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Experience in Beirut, Lebanon by Rani

Published by flag-lb Rani Ezzeddine — 6 years ago

0 Tags: flag-lb Erasmus experiences Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon


What is it like to live in Beirut? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

While living i beirut you will experience many different cultures. Interacting with the locals could be a good experience as they are known fir their friendliness and generosity. Most foreigners come from other arabic countries or india/bangladesh but also i've met poeple from africa/europe/north america. The city is alive day and night amd places open till late. Basically everything is available so you will always find what you're looking for.

What is the student lifestyle like in Beirut?

Student lifestyle in beirut is not so different than other countries; it's a combination of making new friends, partying like crazy, and of course studying hard. Groups of poeple of different lifestyle are always welcoming so don't worry about fitting in.

How much does it cost to live in Beirut?

Beirut is expensive. Accomodations range between 500$-1500$. A meal will be around 10$. A beer for 4$ in a pub. The most common transport is what we call the "service" the price of one ride will be 1.5$. The gym's are around 40$ per month. Cheap places are available but i wouldn't recommend them because thats not what beirut is known for, and it's hard to find the good cheap places if you're not a local.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Beirut? Is there any advice you can give?

Some universities provide dorms or at least provide help finding accomodations. It shouldn't be complicated especially if you're planning to attend one of these three universities: USJ-LAU-AUB. Most international students plan to attend one of them. If you are planning to attend a university different from the ones listed above or if you are coming for a non educational purpose you can always find flats available on facebook.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Street food in beirut is known for it's excellent quality and fair prices. For example you can have breakfast at the bakery for 1-2$ (Always freshly made in gas/wood ovens) or lunch for 2-3$ (traditional meat sandwitch). You can always find healthy or vegan alternatives.

What places would you recommend visiting in Beirut?

Many beatiful landmarks are present in beirut. And also outside beirut you can find many good places and you can experience adventures. Make sure you have a night out in Jounieh, go to the rocky beach in Batroun (Pierre and Friends is a nice place) and visit the great historic beach of sour during day or night (Cloud 59 is the best place in my opinion).

Is it good to eat out in Beirut? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Beirut is full of good restaurants with a variety of food. I would recommend places for youngsters like zaatar w zeit- Roadster- Deek duke- Foodstyle- Mini guette or you can visit bliss street where you can chose from many places selling different kinds of food (similar to a food market).
And of course you shouldn't miss the famous traditional food. Babel restaurant provide very good traditional dishes

Is the nightlife good in Beirut? Where is good to go?

Poeple in beirut like to party, no matter what day in the week it is. Clubs are huge, some of them host thousands of poeple. DJ's come from all over the world and especially from germany. I would recommend drinking before going knowing that alcohol is pricey. The Gärten is an outstanding place for electronic music lovers. Party will still be going till the morning (opens only in summer as it is outdoors), and it's at walking distance from Seven Sisters and other clubs. Also i've had great experiences in BO18 and The One. If you're looking for a pub where you can chill, Mar Mikhael is the good place to go. Beach parties are famous during summer.

What advice would you give future students heading to Beirut?

As you know, infrastructure in lebanon isn't the best so expect slow internet connection, blinking electricity and heavy traffic during rush hours. But focus on living adventures because it's going to be a lifetime experience. Make many memories and i wish you a great stay :)


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