In the late 1960s and early 1970s, before the outbreak of Lebanon’s civil war, Brummana region of Mount Lebanon was one of the most favored parts of the whole country, in terms of tourism business. Admittedly, it suffered from seasonal peaks and troughs but demand was so strong during the extended summer season, which stretched from as early as April until the end of October, that hotel operators could afford to live with low occupancy rates in the non-peak months.

Brummana’s main appeal during the hot summer months was its relatively cool climate. Its spectacular views over Beirut and the surrounding coastal and inland region, from its vantage point at 720 meters above sea level, attracted thousands of Arab tourists every summer, eager to escape from the high temperatures and arid climate of the Gulf. As a result, Brummana’s population rose to 60,000 during the summer months from a low of about 15,000 in the off-season.

Most Arabs traveled to Lebanon with their families, spending one month or more in the region and taking advantage of the excellent restaurant and nightlife facilities in Brummana – major attractions for Gulf visitors. Beirut was a less attractive proposition, at least in terms of accommodation facilities, since there was little air-conditioning in hotels. In addition, traffic could be a problem – something that was unheard of in Brummana at the time. Beirut also lacked the quiet, green and natural surroundings that made Mount Lebanon such a restful environment in which to spend a vacation.