smartraveller.gov.au - Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
It's a must see destination.
It's a must see destination.
Lebanon
| Lebanon overall | This Advice is current for Friday, 12 March 2010. | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Be alert to own security | Exercise caution | High degree of caution | Reconsider your need to travel | Do not travel |
| South of the Litani River and Palestinian refugee camps | ||||
| Be alert to own security | Exercise caution | High degree of caution | Reconsider your need to travel | Do not travel |
This advice has been reviewed and reissued. It contains new information in the Summary and under Safety and Security: Terrorism (update). The overall level of the advice has not changed.
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Terrorism is a threat throughout the world. You can find more information about this threat in our General Advice to Australian Travellers.
Terrorist attacks are likely and could occur throughout Lebanon. The greatest threat comes from extremist groups, whose presence is greatest in and around Palestinian refugee camps and in the Tripoli region. In the past, such groups have attacked Western interests and may do so again. In January 2008, a US diplomatic convoy was attacked in Beirut. Other potential targets include embassies, international hotels, businesses, fast food outlets and restaurants frequented by foreigners.
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and Lebanese Government interests, particularly the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), are high priority terrorist targets. LAF and UNIFIL facilities and vehicles and places frequented by their personnel may also be targeted. Terrorists hit a LAF bus in April 2009 and a UNIFIL convoy in June 2007. Targets associated with the Lebanese Government, such as government institutions, senior politicians and officials, and infrastructure, including airports and public buildings, could also be attacked.
Australians could inadvertently be caught up in attacks directed at others.
In planning your activities, consider the kinds of places known to be terrorist targets and the level of security provided. In addition to the possible targets listed above, other targets could include commercial and public areas known to be frequented by foreigners such as buildings associated with foreign governments and companies and international organisations, embassies, Lebanese government and military interests, hotels, clubs, restaurants, shopping centres, markets, promenades, bars, schools, places of worship, cinemas, outdoor recreation events, public transport and tourist areas.
Militants have mounted attacks in the lead-up to and on days of national and religious significance, but attacks could occur at any time.
We strongly advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Lebanon at this time because of the unpredictable security and political situation. The situation could deteriorate without warning. If you do decide to travel to Lebanon, you should exercise extreme caution. Australians could be caught up in violence directed at others. In these circumstances, departure options may be severely limited. You are responsible for ensuring you are able to depart Lebanon and that your travel documentation remains up-to-date. You should pay close attention to your personal security, monitor the media for updates and follow the directions of local authorities.
The political climate in Lebanon remains relatively calm, although there have been isolated incidents of violence. In May 2008, dozens of people were killed in clashes between rival factions across the country. Further violence is possible due to ongoing political and sectarian tensions.
Political developments in the region and international events may prompt large demonstrations or violence. You should avoid any large gatherings and demonstrations as they may turn violent.
In the past three years, there have been a number of bomb attacks and political assassinations across Lebanon. In April 2009, four soldiers were killed in an attack in the Bekaa Valley. In August and September 2008, over 20 people were killed in Tripoli in two separate bombings. Other explosions have occurred in the Beirut suburbs of Boushrieh, Hazmieh, Karantina, Ras Beirut, Sin el-Fil, Verdun, Baabda and Achrafieh. Targets have included buses, an intersection and a shopping mall car park. Further attacks are possible.
You should stay indoors during celebratory gunfire, which often occurs after political speeches.
Israeli forces remain in the border town of Ghajar and there are ongoing tensions between Israel and Lebanon. This has led to occasional cross-border artillery strikes. The presence of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and United Nations peacekeepers in southern Lebanon has improved the security environment, although further violence cannot be ruled out. As highlighted by the conflict between Israel and Hizballah in 2006, the situation could change without notice and Australians could be caught up in any violence directed at others. Any areas where military activity is ongoing should be avoided.
If you are in an area affected by clashes, you should stay indoors and monitor local information sources for updates on the security situation. Australians are advised to stay away from areas where violence is known to have occurred or is likely to occur. If you become aware of nearby clashes, you should leave the area immediately.
Palestinian refugee camps: We strongly advise you not to travel to Palestinian refugee camps. The situation is unpredictable and could deteriorate without warning. In March 2009, a Palestinian leader was killed in a roadside bomb attack near one of the camps. The Lebanese state has no formal security presence in the camps and there are high levels of crime. There are frequent armed clashes between rival factions within some of the camps.
Although crime in Lebanon is at a low level by international standards, vehicle crime, bag snatching and harassment of women occurs. Petty crime is increasing.
You should avoid unnecessary local travel, pay close attention to your personal security and monitor the media for updates.
Roads, including access routes to the airport and border crossings, may be blocked during demonstrations and civil unrest. The airport may also close at short notice. If this occurs, you should check with your airline for up-to-date information and departure options.
