The Lebanese are known for their infectious optimism and a constant joie de vivre combined with a unique resilience. They are also born traders and tend to excel at what their do. Incidentally, the Lebanese have opened restaurants all across the planet and that has contributed to making Lebanese food one of the most popular cuisines in the world. Furthermore, the large Lebanese diaspora has played an invaluable role in keeping the spirit of the country alive even in its darkest moments. Unlike other types of migration, the Lebanese migration is high-skilled as around 75 percent of migrants have a graduate diploma. The remittance inflow, which is equivalent to 22 percent of the country’s GDP, has helped finance major real estate projects — one of the main drivers of Lebanon’s growth.

Even during its most difficult times, Beirut never turned its back on pleasure. In fact some Lebanese say that life was even better during the years wrecked by civil unrest. War or not, a Lebanese always enjoys going out. During the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel, in a matter of a few days all the capital’s night life was transferred to the neighboring mountain area. Since then, the mountain resorts have attracted a growing number of visitors, mainly from the Gulf. Real Estate in Lebanon has also benefited from the economic slump in Dubai. Wealthy Lebanese and Arab property investors are looking to Lebanon as a prime market. Oil-driven revenues continue to pour in from Arab neighbors, who are investing billions in construction projects making Lebanon the fourth largest recipient of Arab investment. Recent residential and tourist projects in Beirut alone are estimated at $8 billion. Real estate values are expected to rise 10 to 15 percent per year until 2013.

There is an increasing demand for homes in the mountains. Mountain resorts benefit from a 27 degrees temperature in the summer, whereas Beirut suffers from a sweltering heat. The mountains are also seen as a refuge where you can forget the daily problems of a stressful city life and enjoy a calmer, more laid-back atmosphere.

Traditional winter resorts like Faraya and Kfarzebian are now welcoming visitors all year-round and not only during the winter season. Shielded from the noise and pollution of the city, mountain resorts offer an enjoyable alternative to a summer holiday abroad. The unique beauty of Lebanese mountains, combined with a limited supply, has caused prices to soar. Land in Faraya, which sold between $10 and $15 per square meter less than five years ago, fetches now as much as $1,000 per square meter. The prices of finished homes reflect the high cost of mountain construction but, developers believe that clients are ready to pay the price for privacy, security, green spaces and scenic views. Gated communities have become increasingly popular amongst an elitist clientele. A gated community often includes a spa and places where residents can meet or walk such as gardens, pedestrian streets, cafes, shops and restaurants. Promoters believe that prices may reach as much $10,000 per square meter in the next five years in resorts like, Faraya and Kfarzebian.

Beirut is vying to regain the place Dubai stole during the 35 years of civil unrest, thanks to its upscale luxury shopping. The Lebanese luxury market is growing approximately 15 percent a year. The Russians, who accounted for up to 65 percent of the sales in Dubai, have deserted the emirate and are expected to become regular clients in downtown’s elegant shopping area. The newly opened covered souks such as, Souk Al-Tawileh, Souk Al-Jamil and Souk Arwam are stylish and classy. They do not sell cheap goods, but are a showcase for expensive designer brands. When the Beirut souks are completed, there will be 400 shops, a department store and a cinema with 14 screens.

Beirut today has never been so glamorous. Lebanese women are renowned for their sense of fashion. They are also obsessed with being young and beautiful and Beirut has become the regional capital for cosmetic surgery. With so many beautiful people around, it is not surprising that the nightlife scene is the best in the Middle East. Lebanon is and has always been, the most open Arab society. It has survived a violent history, thanks to its energy and exuberance. Lebanese have become experts in living for the moment and anyone visiting the country ends up sharing their infectious love of life. Record-breaking numbers of tourists are expected this summer. One can only hope that everything stays the same.