COVID-19 As of now, here is what is expected of travelers to/from Lebanon based on guidelines from the CDC and US embassy in Lebanon: - Leaving the U.S. – provide a negative-PCR test at check-in, taken within 96 hours (4 days) of travel Arriving into Lebanon – take a PCR test at the airport Returning to the US – present a negative-PCR test at check-in, taken within 72 hours (3 days) of travel. Alternatively, present a doctor’s note demonstrating contraction of COVID-19 within the previous 90 days. Airport pickup/drop-off Depending on your arrival date/time, someone will pick you up from the airport. Please send your travel itinerary to Katie Talbot (katherinestalbot@gmail.com)
We would love to provide housing for you, and will do our best to make it as affordable as possible. Once we know your travel itinerary, we will send you specific information about housing options.
The days surrounding the wedding will be a mixture of Beirut and Ain Dara (the valley region). Beirut is such a culturally rich environment with numerous activities, foods, and markets. There is plenty to explore while you are here. Some of us will have cars to help you get around, but we recommend you also download the following car/travel apps: Uber and Bolt.
Some reliable food delivery apps to download are: Zomato and Toters (this app covers most restaurants, but is dependent on location); some restaurants have their own delivery apps as well. When using these apps, always choose to pay in cash. Uber: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/uber-request-a-ride/id368677368 Bolt: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bolt-fast-affordable-rides/id675033630 Zomato: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/zomato-food-delivery-dining/id434613896 Toters: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/toters- %D8%AA%D9%88%D8%AA%D8%B1%D8%B2/id1015006220
In May, the temperature (Fahrenheit) in Beirut ranges from mid-60s to the mid-70s. In Ain Dara, the temperature ranges from mid-50s to the mid-70s. Rainfall is not expected in May, but can occur, so please pack accordingly. We recommend bringing a light cardigan or jacket for breezy nights. Please wear clothing modestly. For men, shorts and t-shirts are fine. For women, shorts and t-shirts are also fine as long as shirts do not have spaghetti straps, show a low neckline, nor show any undergarments. Dress and shorts length are best mid-thigh for women.
Lebanon is experiencing significant economic decline. As of now the conversion of USD to Lebanese pound is $1 = 12,150 LL. For perspective, a coffee in Lebanon is worth around $1. Banks are not allowing people to withdraw cash, and paying with debit/credit card is difficult in Lebanon. Therefore, it is recommended that you bring enough cash with you to the country to exchange while you are here. We will help you exchange money after arriving.
In the case of an emergency, you can call the following people depending on the severity of the emergency: Katie Talbot (via WhatsApp +1 919-928-1552) – purpose: general travel/logistical concerns US Embassy (calling from Lebanon: dial 04-542600; calling from the U.S. dial 011-961-4-542600) – purpose: safety or life in danger.