Last updated on October 23rd, 2024
So this year I took my 10 country trip across Asia, Europe and the Middle East. The one country out of all 10 that I wanted to visit the most was Lebanon. In the past Beirut had some issues so I was hesitant to go but after some research decided it was time. The main reason I wanted to visit so badly was actually a very simple reason. As you can probably guess it’s because I love Lebanese food! I’ve eaten it all around the world and had a deep yearning to try it in its birthplace. Oh lawd was I happy! I stayed in Beirut for a total of 10 days and met tons of friends, ate fantastic food and had some great experiences!
Click HERE to check out the Phoenicia Beirut!
I landed in Beirut from Switzerland in the middle of the night. Luckily the Phoenicia hotel was kind enough to send a driver to pick me up at the airport with a Jaguar. No not the animal, the car! A very kind and warm welcome indeed!
It was so late that they actually allowed me to check-in while inside the elevator. Talk about VIP! This definitely put a smile on my face. After a month of non-stop eating I had mixed feelings about all of the treats they left for me in the room. These included traditional Middle Eastern desserts and also some cake pops and chocolates. I knew I couldn’t say no to trying these so I wished my thin waistline farewell and dug in! All were magical! Then I passed out in a sugar induced coma.
The room I got was epic! Very well done overall. The bathroom was marble and beautiful tile. The view was beautiful. The only downside was that there was no coffee machine in the room just a kettle but I survived and ordered room service. Life is hard.
The next morning I awoke from my slumber and hit the gym. They have an excellent gym that overlooks a courtyard which is their Amethyste lounge and it’s magnificent. It’s nice to have such a beautiful scene to look at while working out. It’s a huge gym which has everything you could possibly need to get thin or ripped.
I cleaned myself up after getting incredibly huge at the gym and then mentally prepared for breakfast. Walking into the breakfast dining room was like walking into a magical world of Lebanese food. This is what I’ve dreamed of folks. Counter after counter of Lebanese and international options. I couldn’t resist trying a little bit of everything including the freshly made Lebanese bread.
Walking around the hotel is absolutely amazing. This is the oldest and most well known Hotel in Beirut. It takes class to another level. All of the interior is so beautifully designed. It reminds me of my palace. Wink. The weather in Beirut was perfect for exploring. The hotel is situated along the water and from my room I could see Zaytona bay.
During my stay there was a day that I didn’t want to leave my room because I was getting so much work done. I decided to order room service and I have to say it quite possibly was the best decision of my life. This turned out to be my dream meal. I ordered a mixed grill, french fries, tabboulleh, a milk shake and a Turkish coffee for afterwards. I cried tears of joy. It was fantastic! Pure love.
I spent 10 days in Beirut but when it came time to leave I didn’t want to go. It feels like I just barely scratched the surface of all this city has to offer. In the future I hope to return and spend more time discovering all that I missed. The Phoenicia hotel was my introduction to Lebanon and I don’t think I could have chose a better place to stay. The way the staff treated me made me feel like royalty. The food that was served was phenomenal and the design impeccable. The Phoenicia is now one of my top hotels worldwide. You MUST have visit the Phoenicia hotel the next time you’re in Beirut!
Hotel
Minet El Hosn, Beirut, Lebanon, PO Box 11/846
Phone: +961 (0)1 369110
Best Travel Tips
Book Your Flight
Find the cheapest flight by using Skyscanner. For over a decade I've found it to nearly always offer the best deals.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hotel or guesthouse with Booking.com as it consistently has the best rates.
Always Use Travel Insurance
Travel insurance safeguards you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations, providing peace of mind if anything goes wrong. My top pick for excellent service and value is SafetyWing (best for all age groups.)
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip?
-
Economy to Mid-Range
- TripAdvisor
- Get Your Guide Mid-Range to Luxury
- TRAFALGAR
Stay Connected on Your Phone While Traveling
Ready to Book Your Trip?
Take a look at my resource page for top travel companies and tips. I’ve listed all my personal favorites that I've used over years of full-time travel, each best in class, so you can’t plan your trip wrong!