Keserwan: The Gem of Lebanon's Mountains and Coastline

• HelloMarhaba
  [mar-ha-ba]
• GoodbyeMa'a as-salama
  [ma-a as-sa-la-ma]
• YesNa'am
  [na-am]
• NoLa
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeMin fadlik
  [min fad-lik]
• Thank youShukran
  [shuk-ran]
• Excuse me/SorrySamahni
  [sa-mah-ni]
• How are you?Kifak?
  [ki-fak]
• Fine. And you?Mni7. W inta?
  [mni-seb. w in-ta]
• Do you speak English?Bitetkallem Englizi?
  [bi-tet-kal-lem en-gli-zi]
• I don't understandMa fhemt
  [ma-fhemt]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBaddi shuf il menu, min fadlik
  [bad-di shuf il me-nu, min fad-lik]
• I don't eat meatMa bakkol lahme
  [ma bak-kol lah-me]
• Cheers!Saha!
  [sa-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseBaddi as2al, min fadlik
  [bad-di as-kal, min fad-lik]

• Help!3awni!
  ['aw-ni]
• Go away!Il3ab!
  [il-ab]
• Call the Police!Il3ab bi il bulis!
  [il-ab bi il bu-lis]
• Call a doctor!Il3ab bi il tabib!
  [il-ab bi il ta-bib]
• I'm lostGhilt
  [ghilt]
• I'm illAna mareed
  [a-na ma-reed]

• I'd like to buy...Baddi ishteri...
  [bad-di ish-te-ri]
• I'm just lookingAna bas bi shuf
  [a-na bas bi shuf]
• How much is it?Bi kam?
  [bi kam]
• That's too expensiveHada ghali kteer
  [ha-da gha-li kteer]
• Can you lower the price?Mumkin ttakhed il se3r?
  [mum-kin tta-khed il se-er]

• What time is it?Kam il sa3a?
  [kam il sa-a]
• It's one o'clockSaa wahde
  [sa-a wah-de]
• Half past (10)Nus il 3ashra
  [nus il a-shra]
• MorningSaba7
  [sa-ba-seb]
• AfternoonDuhur
  [du-hur]
• Evening3asha
  ['a-sha]
• YesterdayImbarih
  [im-ba-rih]
• TodayLyom
  [lyom]
• TomorrowBukra
  [buk-ra]
• 1Wahad
  [wa-had]
• 2Jou
  [jou]
• 3Talata
  [ta-la-ta]
• 4Arba3a
  [ar-ba-a]
• 5Khamse
  [kham-se]
• 6Sitta
  [sit-ta]
• 7Sabe3a
  [sa-be-a]
• 8Thamania
  [tha-ma-nia]
• 9Tisa3a
  [ti-sa-a]
• 103ashra
  ['a-shra]

• Where's a/the...?Wayn il...
  [wayn il]
• What's the address?Shou il 3enwan?
  [shu il en-wan]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mumkin turiini (3ala il khareeta)?
  [mum-kin tu-ri-ni (a-la il kha-ree-ta)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ish sa3a il bus it7e3?
  [ish sa-a il bus it-he]
• A ticket (to ....)Talabit (ila ...)
  [ta-la-bit (ila)]

The Keserwan District, nestled along the Mediterranean coast, traces its origins back to the ancient Phoenicians. This seafaring civilization established numerous settlements in the region, leveraging its strategic location for trade and maritime activities. Archaeological sites in the district reveal remnants of Phoenician temples, pottery, and inscriptions, highlighting their influence on the area's early cultural and economic development.

During the Byzantine era, Keserwan District became a significant center for early Christianity. Numerous churches and monasteries were established, some of which still stand today. These structures not only served as places of worship but also as centers of learning and community life. The district's mountainous terrain provided a natural refuge for Christian communities during times of persecution.

Keserwan is renowned for its deep-rooted Maronite Christian heritage. The Maronites, escaping persecution, found refuge in the district's rugged mountains and established thriving communities. The region is dotted with historical Maronite churches and monasteries, such as the Our Lady of Lebanon in Harissa, a significant pilgrimage site offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Under Ottoman rule, Keserwan District experienced significant administrative changes. The Ottomans implemented new governance structures and integrated the district into their expansive empire. This period saw the construction of various infrastructure projects, including roads and administrative buildings, contributing to the region's development and connectivity with other parts of Lebanon.

The Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990) had a profound impact on Keserwan District. The area witnessed significant conflict and displacement. However, in the post-war period, Keserwan has undergone remarkable transformation and reconstruction. The district has emerged as a major tourist destination, renowned for its natural beauty, historical sites, and vibrant cultural festivals. Modern-day Keserwan is a testament to resilience and regeneration, showcasing a harmonious blend of ancient heritage and contemporary development.

The Keserwan District in Lebanon is easily accessible from Beirut, the capital city, which is approximately 30 kilometers away. The nearest airport is Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to Keserwan District. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes by road. Alternatively, you can rent a car to explore the region at your own pace.

Within Keserwan District, the primary modes of transportation are taxis and private cars. Local taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Public minibuses (known as 'service') also operate within the district and connect to nearby areas. Renting a car is a convenient option for those who wish to explore the district's mountains, coastal areas, and historical sites independently.

The official currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (LBP), although US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout Keserwan District for cash withdrawals.

Keserwan District is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is important to take standard safety 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 in Keserwan, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to the emergency services in Lebanon. There are local police stations and medical facilities available in Keserwan District. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available 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 Keserwan District 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 region's history and culture. Don't miss visiting key sites like Harissa, a popular religious site with a statue of Our Lady of Lebanon, and the Jeita Grotto, a stunning natural limestone cave. For a unique experience, take a ride on the Téléférique, a cable car offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains.