Expatriate Forums in Lebanon

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Posted: Mon Oct 05, 2009 12:46 pm

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Rental apartment in Lebanon

andreina — Sat Jul 25, 2009 9:04 am

Author: andreina

Posted: Sat Jul 25, 2009 9:04 am

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Diane S. Avery

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Author: buy_vigrxplus

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Accommodation in Lebanon

andreina — Sat Jul 11, 2009 8:17 am

Author: andreina

Posted: Sat Jul 11, 2009 8:17 am

Fundook site includes all types of Lebanon accommodation, pls visit this site............
Visit : http://www.beirut.fundook.com/
http://www.beirut.fundook.com/Category/Accomodation-Real-Estate

A Decent & CHEAP place to stay in Central Beirut

myrnaserhal — Tue Jun 05, 2007 8:30 am

Author: myrnaserhal

Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2007 8:30 am

Hello fellow travellers,

If it happens you're coming to Beirut, and you haven't decided on a budget place to stay , let me recommend you Embassy Hotel , on makdessi Street , a nice 3* budget hotel, family run, in the middle of bustling Hamra - Beirut , among all the shopping area, universities, cafés, banks, supermarkets, etc........The rooms though basic are decent-sized, CLEAN , all with fridge, satellite tv, balconies, A/c , free wifi for some of them but wifi internet in the hotel main lobby. Rates are MORE THAN REASONABLE and CHEAP !!!

Hoping to see you
Myrna

Medical Insurance & Health Insurance Guide

admin — Mon Sep 11, 2006 6:48 am

Author: admin

Posted: Mon Sep 11, 2006 6:48 am

Expatriate Insurance, Medical & Health Insurance Guide

For new ex-patriots, leaving our Countries to be based in a developing country, perhaps for some years, it is often a shock to discover that medical treatment of a reasonable quality is just not available, or very expensive, in their new location. Conditions can differ vastly from Baku to Beijing to the Bahamas. Many documented case histories sadly indicate the devastating experience both mentally, physically and financially of falling seriously ill when overseas, can become. Private Medical Insurance when abroad is like a parachute when flying. You may not need one but it better be there, as you and your family would may not survive without one. e.g.: Being evacuated from the Gobi desert, following a car accident resulting in broken bones, coupled to a suspected fractured skull is not an easy matter at any time.

The medical insurance plans you may need are readily available through a worldwide network of specialist Brokers, Independent Financial Advisors, or via the Plan Insurers themselves, who advertise extensively through magazines and expatriate media. Several specialist independent Brokers now have their own websites, offering multiple choices of health insurance plans. The taking of independent advice is always recommended, in order that you not only buy the right plan, but pay premiums appropriate to your new country area. Do not buy a plan without studying the policy wording carefully, particularly underwriting conditions, benefits, etc. If in doubt, ask and then complete all application forms fully, to the best of your ability.

The Premium/Benefit Trade Off

Too frequently, a potential customer or new client will look to lowest price or premium cost comparisons, before really considering the specific benefits and area of cover they may actually need. The ex-patriot client should carefully review benefits of cover offered, check out any limits to that cover and any exclusions made by the insurer. Some plans are cheaper for a reason. Often they include large voluntary deductibles on any claim you might make in future and may severely cap the benefits received under the plan. Cover limits can vary from ?50,000 total cover to as much as ?5,000,000 total cover. Any major operation in the USA or perhaps an organ transplant can soon eat up a " capped cover" plan. Exclusions to the policy should also be read carefully and advice taken from an independent Advisor. Our motto is for clients to "define their needs" first, particular Area of cover they need, then their annual healthcare insurance budget. Then, they should look to premium comparisons, last of all.

Many new entrant expatriate Insurers are taking a much easier line on HIV and AIDS issues as well as offering chronic conditions cover, if such conditions develop during the plan lifetime. Post September 11th 2001, many expatriates are now considering the purchase of income replacement insurance, term life and kidnap insurance, or travel insurance, in addition to their Health Insurance Plans.

Underwriting Terms of Plans

For the individual expatriate or family there are usually only two ways to take out international medical insurance. By means of a "moratorium" application or a "full underwriting" application. It is important to understand this rather jargonised phrases as claims can be rejected if you have inappropriate underwriting. A moratorium plan means that any "pre existing" condition, for which you have had treatment, advice or consultation upon during the last 2,3 or even 5 years in some cases, will be EXCLUDED from cover. Should you then not have any treatment, advice or consultations for such conditions for a further two years, your insurer may add that condition to your policy. Full underwriting applications mean that all medical history questions have to be completed (not needed on a moratorium plan) and that most insurers may then exclude any particular stated condition, which they feel will lead to claims upon them. Full underwriting schemes are a little more complex as sometimes confirmation and clarification letters may be needed from your Doctor in order to have a specific condition covered under your new plan, or for that insurer to offer cover at all (E.g.; HIV or AIDS conditions cover or other long-term endemic/chronic conditions.)

For larger groups of expatriates and large corporate plans, Insurers will frequently offer cover on a "Medical History Disregarded" basis, meaning that a new plan member might even be in hospital for a triple bypass, but still have that condition included in the total corporate plan. Clearly with larger numbers of people in a plan, insurers are prepared to take higher risks and offer lower premiums. Company plans can have premiums some 15% to even 40% less than individual plans, due to the larger numbers of employees and higher annual premium overall, charged by that Insurer.

Vital Questions for the Insurance Provider

1. Does the plan allow for cooling off periods, cancellation and then repayment of premium in full?

2. Does the plan offer "Moratorium or is it "Full underwriting" and do I need to have a medical examination before joining.

3. Does the new Insurer offer a 24 hour help line, 7 days a week, available from anywhere in the World (free phone)? Most Insurers now offer this facility

4. Are my pre-existing conditions excluded when joining and if so, for how long are such conditions excluded?

5. Or all and any Nationalities accepted or are there restrictions applying to local nationals? Some Insurers will only take expatriates abroad and not local nationals into an overseas plan (e.g.: - They may cover six British Nationals in Zambia, not the 100 Zambian local national employees)

6. Does the plan allow you to continue cover unbroken through your lifetime? In most cases insurers will continue to offer existing clients cover year on year, irrespective of age or claims history. I.e.: - Once a customer, you may remain a customer, although premium rates charged can increase dramatically with old age.

7. Does the Insurer allow for any Doctor or Consultant or Hospital within the plan? Are there any restrictions in this respect? Most international plans do not place restrictions on either hospitals or Doctors, but almost all demand that their help lines are called first prior to approval of any inpatient care. (I.e.: pre qualified claim or placing of a bond with a specific hospital by Insurance Company)

8. Does the Insurer provide for direct settlement of bills presented by hospitals worldwide, regardless of location? (Or do I have to pay first?)

9. What are the Insurers procedures for Outpatient claims? Do these require any pre authorization or if stated in the plan can I just pay and claim? How long before I get my money back from the Insurer? (14 days? 28 days?)

The vast majority of expatriate health plans DO NOT exclude certain occupations as do many UK based insurance plans. Expatriate plans do however add to premiums for such as Winter Sports or diving holidays.

Nomenclature, names and Plan Titles

The Product Providers and Insurers delight in launching new plan names with "exclusive" qualities in their brand names over those of their direct competitors. However, international medical insurance plans broadly have three key components, which are in-patient or daycare treatment, outpatient treatment, and then and add-on options.

In this way, a basic or standard plan usually includes in-patient and daycare, but no Outpatient or other cover. Comprehensive plans mostly cover outpatient in addition to the inpatient costs, often with a capped limit, whilst "deluxe" "platinum" or "Premier Plus" plans offer a full cover range of inpatient, daycare, outpatient with routine dental. Possibly maternity, evacuation, personal accident cover and even chronic conditions cover in certain cases. (All the bells and whistles plan) We tend to ignore the names of plans but ensure we have clear ideas of benefits specifically, capping, area of cover and any exclusions, when comparing plans against a clients requirements. For example a USA passport holder living in Paris, who never needs cover in the USA apart from the occasional holiday trip, could take Area 1 European cover, which is often half the price of full world wide cover including the USA. Area 2 is usually described as Worldwide cover excluding the USA or Canada" with Area 3 being the most expensive offering global cover including the USA, all year round

A small travel add-on option can often help with up to 30 days emergency cover in USA or Canada should such be needed. Elective care in USA can also be added for just thirty days a year too, at a substantial discount to full Area 3 cover premiums. Some Insurers now offer modular benefit packages where clients can "pick and choose" benefits, working out their own premiums, at the end of this mix and match.

Emergency, Evacuation and Repatriation

1. Does the Plan include evacuation and repatriation and mortal remains repatriation or are these benefits add on extras?

2. What costs are included in the evacuation or repatriation cover? Some plans only cover travel costs, not accommodation; some plans only give cover one way.

3. Does the Plan cover both your outward journey and pay for you to return from where you started?

4. Does the plan cater for one person or can a business colleague or a family member accompany the Plan holder when travelling for treatment after evacuation? Emergency treatment when abroad can be very stressful at the best of times and being accompanied can be a huge comfort.

Outpatient Costs and General Practitioner Costs

Expatriates with families and small children will know that "Outpatient costs" and visits to the local Doctor are usually the main cost area at home, but particularly whilst abroad. Expats in developing countries are more prone to ill health and most will have at least one or more visits to a GP during a tour of duty. You need to know that GP costs will be fully reimbursed, or that you know the level of deductible, which will be made from any and all outpatient claims. (Each and every claim or an amount, which cumulates annually) Read your Plan carefully.

1. Many Insurers offer a limit or budget Outpatient benefits and these issues should be carefully studied in the new plan. Note any restrictions

2. Check the wording of drugs and dressings offered to note whether "Full Cover" or financial limits are set in the plan.

3. Few plans offer "Elective" or "Well woman " Well man" checks. Most international plans cater for healthcare once the patient has symptoms or is ill. They do not offer preventative checks or Health Checks at the control of the client. (Some larger company plans do offer well man checks)

Outpatient Cover, Complementary Medicine, Dental plan or Routine Maternity plan

If you are able to afford the premiums, Outpatient cover added to in-patient/daycare cover makes sense. In-patient care gives catastrophic cover or a hospital cost cover, but gives no cost cover if you are "walking wounded". A medium range comprehensive plan may well limit the amount you may claim on the Outpatient costs, but a deluxe or fully comprehensive will give Full Cover for this benefit.

Many plans do offer benefit for accidental damage to teeth by accident, but not routine elective dental healthcare Routine Dental treatment is mostly quoted as an optional extra, as is any option to take out routine maternity treatment. Thus, if you break a tooth you are covered but if you visit the dentist for a crown, beware, you may have to pay. Routine maternity care cover can be a valuable part of overseas family planning, yet many women and families overseas, unfortunately only contact their Broker or Insurer when already pregnant. Few Insurers will allow routine maternity costs re imbursement when a woman is pregnant actually taking out the plan. Almost all Insurers will consider an existing pregnancy as a pre-existing condition, but will cover emergency in pregnancy. If a couple have held medical insurance for one year, the Insurer may offer an option, with CO-insurance for routine maternity costs to a budget limit. Talk this over with a specialist Advisor in Expatriate Health Insurance

More Insurers are now taking a more enlightened approach to the subject of complementary care and costs of such as chiropractioners, osteopaths, homeopaths, acupuncturists and the like. These benefits are usually severely "budget capped" by the Insurers, however.

Other Cost Considerations and Options

With the growing range of plans available across the world, across a vast premium spectrum, several new benefit cost areas are mentioned below, which are not always available from all Insurers, but can be quoted selectively in certain Plans.

Well Child care, well man and well woman checks, all can be quoted

Prosthetic Appliances, can be quoted but capped

Eyeglasses and tests quoted on many deluxe and top plans

Crowns, dentures and bridges, routine dental quoted on top plans

Death of Close Relative, round trip costs covered on many plans

Treatment in USA elective or emergency usually can be quoted

Vaccinations, quoted on some plans

Annual Health Checks, quoted on some top plans

Organ Transplants, AIDS and Chronic cover on some top plans

Hazardous Sports, quoted on some plans.

Legal Costs after accidents abroad, quoted in some plans

Complaints

All Insurer Plans should clearly stipulate the complaints and disputes procedures they follow together with any Regulator. They should illustrate how you may contact the right adjudicators in their company or contact your independent Advisor for help) There are also independent Regulatory Authorities available n most Western countries, such as the UK, who can assist you with a dispute with an Insurer (who is being difficult when settling your claim) If you have bought your Plan through the offices of an independent Broker or Specialist Advisor they will almost certainly be glad to help in legitimate disputes with an Insurer. If you are right, have proper records, the Insurers will pay up.

Overview

Generally, as with most Insurance services, you get what you pay for. Read the documentation carefully, particularly the benefits and exclusions clauses. International Medical Insurance is a complex and difficult field. Many Insurers are competing for your long-term business. They all will argue, "Their Plan is Best." Certain strategic insurance considerations have been also affecting the expatriate market since the World Trade Centre disaster. Many ex-patriots are now looking for international term life and income replacement cover, as well as medical insurance. Time will tell how long term insurance growth is affected in this expanding expatriate global market place.

If you purchase a comprehensive plan from a reputable Insurer, via an independent Broker, you are usually not disappointed. However, if you buy what is clearly a cheap cut plan, without advice, beware when trying to make a claim. (They may well have pages and pages of exclusions in the small print)

It is also important for your budget to choose the correct geographical area of cover. Routine travel options can be taken at much less cost than full-blown USA cover, if you do not really need elective USA cover. Voluntary excesses on claims can substantially reduce premiums, as can co- insurance payments. (Sharing risk costs with the Insurer)

In the final analysis, international expat medical insurance is best to have at your side so that "you may sleep at night abroad" rather than to think of ways to claim. If both parties fully understand the contract and deal in good faith, Insurers very much want to keep clients for the long term. It is always better however, to compare and study at least three packs of brochures from differing Insurers, or have a review done by an independent Broker specializing in the Healthcare Insurance field. All the material needs attention and careful reading. Understand what you are committing to, what the contract actually states, not what you may think it states (or some salesman told you) and what geographical limitations are set giving your area do cover.

You may not need to read this contract again until the moment you need medical aid. Remember, that Brand name alone does not necessarily indicate good service, but that in 2002, many lesser-known expatriate specialist Insurers offer excellent premiums, wide benefits, good claims records and fast efficient electronic client services. Professional support teams are vital in overseas emergencies. Your Helpline card is the key to medical help and assistance 24 hours a day, whilst Overseas. Make sure that you have it to hand and that you know how to use it. With most Insurers now offering toll free global lines 24 hours a day, these vital help-lines are the first port of call, prior to any treatment being arranged, with the exception of emergencies. Establish contact as soon as you can, then let the Insurers assistance teams do the rest.

Article Prepared By

J Leslie Smith B Sc Econ Honours Associate IEE
Chairman and Managing Director
Medibroker International

LEBANON PROPERTY : Expats Buying property in Lebanon Guide

Admin2 — Tue May 16, 2006 5:11 am

Author: Admin2

Posted: Tue May 16, 2006 5:11 am

LEBANON PROPERTY : Expats Buying property in Lebanon Guide

SODECO Gestion Sal

Three years ago, SODECO started its activity. Sodeco Management, by its professional work, has brought in Lebanon a new vision in real estate... The largest choice of apartments and offices for selling, renting and managing...

sodeco@sodeco-gestion.com
www.sodeco-gestion.com
www.1stlebanon.net/
lebanon/sodeco.html

4 Sodeco Street
Beirut
Tel : (961) 1 - 616000
Fax : (961) 1 - 614280

OPERATORS sal

Property Management - Property Services -
Real Estate Agency - Villas Lebanon -
Apartments Lebanon - Offices Lebanon -
Estate Agency Lebanon

bernard.saghbini@operators.com.lb
www.operators.com.lb

Sodeco Square
Bloc b
13th Floor
Damascus road
Achrafieh, Lebanon
Tel : (961) 1 - 611999
Cell : (961) 3 - 725835

