humanitarian response (january - december 2022).

Bon Voyaged

15 High-Risk Travel Destinations for 2024

Posted: April 5, 2024 | Last updated: April 5, 2024

<p>The world is a tapestry of diverse landscapes and cultures, but amidst its beauty and wonder, there exist places that are fraught with danger. These perilous locales, known as the most dangerous places on Earth, offer a stark contrast to the serene and inviting destinations that most travelers seek. From war-torn regions where conflict and political unrest are a constant threat, to natural landscapes that are as deadly as they are breathtaking, these areas challenge the very limits of human survival. They encompass treacherous terrains like active volcanoes and deep, uncharted jungles, as well as areas with extreme climates, from the scorching heat of vast deserts to the frigid expanses of polar ice fields. The danger in these places is not only to the physical well-being of those who dare to venture there but also poses a threat to mental fortitude, challenging the resolve and resilience of even the most seasoned adventurers. </p>

The world is a tapestry of diverse landscapes and cultures, but amidst its beauty and wonder, there exist places that are fraught with danger. These perilous locales, known as the most dangerous places on Earth, offer a stark contrast to the serene and inviting destinations that most travelers seek. From war-torn regions where conflict and political unrest are a constant threat, to natural landscapes that are as deadly as they are breathtaking, these areas challenge the very limits of human survival. They encompass treacherous terrains like active volcanoes and deep, uncharted jungles, as well as areas with extreme climates, from the scorching heat of vast deserts to the frigid expanses of polar ice fields. The danger in these places is not only to the physical well-being of those who dare to venture there but also poses a threat to mental fortitude, challenging the resolve and resilience of even the most seasoned adventurers.

<p>In this Middle Eastern nation, the U.S. State Department’s warning is unequivocal: Yemen is engulfed in pervasive violence, rendering no area within its borders safe. The persistent and calculated activities of terrorist groups pose a relentless threat, with bombings and armed conflicts frequently targeting tourist sites, public transportation, shopping centers, and other public venues. This volatile situation has persisted for several years, a fact underscored by the closure of the U.S. Embassy in February 2015. As a result of this withdrawal, American nationals in Yemen find themselves without the safeguard of their country’s diplomatic presence on the ground.</p>

In this Middle Eastern nation, the U.S. State Department’s warning is unequivocal: Yemen is engulfed in pervasive violence, rendering no area within its borders safe. The persistent and calculated activities of terrorist groups pose a relentless threat, with bombings and armed conflicts frequently targeting tourist sites, public transportation, shopping centers, and other public venues. This volatile situation has persisted for several years, a fact underscored by the closure of the U.S. Embassy in February 2015. As a result of this withdrawal, American nationals in Yemen find themselves without the safeguard of their country’s diplomatic presence on the ground.

<p>Many travelers fantasize about visiting the vibrant castles of St. Petersburg, yet the U.S. State Department suggests a cautious approach when considering travel to Russia. Although not every region in Russia is fraught with danger, the potential for terrorist attacks and the risk of American citizens facing harassment or extortion by police officers have led to a Level 3 advisory – urging travelers to rethink their plans. For those who decide to visit, heightened safety measures are recommended. It’s advised to avoid demonstrations, stay informed with local news updates, and exercise increased vigilance in areas frequently visited by Western tourists, to navigate the complexities of safety in Russia.</p>

Many travelers fantasize about visiting the vibrant castles of St. Petersburg, yet the U.S. State Department suggests a cautious approach when considering travel to Russia. Although not every region in Russia is fraught with danger, the potential for terrorist attacks and the risk of American citizens facing harassment or extortion by police officers have led to a Level 3 advisory – urging travelers to rethink their plans. For those who decide to visit, heightened safety measures are recommended. It’s advised to avoid demonstrations, stay informed with local news updates, and exercise increased vigilance in areas frequently visited by Western tourists, to navigate the complexities of safety in Russia.

