Jezzine District: Lebanon's Mountainous Gem

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlak]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bukhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid an ara alqaima, min fadlak]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakol allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfa', min fadlak]

• Help!النجدة!
  [annajda!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansraf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassal bitalib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [awad an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatala]
• 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 تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfid alsir?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'a alwahida]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashira walnisf]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonمساء
  [masa]
• Eveningمساء
  [masa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tesa'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashra]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayn...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala alkhareeta)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى القادم (الحافلة)؟
  [mata alqadim (alhafilah)?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tazkirah (ila ....)]

Jezzine District, nestled in the southern part of Lebanon, boasts a rich history that dates back to antiquity. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by various ancient civilizations, including the Phoenicians. The region's strategic location and fertile lands made it a valuable settlement for these early peoples, who left behind remnants of their sophisticated culture and trade networks.

During the medieval period, Jezzine District saw the influence of the Crusaders. The Crusaders built fortifications and castles in the region, utilizing its high vantage points for military advantage. The remnants of these fortifications can still be seen today, serving as a testament to the region's historical significance in the Crusader era.

The Ottoman Empire's rule over Lebanon, including Jezzine District, brought significant architectural and cultural changes. The town of Jezzine became a focal point for Ottoman administration and development. Many of the district's historical buildings, including traditional houses and public structures, date back to the Ottoman period, showcasing classic Ottoman architectural elements such as red-tiled roofs and arched windows.

Jezzine District played a notable role during Lebanon's struggle for independence from French mandate in the mid-20th century. The region's residents actively participated in the national movement, contributing to the country's eventual independence in 1943. Post-independence, Jezzine has continued to thrive, preserving its historical essence while embracing modern development.

Jezzine District is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals and traditions. Among these, the Jezzine Summer Festival stands out, attracting visitors from across Lebanon and beyond. The festival celebrates the area's rich cultural heritage through music, dance, and local cuisine. Traditional crafts, such as the famous Jezzine cutlery, are also showcased, highlighting the district's artisanal heritage.

Jezzine District is not only rich in history but also blessed with natural beauty. The region is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the Jezzine Waterfall, one of the highest in Lebanon. The district's lush forests, scenic hiking trails, and beautiful viewpoints attract nature lovers and adventure seekers, making it a key destination for eco-tourism in Lebanon.

Jezzine District is located in southern Lebanon, approximately 40 kilometers from the city of Sidon and 80 kilometers from Beirut. The nearest international airport is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport. From Beirut, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use public buses to reach Jezzine. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road, depending on traffic conditions. For a more scenic route, consider driving through the coastal road via Sidon.

Within Jezzine District, taxis are readily available and are the most convenient mode of transportation. Public buses and minibuses (often called 'service' taxis) operate between Jezzine and nearby towns. Renting a car is also an option if you prefer to explore the district at your own pace. Be aware that road conditions can vary, especially in more rural areas. Walking is feasible in the town centers, where many attractions are within short distances.

The official currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (LBP), though US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, particularly in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Jezzine, though it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in larger cities like Beirut or Sidon before traveling.

Jezzine District is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Jezzine, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Jezzine. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital or clinic.

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 religious sites. 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 slight bow of the head as 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 Jezzine District like a local, visit the traditional souks and markets where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Jezzine Waterfall, one of the highest in Lebanon, and the historic Saint Maroun Church. For a unique experience, try the local specialty, Jezzine cutlery, known for its intricate designs and craftsmanship.