PROJECTS DEVELOPMENT (PRODEV) s.a.l

With its roots in Real Estate, Projects Development
is a Development and Investment Company covering
all fields of business, it aim is to invest its wide range
of expertise with local and international partners under
strict ethical codes and superior international
business standards.

info@projectsdevelopment.com
www.projectsdevelopment.com

Charles Malek Avenue
Zen Center - 4th fl.
Ashrafieh - Beirut
B.P. : 165778 Beirut
Tel : (961) 1 - 216428

ANTOINE N. ABOU RIZK

Since 1972, our agency is involved in Real estate
business and appraisal. We're appointed Expert by
the banking control comission (Bank of Lebanon)

contact@real-estate-lebanon.com
www.real-estate-lebanon.com

Orthodoxe Hopital Street
Beirut - Lebanon
Tel : (961) 1 - 446382
Real Estate Lebanon

HONEST ASSOCIATE

Honest Associate is a Real Estate company based in Lebanon. Our scope of activities includes exploring, buying & selling properties.
Our services of Real estate developement and consultancy in lebanon are always avalaible for our clients.
Visit our website to discover properties, apartment, land...all over lebanon.

s.rahbani@honest-associate.com
www.honest-associate.com

Mansourieh
Bank of Beirut Bldg
Tel/Fax : (961) 4 533222
Cell : (961) 3 133222

Other websites :

www.solidere.com/invest/retail.html

www.real-estate-lebanon.com

Source: 1stlebanon.net/uk

Expatriate Medical Insurance & Health Insurance Guide

Admin2 — Tue May 16, 2006 4:03 am

Author: Admin2

Posted: Tue May 16, 2006 4:03 am

Expatriate Medical Insurance & Health Insurance Guide

Healthcare

Lebanon's health sector is at par with European and US hospitals. Private clinics and medical centers are available throughout the country and equipped with the latest facilities and technology.

Most Lebanese are privately insured and those registered with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) have partial health coverage. Policies providing corporate group coverage are widely used by companies registered at the NSSF to supplement the benefits provided by the government's healthcare system. International private medical insurance is available for non-Lebanese living in Lebanon. Cost for healthcare varies between hospitals and doctors.

A number of pharmacies are available across the country. Many drugs are available over the counter without prescription and some pharmacists prescribe required medicine for minor ailments.

Insurances:

MEDGULF SAL

The Medgulf Group aims to be a one-stop solution for
all insurance needs of retail and institutional clients in
the Middle-East, and is strategically positioned to
expand its services locally and regionally to take
advantage of the anticipated boom in the Middle
Eastern insurance business.

lebanon@medgulf.com
www.medgulf.com

Medgulf Bldg
Patriarch Howayek Street
Beirut Central District
Tel : (961) 1 - 985000
Fax : (961) 1 - 985005 / 032

SOCIETE NATIONALE D'ASSURANCES
SNA

SNA is currently a member of the AGF Allianz group,
the #1 worldwide financial group: Allianz group is
present in more than 70 countries and backed by a
heritage of 112 years, 180 000 employees and 87
billion US in annual premiums.

sna@sna.com.lb
www.sna.com.lb

SNA Bldg
Hazmieh
PO/Box : 16-6528
C.P. 1100 2130
Beirut
Tel : (961) 5 - 956600
Fax : (961) 5 - 956624

AL ITTIHAD AL WATANI

Al-Ittihad Al-Watani (L'Union Nationale) General
Insurance Company for the Near East s.a.l. is
a pioneer in the Lebanese insurance business.
Founded in 1947 in Beirut, the company later
expanded to cover other Arab countries.The
Company offers all kind of Insurance :
From Personal to Property and Liability
and Engineering & Special Risks.

rfeghali@alittihadalwatani.com.lb
www.alittihadalwatani.com.lb

Jisr Alwati
PO/Box : 1270
Beirut
Tel : (961) 1 - 426480 / 5
Fax : (961) 1 - 426486

BANKERS ASSURANCE

Basic Individual Program

The Basic Individual Program is a health insurance program that covers all medical expenses agreed on and incurred during your stay in the hospital.

Who can subscribe & how?
The age brackets for new adherents are 14 days till 65 years.
There is, on the other hand, no age limitation for the persons already insured with us.
To subscribe to this plan, all you need to do is fill in a medical questionnaire; and depending on your age (>60 years), some medical exams may be needed.