<p>This Central American nation, nestled just below Mexico, currently carries a Level 3 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department. A mix of political unrest, widespread poverty, rampant drug trafficking, and a high risk of crimes such as carjacking and armed robbery contribute to its precarious safety situation. Furthermore, violent crimes, including sexual assault and murder, are alarmingly common, a situation exacerbated by the presence of numerous gangs in urban areas and along border regions. For those who choose to travel there, it is crucial to prioritize safety: staying in hotels with both door attendants and professional security staff is recommended. When exploring, it is advised to be accompanied by a security member from the Guatemalan Tourism Institute. Additionally, it is wise to avoid nighttime travel, using public ATMs, and displaying signs of wealth like wearing watches or jewelry, to mitigate risks in this challenging environment.</p>

This Central American nation, nestled just below Mexico, currently carries a Level 3 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department. A mix of political unrest, widespread poverty, rampant drug trafficking, and a high risk of crimes such as carjacking and armed robbery contribute to its precarious safety situation. Furthermore, violent crimes, including sexual assault and murder, are alarmingly common, a situation exacerbated by the presence of numerous gangs in urban areas and along border regions. For those who choose to travel there, it is crucial to prioritize safety: staying in hotels with both door attendants and professional security staff is recommended. When exploring, it is advised to be accompanied by a security member from the Guatemalan Tourism Institute. Additionally, it is wise to avoid nighttime travel, using public ATMs, and displaying signs of wealth like wearing watches or jewelry, to mitigate risks in this challenging environment.

Philippines

While much of the Philippines offers a safe experience for travelers, caution is particularly advised in its southern regions, especially the beach areas, as highlighted by Gobbels. The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for these parts due to an uptick in kidnappings. Specifically, on the large island of Mindanao, in areas like Zamboanga and the Sulu Archipelago, there’s a risk of encountering the ASG (Abu Sayyaf Group), an ISIS-affiliated terrorist organization notorious for its kidnap-for-ransom activities. In Manila, the capital city, there is an increasing trend in pickpocketing and some violent crimes. Gobbels advises that walking might be safer than driving in these regions due to the high rate of accidents and limited emergency response services.

<p>Cairo holds the unsettling distinction of being the most dangerous city for women globally. Despite a gradual easing of political tensions, the city remains fraught with challenges for both local and visiting women, primarily due to prevalent violence and deeply entrenched cultural norms. The efforts of numerous women’s rights organizations to enhance street safety are ongoing, but meaningful change is progressing slowly. For those determined to travel to Cairo, it is strongly recommended to engage with a reputable and trusted tour operator to navigate the city’s complex social landscape with greater security and awareness.</p>

Cairo holds the unsettling distinction of being the most dangerous city for women globally. Despite a gradual easing of political tensions, the city remains fraught with challenges for both local and visiting women, primarily due to prevalent violence and deeply entrenched cultural norms. The efforts of numerous women’s rights organizations to enhance street safety are ongoing, but meaningful change is progressing slowly. For those determined to travel to Cairo, it is strongly recommended to engage with a reputable and trusted tour operator to navigate the city’s complex social landscape with greater security and awareness.

<p>Madagascar, when compared to other African nations, boasts a relatively lower crime rate. However, the country is not without its challenges. Political instability in the region has led to increased unemployment, which in turn has sparked a rise in robberies and muggings. These incidents are particularly prevalent in densely populated areas such as airports and street markets. Additionally, there is a concerning trend of violent highway robberies, including car thefts, targeting travelers on major roads like RN7, RN27, RN10, and RN1B. Visitors to Madagascar should be especially cautious in these areas and remain vigilant to ensure their safety.</p>

Madagascar, when compared to other African nations, boasts a relatively lower crime rate. However, the country is not without its challenges. Political instability in the region has led to increased unemployment, which in turn has sparked a rise in robberies and muggings. These incidents are particularly prevalent in densely populated areas such as airports and street markets. Additionally, there is a concerning trend of violent highway robberies, including car thefts, targeting travelers on major roads like RN7, RN27, RN10, and RN1B. Visitors to Madagascar should be especially cautious in these areas and remain vigilant to ensure their safety.

<p>Situated in the Malay Archipelago of Southeast Asia, this island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting unspoiled beaches, lush rainforests, and a diverse array of wildlife, including leopards and orangutans. While the natural scenery is captivating, the political situation presents significant risks. During the election period in early May, there were heightened concerns regarding the kidnapping of foreigners. Additionally, areas of the island renowned for their diving experiences are identified as particularly perilous due to the current political unrest.</p>

Malaysian Borneo

Situated in the Malay Archipelago of Southeast Asia, this island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting unspoiled beaches, lush rainforests, and a diverse array of wildlife, including leopards and orangutans. While the natural scenery is captivating, the political situation presents significant risks. During the election period in early May, there were heightened concerns regarding the kidnapping of foreigners. Additionally, areas of the island renowned for their diving experiences are identified as particularly perilous due to the current political unrest.

