Lebanon has been safe in the face of regional unrest, but tourism still suffers
Skift Take
Despite a history of violence that is more seasonal than rational, Lebanon has kept itself out of the last two years of regional conflict and Beirut has flourished for the first time in three decades. Now if they could only get people to visit.
As civil war rages in neighbouring Syria and with tourism from the Gulf non-existent, hardened Lebanese merchants are surviving on a mixed bag of individual initiative, well-off Syrian tourists and help from expats.
Sitting in her lifestyle boutique, with evening gowns displayed opposite a fully stocked bar, Sophie Salame says the Lebanese "always have a plan B."
"We have had tough times, but I cut costs and by the end of the year came up with better results," she said.
Up Next
Hotels
How Data Quality Issues Impact Global Hospitality Operations
There are wide discrepancies in data quality for hotel transactions across global regions, with the largest occurring in Asia-Pacific. Because hotels and agencies need to harness data quality to thrive, they must take a more nuanced regional approach to monitoring potential issues.
Sponsored 
Tourism
The White Lotus Effect Could Be a Disaster for Thailand's Koh Samui - And Travel Media Is Making it Worse
It is disheartening to see the same publications that have previously reported on the perils of overtourism now behaving like golden retrievers chasing a tennis ball, sprinting after the hype with little critical reflection.
Startups
Travel Startups Raise $580 Million Over Two Weeks
The ticket experiences sector has been ripe for modernization, and Klook is among those cashing in.
Airlines
Tariffs and Travel: What Trump’s Trade Moves Could Mean for Airlines
President Trump’s proposed tariffs on aluminum and steel imports could have ripple effects on the aviation industry — and eventually result in passengers footing the bill.
Hotels
Accor CEO: Opening Hotels in Mykonos Too Risky due to Climate Change
When a major hotel group like Accor decides not to build in Mykonos because of climate risks, it's a sign that climate change is reshaping business decisions.