So, I know there are a lot of misconceptions about Lebanon, so I thought I would compose a list of the things that are different about Beirut so people can have an insight to what it, so far, is really like!

1) THERE ARE NO CAMELS! Unless you go to the mountains or another area and pay a high touristy place for a camel ride, there are no parking spots for the camel that People believe I use as a car....

2) Pedestrians do not have any rights of way, or any rights period. Traffic here is chaos, full of BMWs, Mercedes and such other nice cars, that are full of dings, scratches, and dents from the lack of any traffic control, lanes, and any sort of order! However, it's not too scary, mostly just a comical feature of life!

3) There is not any danger or threat of me getting kidnapped, unless I were to travel near a dangerous border, which I am not close to in reality, it's very safe and common to walk, EVERYWHERE, in 100 degree heat.

4) The food is amazing! From traditional Lebanese food like, chicken shawerma, hommos, beef kabobs, or pita bread dishes, or to the very popular Chinease, Italian, and Burger restaurants. The food at Burger King, McDonalds, Pizza Hut, and Carl's Jr. are also very popular too!

5) Not all Lebanese men are hairy...though most are!

6) Everyone smokes! Whether it's the "aguileh" that we know as hookah, cigarettes, or cigars and pipes, smoking is everywhere, indoor, outdoor, and at all times of the day. AND, they know it's bad for them, but it's a way of life here!

7) Lebanon is a very, very, very hospitable and welcoming nation. Every neighbor, old friend, or new acquaintance wants to bring you coffee, cook you dinner, or give you the cross that you like that they wear, as you are their new family member! Also, you can't say no, that weird dish I never tried, I learn to love it!

8) It is extremely beautiful here! Full of sea views, trees, mountains and coastlines, Beirut and all of Lebanon is a naturally exquisite place to live.

9) Cats are everywhere, and no one knows why, and Mosquitos love new tourists(me)!

10) Life is slow and enjoyed here! If you have your health, you have a beautiful and full life. Wellness, Family, friends, and food, it's what every Lebanese, Armenian, or Arabic person needs.

11) Most people speak English, everyone drinks coffee, the tops of soda cans come off ,and you drink Pepsi with a straw!

12) Every woman and teenage girl here dresses, daily, as if they were going to either the club, or a wedding/party. Full hair, makeup and clothing, with high heeled shoes that look impossible, even for me, to walk in. 

13) The real fun starts at 9pm, whether it is your dinner reservation, or your snack before the nightlife, the city comes to life later, and wakes up at 10am after a isn't of partying and being with friends.

14) Beirut is amazing, it's different, it's new, and it's bizarre, but it is full of places to explore in wonderment and people to love and learn from, all while eating delicious home cooked food!