Leaving your native country is a mixture of excitement and anxiety. People leave for a variety of reasons, including pursuing their aspirations and discovering new cultures.
But as you stand on the verge of leaving, you feel bittersweet for what you will leave behind. Here are 15 things that you’ll definitely miss about Lebanon if you move abroad:
1. Family Gatherings
Living abroad, alone in a foreign country, without knowing anybody, you begin to miss the old Lebanese habit of family reunions and the legendary Sunday lunches.
These gatherings are bright and alive, bringing together several generations, and filled with laughter, warmth, and delicious food.
2. Suitable Weather
One of Lebanon’s most underappreciated assets is its beautiful weather, which provides a diverse and one-of-a-kind experience in comparison to other countries.
Lebanon has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cold, wet winters. This mix results in a stunning scene, with lush greenery in the winter and golden beaches in the summer.
3. Closeness in Distance
The distance between Lebanese cities is generally short, making travel throughout the country convenient and accessible.
Travelers may easily navigate between towns and regions, making it a perfect location for enjoying varied landscapes and experiences despite its small geographical size; each city has its distinct charms.
4. Vibrant Nightlife
Beirut’s nightlife is legendary! As the sun sets over the Mediterranean, the city comes alive with a diverse range of alternatives to suit every taste and mood.
From elegant rooftop bars with magnificent sea views to quaint pubs nestled away down small alleys.
Beirut’s nightlife is more than simply partying; it reflects the city’s vibrancy, innovation, and resilience, attracting both locals and foreigners to experience its unique blend of culture, music, and excitement.
5. Mountains Overlooking the Sea
Lebanon’s beauty resides in its stark contrasts. Mount Lebanon rises dramatically, its snow-capped peaks scraping the sky. The mountain then appears to plunge directly into the blue lap of the Mediterranean.
Driving along the coast road provides a breathtaking view: one moment you’re winding through verdant valleys, the next the wide expanse of the sea stretches out in front of you.
6. Lebanese Mezza
You’ll miss the flavor of Lebanese mezza, often known as mezze, which contains both cold and hot foods.
Cold mezza includes Tabbouleh, Fattoush, Shanklish, Hummus, and Baba Ghanoush… Sambousek, Kibbeh, Tawook, Falafel, and Kebabs… are common hot mezza dishes.
7. Teta’s Eid Delights
Every Eid, Teta’s kitchen is transformed into a sugary fantasy. Flour dusts the air as she kneads dough for Kaaek, which has simple sesame-seed crusts and promises a light, fluffy bite.
Delicate Maamoul emerge alongside them, on well-worn platters. Her deft fingers fill them with sweet date paste or fragrant nuts, creating small masterpieces ready to be roasted golden brown.
The air itself tastes delicious, rich with the aroma of orange blossom water and spicy spices, promising the arrival of Eid and family reunion.
8. Newelne Shops
You will definitely miss the “Newelne shops” that are open 24 hours a day to satisfy any late-night craving.
9. Religious Diversity
Lebanon is the land of religious diversity, with mosques and churches coexisting. Christianity and Islam are the prominent religions, but the Druze religion, with its distinct beliefs, provides another element to the rich tapestry.
This religious diversity is presented in daily life, with holidays and traditions celebrated throughout the year, demonstrating Lebanon’s legacy of tolerance and peace.
10. Fighting Over the Bill
Paying a restaurant bill in Lebanon is more of a game than a transaction. Forget splitting it Dutch-style.
A humorous fight breaks out between friends and relatives; feigning anger and lighthearted barbs become the norm, demonstrating generosity.
11. Lebanese Shawarma
Ranked third as the best sandwich in the world, the Lebanese Shawarma is a symphony of textures and flavors on a fluffy pita bread.
Marinated chicken or beef is stacked on a vertical rotisserie, gently cooking until crispy on the outside and juicy inside.
12. Lebanese Hospitality
Lebanese hospitality is more than just politeness; it is about sharing your heart and home with others. Imagine walking into a Lebanese home and being greeted; the insistence on “Tfaddal ” (please, come in) is genuine.
Conversations flow smoothly, interspersed by sips of strong Arabic coffee. Lebanese have that old-fashioned charm and etiquette that you won’t find anyplace else.
13. Joyful Holidays
In Lebanon, holidays are a vibrant tapestry of many faiths. Easter is celebrated with joyful church procession and family gatherings for special dinners. Christmas twinkles with brilliant lights and festive marketplaces, and it is a time for gift-giving and celebration.
Ramadan, a holy month for Muslims, alters the daily routine. These religious and secular events highlight Lebanon’s wonderful blend of customs, which reflects the country’s rich cultural background.
14. A Passion for Lebanese Music
Lebanese music reflects the country’s dynamic personality. Modern pop musicians such as Nancy Ajram perform engaging songs, and traditional Dabke rhythms encourage lively line dances at weddings.
However, Lebanon’s musical essence is deeper. Haunting tunes played on the oud, elicit feelings of melancholy. Fairuz and other renowned singers use their powerful vocals to tell stories of love and tragedy.
Lebanese music is a mesmerizing blend of heritage and contemporary, reflecting the country’s long history and ever-changing culture.
15. The Combination of Languages
Part of the Lebanese culture is being able to speak various languages! When Lebanese move abroad, they are likely to observe how unusual it is for foreigners to switch between languages.
Related: Lebanese Grandmothers Are Sharing Family Cooking Tricks The Whole World Should Know About
