Traveling to Tripoli, Lebanon: A Cultural and Etiquette Guide

Tripoli, the second-largest city in Lebanon, is a rich tapestry of history, culture, and hospitality. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for tourists, here are some essential travel and cultural etiquette tips:

Dress Code

1. Respectful Attire: Lebanon, while modern, is predominantly a Muslim country. It’s important to dress modestly when visiting public places or religious sites. Men should wear long pants, and women should avoid shorts or revealing clothing.

2. Head Coverings: While not mandatory for tourists, it is courteous to cover your head when entering a mosque. Women may be asked to wear a scarf.

Greetings and Social Etiquette

1. Handshake: A firm handshake is the customary greeting among men. Women should offer their hand if initiated by another woman; otherwise, a smile and eye contact are sufficient.

2. Eye Contact: Maintaining eye contact during conversation shows respect and interest. Avoiding eye contact may be interpreted as a lack of sincerity or disinterest.

3. Formal Titles: When addressing people in a professional or formal setting, use their academic title (Professor, Doctor) followed by their surname.

Hospitality and Gifts

1. Invitations: If invited to someone’s home, accept graciously. Bringing flowers or small gifts is appropriate but not mandatory.

2. Hospitality: Lebanese hospitality is renowned worldwide. Expect warm welcomes, generous offerings of food and drink, and attentive hosts.

3. Refusing Offers: If you cannot accept an invitation or gift, use a polite refusal and express your gratitude for the offer.

Food and Drink

1. Table Manners: Use your right hand when eating with your fingers or taking food from a communal dish. The left hand is considered unclean in Islamic culture.

2. Mealtimes: Lunch is typically served between 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm, while dinner is enjoyed between 7:00 pm and 10:00 pm.

Public Behavior

1. Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in sensitive areas such as religious sites or refugee camps.

2. Respect for Religious Sites: Remove shoes when entering a mosque and dress modestly. Avoid visiting during prayer times to minimize disruption.

3. Public Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection between couples are discouraged in Lebanon, regardless of gender.

4. Tipping: In restaurants, a service charge is usually included in the bill; however, rounding up or leaving small change is still appreciated by waitstaff.