The Soul of Lebanon in Lonely Planet : A Journey Beyond the Travel Book

There are moments when years of passion, purpose, and perseverance come full circle. For me, that moment was seeing my own photograph open the Lebanon chapter I had the honor of writing in Lonely Planet’s newly published Middle East travel book, a reflection of both the story I told and the lens through which I live it.

Following an inner calling and driven by a deep passion for my homeland, I gradually shifted from a career in finance to a path rooted in purpose. What began in 2010 as a personal journey of healing through nature evolved, by 2016, into a grassroots initiative to support local communities through numerous publications, driven by a sense of responsibility to protect Lebanon’s identity, safeguard its nature, document its heritage, and amplify the often-unheard voices in rural areas through sustainability and regenerative tourism. Along the way, I’ve built, and continue to expand, a personal archive approaching one million high-resolution photographs, capturing the depth, diversity, and soul of Lebanon like never before.

For someone who long avoided interviews and the spotlight, being approached by Lonely Planet and becoming the first Lebanese to write about her homeland is proof that true and authentic voices will eventually be appreciated.

From the hidden to the celebrated, the everyday to the extraordinary, I poured into this chapter the Lebanon I continue to live and love, through its trails, its people, its flavors, its heritage, and the countless experiences that invite deeper, more meaningful journeys. Building on years of lived experiences and a vast personal archive, I spent part of 2023 and much of 2024 immersed in on-the-ground research, navigating Lebanon through some of its most challenging times to ensure the chapter was both informed and deeply rooted in lived realities. Most of those featured had no idea they would be, a quiet tribute to the stewards of authenticity whose enduring contributions now have a voice on the global stage.

One of the most meaningful surprises was being featured on the very first page of the book, under “Who Goes Where”, and again in the “I Live Here” section, where I shared thoughts on exploring Lebanon during the shoulder seasons. I was also happy to see several of my own photographs included throughout the chapter.

I was deeply honored by the generous and thoughtful words of Dr. Jenny Walker, a senior travel writer with Lonely Planet since 2002, co-author of more than 50 guidebooks, and a mentor whose insight and integrity I deeply admire. Collaborating with a high-caliber team that has shaped guidebook writing since the 1970s has given me invaluable training and perspective. In a world increasingly driven by fast content and fleeting trends, Lonely Planet’s enduring commitment to authenticity, depth, and credibility remains a rare and powerful standard, and being part of that legacy has profoundly shaped my journey.

The book’s “Storybook essay” was my space to share what I titled “The Soul of Lebanon”, a piece that centers around its people as “the heart of the nation”, and the unshakable resilience they express through their creativity. From culture to tourism, that spirit runs through every sector, and it is the very force that has fueled my mission from the beginning to celebrate a Lebanon that continues to rise, create, and inspire, no matter what.

This chapter grew well beyond its intended pages, and yet, so much remains untold.

Beirut alone could fill volumes, a city of reinvention and raw energy, where art, cuisine, nightlife, and layered history pulse with life. That same spirit extends across the country, echoing through Lebanon’s diverse landscapes and communities. From coastal escapes to mountain trails, historic towns to newly uncovered gems, the journey reaches every corner.

It winds through guesthouses and glamping stays, geological wonders, and scenic road trips, connecting regions through stories and landscapes. Gastronomy is a central thread: from street bites that capture the spirit of their cities to authentic village meals that preserve ancestral flavors. From iconic cutlery craftsmanship to women-led cooperatives producing jams, preserves, and artisanal goods, each element tells a story. Paired with outdoor adventures, hikes, rock climbing, and raw nature escapes, they come together to create a travel experience that is rich, rooted, and unforgettable.

Together, these offerings paint a portrait of Lebanon that is both timeless and ever-evolving, a country far too layered to be captured by a single headline. This chapter offers a grounded introduction to Lebanon as it truly is: a year-round destination, rich in heritage, vibrant with creativity, and alive with the contagious warmth and energy of its people.

And still, so much of Lebanon remains unwritten. Countless experiences, hidden gems, and stories continue to unfold, not just here, but across the Middle East and beyond, wherever I travel with the same intent: to document heritage, preserve nature, and honor the soul of the places I encounter.

I’m genuinely thankful to Lonely Planet for the honor, and to every challenge that shaped my path, from a career in finance to the life I lead today.