Lebanon’s traditional
souks (markets) are found all over the country offering decorative and precious handmade items at very low prices. Special purchases include traditional pottery and glassware, as well as cutlery made of tempered steel or copper with ram or buffalo bone handles shaped in the form of beautiful and colorful birds’ heads. Brass and copper goods include braziers, bowls, fluted jugs, ashtrays, swords and doorstops, all attractively designed and hand engraved. Cloth, silk and wool kaftans,
abayas (embroidered nightwear) and table linen are popular, as are
handworked gold and silver. Shops sell the latest Western goods including clothes, cosmetics, furniture and electrical appliances.
Shopping hours Mon-Sat 0800-1800.
Currency Information:CurrencyLebanese Pound (LBP; symbol L£) = 100 piastres. Notes are in denominations of L£100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 1,000, 500, 250, 100, 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are in denominations of L£500, 250, 100 and 50.
Currency ExchangeThere are a large number of banks in Beirut where international currencies can be exchanged. Numerous licensed exchange shops also operate and some hotels offer exchange services. US Dollars are best and do not need to be exchanged as they are accepted even in small shops.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMsAll major credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are widely available in Beirut and larger cities.
Traveller's ChequesLimited acceptance, as major banks only accept certain types of travelers cheques. Traveller's cheques also require up to two weeks to clear and are therefore generally not recommended.
Banking HoursMon-Fri 0830-1600, Sat 0800-1300.
Exchange Rate Indicators| Date | Jan 09 |
| £1.00= | L£2,186.47 |
| $1.00= | L£1,502.00 |
| €1.00= | L£2,009.50 |
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