Lebanon is more or less a year-round destination, but hot summers and chilly winters make it a country best enjoyed in the spring and autumn.

March – May: Springtime is the best time to visit Lebanon. The weather in March is still chilly, but starts to warm up by April. Spring is when it’s warm but not unbearable and the country is covered in flowers. Because the climate varies depending on where you are in the country, this is the best time to enjoy temperate weather everywhere.

October – November: September is still on the hotter side, but the weather starts to cool slightly in October. It stays pleasant until November, when it starts to cool into the 60s F – still temperate by most standards.

There’s no doubt about it: Lebanese food is some of the best in The Middle East. The food is fresh and flavorful, influenced by spices and cooking techniques from both Africa and Central Asia.

If I had to choose a national dish for Lebanon, it would be kibbeh: a deep fried meatball made of minced meat and bulgur. Of course, you can’t have kibbeh without a side of tabbouleh, a parsley salad made with bulgur and tomatoes – one of the healthiest and most delicious Lebanese dishes!

Other good eats include manakeesh (flatbread with thyme and other ingredients), shish tawook (grilled chicken on a skewer) and kunafa, a syrup soaked dessert stuffed with cheese (way better than it sounds), amongst many other delicious eats.

If you’d like to get a true taste of the food scene in Lebanon, be sure to check out one of the awesome food experiences here!