MTV exclusive
Whoever visited downtown Beirut at noon on Wednesday saw a number of buses transporting tourists of European nationalities touring the vicinity of Martyrs’ Square. At the same time, whoever goes to any of the restaurants in the center, even in the middle of the week, can notice the crowding and may be unable to find a table in a restaurant, without prior reservation.
Lebanon does not need campaigns from the Ministry of Tourism. Adding “welcome” to the “welcome to the world” slogan will not bring us a single additional tourist. Lebanon’s added value in terms of tourism lies in other places and factors.
Lebanon needs, especially in the summer, stability. When we talk about stability, this includes security, politics and currency. As for the rest of the tourism elements, they are available in Lebanon, albeit at a minimum level sometimes. A delicious bite can be found in a fancy restaurant in downtown Beirut or in a small restaurant in a remote village. That is, you can pay a high price for this bite, or an acceptable and logical price.
Lebanon has some attractions that interest the Western tourist more than the Lebanese resident or the Arab tourist. Walking around the markets of Byblos, Batroun, Sidon, Tyre, and others is a pleasure for many. To visit an ancient church that is only tens of meters away from an ancient mosque is something that may not be available to you anywhere in the world.
We, those who live in Lebanon, are affected by its crises, and follow the news about it, see the country from another angle different from that seen by the tourist. The important thing is that we realize the value of what we have. and to preserve it. And to be aware that many guests will come to our homeland in the next few months. Let’s welcome them…
