The Majestic Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaan]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا لك
  [shukran lak]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadraan]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhair. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأرغب في رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [urghib fi ru'ya al-qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود الدفع، من فضلك
  [awad al-daf', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [insaraf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itasil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [itasil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [liqad dallat al-tariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أرغب بشراء...
  [urghib bishira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [bi kam hadha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfeed al-sa'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [al-sa'ah al-ashirah w al-nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [al-subah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [al-dhuhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-masa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين توجد...
  [ayn tujad...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al-unnwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك عرضه لي (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk uridhu li (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي القادم (حافلة)؟
  [mata yaati al-qadim (hafilah)?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirah (ila ...)]

The Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve is home to some of the oldest cedar trees in the world, with some trees dating back over 2,000 years. The cedars of Lebanon are mentioned numerous times in ancient texts, including the Bible, highlighting their historical significance. These majestic trees were prized by ancient civilizations for their high-quality timber, which was used in the construction of temples, ships, and palaces.

During the Phoenician era, which lasted from around 1500 BCE to 300 BCE, the cedar wood from Al Shouf was highly sought after. The Phoenicians, known for their seafaring and trade, used the durable and aromatic cedar wood to construct their famous ships. These ships enabled them to establish trade networks across the Mediterranean, spreading their influence far and wide.

Under Roman rule, which began in 64 BCE, the cedar forests of Al Shouf continued to be a valuable resource. The Romans utilized cedar wood in their construction projects, including the building of fortresses and public buildings. The Roman Emperor Hadrian is known to have issued decrees aimed at protecting these precious forests from over-exploitation.

During the Ottoman period, which began in 1516, the cedar forests suffered significant deforestation due to the high demand for timber. The Ottomans used cedar wood for various purposes, including railway construction and as fuel for steam engines. This period saw a dramatic decline in the cedar population, leading to early conservation efforts.

In the 20th century, recognizing the ecological and cultural importance of the cedar forests, the Lebanese government and various international organizations initiated conservation efforts. The Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve was officially established in 1996, aimed at protecting and preserving the remaining cedar forests. Today, the reserve is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a symbol of Lebanon's natural heritage.

The cedars of Lebanon hold a significant place in Lebanese culture and identity. They are featured on the national flag and are a source of pride for the Lebanese people. The cedar tree symbolizes resilience, longevity, and enduring strength, qualities that are deeply ingrained in the national consciousness. The Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve serves as a living testament to this cultural heritage.

Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve is located in the Shouf region of Lebanon. The nearest international airport is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, approximately 50 kilometers away. From Beirut, you can take a taxi or a private shuttle to the Shouf region. The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours by road. Alternatively, you can rent a car from the airport for more flexibility in your travels.

Transportation within Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve and the surrounding areas is usually done by car. Renting a car is highly recommended for ease of access and flexibility. Local taxis are available but may be limited in remote areas. Public buses connect some of the nearby villages, but schedules may be infrequent. Walking is also a great way to explore the reserve, especially for short distances and nature trails.

The official currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (LBP), but US Dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards can be used in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash, particularly in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in the main towns near the reserve, so you can withdraw cash as needed.

Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve is generally safe for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be cautious of your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police and medical facilities are available in nearby towns such as Barouk and Maaser El Shouf. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the nearby towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and local villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, dress appropriately and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate of other passengers. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite nod or handshake. A warm smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Al Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve like a local, consider visiting the local markets in nearby towns such as Deir El Qamar and Beiteddine. Engage with the locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region’s history and culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the local cuisine, including dishes like kibbeh and manakish. For an authentic experience, consider staying in a guesthouse or eco-lodge within the reserve.