Lebanon enjoys a strategic position in the east of the Mediterranean basin. The advantages of its long coastline have been exploited since Lebanon's first settlers used its location to trade between the markets of three continents: Asia, Africa and Europe. Thanks to geographical, political, cultural, legal and other characteristics, Lebanon is a good place for trade, tourism and investment. Its cultural heritage is remarkable, and some archeological sites like Baalbeck, Aanjar, Byblos and Tyre are listed among UNESCO's world heritage sites. Through festivals, cultural events, conferences, book fairs, exhibitions, theater, cuisine and night life, this land of hospitality attracts many tourists and emigrants.

GEOGRAPHY
Lebanon is bordered with Syria in the east and north, with Palestine in the south and with the Mediterranean Sea in the west. This is where the highest mountains in the Middle East fall literally into the Mediterranean Sea, where one finds countless waterfalls, deep valleys and stretches of sandy coastline. Lebanon may be small but it is of epic dimensions: Two spectacular mountain ranges run parallel to each other down the length of the country: Mount Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon mountain range. The first range includes the highest peak in the country: Qurnet El Sauda, rising to 3.088 m above sea level and topped with snow all the year round. Between both mountain ranges lies the Bekaa valley, a vast plateau 125 km long and up 1000 m above sea level; it contains some of the most fertile agricultural land in the world.

CLIMATE
Lebanon generally enjoys a Mediterranean climate with long sultry summers and short mild winters; however, there are three main climatic zones corresponding to the three main geographical regions: the coast, the mountains and the Bekaa. Visitors can count on 300 sunny days every year, and the highest peaks covered with snow four months a year allow winter sport in six ski resorts; in the spring, it is possible to play ski and bathe in the Mediterranean sea in one day.

PROVINCES
Lebanon is divided into six provinces (Mohafazat): BEIRUT, the capital of Lebanon, built on a rocky promontory contains major archeological findings, and in Roman and Byzantine times it was famous for its Law School, whose professors helped draft the famous Justinian Code. THE BEKAA: It has seen the march of civilizations, which remnants can be found at Niha, Aanjar, Hermel, and most dramatically at Baalbeck. Zahle is renowned for the restaurants by the Berdauni river. THE SOUTH: Famous for the ancient Phoenician cities like Sidon, and Tyre, it contains two landmarks of Lebanon's modern history: Cana and Khiam detention camp. NABATIEH. MOUNT LEBANON: Major towns are Byblos and Beiteddine, the grottos of Jeita are among the world's most beautiful caverns. THE NORTH: The oldest Cedars of Lebanon grow at the foot of Lebanon's highest peak; another Phoenician is Tripoli.

GOVERNMENT
Lebanon is a parliamentary democratic republic; it gained its independence in 1943. It has a parliamentary system of government and a cabinet headed by a prime minister. The constitution is based on the separation of the executive, legislative and judiciary authorities. The President is elected for six years by the Parliament. The 128 deputies are elected by universal adult suffrage for a four year term.
Working hours: From Monday through Thursday 8:00 - 14:00, Fridays 8:00 - 11:00, and Saturdays 8:00 - 13:00

ECONOMY
The liberal economic system in Lebanon is based on competition and private property. Lebanon capitalizes on its geographic position, a legal structure, a competitive labor force, a good infrastructure and the initiative of its people. Its trading facilities, banking and financial services made Lebanon the commercial center of the Eastern Mediterranean region. To provide investment incentive, the government has initiated a new low income tax. Lebanon is again assuming its former position asa regional business center.

RELIGION
Within this country live 18 different religions and confessions; but most adopted religions are Christianity and Islam.

LANGUAGES
Official language is Arabic, French English and Armenian are widely spoken. Other foreign languages are often spoken. The prolific local multilingual press publishes more than ten daily newspapers and around 100 magazines. Audiovisual media are widely developed.

SPORTS
Every sport can be practiced in Lebanon, including water ski, snow ski, yachting, rafting, canoeing and paragliding. Clubs are open for golf, tennis, karate and riding.

VISAS
All visitors to Lebanon must hold a valid passport and obtain a visa from the Lebanese embassies or consulates abroad. The following nationalities can get the Lebanese visa upon arrival to Beirut International Airport or the borders: USA, Australia, Austria, Denmark, Belgium, Italy, Ireland, Great Britain, Switzerland, Germany, Gulf countries, Sweden, The Luxembourg, Canada.

CURRENCY
The national currency is Lebanese pound (generally referred to as the Lebanese Lira LL). Payment can be made in either Lebanese Liras or US dollars. All foreign currencies may be exchanged in the banks or in the shops of money changers. Travellers' cheques and international credit and charge cards are welcome by airlines, hotels, some restaurants and larger shops.

EDUCATION
There are some 20 universities and institutes for higher education, besides the private and public schools. Arabic is the mother tongue, however, French and English are taught in all educational institutions.