<p>In a ranking by worldatlas.com of the 50 most dangerous cities globally, Brazil notably had 17 cities on the list, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance and safety awareness for travelers. Beyond issues of personal security, health risks are also a significant concern, particularly regarding water pollution. This is true even for renowned beach destinations like Ipanema. A study revealed that exposure to just three teaspoons of beach water in these areas could potentially lead to viral or bacterial infections, highlighting the critical importance of caution in both urban and natural environments in Brazil.</p>

In a ranking by worldatlas.com of the 50 most dangerous cities globally, Brazil notably had 17 cities on the list, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance and safety awareness for travelers. Beyond issues of personal security, health risks are also a significant concern, particularly regarding water pollution. This is true even for renowned beach destinations like Ipanema. A study revealed that exposure to just three teaspoons of beach water in these areas could potentially lead to viral or bacterial infections, highlighting the critical importance of caution in both urban and natural environments in Brazil.

<p>The recent relocation of the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem has intensified the already volatile atmosphere in the region, marking it as a potentially hazardous destination. Despite the celebratory nature of the embassy’s opening ceremony, significant violent protests broke out in Gaza, located just 50 miles away. This area, revered as one of the world’s holiest, continues to attract numerous visitors. However, in light of the current situation, the State Department advises travelers to remain highly vigilant and well-prepared for any eventualities when visiting this region.</p>

The recent relocation of the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem has intensified the already volatile atmosphere in the region, marking it as a potentially hazardous destination. Despite the celebratory nature of the embassy’s opening ceremony, significant violent protests broke out in Gaza, located just 50 miles away. This area, revered as one of the world’s holiest, continues to attract numerous visitors. However, in light of the current situation, the State Department advises travelers to remain highly vigilant and well-prepared for any eventualities when visiting this region.

<p>This once-idyllic beach resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast has seen a drastic transformation from its former status as a white-sand party haven. It now falls under a Level 4 travel advisory, placing it in the same risk category as countries like Iran, Syria, and North Korea. The primary reason for this alarming classification is its reputation as the murder capital of Mexico, plagued by an extensive network of gangs that operate blatantly in the area.</p>

This once-idyllic beach resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast has seen a drastic transformation from its former status as a white-sand party haven. It now falls under a Level 4 travel advisory, placing it in the same risk category as countries like Iran, Syria, and North Korea. The primary reason for this alarming classification is its reputation as the murder capital of Mexico, plagued by an extensive network of gangs that operate blatantly in the area.

<p>The Big Island of Hawaii, commonly known as a romantic haven for honeymooners, has recently emerged as a potentially perilous destination. This shift in perception is largely due to the eruption of the Kilauea volcano, which has led to a declared state of emergency. Visitors to the island now face risks including toxic gas emissions, emerging fissures, unpredictable lava flows, and frequent earthquakes. While attractive airline deals to the island may become more prevalent, travelers should carefully consider these significant natural hazards before planning their journey to this otherwise enchanting destination.</p>

The Big Island of Hawaii, commonly known as a romantic haven for honeymooners, has recently emerged as a potentially perilous destination. This shift in perception is largely due to the eruption of the Kilauea volcano, which has led to a declared state of emergency. Visitors to the island now face risks including toxic gas emissions, emerging fissures, unpredictable lava flows, and frequent earthquakes. While attractive airline deals to the island may become more prevalent, travelers should carefully consider these significant natural hazards before planning their journey to this otherwise enchanting destination.

<p>The striking contrast in wealth and social class in India contributes to the risks of scams and theft. However, it’s the country’s medical safety concerns that heighten its danger level. The U.S. State Department currently assigns India a Level 2 travel advisory, which urges travelers to “exercise increased caution.” This advisory is primarily due to significant health risks, including severe air pollution, and the prevalence of diseases like typhoid, as well as various food and waterborne infections. Additionally, India has reported cases of the Nipah virus, a rare but serious infection. For those who have their hearts set on visiting iconic sites like the Taj Mahal, it’s crucial to be well-informed and prepared to navigate these health and safety challenges. </p>

The striking contrast in wealth and social class in India contributes to the risks of scams and theft. However, it’s the country’s medical safety concerns that heighten its danger level. The U.S. State Department currently assigns India a Level 2 travel advisory, which urges travelers to “exercise increased caution.” This advisory is primarily due to significant health risks, including severe air pollution, and the prevalence of diseases like typhoid, as well as various food and waterborne infections. Additionally, India has reported cases of the Nipah virus, a rare but serious infection. For those who have their hearts set on visiting iconic sites like the Taj Mahal, it’s crucial to be well-informed and prepared to navigate these health and safety challenges.

