Despite its troubled, violent past, the Lebanese capital of Beirut is an eclectic, mesmerizing cultural haven. Book a cheap flight to Beirut, and you’ll be swept away by the interwoven tapestry of Middle Eastern and European culture filled with nightlife, cafes, beaches, and delicious cuisine that earned the city the reputation of “The Paris of the Middle East”.
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With its Mediterranean climate, temperatures in Beirut are best suited for visitors from April to June. Summer gets oppressively humid, and heavy rains fall from December to February.
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April to June has the most seasonable weather; the summers get uncomfortably hot in this Mediterranean climate, and heavy rains fall in the winter.
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There is no public transportation from the airport to the city, so take either an airport-certified taxi or a regular taxi. Bargain for the price and don’t pay more than $15 USD.
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Don’t try to navigate the crazy traffic in a rental car, instead opt for taxis or ‘service’ taxis, which are shared taxis; they aren’t quite as convenient as getting your own but they’re a bit cheaper. Be aware that Lebanese taxi drivers are notorious for overcharging by two to three times the real value of a ride.
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Because of its French colonial history, many Beirutis (yes, Beirutis), speak French – and a little French can go a long way. A simple ‘Bonjour’ when you enter a café, shop, or taxi can establish a good initial impression with whoever you’re about to do business with. And of course, don’t forget to say ‘Merci’ whenever appropriate.
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Beirut Rafik Hariri International Airport (BEY) is the country’s only international airport. Most international air carriers fly to Beirut from European hubs.
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