15 Unique Things You’ll Only Find in Lebanon | Arabic Roots, French Flair & African Footprints

15 Unique Things You’ll Only Find in Lebanon | Arabic Roots, French Flair & African Footprints

In Lebanon, sheesha isn’t just a 
casual pastime—it’s a way of life. There’s no specific place or time for it. 
Whether you’re at a restaurant, pub, café, beach, or even on the sidewalk, sheesha is 
always present. In fact, in many places, food feels secondary—sheesha is the main event.
You’ll find people enjoying hargeela (as it’s locally called) everywhere—inside their cars, 
outside shops, on pathways, and even while casually chatting with friends on the street. 
It’s as common as carrying a pack of cigarettes, except here, the ritual is more social. It’s 
not just about smoking—it’s about gathering, unwinding, and sharing stories over 
the soothing aroma of flavored tobacco. Lebanese people don’t just drink coffee—they live 
coffee. It’s an essential part of daily life, deeply rooted in tradition and hospitality. 
Lebanon has a long history with Arabica beans, and you’ll find coffee being enjoyed everywhere, 
at any time of the day. Walk through a souq, and you’ll hear the familiar clinking of 
cups as wandering coffee vendors serve small, strong cups of Lebanese-style coffee to 
passersby. Whether you’re in the city, a rural village, or even on a highway, 
tiny roadside stalls and machines are always ready to pour you a fresh, aromatic brew.
Beyond drinking it, coffee-making is considered an art in Lebanon. Many workshops are regularly 
held to teach the perfect brewing techniques, coffee rituals, and cultural 
significance behind each cup. Whether its for skincare, wellness, and 
healing, Lebanon has a long tradition of using herbal products dating back to Phoenician 
and Mediterranean times. One of the most famous is the handmade olive oil soap, found mainly 
in Tripoli and Sidon. Made with pure olive oil, lavender, honey, and essential oils, these soaps 
are still used in traditional hammams today. Beyond soaps, Lebanon is also known for 
essential oils which are made of cedarwood, rosemary, and lavender. These oils are widely 
used in aromatherapy and natural healing. And if you’re a tea lover, don’t miss Zhourat—a 
herbal blend of wild thyme, rose petals, and other local herbs, which is known for boosting 
immunity and digestion. Whether for relaxation, skincare, or wellness, Lebanese 
herbal products are a must-try! Lebanon’s hammams are more than just 
bathhouses—they’re a living piece of history, which were famous across middle eastern and north 
african regions. At a time when private bathrooms were a luxury, hammams were introduced during the 
Ottoman era, these traditional public baths were once an essential part of daily life, offering 
people a place to bathe, unwind, and socialize. Over the years, many hammams have been renovated 
into spa resorts, but a few original ones still exist, mainly in Tripoli and Beirut.
Originally, hammams were exclusive to men, but as times changed, women also became 
part of the experience, though with limited access. Everything inside is kept as natural as 
possible—wooden logs are burned to heat the water, star-shaped ceiling openings 
allow natural ventilation, and central fountains create a calming 
atmosphere. While some have fallen into ruins, they still remain a key part of Lebanon’s 
cultural and architectural heritage. In Lebanon, graffiti is more than just street 
art—it’s a powerful voice of the people. From vibrant characters to bold slogans, the walls 
of Lebanese cities tell stories of resistance, struggle, and hope. Whether it’s about women’s 
rights, the refugee crisis, economic struggles, or memories of war, graffiti here reflects 
the emotions of a nation that has seen it all. This culture of street art started during the 
Lebanese Civil War, when different political and militant groups used graffiti to mark their 
presence. Over time, it evolved into a form of protest and self-expression, turning walls into an 
open-air diary of Lebanon’s changing identity. So, as you walk through Lebanon, pay close attention 
to the walls—they might just reveal more about the country than any history book ever could.
Unlike many Arab countries, Lebanon has a thriving drinking culture, with alcohol as 
widely available as in Europe or the U.S. It’s common to walk into a small shop for 
coffee and find Jägermeister, single malts, and fine wines stacked beside the counter. 
Bars and pubs are buzzing, and Lebanese people enjoy their drinks just as much as their coffee.
While Almaza dominates the beer market, Lebanon is also a hidden gem for winemaking, with a history 
dating back 5,000 years. Regions like Zahle, Batroun, and Kefraya boast stunning vineyards 
