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Beirut Dubbed ‘Most Glamorous Tourist Destination’ For 2010
At one time Lebanon and Beirut were places to avoid. But in 2010, Beirut has been declared as the biggest hotspot for travellers and holidaymakers. The Republic of Lebanon sits on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea, bordered by Syria and Israel. Exploring the Middle East offers a cheaper and more adventurous option for travellers than the usual American/ Australia option. And for people looking for holidays with a difference, Syria and Lebanon are increasingly popular. Lebanon is the crossroads of the Mediterranean Basin and Arabian hinterland. As such, it is an area rich in history, culture and ethnic diversity. In an increasingly homogenised world, it’s not surprising that holidaymakers looking for a truly authentic experience are choosing Lebanon and Syria.
Jordan, Turkey, Egypt, Syria and Lebanon are increasingly popular according to Tom Hall, travel editor at the Lonely Planet travel guides. The history, warm hospitality and affordability of the region all make it a must-see destination. Beirut has emerged from a warzone to “2010′s most glamorous tourist destination.” Beirut was a place of excitement and adventure – but part of that was due to the danger of the city. A Guardian journalist said that 20 years ago the pull of the city was like “the kind of psychotic ex-lover who you worry might strangle you in your sleep.”
But now, Beruit has changed. It has a reconstructed downtown, complete with a Dunkin’ Donuts. The city is even more beautiful dueto its damaged history, exciting and glamours, it has been compared to being ‘the Elizabeth Taylor of the Mediterranean.’ With two brand new hotels in the city, it now has that international luxury appeal; the New York Times has nominated Beirut as its number one destination in the world.
Lebanon Became Mecca of the Plastic Surgery
Lebanon has become the real capital of the plastic surgery among the Arab states of the Middle East during the last years. Clients are attracted here by the high proficiency level of surgeons, relatively low prices and mild Mediterranean climate.
According to Tony Nasara, the owner of the “Brazil Aesthetic Clinic” situated in Beirut, “the plastic surgery boom began in Lebanon in the year of 2000″ (after removal of the Israeli troops from the South Lebanon). He says that during these seven years that have passed tours in Lebanon “with the purpose of a plastic surgery operation” appeared on sale in all Arab states.
Decline was registered twice – after Rafik Hariri’s murder in 2005 and during the Second |Lebanon War in 2006. But today, according to owners of the Beirut aesthetic surgery clinics, Lebanon can again be called “Mecca of the Plastic Surgery”.
Despite the fact that in many Muslim countries of the Middle East married women’s faces are hidden from the strangers’ sight, wives of the well-to-do Arab businessmen pay great attention to their appearance. To some extent this is explained by the fact that they are not working and those whose husbands can afford hiring servants are not occupied with household chores. These ladies want to have “Angelina Jolie’s lips or Haifa Wehbe’s breasts”. Plastic surgeons often have to correct hooked noses of their clients from the Persian Gulf or remove their double chins.
Flights To Beirut Top Attraction Zones
According to a report published in The New York Times Travel, Beirut was ranked the Number 1 tourist destination among a list of 44 destinations rated in 2009. The capital of Lebanon has been described by historians as a mix of rich archeological heritage, culture and acute charm. It attracts tourists from all over the world, who are drawn to the magic feel of this beautiful land. So, if you are planning to spend your holiday taking in the charm of this amazing city, consider making an online booking of flights to Beirut.
Flights to Beirut: Top Attractions
Apart from booking your flights to Beirut, plan your itinerary in advance to ensure that you cover all the tourists attractions the city has to offer. Here is a brief overview of the must-see places in Beirut:
