When traveling to a foreign country, you must know what dangers you may encounter. The most common hazards include kidnapping, pickpocketing, and the weather. We will discuss these risks, along with some tips on how to keep yourself safe.
Kidnapping of foreigners
Several foreigners have been kidnapped in Lebanon. They are often held for a short period and released without publicity. But they may be targeted by militant groups in the country.
The most prominent cases include Terry Anderson and Geoffrey Nash. Both were American citizens and covered the long-running civil war in Lebanon. One was a chief Middle East correspondent for Associated Press. He was kidnapped in March 1985 and held in a dungeon for six and a half years.
Another notable case is that of French journalist Michel Brillant. While held captive in Beqaa Valley, he escaped when hunters came to his rescue. A third, George Mufrej, has not been found.
Other examples include a Saudi Arabian diplomat, a French TV crew, an Australian mother, and two men with diplomatic passports. These cases have been investigated, and the files have been transferred to a judge for further investigation.
Pickpocketing
If you plan to travel to Lebanon, ensure you are well-versed in the city’s security measures. Although Lebanon is not a hotbed for terrorism, it is still a good idea to remain vigilant.
Pickpockets are a common threat. In some cities, they can even escalate to armed robbery. They usually work in teams, so watch out for anyone you see with a weapon.
A pickpocket is a thief who steals items from a victim’s pocket or bag. They may use scissors, tongs, or a razor to access the contents.
You can also protect yourself from pickpockets by wearing an anti-theft bag. These are made of rigid mesh material and are a great way to keep your money safe.
Another good idea is to carry smaller bills in your pants pocket. Keep the more significant change in a different place.
Weather
When visiting Beirut, you should be prepared to face various weather conditions. The weather in Lebanon is moderately humid throughout the year but is also prone to occasional thunderstorms. Luckily, there are some tips you can follow to prepare yourself for the weather.
First and foremost, you should wear waterproof clothing. Pack a swimsuit or swimsuit coverup if you plan to swim in the pool. In addition to this, you should have an insect repellant.
Another tip you should take note of is to avoid traffic. Lebanon has no public buses, so you should get around by taxi. Also, avoid areas with high crime rates and poor infrastructure. This is especially important if you are traveling to a remote location.
Precautions to avoid getting sick
It would be best to take precautions to avoid getting sick when traveling to Lebanon. You should make sure you have an emergency kit ready to go. Whether staying in a hotel or renting a home, you should always wear a face mask outside.
You may want to pack a water purifier if you want to drink lots of water. It would be best if you also remembered to wash your hands frequently. If you’re going to a place with poor sanitation, you have a higher chance of catching a disease like cholera.
Getting an international health certificate is a good idea. Your doctor can also recommend any necessary vaccinations. A single dose of immune globulin protects for up to two months.
Be prepared to be disorganized in Lebanon. Public and commercial institutions can be closed at short notice. Security forces are often busy policing protests and attacks. Traffic is dangerous, and drivers are not always a courteous lot.
Nightlife
Regarding nightlife in Beirut, there are many different places to choose from. The city is known for its vibrant energy. There are also plenty of bars, pubs, and live performance venues. You’ll find techno and house music everywhere you look in downtown Beirut.
The city is also home to some of the most hip neighborhoods in the Arab world. This includes Hamra, Mar Mikhael, and Gemmayzeh. Other cities in the region largely unmatch these areas.
The most popular clubs in Beirut open late. Some of the clubs don’t open until midnight.
One of the best places to visit is Skybar. It’s the largest rooftop club in Lebanon. Here you can catch the sunset over the city. Also, it’s been hosting internationally renowned names, such as Ne-Yo and Fetty Wap.