and interactive wine tours, offering visitors a chance to experience the art of Lebanese 
winemaking firsthand. If you’re a wine lover, this is an experience you don’t want to miss!
One of the most charming things about Lebanon is the abundance of orange and lemon trees. Unlike in 
many countries where citrus trees are confined to private farms, in Lebanon, they grow everywhere—I 
mean even along sidewalks, and in city streets. The country’s geography and climate 
make it ideal for citrus cultivation, and these fruits have been a part of Lebanese 
culture and trade since Phoenician times. Lemons play a huge role in Lebanese cuisine—you’ll 
find them in almost every dish, from hummus and tabbouleh to fattoush and grilled seafood. 
Meanwhile, oranges are not just for local consumption but are widely exported due to their 
high demand in international markets. Lebanon even has shops and franchises dedicated entirely to 
lemonade, and yes, there’s even a lemonade museum! Walking through Lebanon is a blend of history, 
coastal beauty, and modern charm. If you love tradition, explore the souks of Tripoli and Sidon, 
where you’ll find street food, spices, and local crafts in a lively, old-world setting. For a 
more european and laid-back experience, Byblos and Batroun offer boutique shops, cozy cafés, and 
seafront restaurants, making them perfect for both daytime strolls and buzzing nightlife. Meanwhile, 
Zaitouna Bay is all about luxury, with yachts, fine dining, and an upscale city vibe.
And when it comes to sunsets, Lebanon does it best. From Pigeon Rocks in the Raouché to the 
many coastal cafés and restaurants overlooking the Mediterranean, there’s no better way to end 
the day than watching the sky turn golden with a cup of coffee or a sheesha in hand. No matter 
your mood, Lebanon has the perfect spot for you! Lebanon is a land of diverse faiths, where 
Islam and Christianity coexist side by side. The country was once polytheistic. 
Christianity spread in the 1st century AD, followed by Islamic invasions in the 7th century. 
Today, the population is somewhat evenly split among Christians, Sunni Muslims, and Shia Muslims.
With around 4,000 mosques and 3,000 churches, Lebanon is home to some of the most historic 
places of worship. The Al-Omari Grand Mosque, originally a Crusader church, showcases stunning 
Gothic architecture, while the Tanya Mosque in Tripoli dates back to the Mamluk era. On the 
Christian side, the St. John Cathedral in Byblos is a beautiful reminder of Lebanon’s Crusader 
history, and Our Lady of Lebanon in Harissa, overlooking the bay, is a major pilgrimage site.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Lebanon is its symbolic religious harmony—wherever there 
is a historic church, you’ll often find a mosque standing right beside it. A perfect example is St. 
George Maronite Cathedral and the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque in the heart of Beirut, standing side by 
side as a reflection of Lebanon’s shared heritage. Lebanon is a living museum, home to some of the 
world’s most fascinating historical landmarks, many of which are UNESCO Heritage Sites. From 
the Phoenicians to the Romans and Ottomans, every civilization has left its mark here. 
Places like Baalbek, Byblos, Tyre, Anjar, and the Qadisha Valley are famous for holding 
historical sites not from decades but from centuries. One can enjoy exploring monasteries, 
harbors, temples, and Islamic architecture, some dating as far back as 7000 BC. The country is 
also dotted with forts and castles, offering not just rich history but also breathtaking views.
For those who love museums, Lebanon has plenty to offer. The National Museum of Beirut showcases 
artifacts from the Roman, Ottoman, and Phoenician eras, while the MIM Museum holds an impressive 
mineral and fossil collection whereas the Genocide Museum documents the tragic history of Armenian 
refugees. Whether you’re into archaeology, art, or ancient civilizations, Lebanon 
is a paradise for history lovers, where every stone has a story to tell.
Lebanon isn’t just about beaches and Mediterranean sunsets—it’s also a top 
winter destination with snow-covered mountains and world-class ski resorts.
When winter arrives, the cedar forests and high-altitude slopes transform into a paradise 
for adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding and hiking. Unlike many countries where winter 
sports require long road trips to remote areas, Lebanon’s ski resorts are just a short drive 
from Beirut , making it easy to go from the coast to the slopes in just a couple of hours.
But here’s something unique: the Chalet culture. Instead of just doing a one-day ski trip, 
