Goodbye “le petit Paris” (aka Beirut). For those that haven’t been here the retail & food prices are extremely out of sync with reality, especially in such a debt-laden country. I’m spending our last money here on a CAD $8 latte (only 1$ more than a Nescafé packet coffee, which in major city Amman, Jordan just a short hop away can be purchased for 25 cents). Pricing is the same outside of the airport. The exchange rate is 1 CAD = 1,100 Lebanese pounds but the ATM literally takes 10% commission for withdrawal. I’ve seen shawarma sandwiches for CAD $24. If you plan on coming to Lebanon be warned!!
There aren’t many tourists in Lebanon because of the riots. That allowed us to have a lot of fun by ourselves!
Great day touring Byblos today. Lots of history (7,000 BC!!!) and the 360 degree views were outstanding.
We made it to Lebanon! Evidence of the revolution everywhere (military, road closures, barb wire, etc.) but it’s completely safe in most places. I’m doing some heavy lifting at the Temple of Bacchus (Roman’s god of Wine).
Explored the ruined city of Jerash today. The Roman influence is obvious. Pretty well preserved in some areas.
It’s “White Friday” in Jordan. Don’t care what they call it, only that I got 50% off these playful aviator glasses. 🤓
Swimming here for four days it’s hard to believe that Israel is just a short taxi ride away in the background. Yet we can’t visit since we’ve decide to go to Lebanon next week. If you didn’t know Lebanon won’t let you in if your passport is Israel stamped.
Another amazing day exploring Petra, Jordan with my amazing wife @herbaystreetescape. It was quite the hike to get this selfie!
Coffee break today after a long hike to reach the Monastery built in the 3rd century BC. This area is one of the 7 new wonders of the world.
Just cruising around castles in Jordan with bed head. I imagine that was pretty normal back then (1115). Were crusaders vain about their hair like people are these days? Let it loose!
#BayStreetEscape 