Frequently Asked Questions · L'Hôte Libanais
Skip to content

FAQ.

Find all the answers in one place! If you can’t find what you’re looking for or need additional information, please contact us.

Get to know us better

What is L’Hôte Libanais?

L’Hôte Libanais is Lebanon’s leading privately-owned initiative, championing sustainable and responsible tourism that enriches both communities and the environment. As a close-knit family of accommodations spanning Beirut and Lebanon’s diverse regions, we offer more than just a place to stay. Our curated experiences unveil the cultural richness, historical depth, and hidden gems of each location, promising unforgettable journeys. Beyond lodging, our website serves as an online magazine, inviting travelers to explore articles on art, cuisine, history, and bespoke travel itineraries that ignite curiosity and adventure. Operated by a passionate team dedicated to exceptional service, we’re here seven days a week, ready to assist and inspire.

I own a place and would like to join your family. What should I do?

To join L’Hôte Libanais, please ensure that your accommodation aligns with our standards and values. If you believe we are on the same page, please contact us [here](contact box link). Note: Membership is not automatic, and our decisions are partially subjective.

How do you guarantee your standards are met?

We strongly believe in exceeding expectations by staying grounded. Regular visits to each of our family members and year-round collaboration enhance guest experiences. Engaging with guests, listening to feedback, and valuing their contributions through meaningful discussions, rather than reducing them to stars or checkboxes, is central to our approach. The evaluation process is a continuous, evolving conversation with the L’Hôte Libanais team, ensuring ongoing improvements in guest experiences.

I have comments to make.

We would love to hear them! L’Hôte Libanais is a dynamic project, thanks to your remarks and comments. Your ideas and suggestions are essential to our family’s growth, and we encourage you to share them with us via our contact form.

Reservation, cancellation, payment, and rates

How do I reserve my stay at one of the L’Hôte Libanais accommodations?

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3! Enter your check-in and check-out dates, and our secure reservation system will guide you through the rest. Feel free to contact us or call us should you have any questions.

How do I reserve a L’Hôte Libanais experience or a taxi trip?

Booking an experience or taxi trip is just like booking accommodation. Pick your date(s) and select the trip(s) and/or experience(s) you’re interested in. Our secure reservation system will help you do the rest. As always, write to us if you need guidance.

I need to know more about a place before reserving. What should I do?

If you are unable to find the information you need on our website, please contact our team. We are here to answer your questions.

Are you sure I can enter my bank card information online?

Most certainly. Our online reservation system is operated by an SSL-encrypted server that guarantees all your information is secure, and our payment gateway is operated by Payfort/Amazon Payment Services, the leading payment provider in the Middle East. Your credit card details are securely entered at the reservation stage, but no charges will be made. A guarantee deposit will be arranged by one of our team members and must be settled to confirm your reservation.

I would like to cancel my reservation. What is your cancellation policy?

There will be no penalty fees for cancellations occurring more than 15 days from the check-in date, experience date, or taxi journey date. The full amount of the reservation is due in case of a cancellation 15 days or less from the check-in date, experience date, or taxi journey date, as well as in the case of a no-show. Our family members range between one to 15 rooms. A cancellation can be up to 100% of a member’s revenue for one night, which is why we follow a strict cancellation policy that does not compromise our family member’s sustainability and viability.

I would like to modify my reservation. What are the conditions for me to do this?

We try our best to favorably meet any modification requests; however, our services are limited by certain considerations. Late modifications, especially during peak seasons, are not possible. If you wish to modify your reservation, please contact us.

Are there any additional or hidden fees?

None! Contrary to many online platforms, the rate you find on L’Hôte Libanais’s pages is the one you pay. We do not charge a service fee or a supplementary fee for breakfast, which is always included. Taxes, when applicable, are also included in the listed prices. Simply put: the price you see is the price you pay.

Safety, traditions, and customs

Is Lebanon a safe country?

Yes, yes, and yes: we firmly assert it! Two Lebanons appear to coexist: a Lebanon framed by the lenses, prejudice, and preconceived notions of international media coverage, and the Lebanon that we experience day-to-day. You will only need a few minutes in the country to understand the gap that exists between the two. From North to South, East to West, the villages and regions we invite you to see and stay at give you a taste of the real Lebanon, one that generously welcomes you into its open arms. Lebanon is bursting at the seams with creative energy that you have to experience—at least once in your lifetime. Festivals, artistic and cultural events are happening year-round in different cities around the country, and it would be a shame to miss out on the magic of places like Baalbek or Tripoli based on unfounded security concerns.

Do I have to behave or dress in a certain way?

Moral freedom and the acceptance of all lifestyles form the essence of Lebanon, where religious and ethnic diversity abounds. The image of a young woman in a mini-skirt passing by another in a headscarf, or one of Muslim and Christian worshippers chatting after prayer are not idyllic constructions, but a lived reality. There are no set rules for dressing in public. During visits to religious sites, it is recommended to dress according to the customs of the concerned faith. Though there is no obligatory dress code, it may be appropriate to dress modestly in conservative religious neighborhoods.

Our ‘Shammet Hawa’ gift cards

What are the ‘Shammet Hawa’ cards?

‘Shammet Hawa’ is a special gift reserved for the people closest to your heart. The gift card gives its recipient access to all L’Hôte Libanais accommodations. The cards were designed by Lebanese illustrator, Zeina Bassil. Read the story behind ‘Shammet Hawa’.

Where can I find the ‘Shammet Hawa’ cards?

Our ‘Shammet Hawa’ gift cards can only be bought online. All you need to do is email us!

How much does the ‘Shammet Hawa’ card cost?

You can choose the amount you want.

How long are the ‘Shammet Hawa’ cards valid for?

The cards are valid for 6 months from the date of purchase.

I used my card for an accommodation that cost less than the card’s value. Is the rest of the value lost?

Not at all! You can reserve other accommodations with your card, using the remaining sum as credit that you can debit at your discretion. Nothing is lost; everything is transformed into unforgettable experiences!

I have been offered a ‘Shammet Hawa’ card. How can I reserve my stay?

Mabrook! You have been offered a wonderful gift. To reserve, kindly write to us and we will be happy to help!

Transportation

Why are you picking me up at the airport? Can I not arrange for my own pick-up and drop-off?

Our members, particularly those in Beirut, are guesthouses and not hotels, in that individuals open up their homes and hearts to visitors. It is often difficult to locate these addresses, even for local cab drivers. When you reserve your airport transfer, you can rest assured that a driver who knows the accommodation and your hosts will receive you. The fee charged falls within local rates.

Why travel by taxi?

Public transport in Lebanon may not always align with your travel plans, and renting a car for your entire stay may not be your preference. Opting for taxi services grants you independence during your adventures. With a variety of flexible options available, including full-day hires and customizable itineraries, you can explore Lebanon’s diverse offerings at your own pace. For more information, visit the section of our site dedicated to all things transportation.