Thanks, everyone for the feedback, both constructive and hysterical. Cashflyer, thanks for those photos. When I was in Israel, I drove to the Lebanese border, so I was close last year. It looks nice. I was a bit hesitant at first... sometimes I book trips in my zest to add another country to my list, but the more I dug into the place, the more it seemed both interesting and fairly safe. I came across this piece by Tony Bourdain:
Anthony Bourdain, BACK TO BEIRUT
I really dig a place that confounds common sense. I think Beirut will be one of those places. Its interesting to read the comments in this thread. People have preconceived notions, which are often proven 100% wrong with a little bit of digging and outside perspective. I love that about the world.
I'll be arriving March 13th. Can't wait!