What does it cover?
The first year of insurance, all accidental health problems and non-preexisting cases are covered.
Upon the renewal of your contract, if no major disease had altered your health condition, all the preexisting cases will be covered, like heart diseases, cancer, renal problems, etc.

In more than twenty five years of existence, Bankers Assurance has grown to become a major player in the Insurance industry in Lebanon.

mail@bankers.com.lb
www.bankers.com.lb
www.bankers-assurance.com

Asseily Bldg
Riad el solh
Down town beirut
Tel : (961) 1 - 988777
Fax : (961) 1 - 984004

Source:1stlebanon.net

LEBANON MAIDS : House maids in Lebanon information

Admin2 — Tue May 16, 2006 3:41 am

Author: Admin2

Posted: Tue May 16, 2006 3:41 am

LEBANON MAIDS : House maids in Lebanon information

As part of the legal procedures to obtain permission for the maid to work and reside in Lebanon, both the employee and employer are required to sign a contract sanctioned by a notary and written in Arabic. The employees rarely understand the details of the contract and even when it is translated, this tends to be into English rather than the employee's native tongue. The contracts hardly ever define the nature of the work, choosing instead to emphasize that the employee be dedicated, honest, upright and devoted to her obligations. Contracts for employment agencies vary from one agency to another and most of them are not written up in cooperation with the embassies for these workers' countries of origin. Most of the contracts are based on pre-2000 contracts and modified as requirements dictate. It is not clear to what extent they are drawn up with help of Lebanese lawyers and notaries.

One such contract bears the name and signature of the employer, and the name and thumbprint of a Filipino woman. The first paragraph states that the woman agrees "to work as a domestic helper or any other position asked of her by the first party, and at any place or time of his choosing." The contract is for two years with a monthly salary of $200. After 3 years the employee is entitled to a 30 day holiday, after which the employer is obliged to pay the costs of her return home.

The contract also contains the following clauses:
1 - The work includes washing and ironing clothes, managing household affairs, washing the bathrooms and the dishes, cooking, cleaning the carpets and furniture, looking after the children and all other domestic tasks.
2 - The second party [the domestic helper] is not allowed out by herself or to mix with the opposite sex, whether she is related to them or not. She is only permitted to go to markets, banks or public places when accompanied by the first party and his family. She may not make telephone calls or answer the phone except when specifically asked to do so. She also agrees that she has no rights to a weekend.
3 - Working hours: there are no set working hours. The employee has a responsibility to be fully prepared at all times, day and night. She has no fixed hours of relaxation other than time spent sleeping, eating or at prayer.

Source: babelmed.net

Lebanon International School - Lebanon Expatriate Schools

Admin2 — Thu May 11, 2006 4:27 am

Author: Admin2

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 4:27 am

Lebanon International School - Lebanon Expatriate Schools

The American Community School

The American Community School at Beirut enrolls students without regard to race, creed, gender, national origin, or religious belief. Applicants are evaluated on the basis of their academic abilities and their willingness to participate fully in the School's programs. In accordance with its mission, ACS seeks a diverse student body with an international composition. Admission practices reflect the School's desire, as an international school, to serve all its constituencies fairly.

Recommended age requirements for students are as follows:
Nursery: 3 years old by September 30
Kindergarten I: 4 years old by September 30

And so on, through Grade 12.

In exceptional circumstances a student may be placed in a grade higher than chronological age indicates, if adequate documentation is provided to justify the placement.

English language skills: English is the language of instruction throughout the school, and students must be able to function at an appropriate level in English for the academic work that is required of them. ESL is provided for those students who need some minimal support in their adjustment to working in the English language, but who are able to follow the program at an acceptable level. In special situations, and in the lower grades, beginning ESL students may be admitted. Students with significant ESL needs are generally not admitted to the Upper School.

Special Needs: ACS does not have a separate program for students with significant learning difficulties, and is therefore not able to accept such students. Students with mild learning difficulties may receive support, but must be capable of success in the regular program. In such cases, the School counseling staff will be consulted and may administer additional testing.

