About Beirut, Lebanon

The capitol of Lebanon, Beirut is also its largest city. Home to over 1 million people, Beirut is one of the world’s oldest cities. An abundance of corporations and banks are based here, which make it a major player in the Lebanese economy. Furthering Beirut’s claim to fame is the fact that, in addition to Vigan and several other locations, Beirut is recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders Cities. This is a status as of 2015.

Popular Destinations in Beirut

Looking for activities once your private jet arrives in Beirut? As important as they are to the economy, banks aren’t the only thing Beirut has to be proud of. Below are some of the better-known attractions and points of interest:

Junkyard: The name, of course, does not do the location justice. What is now a fashionable party/bar venue was actually originally created out of stacked shipping containers. The Junkyard’s two most attractive features are the summer terrace and the rear, glass-enclosed atrium. It is self-classified as a gastro-pub, thanks to the chef’s personal take on street food, and is considered one of the more fashionable drinking spots in the city.

The National Museum of Beirut: The National Museum of Beirut is an attraction not to be missed. This popular collection features archaeology, with collections starting just after World War I. Some of the highlights at this museum include two notable displays: a collection of six century BC statues of baby boys (the incredibly moving statues are made from Phoenician marble); and Phoenician gilded bronze figurines (these much-photographed pieces were found buried at Byblos, near the Obelisk Temple).

Seza: In a back-alley street right off Rue al-Nahr lies a small restaurant. It is here visitors will eat the most delicious meatballs served with wild cherry sauce (accompanied by fried bread and cashew nuts). Dining at Seza is an incredibly unique experience. In this converted house turned Lebanese/Armenian restaurant, all meals are cooked by a collection of local women, making for a home-cooked vibe. The fusion of the two cuisines makes for an interesting but delicious treat and the intimate setting completes the perfect picture.

Cilicia Museum: Possibly one of the Beirut’s best-kept secrets is the incredible collection of Armenian cultural and religious artifacts at the Cilicia Museum. In 1915, monks from the monastery of Sis in Cilicia smuggled the collection out of an area formerly known as Turkish Armenia. In addition to viewing the display, visitors will also learn about the tragic events of the Armenian diaspora.

Orient 499: Exquisite home wares, furniture, toys, metal wares, ceramics, handmade soaps, and other products sourced from foreign countries are available to shoppers at this boutique and atelier. Established by Aida Kawas and Frank Luca, Orient 499 is perfect for those who love to visit boutiques. Shoppers may notice a distinctly Middle Eastern design which applies not only to the store itself, but also to the fabulous clothing line Aida.

Luxury Lodging in Beirut

Seeking luxury accommodations once your private jet has arrived in Beirut? Beirut has a wide selection of high quality lodging facilities, including:

• Four Seasons Hotel Beirut
• Grand Hills
• Hotel Albergo
• InterContinental Le Vendome
• InterContinental Mountain Resort & Spa Mzaar
• InterContinental Phoenicia Beirut
• Le Gray Beirut
• Le Royal Hotel

Airports In or Nearby Beirut For Private Jets

Beirut has only one well-developed airport in which to welcome private jet charters:

• Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY):Located 6 miles from Beirut, this is one of the few airports in the country that are still operational. The airport is the main point of entry into Beirut. The airport sits at an elevation of 80 feet above sea level and has 2 concrete runways measuring 11,000 and 12,000 feet, as well as a 10,000 foot asphalt runway. The airport serves about seven million passengers a year and has nearly 70,000 aircraft movements annually.