Guide

Before you travel

• Complete the AUCE online application
• Make sure to submit all required documents as instructed Admissions
• Go through a general checkup and get a medical report in case you have any specific medical case
• Prepare an emergency medical kit that can be useful in case of emergency while you are here
• Make sure you have a medical insurance for your stay in Lebanon

When you arrive to your destination country

• Attend orientation and any other events organized by AUCE
• Get to know your surroundings. Make sure to take safety measures, meaning, do not use large money notes at street kiosks but at the same time don’t get paranoid!
• Contact your embassy in Lebanon and provide them with your contact info
• Embrace the difference because this is why you are here.

Before your leave Lebanon

• Confirm your departure date with AUCE
• Meet with the Student Affairs staff to assess you experience at AUCE
• Pass by the business office to make sure no outstanding fees are on your records.

Additional Information

Safety/Security

• There is a high feeling of security in Lebanon because of the various security stops and armed guards in most areas
• In Beirut, as in other towns and villages, streets are particularly safe day and night; random violence is seldom experienced by both locals and visitors
• It is preferable to move around in groups
• Watch out for theft in busy touristic areas
• It is recommended that you do not discuss your political views with strangers
• When visiting any religious place, one must dress modestly

Lebanon Emergency Numbers

• Police:112
• Fire: 175
• Red Cross: 140

Cost of living

Transportation

✓ Buses

o Beirut has frequent bus connections to other cities in Lebanon.
o Buses are popular and inexpensive and can be stopped anywhere by hailing.
o Never take the bus without verifying the destination with the driver.
o The fair is for LBP 1,000.
o There are public buses and private buses.

✓ Taxis and Services

o People are served by taxis or service.
o A service is a lot cheaper than a taxi because it is a “shared taxi” but the price must be bargained before setting off.
o Service-taxis are the most popular means of transportation in Lebanon.
o They are recognizable by their red plate and most of them are old Mercedes.
o You can take a taxi by hailing.
o Specify if you want it as a taxi or a service.

Telecommunication in Lebanon:

Lebanon Country code is +961. It’s suitable for you to buy a local SIM card since you are staying more than one month. The cost of a SIM card is around $30 which is charged monthly for about $26; Touch and Alfa are the only providers.

Meals

Student cafeterias, bakeries, small restaurants and snacks offer man’ousheh, salads, sandwiches and meals at affordable prices. It is common in Lebanon to leave a tip when you are satisfied with the service (around 10% of the bill).

Language

The official Lebanese language is Arabic. However, there are other spoken languages: French and English. It will be helpful if the foreign students coming to work in Lebanon will be provided with a list of the most used phrases and expressions in Arabic, plus the way they are pronounced, like “sabah al kheir” for good morning, and “shoukran” for thank you…

Weather

Official holidays
Due to its diverse population and different religious groups, Lebanon has a full calendar of official holidays. Although all banks, government offices and schools are closed on these days, it is often possible to find some shops and restaurants open for business. There are around 10 holidays with fixed dates and around 9 with moveable dates.