Lebanon: Better days will come
Heads of the syndicates, associations and businesses representing hospitality establishments in Lebanon, share their views, doubts, hopes, and goals for the coming year
Pierre Achkar President, Syndicate of Hotel Owners in Lebanon
"Electing a President will result in a quick and positive recovery of the market conditions; it will prove the local, regional, and international will and faith in the country. This international consensus will settle local political and security stability. With time, we will see tourism activity return, and we might witness the same peak of 2010. The Syndicate has a list of plans, projects, and requirements that will remain unrealizable as far as there is no chief leading the state."
Jean Abboud President, Association of Travel and Tourist Agents in Lebanon
"During the Syrian crisis, which hit our tourism industry, our outgoing tourism was performing very well. Destinations including Sharm El Sheikh and some European countries were top destinations to Lebanese leisure travelers. However, with the deterioration of security, not only in the neighboring countries, but also in Europe, the mood to travel has decelerated. Our market has stagnated, whereas corporate trips are also on a slower tempo. When it comes to incoming tourism, Lebanon is still doing better than other regional countries. I believe that the industry can only improve if the region gets back its stability. As an association, we are attending events and forums to promote our country and its destinations, whilst expecting better days."
Jean Beyrouthy
President, Syndicate of Touristic Seaside Resorts in Lebanon and General Secretary, Federation of Touristic Syndicates
"With the expected ceasefire in Syria, and if Lebanon manages to elect a President, we are expecting that 2016 will be as bright as 2010, and perhaps even better. It is true that our market is fragile and any shakiness could quickly break its stability. But any hope or positive vibes will inject dynamism just as quickly. Despite the neighboring downturn and terrorism attacks, we did not witness severe cancellations in our reservations. Bookings to Lebanon are done on a daily basis and not many are taken prior to the visit. It has always been the case, especially with Arab tourists, who used to book only a few days before their departure. Tourists are used to the country and reckon that these ups and downs are habitual. On another level, we are searching for alternative tourism destinations, and we are developing plans to attract new markets through direct cheap flights to Beirut. These countries include Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, Argentina and Belarus, among others."
Bechara Haddad
Country Manager, Zomato in Lebanon
"The year 2015 has seen the market for burgers and sushi grow, with many restaurants either opening or expanding, which might be an indicator of trends for the year to come. With the opening of new restaurants and pubs in Dbayeh, such as The Village Dbayeh, Garcia’s and Main St. in Blueberry Square; along with a new complex which will be opening in Hazmieh, we can also say that restaurant owners are trying to escape the city and give life to the suburbs. The trend of dessert shops is also blooming with places such as Dip N’ Dip, Tonino and Secrets continually expanding and opening outlets all over the country. New stars are also expected to shine and trend next year, with long awaited international chain branches opening their doors soon, such as Texas Roadhouse and IHOP."