<p>has garnered notoriety for its exceptionally high crime rates, particularly in the realms of kidnapping and armed robbery. The city’s dire economic situation, coupled with political instability, has fostered an environment where such criminal activities are rampant. Visitors and locals alike face a constant threat in this urban landscape, where the risk of falling victim to these crimes is significantly elevated.</p>

Caracas, Venezuela

has garnered notoriety for its exceptionally high crime rates, particularly in the realms of kidnapping and armed robbery. The city’s dire economic situation, coupled with political instability, has fostered an environment where such criminal activities are rampant. Visitors and locals alike face a constant threat in this urban landscape, where the risk of falling victim to these crimes is significantly elevated.

San Pedro Sula, Honduras

San Pedro Sula, Honduras, has been infamously referred to as the ‘murder capital of the world’, primarily due to its alarmingly high homicide rates. This grim title reflects the city’s intense struggles with gang violence and drug trafficking, which are major contributors to the pervasive sense of insecurity and danger. The city’s challenging socio-economic conditions further exacerbate the situation, making it a particularly hazardous environment for both residents and visitors.

<p>The nature of violence in Mogadishu includes attacks by Al-Shabaab targeting government and security officials, foreign forces, and civilians. These attacks often take place in busy locations such as hotels, restaurants, and teashops, resulting in numerous civilian casualties.</p>

Mogadishu, Somalia

The nature of violence in Mogadishu includes attacks by Al-Shabaab targeting government and security officials, foreign forces, and civilians. These attacks often take place in busy locations such as hotels, restaurants, and teashops, resulting in numerous civilian casualties.

<p>Libya remains a highly dangerous destination due to ongoing conflict and political instability. Recent clashes in Tripoli, the capital, have underscored the precarious security situation, with deadly encounters between major armed groups resulting in significant casualties, including civilians. This instability is undermining the country’s preparations for elections, which are crucial for establishing a unified government and military, and essential for lasting stability. The lack of unified political leadership and the presence of various armed groups, including the Libyan National Army and militias with differing allegiances, further complicate the security landscape.</p>

Libya remains a highly dangerous destination due to ongoing conflict and political instability. Recent clashes in Tripoli, the capital, have underscored the precarious security situation, with deadly encounters between major armed groups resulting in significant casualties, including civilians. This instability is undermining the country’s preparations for elections, which are crucial for establishing a unified government and military, and essential for lasting stability. The lack of unified political leadership and the presence of various armed groups, including the Libyan National Army and militias with differing allegiances, further complicate the security landscape.

South Sudan

South Sudan is considered a dangerous place to visit due to a combination of factors, including ongoing violence, political instability, and severe humanitarian crises. The country has been experiencing chronic intercommunal clashes and violence between armed groups, particularly in the Upper Nile, southern Central Equatoria, and southern Unity states. These conflicts have led to significant displacement of people and serious human rights abuses, some of which may amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity.

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News & features, winter center, news / weather news, 4.8 magnitude earthquake rattles new jersey, new york, connecticut.

People from Massachusetts down through New York City, New Jersey, and Connecticut all the way to Philadelphia reported feeling shaking for as long as 30 seconds.

By Monica Danielle , AccuWeather senior producer

Published Apr 5, 2024 7:35 AM PDT | Updated Apr 5, 2024 12:34 PM PDT

Earthquake specialist Dr. Wendy Bohon talks with AccuWeather about the probability of stronger earthquakes in the Northeast and what to do if they happen.

The U.S. Geological Survey reported a 4.8 earthquake struck near Lebanon, New Jersey. The earthquake struck at 10:23 am EDT. and its epicenter was about 3.1 miles northeast of Lebanon, New Jersey, at a depth of just over half a mile. Lebanon is about 48 miles west of New York City.

Since 2000, there have only been three other earthquakes matching or exceeding today's magnitude of 4.8 in the eastern U.S. (not including earthquakes in Canada and the Atlantic Ocean). The Ramapo Fault runs through Pennsylvania into New Jersey and New York.

People from Massachusetts down through New York City, New Jersey, and Connecticut all the way to Philadelphia reported feeling shaking for as long as 30 seconds, many of them taking to X to share their experience.