Requirements for Admission:

* The completed Application Form signed by the parent or legal guardian
* An entrance examination given at ACS. Students applying from abroad must submit current SSAT, ASAT or other American standardized test scores whenever applicable. Early Years candidates are invited to come to school with their parents for an interview.
* Official transcripts from the last three years, including the current academic year, for candidates applying to enter grades 2-12. Applicants for Early Years-grade 1 should submit school progress reports as appropriate.
* A personal family interview at ACS and/or a recommendation from a school counselor or principal.
* Four passport photos (one attached to the application)
* One photocopy of a valid passport or a Lebanese ID card / Birth Certificate for Early Years Candidates
* Completed medical history form, signed by a doctor
* A non-refundable application fee of LL. 70,000 or $ 45

Admission Procedures

For all prospective students:

Decisions regarding the admission of students are made by an Admission Committee which includes the Dean of Admission, the appropriate School Principal, members of the Student Services Team (SST) as needed, and when advisable, the Head of School who has final authority in admission matters.

Beginning in February (and continuing on a rolling basis until classes are full) applications for the following year are accepted for consideration. Application forms are available in the Admission Office. Entrance examinations are scheduled according to the calendar below. Early Years interviews are scheduled individually by the Admission Office.

Applicants from Lebanese Schools must complete the application requirements by June 1.

Students coming from Lebanese schools must provide an official document from their previous school, certified by the Ministry of Education, attesting to their successful completion of the previous academic year. In addition, those applying for the American or International Baccalaureate programs must have an official document of permission from the Ministry of Education.

Students must either sit for the ACS entrance examination battery or if applying from abroad must submit current ASAT, SSAT, or other American Achievement test scores along with a writing sample. Performance on such tests should be at or above the current school average with a passing grade on the writing sample.

For students applying from overseas:

Applications are considered on a rolling basis, depending on the availability of space. If current year standardized test results are not available, families will be advised as to how the admission test requirement will be fulfilled. Families who arrive late in the year are treated individually as to their needs and ACS's ability to serve them.

Students applying from outside of Lebanon, regardless of nationality, must bring with them copies of school transcripts from the last three years that have been certified by the Lebanese embassy or consulate in the country they are leaving. This is required by the Ministry of Education and will allow students to complete the process of official registration at ACS.

Contact:

Beirut
Rue de Paris, Jel El Bahr
P. O. Box 11-8129, Riad El Solh, Beirut
1107 2260, Lebanon

Telephone: +961 (1) 374 370
Fax: +961 (1) 366 050

E-Mail: acs@acs.edu.lb

Source: acs.edu.lb

International College, Beirut

Address
Bliss Street, PO Box 11-0236, Riyadh-El-Solh 1107-2020, Beirut, Lebanon
Tel: (+961) 1 371294
Fax: (+961) 1 362500/1
proffice@cyberia.net.lb
www.ic.edu.lb

School Summary:
National, US, IB curricula.
3500 students, 3-18 yrs.

International College, Beirut was founded in 1891 by Alexander MacLachlan in Smyrna, Turkey. It was chartered in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 1903. The school moved to Beirut in 1936 to a campus contiguous to the American University of Beirut. The school became co-educational in 1957. A second campus in neighbouring Ain Aar was opened in 1988 and enrolls students in Kindergarten-Grade 10.

Throughout its history, International College, Beirut has prided itself on being inter-cultural and non-sectarian. All applicants for admission have been judged regardless of race, colour, sex, religion, physical disabilities, or national origin.

The Pre-Kindergarten - Baccalaureate II curriculum offers four diploma programs: American college preparatory, French Baccalaureate, Lebanese Baccalaureate and the IB Diploma program. English and French are the main languages of instruction. In the lowest grade levels Arabic is also a language of instruction. Four divisions, Pre-school, Elementary, Middle and Secondary, allow for more of a sense of community within the larger IC campus. The core curriculum leads to a college preparatory course of study encompassing English, Arabic and French, Mathematics, social studies, science, art and music, and physical education.

The main 9.8-acre campus in Ras Beirut houses four classroom buildings, three libraries, an administrative building and a house for the president of the school. