Lebanon travel tips: language, money and phrases
By Parlo · Checked
At a glance
| Currency | Lebanese pound (LBP); US dollars are widely used |
|---|---|
| Plugs | Type C, D and G, 230 V |
| Emergency | Police 112, Red Cross ambulance 140 |
| Driving | On the right |
| Tap water | Drink bottled water |
| Tipping | 10 to 15% in restaurants |
The language
People speak Lebanese Arabic, a Levantine dialect, and many switch easily into French or English, often in the same sentence. A greeting like "Hi, kīfak, ça va?" is completely normal.
Phrases worth learning first
All 30 phrases are in the phrasebook, and the dialect page explains how the local Arabic differs from the standard form.
Good to know
- Carry cash, including small US dollar notes: cards are not accepted everywhere.
- Check your government's travel advice before you go and during your stay; it can change quickly in parts of the country.
- Lunch is often long and late, and many restaurants stay busy until well after midnight.
Before you go
Visa rules, health requirements and safety advice change often, so check your government's official travel advice for Lebanon before you book and again before you fly. Australians can use Smartraveller.