Michèle Assouad
Jad Osseiran
Michèle Assouad
Jad Osseiran
June 22, 2025
Wedding Timeline
Sunday, June 22, 2025
The Ceremony, Welcome Drink & Reception
5:30 pm
Batroun, North Governorate, Lebanon
Registry
RSVP
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Travel & Accomodation
Flight
Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)
You can find routes that require one layover from the USA. The most reliable flight from any of the major layover hubs to get to Beirut is always a Middle East Airlines (MEA) flight (but is more expensive). We highly recommend booking flights asap. Prices tend to increase the closer we get to the Summer season. Please inform us about your arrival date & time and let us know if you need help arranging your transportation from the airport - more info below.
Travel Note
Transportation around Lebanon
It is highly recommended to arrange your transportation from and to the airport with trusted taxi companies. The taxis present at the airport will try to rip you off. You can also rent a car, although we don't recommend it as driving in Lebanon requires a special skillset of strategy and anticipation. Only rent a car if you have driven in other countries where regular driving rules don't apply - e.g. in Egypt, Morocco, India etc. - We are planning on renting a bus for the wedding day, departing from a specific location in Beirut (TBA). Please let us know if you would be interested in that once you know where you will be staying. - We have added more recommendations for taxi companies in the "Travel Tips" section below. Don't hesitate to reach out to us if you have any additional questions.
Hotel
Hotels in Batroun, Byblos (Jbeil), and Beirut
Upon booking your accommodation, please notify us about the dates and places you are staying at. AirBnB and other booking platforms are great tools to pick your accommodation as they offer a better price range. Guide LB is a blogger who shares good recommendations: https://guidelb.com/ or https://www.instagram.com/guide.lb/ In case you need more help in booking your accommodation, you can reach out to Samer Aoun on +961 70 009 088 (whatsapp) You can also sleep at the venue the night of the wedding, please reach out to us for availabilities and rates. Batroun - On the shores: 1. Villa Paradiso https://www.villaparadisolebanon.com/ 2. Fouha Batroun https://fouhabatroun.com/room-u 3. San Stephano Resort http://www.sanstephano.com/ Batroun - A little higher up (5 to 10 min drive from the souq): 1. Arnaoon Village https://arnaoonvillage.bookingmystay.com/?adults=2 2. La Maison du Maquis: 5 bedroom villa for $470 per night incl. breakfast and pool access (4 extra beds for 30$ ea.) https://lamaisondumaquis.com/?fluent-form=5/ Byblos: 1. Byblos Sur Mer https://byblossurmer.com/ Beirut - we recommend you stay around Gemmayze and Mar Mikhael (in Achrafieh): 1. The Canvas Boutique Hotel: rooms ranging between $100 to $150 +961 81 267 862 (whatsapp or DM on IG)
Travel Note
Currency
The local currency value (LBP) has stabilized recently but you can check the rates on Lirarate.com before exchanging at any exchange office. The US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted across the country. It's common to see prices listed in both currencies, and you can pay in a mix of LBP and USD. Major credit and debit cards are accepted in most places. Withdrawal rates from ATMs in Lebanon are higher than usual, so we recommend bringing cash with you.
Travel Note
Sim Cards and eSim
If you're staying in Batroun and need a local SIM card, here’s a quick guide: 1) What You Need: A passport for identification (required by Lebanese law). 2) Where to Buy: You can find authorized stores for Lebanon’s main telecom providers (Touch, Alfa) in Batroun, usually along the main street or near the town center. a. Alfa Store: Batroun Main Street, near the town center, close to the roundabout. You can also ask locals for "Alfa" or check for signs near the main shops. It’s located within a commercial area. b. Touch (MTC) Store: Batroun Souks area or along the main road near the town center. Similar to the Alfa store, you can spot the Touch sign outside, or locals can guide you to it. Both stores are in popular areas, and the staff will assist you in getting a prepaid SIM card with the plan that suits your needs. Feel free to ask locals or taxi drivers for directions—they’ll know where to point you! 3) Airalo data eSIM Airalo provides a data-only eSIM called Salbeh, specifically designed for use in Lebanon. You can purchase and activate the plan directly through the Airalo app. Make sure your device supports eSIM functionality and is unlocked before purchasing the plan. If you need more information or want to purchase the eSIM, visit Airalo's website or use their app.