An earthquake was felt across multiple states in the Northeast as security cameras and phones recorded first reactions to the event.

My dad is a barber in Flanders, NJ. He sent me this video of the earthquake happening while he was cutting hair. Wow! pic.twitter.com/cWdwiJH045 — Riley Winch (@RileyWinchWx) April 5, 2024

Here in #NYC , everyone I’m in touch with in all boroughs, felt #earthquake . Maybe more like 20 seconds of rumbling, shaking — then 10 more of me freaking out wondering if I’m on West Coast. Been through several in SF, East Bay, Wine Country. Today #epicenter nr No Plainfield #NJ — lisa amand (@Imnofoodie) April 5, 2024

New York City resident and employee Catherine Gulotta said her building was shaking and she immediately ran to her bathroom for safety. Other New Yorkers are reporting on X that their buildings were being evacuated as a safety precaution.

The FDNY posted on X that there are no initial reports of damage or injuries.

There were initial delays at regional airports, including Newark, JFK and LaGuardia, as they initiated a 'ground stop' while they inspected buildings and runways. New Jersey Transit rail services reported delays of at least 20 minutes due to bridge inspections after the quake. Amtrak also inspected tracks and restricted train speeds, saying lines throughout the Northeast may be impacted until all inspections are completed.

There's always an aviation angle cc @jonostrower https://t.co/Or9RyxKZgP — Jason Rabinowitz (@AirlineFlyer) April 5, 2024

How does today's earthquake compare with past earthquakes?

This is the strongest in the East since the 2020 North Carolina earthquake, according to the USGS, and the strongest in the Northeast region since a 5.3 quake in northern New York State in 2002. The largest earthquake in New York City history was a 5.2 magnitude in 1884. In New Jersey, this is the strongest earthquake in nearly 250 years and 3rd strongest on record for the state in 280 years of record-keeping (1737-2017). The only 2 stronger ones: a 5.2 mag in 1737 and 5.3 mag in 1783, according to the governor's office . Northern New Jersey is situated above the Ramapo Fault, the longest fault in the Northeast. According to the New Jersey Monthly , "It begins in Pennsylvania and moves into New Jersey, trending northeast through Hunterdon, Somerset, Morris, Passaic, and Bergen counties before terminating in New York’s Westchester County, not far from the Indian Point Energy Center, a nuclear power plant. And though scientists dispute how active this roughly 200 million-year-old fault really is, many earthquakes in the state’s surprisingly varied seismic history are believed to have occurred on or near it."

This is a developing story and AccuWeather will continue to bring you updates .

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Solar eclipse warnings pile up: Watch out for danger in the sky, on the ground on April 8

Editor's note: An updated cloud forecast for the April 2024 total solar eclipse is in. Read the latest eclipse forecast and news as of Wednesday, April 3 .

The upcoming solar eclipse , as exciting and fun as it promises to be, is also coming with a growing number of safety warnings — both for what will happen in the sky and what will happen on the ground.

In late March, we've heard warnings about potentially dangerous fake eclipse glasses , the possibility for increased car c rashes around the time of the eclipse and possible air travel headaches due to delayed or cancelled flights.

Safety is always a concern around solar eclipses, when millions of people will look to the sky as the moon passes in front of the sun. Looking at the spectacular event requires special glasses to prevent eye damage . Plus, tourists from around the country will be flocking to a narrow band of land from Texas to Maine — the path of totality, where the shadow of the moon will plunge the Earth into darkness.

Warning issued about fake eclipse glasses

"Counterfeit and fake eclipse glasses are polluting the marketplace," the American Astronomical Society announced in a statement in late March.

Using fake eclipse glasses – or no glasses at all – to look at the eclipse is dangerous to your eyes: Overexposure to sunlight "can cause severe eye injury, ranging from temporarily impaired vision to permanent blindness," the AAS said. They recommend buying from a vetted vendor and testing the glasses before the eclipse.

Here's how to tell if your glasses are legit.

It's also worth noting that you may be able to score a free pair of eclipse glasses .

Bad traffic and deadly traffic accidents

Traffic is predicted to be bad and potentially deadly — especially after the eclipse ends . Millions of people will crowd into the narrow path of totality, then most will attempt to leave all at once as soon as the eclipse is over.

Experts warn the excitement could create dangerous and busy automobile traffic conditions as people pack into the small part of the country with the best view.

Roads could be especially packed at the center of the eclipse's path as Americans who want the best view crowd into cities, towns and remote areas, many without the infrastructure to handle big crowds.

In Texas, which is expected to bear the brunt of the crowds, the state's Department of Transportation is preparing highway signs that will say, “NO STOPPING ON HIGHWAY TO VIEW ECLIPSE” and “NO PARKING ON SHOULDER, KEEP MOVING.”

Crews in Texas are also pausing some road construction and maintenance work on major corridors in the path of the eclipse April 7-9, based on traffic volumes.

More: The April total solar eclipse could snarl traffic for hours across thousands of miles

When a total solar eclipse passed over the U.S. in 2017, reports say some traffic jams didn't fully clear for more than 12 hours in some areas.

Even worse, a recent study reported that the 2017 eclipse "was associated with increased risks of a fatal traffic crash" – potentially as much as a 31% increase, the study said .

Air travel also impacted

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is offering guidance to commercial planes and private aircraft ahead of the eclipse .

"Due to the high volume of traffic along the eclipse path, (airport) arrivals can expect lengthy delays during peak traffic periods," the FAA said.

Airports in Texas, Vermont, Maine, Canada, New Hampshire, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky and Missouri will be primarily affected by the eclipse , the FAA said.

"The purpose of this notice is to inform airmen of the possible impacts to air traffic and airports along the eclipse path during the period April 7, 2024, (6 a.m. EST) through April 10, 2024, (midnight EST)," the FAA said.

More: What travelers should know about FAA advisory on total solar eclipse before April 8

Contributing: Jonathan Limehouse and Kayla Jimenez, USA TODAY

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Frugal Traveler

Credit Card Swipe Fees Are Going Down. Are Points Going With Them?

A new agreement by Visa and Mastercard to reduce fees charged to merchants may drain the lucrative rewards that grant free travel to many credit card users.

A close-up photograph of someone inserting their Visa credit card into a credit card swiper.

By Elaine Glusac

Elaine Glusac is the Frugal Traveler columnist, focusing on budget-friendly tips and journeys.

On Tuesday, the largest credit card companies in the United States reached an agreement with merchants to reduce the so-called swipe fees retailers pay for accepting credit card payments, potentially saving the retailers $30 billion.

These fees also help fund the credit card rewards programs that many travelers redeem for things like free flights and hotel stays, leading points hawks to wonder: Are loyalty programs at risk?

Here’s what we know so far about the changes.

What are the terms of the deal?

Last year, credit card payments generated an estimated $72 billion in fees paid by merchants, which are generally passed along to customers in the form of higher prices. For nearly 20 years, merchants have been seeking reductions in the fees they pay Visa and Mastercard for handling transactions where the cards are used.

The proposed settlement , awaiting approval in a federal court, reduces and caps those fees for five years. It would also allow merchants to potentially charge consumers more based on the card they pay with. For example, a person paying with a premium card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, which costs $550 a year, could be charged more than someone paying with the more basic Chase Sapphire Preferred card, with an annual fee of $95.

Why does it matter?

The majority of the fees collected go back to the banks that issue the credit cards. Those banks have used the funds to push premium credit cards that offer loyalty points, which can be redeemed for free travel and other perks. The cards with the biggest benefits tend to be those that charge higher swipe fees.

While the reduction in the fees collected sounds small — averaging at least .07 percent — they represent an estimated $30 billion over the five-year term of the deal, which banks could try to make up by reducing points perks.

“It’s reasonable to think that,” said Brian Kelly, the founder of the Points Guy , a news site devoted to maximizing credit card points.

While he speculated that banks will be able to “find other ways to make up the difference,” he acknowledged that a points squeeze could emerge.

“Opportunities to earn probably aren’t going to flourish,” he said.

The idea that merchants could charge more to the holders of premium, perks-rich cards, which are expensive, might also deter consumers from using them. Some experts question the viability of the practice given the potential for consumer backlash.

Is the new agreement related to the Credit Card Competition Act?

The legal actions that led to the new credit card agreement date back to 2005. But the newer Credit Card Competition Act , proposed in 2023, aims to introduce more competition in the credit card payment system. By creating a cheaper alternative pipeline for processing payments, the proposed legislation is seen as a greater threat to rewards programs.

Responding to the just-announced agreement between the credit card companies and retailers, Senator Dick Durbin, Democrat of Illinois, and the lead sponsor of the Credit Card Competition Act, released a statement urging the act’s passage.

“I fear that this deal only provides temporary concessions negotiated by a few lawyers behind closed doors,” he said in the statement.

Other experts said the agreement may ease the pressure on Congress to pass the act.

“I think it’s a way for Visa and Mastercard to show that they are making a good-faith effort to help out merchants by lowering the fees they’ve been complaining about for 20 years, and hopefully enough to let senators know they’re doing their part,” said Chris Hassan, the social media and brand manager for Upgraded Points , a website that tracks credit card benefits.

Separately, the proposed merger between Capital One and Discover, which is pending federal approval, could introduce more competition among credit cards and potentially improve rewards for holders of those cards.

What should I do now?

The points and payments systems won’t change until the agreement is approved, which is expected in late 2024 or early 2025, according to a news release from Mastercard.

But the topic should remind travelers of the reality of playing with points: The rules always change. Values tend to fall as redemption levels rise, which companies issuing these currencies are free to adjust at will.

If you have points, spend them, say experts like Sara Rathner, a travel and credit card specialist at the financial website NerdWallet . “They’re not a trophy to dust and admire.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places: Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai: Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto: The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland: The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas: Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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IMAGES

Is it safe to travel to Lebanon?
Travel Safety Lebanon
Lebanon travel tips: What you need to know to avoid nasty surprises
From storm to calm: How Lebanon became a shelter in the Levant
Is it safe to travel to Lebanon? Need to know
Is Lebanon Safe to Visit in 2023?