There is an armed security presence throughout Lebanon, including at road check points. You should ensure that you carry personal identity documentation at all times and obey the instructions of security personnel.
The Beirut-Damascus highway has been damaged and requires detours off the main highway.
Driving in Lebanon can be dangerous due to inadequately maintained roads and poor local driving habits. Snow and ice compound the danger in winter. For further advice, see our bulletin on Overseas Road Safety.
The safety standards you might expect of transport and tour operators, including adventure activities, are not always met. Sufficient safety equipment may not be provided and recommended maintenance standards and safety precautions may not be observed.
South of the Litani River: We strongly advise you not to travel south of the Litani River due to the uncertain security environment and danger posed by landmines, unexploded ordnance and possible cross-border artillery strikes.
Unexploded ordnance, including cluster munitions, and landmines are numerous throughout Lebanon with the highest concentration in the south of the country. Minefields are not always clearly marked and those that are can shift away from signage. You should inform children of the risk, seek advice from local residents, stay on paved roads and avoid walking or driving cross-country.
Passengers on international flights to and from Australia are only allowed to carry a small amount of liquids (including aerosols and gels) in their carry-on baggage. You can find out more information at the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government website. Similar restrictions apply to flights in an increasing number of countries. Contact your airline for further information.
If you have concerns about the safety standards of a particular airline or aircraft, we recommend you research the airline or aircraft through organisations such as Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government has published fact sheets on security for air travellers. When staff at Australia's overseas missions are advised not to use particular airlines due to safety concerns, this will be included in the travel advisory.
The European Union (EU) has published a list of airlines that are subject to operating bans or restrictions within the EU. The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through its foreign assessment program focuses on a country's ability, not the individual airline, to adhere to international standards and recommended practices for aircraft operations and maintenance established by ICAO.
Lebanon is in an active earthquake zone. A minor earthquake occurred north of Beirut in April 2009.
Bush and forest fires often occur during the summer months in Lebanon (usually June to September), particularly in heavily forested areas. You should avoid fire affected areas and monitor the media for the latest information.
Sand and dust storms are common and may pose health risks, especially to people with respiratory problems.
Information on natural disasters can be obtained from the Humanitarian Early Warning Service. If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.
Australians are advised to respect wildlife laws and to maintain a safe and legal distance when observing wildlife, including marine animals and birds. You should only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators and closely follow park regulations and wardens' advice.
Before you go, organise a variety of ways to access your money overseas, such as credit cards, travellers' cheques, cash, debit cards or cash cards. Australian currency and travellers' cheques are not accepted in many countries. Consult with your bank to find out which is the most appropriate currency to carry and whether your ATM card will work overseas.
Make two photocopies of valuables such as your passport, tickets, visas and travellers' cheques. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home.
While travelling, don't carry too much cash and remember that expensive watches, jewellery and cameras may be tempting targets for thieves.
As a sensible precaution against luggage tampering, including theft, lock your luggage. Information on luggage safety is available from Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place. You are required by Australian law to report a lost or stolen passport. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible.
You are required to pay an additional fee to have a lost or stolen passport replaced. In some cases, the Government may also restrict the length of validity or type of replacement passports.
For general information and tips on travelling with children see our Travelling Parents brochure.
If you are planning on placing your children in schools or childcare facilities overseas, we encourage you to research the standards of security, care and staff training within those establishments. You should exercise the same precautions you would take before placing children into schools or childcare facilities in Australia.
Ideas on how to select childcare providers are available from the smartraveller Children's Issues page, Child Wise and the National Childcare Accreditation Council.
When you are in Lebanon, be aware that local laws and penalties, including ones that appear harsh by Australian standards, do apply to you. If you are arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you but we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Information on what Australian consular officers can and cannot do to help Australians in trouble overseas is available from the Consular Services Charter.
Penalties for drug offences are severe and include mandatory prison sentences.
Serious crimes, such as murder and treason, carry the death penalty.
Homosexual acts are illegal.
Access to some areas of Lebanon is restricted and photographing or filming military personnel or installations, government buildings and major civilian infrastructure (such as power stations) may result in detention and/or the confiscation of photographic equipment by Lebanese security personnel.
Child custody and divorce decisions are based on local religious laws. If you are involved in custody and other family disputes you should ensure you consult a lawyer before you leave Australia for advice on how religious law may impact upon your family circumstances, including your departure from Lebanon. Under Lebanese law, Lebanese nationals may prevent their wives and children (even if they are Australian citizens) from leaving Lebanon. Australians (including mothers with children) have been prevented from leaving Lebanon when relatives have legally placed border alerts (known as stop orders) on them.
You will need to apply for a single status certificate if you intend to be married overseas or if you are returning to your country of residence to be married. Please check with the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in your state or territory for further information.
