It will surprise many to learn that there is something of a historic link between Australia and Lebanon with a large number of Lebanese immigrants moving to the country. However, this ongoing link between the two countries has also seen a number of Australians moving to Lebanon to start a new life, a new career and in many cases retire. However, what can Australians living in Lebanon expect and are the downsides of living in the region really as bad as many would have you believe?
Life in Lebanon
There is no doubt that Lebanon is in a very volatile area of the world and has on a number of occasions been stuck in the middle of various warring factions. We’ve also seen relative economic turmoil in years gone by which has not assisted with growth in the Lebanese economy and the ability to attract overseas investors and overseas workers. However, many will be surprised to learn that Lebanon has the highest proportion of skilled labourers across Europe and amongst the highest in the Arab speaking world.
Cultural differences
Anyone who is looking to move to Lebanon will need to do their research with regards to cultural issues, law issues and life in Lebanon. However, it will soon become apparent that despite the fact that Lebanon is most certainly an Arab country there is and continues to be a very strong French connection and an English presence. The differences between various cultures are often over blown by the worldwide media and if you speak to people who’ve lived in Lebanon for years they will on the whole be the very positive about their experiences.
Expat communities in Lebanon
The very fact that Lebanon has a population of just 4.2 million people and continues to attract overseas visitors has led to the creation of various expat communities. These particular communities can and do play a major role in the settling in process for those new to the area. Whether or not integration between various expat communities and the Lebanese population is as good as it should be is a bone of contention for many but there are various cultural clashes to take into account.
The future of Lebanon
Despite the fact that Lebanon has the foundations for a very prosperous and very lucrative long-term economy the problem is the political turmoil and the various warring factions in the region. There is no doubt that these particular issues have dented the appeal which Lebanon has had in the past to Western countries and Western workers although that is not to say this will last forever and a day. If peace can be negotiated in the region there is no doubt that Lebanon has a position in the area which will allow it to grow and become more prosperous.
Conclusion
While life in Lebanon can be volatile, can be frightening and unpredictable those who have moved to the region often wax lyrical about their positive experiences in the country. As a consequence, it is worthwhile carrying out deep research into the country to ensure you are fully aware of what to expect and most of all you should review comments from those who live in the country and take these into account.