COMMENTS

Lebanon Travel Advisory
If you decide to travel to Lebanon: Visit our website for information on Travel to High-Risk Areas. Appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact with kidnappers/hostage-takers, media, U.S. and host country government agencies, and members of Congress if you are kidnapped, or taken hostage. Keep travel documents up to date and ...
Lebanon travel advice
Help and support in Lebanon. You can contact the emergency services by calling 112. If you need urgent help (for example, you've been attacked, arrested or someone has died), call +961 (0)1 960 ...
Travel advice and advisories for Lebanon
Lebanon - AVOID ALL TRAVEL. Avoid all travel to Lebanon due to a deteriorating security situation, civil unrest, the increased risk of terrorist attack and the ongoing armed conflict with Israel.. The security situation can deteriorate further without warning. If the armed conflict intensifies it could impact your ability to depart the country by commercial means.
Safety and security
Be vigilant and follow the advice of Lebanese authorities. Avoid large crowds, demonstrations, political gatherings and using shared public transport. There's a heightened risk of terrorism ...
Message for U.S. Citizens: Update to Lebanon Travel Advisory (March 8
Travel Advisory Level 3: Reconsider Travel Travel Advisory Level 3: Updated to reflect lowering the overall Travel Advisory to Level 3, information about southern Lebanon, the border with Syria, and refugee settlements in Lebanon, information on crime and political violence, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, civil unrest, and the "If you decide to travel" section.
Lebanon Travel Advisory
Reconsider travel to Lebanon due to crime,terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnappingEmbassy Beirut's limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. the border with Syria due to. the border with Israel due to. refugee settlements due to armed clashes.
Regional risks
Regional risks. This section has safety advice for regions of Lebanon. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice. You should also read FCDO 's overall travel advice and safety and ...
US raises travel advisory for Lebanon to 'do not travel'
The U.S. State Department on Tuesday raised its travel alert for Lebanon to "do not travel," citing the security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges between Israel and ...
Lebanon
Certain factors may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease (more information). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera. ... Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Lebanon for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items ...
US State Department warns Americans not to travel to Lebanon amid ...
The US State Department is warning Americans not to travel to Lebanon and will allow family members of US government personnel and some non-emergency personnel to voluntarily depart the country ...
Lebanon Travel Advice & Safety
Safety. Do not travel to Lebanon due to the volatile security situation and the risk of the security situation deteriorating further. There is a possibility of an increase in armed conflict that could affect wider areas of Lebanon. This could result in Beirut airport closing, and you may not be able to leave for an extended period.
Lebanon travel advice
The emergency services in Lebanon can be reached on 112. Be sure to take out comprehensive travel insurance before you travel. Lebanon's tap water is not drinkable. Reusable water bottles with in-built filtration systems are perfect for travellers. Most Lebanese people drink bottled water.
US State Department Raises Travel Advisory for Lebanon to Level 4 ...
IDF strikes Hezbollah militant positions in Lebanon. The US State Department has issued a Level 4 travel advisory, the highest level, for Lebanon, advising against all travel due to an ...
Is Lebanon Safe for Travel RIGHT NOW? (2024 Safety Rating)
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM. When it comes to transport, it isn't too safe. Generally, the roads in Lebanon are in good condition, but the problem is the number of reckless drivers. Also, street names are non-existent so be prepared to a lot of roaming around, and if you plan on mountain driving, keep in mind that it is particularly hazardous.
Lebanon
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.
Several countries advise against travel to Lebanon and urge their
Latest update: Oct. 20, 2023, 5:46pmSeveral countries have issued travel alerts for Lebanon in response to the risk of regional escalation of the Hamas-Israel war.Many of the travel warnings came after the deadly airstrike targeting the al-Ahli hospital in Gaza on Monday, Oct. 16.On Tuesday Oct 17, The United States raised the alert level of its travel advisory for Lebanon from 3 to 4, the...
Is it Safe to Travel to Lebanon? Tourist Advice
Others like Canada and the UK say to exercise a high degree of caution due to the security situation and the risk of a terrorist attack if you plan to travel to Lebanon. ... Lebanon Travel Safety. Lebanon is incredibly diverse, especially since it's so tiny. There are about 18 different religious groups represented here and Beirut itself is ...
U.S. State Department Urges Americans To Leave Lebanon, Not Travel
The Lebanon travel advisory follows a week after the Department also raised its advisory to Israel and the West Bank to a "Level 3: Reconsider Travel." The Lebanon borders of Israel and Syria, as well as refugee settlements have also been listed in the Department's travel advisory as a "Level 4: Do Not Travel."
Is Lebanon safe?
Update safety Lebanon Lebanon is going through a political crisis 1) In October 2019, thousands of demonstrators took over the streets of Beirut.The situation hasn't really improved. 2) The problem with Iran is making things even tenser. 3) The massive bomb blast made things even worse However, I got recent reports from travelers who say that everything seems normal, from a traveling point ...
Canadians told to 'avoid all travel' to Lebanon
An "avoid all travel" advisory is Canada's most severe travel risk level. With Lebanon added to this list, it joins the likes of Afghanistan, Ukraine, North Korea, Russia, Iraq and Libya.
Security Alert
Travel Advisory Level 3: Reconsider Travel Travel Advisory Level 3: Updated to reflect lowering the overall Travel Advisory to Level 3, information about southern Lebanon, the border with Syria, and refugee settlements in Lebanon, information on crime and political violence, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, civil unrest, and the "If you decide to travel" section.
Fear and loathing: The US travel guide to the world
Al Jazeera columnist. 21 Jun 2022. [Getty Images] The current US state department "Lebanon Travel Advisory", updated on June 6, urges US citizens to "reconsider travel" to the diminutive ...
Lebanon Annual Country Report 2023
WFP Lebanon's Country Strategic Plan (CSP) also aligns with Lebanon Reform, Recovery, and Reconstruction Frameworks (3RF) and the country's commitments to Sustainable Development Goals 2 and ...
15 High-Risk Travel Destinations for 2024
15 High-Risk Travel Destinations for 2024 The world is a tapestry of diverse landscapes and cultures, but amidst its beauty and wonder, there exist places that are fraught with danger.
Strike on Iran's consulate in Syria is 'turning point', Hezbollah head
The head of Lebanon's armed group Hezbollah said on Friday that Israel's strike on Iran's consulate in Damascus this week marked a "turning point" since Oct. 7, when Palestinian group Hamas ...
4.8 magnitude earthquake rattles New Jersey, New York, Connecticut
The U.S. Geological Survey reported a 4.8 earthquake struck near Lebanon, New Jersey. The earthquake struck at 10:23 am EDT. and its epicenter was about 3.1 miles northeast of Lebanon, New Jersey ...
Solar eclipse warnings say traffic, eyesight at risk on April 8
Solar eclipse warnings pile up: Watch out for danger in the sky, on the ground on April 8. Editor's note: An updated cloud forecast for the April 2024 total solar eclipse is in. Read the latest ...
Are Travel Loyalty Programs at Risk?
Elaine Glusac is the Frugal Traveler columnist, focusing on budget-friendly tips and journeys. March 28, 2024. On Tuesday, the largest credit card companies in the United States reached an ...
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Situation in Haiti April 5, 2024

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Situation in Haiti April 5, 2024

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