many Lebanese prefer to spend a few days in private chalets, which are basically cozy 
mountain lodges with wooden interiors, fireplaces, and breathtaking views. These 
places feel like winter fairy tales! So, if you thought the Middle East was all about 
deserts, Lebanon will surely change your mind! I don’t want to sound over-the-top, but Lebanon 
might just be the best party destination outside of Las Vegas and Ibiza! I know—it’s a 
country with a Muslim-majority population, but let me tell you, the nightlife here 
doesn’t hold back. Whether it’s a Monday, Wednesday, or the weekend, the clubs 
are always pumping. Whatever your vibe, Lebanon has it all—Afro clubs, belly dance 
performances, rooftop bars, techno raves, beachfront lounges, and high-energy 
discotheques. You name it, they have it! And here’s the part that truly blew my mind. 
Lebanon has been facing crazy inflation, and yet, walk through Zaitouna Bay, Mar Mikhael 
Street, or Raouché, and you’ll start questioning everything. Expensive restaurants packed with 
people, luxury apartments, high-end boutiques, supercars revving at traffic lights—it’s insane. 
The energy is electric, the streets come alive at night, and the city feels unstoppable. 
No wonder Beirut was once called the “Paris of the Middle East.” So, if you love a good 
night out, Beirut is where you need to be! Lebanese people have a deep love for water, and 
despite challenges with access to clean water, the country’s beaches, rivers, and waterfalls 
remain an essential part of life. Unlike most Arab nations which are known for desert safaris 
and camel rides, Lebanon is all about coastal adventures and water sports. When summer arrives, 
everyone heads to the beach—whether to swim, sunbathe, jet ski, or simply enjoy the 
Mediterranean breeze. Even in the off-season, you’ll find people fishing, taking casual 
dips, or enjoying a seaside stroll. Lebanon has 14 major rivers, stunning natural 
waterfalls, underground river in Jeita Grotto and amazing lakes like the one in Aqoura. Yet, 
water access for daily use remains a challenge. Many homes rely on water tanker trucks, and 
due to infrastructure issues, overhead water tanks here are often kept on the ground instead 
of rooftops. River pollution is another concern, but despite this, Lebanon’s natural 
water scapes remain breathtaking. Lebanese food is a perfect blend of fresh 
ingredients, bold flavors, and rich traditions. No matter what I ordered, I was always served warm 
Lebanese bread, which is a staple at every meal. Even as a vegetarian, I had no trouble finding 
delicious options—Lebanese cuisine is naturally rich in herbs, citrus, and plant-based dishes.
From the refreshing tabbouleh and creamy hummus to soft pita bread and smoky kebabs, every bite is 
flavorful and satisfying. And of course, there’s shawarma—a Lebanese street food favorite, nearly 
a foot long, packed with marinated meat, fresh veggies, hummus, and garlic mayo. Whether dining 
in a restaurant or grabbing a quick bite, Lebanese food is an experience you don’t need to develop 
a taste for—you’ll love it from the first bite! Lebanese people are some of the most fun-loving 
and welcoming individuals, but when it comes to geopolitics, things can get complicated. 
They deserve happiness and prosperity, yet their country has faced decades of political 
instability, economic collapse, and civil unrest. After gaining independence in 1943, a 
power-sharing system was introduced, where the President must be Christian, 
the Prime Minister Sunni Muslim, and the Speaker of Parliament Shia Muslim—an attempt 
to balance power between the country’s major communities. While this sounded ideal on paper, 
power struggles and external influences have fueled long-standing tensions. Over the years, 
Lebanon has experienced multiple civil wars, foreign interventions, and political deadlocks, 
even going years without a president at times. But the real tragedy? The financial crisis. Many 
Lebanese lost their entire life savings after corrupt officials mismanaged bank deposits, 
leaving people helpless and frustrated. This, along with ongoing instability, forced thousands 
to leave the country in search of a better future. As you drive through Lebanon’s breathtaking 
landscapes, you’ll also see the scars of conflict—collapsed buildings, bullet-riddled 
walls, and shattered rooftops, silent reminders of the country’s past struggles. Even today, power 
cuts are frequent, water access is unreliable, and government infrastructure is poorly managed.
And yet, despite all this, the Lebanese spirit remains unbreakable. They continue to smile, 
push forward, and make the best of life, proving that no matter what challenges come 
their way, hope is something they refuse to lose.

