Tripoli
LebanonBSh
© OpenStreetMap, CARTO
طرابلس عاصمة الشمال | Tripoli, capital of the north
Why visit
The Mamluk old city is one of Lebanon's most rewarding wanders, the Great Mosque of Tripoli (a converted Crusader cathedral), the al-Qartawiyya madrasa, the Hammam al-Jadid bathhouse, and the bustling souk Al-Haraj. The Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles offers commanding city views. Tripoli is famous for its Arabic sweets, the Hallab pastry house has produced ma'amoul, baklava, and katayef since 1881. Day-trip to the Cedars of God in the Qadisha Valley (UNESCO) and to Byblos.
When to avoid
Lebanon has serious economic crisis and political instability, most Western governments advise reconsidering travel. Some advise against. Tripoli has had occasional sectarian tensions and was hit by spillover from Syrian conflict. Check current advisories. Power cuts and fuel shortages are frequent. ATMs may not give cash. Bring USD. Stick to known areas, dress modestly (Tripoli is more conservative than Beirut), don't photograph military/security, and avoid political demonstrations.