Certain words heard on a doorstep, around a table, or on a street corner are so meaningful that they can reflect the Lebanese way of life. We have gathered them in a glossary. But be warned, it is neither objective nor does it have a technical basis. And this is how we want it!
Usually translated as “welcome”, Ahlan Wa Sahlan (pronounce it Ahla-W-Sahla, smile, and open your arms) is much more meaningful when given a closer look.
Indeed, Ahlan means parents or family, and Sahlan means plain or land. Therefore, Ahlan Wa Sahlan tells the visitor that he has “found a family and a land”. Is there a more beautiful way to describe Lebanese hospitality?
Alphabetic order – guess whose fault that is – made Ahlan the first word of our glossary. There is no doubt that it is also the word that best describes Bed and Breakfasts.
