If you haven’t visited Khenchara yet, you have, in my opinion, missed out on one of Lebanon’s most charming villages. Nestled in the Metn mountains at an altitude of around 1,100m, the Lebanese village promises pine trees, fresh air, beautiful nature walks, history and culture, but also deeply-rooted traditions of arak and wine making. The […]
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Things to do in Paphos
It’s right next door, it’s the Mediterranean, and it’ crystal clear. Flying from Beirut, Cyprus is always a good idea for a quick beach getaway and gorgeous sea views. The best way to avoid the crowded beaches is to travel off-season, but also to pick the less touristy destinations. Paphos is one of them. Located […]
Roadtripping the Mountains of Cyprus
When I travel, I usually like to do it “off the beaten path”. Away from the flocks of tourists and beyond the attractions that travel agencies and online guides advertise. Even in Cyprus, that tiny Mediterranean island. I love the freedom of spontaneous plans and the thrill of taking unknown roads. I love the mountains […]
Les Jardins de Tyr: a Magical Escape in the Heart of Tyr.
Every family house has a story, what if it’s a circa century-old one? In the heart of Tyr, surrounded by hectares of banana plantations, a new bespoke boutique guesthouse has seen the light, commemorating the glorious roots of the Charaf family. Built by the Charaf grandfather, whose many noble deeds earned him the title of […]
5 Museums Not to Miss in Istanbul
If you think street food and popular streets are all there is to Istanbul, think twice. The city’s art and cultural scene can keep your schedule busy for days. From museums to art exhibitions, antique shops, libraries, and street art, Istanbul can definitely be a hub for art lovers. While scouting the museum scene was […]
Best Street Foods to Try in Istanbul
♦ If there is something great about Istanbul, it’s the street food scene. Incredibly rich, varied, and affordable, it makes the best – and most enjoyable – way to delve into the local culture and endless flavors of this cosmopolitan city. Let’s go on a ride together to discover the best on-the-go food you can […]
Serene Hike in the Heights of Batroun
Looking for a hiking trail that: Makes a pleasant nature escape without leaving your muscles soar for days? Is quiet and serene, i.e. you would only hear the sound of birds chirping? Has not been invaded, abused, and on everyone’s instagram feed yet? I have the perfect trail for you this fall. Where? In the beautiful region […]
Paris: The Perfect Autumn Getaway.
My favorite time of the year to visit Paris? Definitely autumn. Weather: Not too hot, not too cold. Just perfect to walk the beautiful leafy streets, enjoy a cup of coffee or wine in the closest corner brasserie, and immerse yourself in the magic of the city. Where to stay It’s hard to pick one place […]
Droub El Khenchara
Although the term “ecotourism” was launched in the 1980s, the concept was applied by villages in Lebanon before that. Like the village of Khenchara Al-Jwar, which used to welcome in the nineteenth century visitors seeking recovery in its mountainous climate and its fresh water renowned for its healing effect. Ecotourism began developing in the village […]
Haush el Bekaa
Al Haush was my latest “guesthouse” discovery in the region of Bekaa. Going back to the origin of the name, here’s what I learnt during my stay: A “haush” is a small village made of mud houses inhabited by people who work in agricultural lands during spring and summer. The Haushs belong to the land’s […]