Travel Note
Travel Tips
1) European and American passport holders can get a visa on arrival, but please double-check the most up-to-date information. Indian passport holders will need a visa, more details are being communicated separately. N.B. You cannot have any Israeli passport stamps or security stickers in your passport, and you will need to renew your passport before traveling to Lebanon to be allowed in. 2) Public transportation in Lebanon is practically non-existent. The most affordable and safe way to get around the country is by booking a cab through private agencies. You can text the agency through Whatsapp, share your address with them and they will send the nearest cab your way. You can also ask them for the fare of your trip in advance. The driver assigned to you will probably call you through Whatsapp to get an accurate location: 1. Elegance Taxi (around Jounieh and Kesrwan/Metn district): +961 9 333 332 2. Charbel Taxi (around Jounieh and Kesrwan district):+961 70 211 555 3. Batroun Taxi: +961 6 642 444 !!! Another convenient way to get around coastal cities is by booking a cab through the Uber app or Allo Taxi app. On the Uber app, always make sure you click the "pay in cash" option !!!
Travel Note
Additional Tips
1) We recommend packing nausea and vomiting medication such as Zofran, Imodium or similar such as activated charcoal just in case. 2) *Pro tip*: book your seat on the left side of the plane to get the best view of Beirut as you land. 3) Tap water is not drinkable in Lebanon (also avoid ice in your drinks) 4) Google Maps is more reliable than Apple Maps or Ways. 5) Tipping in Lebanon is common, about 10-12% of the charged amount 6) Don't throw anything in the toilet - even toilet paper 7) Most importantly, enjoy the food and all that the country has to offer - but go easy on the kibbeh nayyeh!!
Explore Lebanon
Beirut
Where The Past and Future Collide - Walk through Mar Mikhael & Gemmayzeh, packed with trendy cafés, rooftop bars, and street art. Explore Downtown Beirut where you can find a mix of modern architecture and historical landmarks from the remains of the Phoenician and Roman city, then visit the National Museum for a dose of history. By sunset, head to Zaytouna Bay to grab a bite, then dive into Beirut’s legendary nightlife—rooftop cocktails at Iris and party at Club Soda on a weekend night (more recommendations coming soon).
Jeita, Harissa & Byblos
Caves, Views & Old-World Charm - Start your day at Jeita Grotto - also called the 8th wonder of the world, a limestone cave system with stalactites and an underground river. Next, visit Harissa, home to Our Lady of Lebanon. Ride the cable car (Téléférique) up the mountain for panoramic views of the coastline. Continue to Byblos, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and home to the world's 1st alphabet. Explore its ancient ruins, Byblos Castle, and the charming old souks. End the day with a seaside dinner at the picturesque harbor, enjoying fresh seafood and a Mediterranean sunset (more recommendations coming soon).
Barouk Cedar Reserve, Beiteddine & Deir El Qamar
Palaces, Cobblestone & Fresh Air - Hike in the Chouf Cedar Reserve, home to Lebanon’s most pristine cedar forests. Visit Beiteddine Palace, once home to the notorious Emir Bashir, an Ottoman-era architectural marvel with intricate mosaics, grand courtyards, and lavish interiors. Then, wander through the storybook village of Deir al-Qamar, filled with red-roofed houses and cobblestone streets, and check Mir Amin Palace, the residence of Emir Bashir’s family, or Deir Al Oumara, two elegant Ottoman palace-turned-luxury hotels to grab a bite and sip on some tea with panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.
Anfeh, Ixsir Winery & Batroun
Coastal Charm, Fine Wine & History - Start your day in Anfeh, a coastal gem often called Lebanon’s Santorini for its white and blue seaside houses. Take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea and relax at one of the beachfront cafés overlooking the turquoise waters. Head to Ixsir Winery in the Batroun mountains. Take a tour of the eco-friendly winery, learn about Lebanon’s winemaking traditions, and enjoy a wine-tasting session with views of rolling vineyards. End the day in Batroun, a charming seaside town known for its Phoenician seawall, historic old souks, and lively beach bars. Wander through its stone-paved streets, sip on fresh Batroun lemonade at Hilmi's,get drawn in by the smell of brioche at Koko Bakery, and catch the sunset at Bolero or Almaza Bay (more recommendations coming soon).
Qadisha Valley, The Cedars, Bcharre & Ehden
Mountains, Heritage & Nature - For an unforgettable experience, hike through Wadi Qannoubine or the Holy Valley. This UNESCO-listed site is dotted with centuries-old monasteries and caves, once home to Christian hermits and monks escaping persecution. Take in the serene landscapes and the timeless beauty. Head to The Cedars of God, home to Lebanon’s ancient and majestic cedar trees featured on the Lebanese flag. Walk among these towering symbols of resilience. Then, visit Bcharre, the hometown of famous poet and writer of 'The Prophet', Gibran Khalil Gibran. Pass by Ehden, a picturesque mountain town and visit the Saydet al-Hosn (Lady of the Fortress) Church, perched on a hill with spectacular views. Enjoy authentic Lebanese mezze and taste their specialty kebbe and sip on arak, Lebanon’s traditional anise-flavored drink.
Chouwan Lake & Jabal Moussa Nature Reserve
Hiking lovers, pack up your hiking shoes and check out some trails in Lebanon. Here's one of our favorite hikes: The Chouwen trail leads to the picturesque Chouwen Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and offering opportunities for swimming. The hike is moderately challenging. You can find more hikes here https://www.lebanontrail.org and always happy to give you more recommendations.
Baalbek, Zahle & Anjar
! We are not too sure about the safety situation of the Beqaa region yet, please reach out to us if planning to visit the area ! Culture, History & Lots of Wine - Baalbek, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to some of the world’s most impressive ruins, including the magnificent Temple of Bacchus and Temple of Jupiter, an engineering and architectural marvel. It’s a must-visit for anyone fascinated by ancient architecture. Head to Tawlet Ammiq, a farm-to-table restaurant, set amidst wetlands, for a serene dining experience with panoramic views. Stroll along the Berdawni River in Zahle and enjoy the lively cafés. Zahle is also the heart of Lebanon’s wine country, with renowned wineries like Ksara, Kefraya, Château St. Thomas, and Domaine Wardy offering tastings of Lebanese wines. Anjar, a short drive from Zahle, showcases the well-preserved ruins of a 8th-century Umayyad city.
FAQs
Question
Is there a dress code?
Answer
Attire is formal, so dress your best! Floor length gown or cocktail dress is great. Suit required, tux is optional. The ceremony and welcome drink will be in a grassy area, so you might want to avoid stilettos. Plan to bring another comfortable pair of shoes for the dancefloor!
Question
Is there parking for the ceremony or reception?
Answer
Parking is available, but we recommend carpooling or using rideshares. We are planning on chartering bus from Beirut - reach out to us if you would like to know more about the bus route. Please don't drink and drive!
Question
Are there any other events that I should know about around the wedding?
Answer
Yes, we are planning a joint bachelor/bachelorette in Lebanon on Friday, June 20th. More details coming soon.
Question
How many days is ideal for visiting Lebanon?
Answer
Visiting the main attractions may take you 5-7 days. Lebanon is compact and many tourist sites are situated within a 2-3 hour drive from Beirut, making them easy day trips from the capital city.
Question
How far is the venue from the airport?
Answer
The venue is 62km (38.5 miles) from the airport. It could take between 50min to 90min to get there, depending on traffic.
Question
Where do I stay?
Answer
If you are planning on staying closer to the venue, we recommend that you stay in Batroun. The city has plenty of boutique hotels, guesthouses, and AirBnBs that are all walking-distance from the souks (shops) and beaches/beach resorts. You can find some suggestions in the "Travel & Accommodation" tab. You can also sleep at the venue the night of the wedding, please reach out to us for availabilities and rates.
Question
How do I get around?
Answer
Uber/taxis - car rental is an option but driving in Lebanon can get chaotic. You can find more recommendations in the "Travel & Accommodation" tab.
Question
What is the bridal exit or send off?
Answer
Preface - we are not having a very traditional bridal exit but here's the backstory: In typical Lebanese tradition, wedding festivities start early in the day. The family members and close friends of the bride gather at her parents' house where they are served with sweets. Right before the ceremony, the groom’s parents arrive at the bride's house to offer her a gift and escort her out of her parents' home accompanied by a group of traditional drummers and dancers. Neighbors and onlookers throw flower petals, candied almonds, and rice symbolizing prosperity and good health for the couple. The women in both families offer their blessings with a “zalghouta,” or ululation.