Bcharre: The Gem of the Cedars

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathara]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uriidu an araa alqaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا أأكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allaham]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uriidu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajda!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [iatisil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [iatisil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostضاعت الطريق
  [da'at altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [awadu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atafarraj]
• 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 خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka khaafid alsu'ur?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالواحدة
  [alwahida]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashira walinisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [alduhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa]
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [albariha]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [athnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [saba'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tasia'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين...
  [ayna...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tureeni (ala alkharita)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata alhafilat alqadima?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirat (ila ...)]

Bcharre's roots trace back to the Phoenician civilization, one of the oldest cultures in the region. The Phoenicians, known for their seafaring and trading skills, established settlements across the Mediterranean. Bcharre, nestled in the mountains of northern Lebanon, served as a strategic location for the Phoenicians, providing a hinterland to their coastal cities. Artifacts and inscriptions discovered in the area highlight the influence and presence of this ancient civilization.

Bcharre holds a significant place in the history of the Maronite Christians. In the 7th century, Maronite monks fled persecution and sought refuge in the rugged terrain of the Qadisha Valley, which surrounds Bcharre. The town became a bastion of Maronite Christianity, fostering a spiritual and cultural heritage that continues to thrive today. The Maronite patriarchal seat was established in the nearby Monastery of Qozhaya, reinforcing Bcharre's status as a religious center.

During the Ottoman Empire's rule over Lebanon, Bcharre experienced both hardship and resilience. The town, like much of the region, was subject to Ottoman taxation and governance. Despite these challenges, Bcharre maintained its cultural and religious identity. The Ottomans allowed a degree of autonomy to the Maronite community, which helped preserve the town's traditions and way of life during centuries of foreign rule.

Bcharre is renowned as the birthplace of Khalil Gibran, one of the most celebrated writers and philosophers of the early 20th century. Born in 1883, Gibran's works, including 'The Prophet,' have left an indelible mark on world literature. The Gibran Museum in Bcharre, housed in a former monastery, showcases his manuscripts, drawings, and personal belongings, offering visitors insight into the life and mind of this literary giant. Gibran's legacy continues to attract admirers from around the globe.

Bcharre is home to the ancient Cedars of God, a forest of majestic cedar trees that have stood for thousands of years. These trees, mentioned in the Bible and revered by various civilizations, symbolize Lebanon's natural heritage. The Cedars of God were once part of vast forests that covered the region, but now only a small grove remains. This site is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it remains a powerful symbol of endurance and resilience, much like the town of Bcharre itself.

In recent decades, Bcharre has transformed into a vibrant hub for tourism and culture. The town's rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural landmarks draw visitors from all over the world. Bcharre's local festivals, traditional crafts, and warm hospitality offer a unique glimpse into Lebanese mountain life. Despite modern challenges, the community remains deeply connected to its historical and cultural roots, ensuring that the legacy of Bcharre endures for future generations.

Bcharre is situated in the northern part of Lebanon, in the Qadisha Valley. The nearest international airport is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, approximately 120 kilometers away. From Beirut, you can rent a car or take a taxi for a scenic drive to Bcharre, which usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the Charles Helou Bus Station in Beirut to Bcharre, although this option might take longer.

Bcharre is a small town, and many of its attractions, including the famous Cedars of God, are within walking distance. Taxis are available for longer trips, and they are relatively inexpensive. Renting a car can also be a good option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Public buses connect Bcharre to nearby towns and cities, but they might not be as frequent or convenient as taxis.

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

Bcharre is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always advisable to exercise standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Bcharre, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Bcharre. It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches and monasteries. 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. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Bcharre like a local, visit the local 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 Gibran Museum, dedicated to the famous Lebanese poet and artist Khalil Gibran. For a unique experience, take a hike in the Qadisha Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Lebanon's rich history.