The use of reduced-price call-back telephone systems is illegal. Cards or accounts purchased in Australia cannot be used in Lebanon.
Some Australian criminal laws, such as those relating to money laundering, bribery of foreign public officials, terrorism and child sex tourism, apply to Australians overseas. Australians who commit these offences while overseas may be prosecuted in Australia.
Australian authorities are committed to combating sexual exploitation of children by Australians overseas. Australians may be prosecuted at home under Australian child sex tourism laws. These laws provide severe penalties of up to 17 years imprisonment for Australians who engage in sexual activity with children under 16 while outside of Australia.
There are modest standards of dress and behaviour in parts of Lebanon, particularly at religious sites. You should take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.
Eating, drinking and smoking between sunrise and sunset is forbidden for Muslims during Ramadan.
Public displays of affection may cause offence in conservative and religious areas.
Some hotels may refuse accommodation to couples who are unable to provide proof of marriage.
Lebanon does not recognise dual nationality. This may limit the ability of the Australian Government to provide consular assistance to Australian/Lebanese dual nationals who are arrested or detained.
Australian/Lebanese dual nationals who carry Lebanese papers will be treated as Lebanese nationals by security authorities. In these circumstances, it may be difficult for the Australian Embassy to provide consular assistance if Australian-Lebanese dual nationals encounter difficulties.
Dual citizens re-entering Lebanon on their Lebanese passport/identity document should ensure their Lebanese documentation is in order and that all entry requirements are met. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Lebanon for the most up-to-date information.
Compulsory military service in Lebanon ceased from February 2007. Australian Lebanese dual nationals will no longer be required to complete compulsory military service. If you are in any doubt, you should contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Lebanon well in advance of travel for further information.
Our Travel Information for Dual Nationals brochure provides further information for dual nationals.
Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Lebanon for the most up-to-date visa information.
There have been instances where Australian citizens travelling on emergency passports have been refused entry to Lebanon. When you apply for a full validity passport you must provide original documents that confirm your Australian citizenship and your identity. Details of documents that confirm your citizenship and identity (in Australia and overseas) can be found at the Australian Passport website. Before you travel, you should consider telling your family where to find your original citizenship documents in case you need them for the issue of a replacement passport.
In Lebanon, it is illegal to have travelled to Israel. If you have any evidence of travel to Israel, you will be refused entry to Lebanon. This includes Israeli exit or entry stamps in your passport, or Egyptian or Jordanian stamps from border crossings with Israel. Citizens of Lebanon and other Arab nations, including dual nationals, may be arrested and imprisoned.
Make sure your passport has at least six months' validity from your planned date of return to Australia. You should carry copies of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 has spread throughout the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides useful information for individuals and travellers on its website. For further information and advice to Australians, including on possible quarantine measures overseas, see our travel bulletin on Pandemic (H1N1) 2009.
We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. The Australian Government will not pay for a traveller's medical expenses overseas or medical evacuation costs.
Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about immunisations (including booster doses of childhood vaccinations) and disease outbreaks overseas. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides information for travellers and our Travelling Well brochure also provides useful tips for travelling with medicines and staying healthy while overseas.
Medical facilities and care in many of Lebanon's large hospitals are of a comparable standard to those in Australia. Doctors and hospitals usually expect immediate cash payment for services. Treatment can be very expensive.
A decompression chamber is located at the American University Hospital in Beirut.
It is recommended that all drinking water be boiled or that you drink bottled water.
The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has confirmed cases of avian influenza in birds in a number of countries throughout the world. For a list of these countries, visit the OIE website. For information on our advice to Australians on how to reduce the risk of infection and on Australian Government precautions see our travel bulletin on avian influenza.
The Australian Embassy in Downtown Beirut may be temporarily closed to the public at short notice due to demonstrations and concerns about security in the vicinity of the Embassy. If this occurs, you should call ahead for advice before going to the Embassy. Australians requiring emergency consular assistance can contact the Embassy or the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305.
Contact details for the Australian Embassy are:
Australian Embassy
Embassy Complex
Serail Hill
Downtown Beirut
LEBANON
Telephone: (961 1) 960 600
Fax: (961 1) 960 601
Website: www.lebanon.embassy.gov.au
If you are travelling to Lebanon, whatever the reason and however long you'll be there, we encourage you to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. You can register online or in person at any Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate. The information you provide will help us to contact you in an emergency - whether it is a natural disaster, civil disturbance or a family issue.
In a consular emergency if you are unable to contact the Embassy, you can contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or 1300 555 135 within Australia.
In Australia, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra may be contacted on (02) 6261 3305.
While every care has been taken in preparing this travel information for travellers, neither the Australian Government nor its agents or employees including any member of Australia's consular staff abroad, can accept liability for injury, loss or damage arising in respect of any statement contained therein.
