Discover the Charm of Jounieh: Lebanon's Coastal Gem

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeمع السلامة
  [ma'a assalama]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathir]
• 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
  [uridu an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awadu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [insarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [itassal bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [laqad dalalt]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد شراء...
  [uridu shira'...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatala]
• 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 خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka khafd alsaeir?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaeah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaeah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [alsaeah alashirah walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alssabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [aldduhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• 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 alkhareetah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata alhafilah altaalia?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ila ...)]

Jounieh, nestled on the Mediterranean coast, has a history that traces back to the ancient Phoenician civilization. This strategic location served as a vital maritime hub, facilitating trade and cultural exchange across the Mediterranean basin. The Phoenicians, renowned for their seafaring skills and commerce, left behind remnants of their legacy, including artifacts and ruins that can still be explored today.

During the Roman era, Jounieh was part of the province of Syria and later Phoenice. The Romans, known for their architectural and engineering prowess, built roads, aqueducts, and other infrastructure that integrated Jounieh into the broader Roman Empire. Some archaeological finds from this period, including columns and mosaics, reflect the region's integration into Roman culture and economy.

In the Byzantine period, Jounieh became a significant center for Christianity. The spread of Christianity in the region is evidenced by the construction of churches and monasteries. Notable among these is the Church of St. John the Baptist, which stands as a testament to the area's early Christian heritage. This period also saw the development of religious art and architecture that continued to influence the region's cultural landscape.

The Ottoman Empire ruled Jounieh from the early 16th century until the end of World War I. During this time, Jounieh experienced significant administrative and cultural shifts. The Ottomans introduced new administrative structures and facilitated the growth of the town as a fishing village and trading port. The period is marked by a blend of Ottoman architectural styles and traditional Lebanese elements in the local buildings.

Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, Jounieh fell under the French Mandate from 1920 to 1943. This period saw substantial modernization and development, with the construction of new roads, schools, and public buildings. The French influence is still visible in the architectural styles and urban planning of the town. After gaining independence in 1943, Jounieh continued to grow, transforming into a vibrant city known for its nightlife, tourism, and cultural festivals.

Lebanon's civil war from 1975 to 1990 had a profound impact on Jounieh. The city, located in the predominantly Christian region of Keserwan, became a refuge for many displaced people and a center of political activity. Despite the turmoil, Jounieh maintained its cultural and social vibrancy, with local leaders working to preserve the city's heritage and community spirit during these challenging years.

In the years following the civil war, Jounieh underwent significant reconstruction and development. The city invested in infrastructure, tourism, and hospitality, leading to a boom in its popularity as a travel destination. Landmarks like the Our Lady of Lebanon statue in Harissa, the Casino du Liban, and the cable car to Harissa have become iconic attractions. Jounieh's blend of historical charm and modern amenities continues to attract visitors from around the world.

Jounieh is located about 16 kilometers north of Beirut, the capital of Lebanon. The nearest international airport is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a private transfer to Jounieh, which typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport for greater flexibility during your stay.

Within Jounieh, taxis are a popular and convenient mode of transport. Ensure to agree on a fare before starting your journey as taxis are often not metered. Public buses and minibuses (known locally as 'service') also operate in Jounieh, connecting it to Beirut and other nearby cities. Car rental services are available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace, but be mindful of local driving habits and traffic conditions.

The official currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (LBP), but US Dollars are widely accepted. Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Jounieh. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals, and it is recommended to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or local markets.

Jounieh is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to remain vigilant. Avoid flashing valuables and be cautious in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. While Jounieh itself does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always wise to stay alert, especially at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas.

In case of emergencies, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Jounieh has local police stations and medical facilities. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues, and many pharmacists speak English or French.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When entering churches, dress conservatively and avoid photography unless permitted. Public Transport: Do be polite and considerate to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. It is common to use 'Bonjour' for hello and 'Merci' for thank you. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Jounieh like a local, visit the old souks (markets) where you can find traditional Lebanese goods and fresh produce. Try the local street food, such as manakish and shawarma. Spend an evening at a local café enjoying a cup of Lebanese coffee or tea. For a unique experience, take the Teleferique cable car to Harissa for breathtaking views of the bay and the iconic Our Lady of Lebanon statue.