I spent just 5 days in Lebanon—and what I discovered deserves to be seen.
Forget the headlines, forget the stereotypes—Lebanon is a country that defies every expectation. In this video, I uncover 15 surprising truths about this tiny but fascinating country that the mainstream media rarely shows you.

From hookah (sheesha) as a lifestyle, graffiti as public storytelling, and coffee as a cultural ritual, to the spiritual calm of ancient hammams, citizen resilience amidst civil unrest, and a nightlife that feels like Saturday every day, Lebanon is a country where contrasts live side by side.

Despite facing an economic crisis, inflation, political gridlock, and power cuts, the Lebanese people continue to radiate warmth, hope, and a zest for life that’s deeply contagious.

You’ll also experience:

🍋 Citrus trees growing in the middle of city sidewalks
🕊️ Mosques and churches standing side by side in peace
🎨 Graffiti walls that speak louder than news anchors
🏔️ Snow-capped ski resorts just an hour from the beach
🧼 Handmade olive oil soaps passed down for generations
☕ Coffee rituals that are as sacred as religion
🍷 A thriving wine scene in the heart of the Arab world
🍽️ Some of the most vibrant and vegetarian-friendly cuisine
🔥 A party scene that rivals Ibiza and Vegas
💔 Raw realities of war-torn ruins and shattered savings

Every frame of this video was shot with curiosity, admiration, and deep respect for the Lebanese spirit. I travelled across Beirut, Byblos, Tripoli, Batroun, and more, speaking with locals, walking through old souks, sipping coffee on the streets, and observing the daily rhythm of a land that continues to smile through its scars.

📍 Whether you’re a traveler, a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply someone looking for honest storytelling—this one’s for you.

🎥 Chapters:
0:00 – Intro
0:38 – Sheesha Culture
2:10 – Coffee as a Way of Life
3:55 – Herbal Remedies & Wellness Traditions
5:23 – Hammams & Historic Bathhouses
7:05 – Graffiti & Street Protest Art
8:36 – Lebanon’s Unique Drinking Culture
10:12 – Citrus Trees on City Streets
11:44 – Walking Across History & Luxury
13:17 – Religious Harmony: Mosques + Churches
14:51 – Timeless Heritage & UNESCO Sites
16:30 – Ski Resorts & Chalet Life
18:05 – The Party Capital of the Middle East
19:43 – Beaches, Waterfalls & Adventure Sports
21:10 – The Food: Fresh, Flavorful & Vegetarian-Friendly
23:04 – The Harsh Realities & Unbreakable Spirit
24:35 – Final Thoughts

🧳 Subscribe for more raw, real, and respectful travel storytelling.
🎙️ Comment below: What surprised you the most about Lebanon?

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