Horsh Ehden: The Green Jewel of Lebanon

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  ['uzrana]
• 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 understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uridu an ara al-qa'ima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akul al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awadu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najda!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [idhab ba'idan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itasil bis-shurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itasil bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt al-tariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uridu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarih]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam hu thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka khafd al-si'ar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-sa'ah al-wahida]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [al-sa'ah al-'ashira wal-nusf]
• Morningالصباح
  [al-sabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [al-zuhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-masa]
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [al-barihah]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين يوجد...؟
  [ayn yujad...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al-`anwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tarini (ala al-khartah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata ya'ti al-hafilah al-qadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tadhkirah (ila ....)]

The history of Horsh Ehden dates back to ancient times. It is believed that the area was inhabited by various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, who were known for their maritime trade and advanced culture. Archaeological evidence suggests that the lush forests and natural springs of Horsh Ehden provided a hospitable environment for these early settlers.

Horsh Ehden is closely associated with the Maronite Christian community, which has deep roots in the region. The Maronite Christians, who follow a unique Eastern Catholic tradition, have played a significant role in shaping the cultural and religious landscape of Ehden. The area is home to several historic Maronite monasteries and churches that date back to the medieval period.

During the Ottoman Empire's rule over Lebanon from the 16th to the early 20th century, Horsh Ehden experienced significant changes. The Ottomans established administrative control over the area, and the local population engaged in agriculture and trade. The forests of Horsh Ehden were also a valuable resource, providing timber for construction and fuel.

Following World War I, Lebanon came under French mandate, and Horsh Ehden saw further development. The French influence is evident in some of the architectural styles and infrastructure projects initiated during this period. The mandate era also saw increased attention to the preservation of natural areas, including the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve.

Established in 1992, the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve is one of Lebanon's most important protected areas. The reserve covers over 1,000 hectares and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the region. The creation of the reserve marked a significant effort to preserve the natural heritage of Ehden and promote eco-tourism.

Today, Horsh Ehden is a popular destination for both local and international tourists. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness. Visitors can explore the dense forests, hike scenic trails, and visit ancient monasteries, all while experiencing the warm hospitality of the local community. The area continues to be a testament to the enduring legacy of its diverse historical influences.

Horsh Ehden is located in the Northern part of Lebanon, near the town of Ehden in the Zgharta District. The nearest international airport is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, approximately 110 kilometers away. From Beirut, you can rent a car or take a taxi to reach Horsh Ehden. The journey typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours by road. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Beirut to Tripoli and then a taxi from Tripoli to Ehden.

Once in Ehden, the easiest way to reach Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve is by car or taxi. The reserve itself is best explored on foot, as it is a protected area with well-marked hiking trails. For local transportation within Ehden and nearby villages, taxis are readily available. Public buses are less frequent, so renting a car can provide more flexibility for exploring the surrounding areas.

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 Ehden, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and when visiting rural areas. ATMs are available in Ehden, allowing you to withdraw cash as needed.

Horsh Ehden and the surrounding area are generally safe for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police or 140 for medical assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Ehden. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing 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 Horsh Ehden like a local, visit the local markets in Ehden 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 area's history and culture. Don't miss out on trying local dishes such as 'Kibbeh' and 'Tabbouleh'. For a unique experience, join a guided hike in the Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve to learn about the diverse flora and fauna from an expert.