BEYFlyer obviously knows much more than I, he lives there now. I lived in beirut for about a year long ago, but during hostilities. Despite the hostilities I still remember Beirut more fondly than most all the other 20-odd cities I've lived in in 14 countries in the last 30 years. Although people fight between themselves the cultural and social richness in astounding. I learned more in that year about how to make and retain friendships than I learned anywhere else, and several of those friendships endure today. I recommend ignoring anyone who says no, and understand that the emotional journey you'll be on is like nothing else. I envy you the opportunity.