The Enchanting Batroun Coast: Lebanon's Coastal Gem

• Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [Wadaan]
• Yesنعم
  [Naam]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [Min fadlik/Ala al-rahb was-sa'ah]
• Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [A'zra]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bikhair. Wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatakallam al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [Ana la afham]

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

• Help!النجدة!
  [An-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [Insarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Itsal bish-shurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [Itsal bit-tabiib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [Lakad dalalt at-tariiq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أرغب في شراء...
  [Arghab fi shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [Ana faqat atatallaa]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [Kam sa'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [Hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuk takhfid al-sa'ruh?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam as-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [As-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)نصف العاشرة
  [Nisf al-aashirah]
• Morningالصباح
  [As-sabah]
• Afternoonالمساء
  [Al-masa']
• Eveningالمساء
  [Al-masa']
• Yesterdayالأمس
  [Al-ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [Al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2إثنان
  [Ithnayn]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [Arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [Sitah]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [Tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [Asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين الـ...
  [Ayna al-...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma huwa al-'unwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala al-khariitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [Mata al-hafilah al-qadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [Tadhkirah (ila ...)]

Batroun is one of the oldest cities in the world, believed to have been founded by the Phoenicians around the 5th century BC. The Phoenicians, known for their maritime prowess, established Batroun as a significant trading port. Evidence of their presence can be seen in the ancient sea walls, believed to have been constructed to protect the city from the sea.

During the Crusades, Batroun was an important stronghold. The Crusaders built the Church of St. Stephen, which still stands today as a testament to their architectural skills and religious fervor. The city served as a pivotal point in the defense against Muslim forces, and its strategic location made it a key asset in the Crusader states.

Batroun came under Ottoman rule in the 16th century and remained so until the end of World War I. During this period, Batroun experienced significant development in terms of infrastructure and urban planning. The Ottoman influence is visible in the architecture of several buildings, including the Maronite churches and traditional houses with their red-tiled roofs.

After World War I, Batroun came under the French Mandate, leading to further modernization. The French influence can be seen in the city's schools, administrative buildings, and urban design. Batroun's port continued to be a vital economic hub, boosting trade and cultural exchange between Lebanon and Europe.

Batroun is not just a historical site but also a vibrant cultural hub. The city hosts several annual festivals that celebrate its rich history and diverse culture. The Batroun International Festival, held every summer, features music, art, and culinary events that attract visitors from around the world. The city's narrow streets and historic buildings provide a picturesque backdrop for these festivities.

Batroun is also known for its wine-making tradition, which dates back to the Phoenician era. The region's climate and fertile soil make it ideal for vineyards. Modern-day Batroun boasts several wineries that produce high-quality wines, reflecting a blend of ancient techniques and contemporary practices. Wine tours and tastings have become a popular attraction for visitors.

Batroun Coast is located in northern Lebanon, approximately 50 kilometers north of Beirut. The nearest international airport is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY). From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange a private transfer to Batroun, which typically takes around an hour via the coastal highway. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport for more flexibility during your stay.

Within Batroun, you can easily navigate the town on foot, as many attractions and amenities are within walking distance. For longer trips or to explore nearby areas, taxis are readily available and relatively affordable. Buses and minibuses (known locally as 'service') connect Batroun with other cities like Beirut and Tripoli. Renting a car is also a viable option if you plan to explore the countryside and neighboring towns at your own pace.

The official currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (LBP), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Credit cards are commonly used in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout Batroun, and you can withdraw both LBP and USD.

Batroun is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to stay vigilant and take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Batroun does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Batroun has a local police station and medical facilities to handle emergencies. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, cover your head and dress conservatively. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Batroun like a local, visit the local souks (markets) where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Lebanese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the ancient Phoenician wall and the historic St. Stephen's Cathedral. For a unique experience, try windsurfing or paddleboarding along the Batroun coast.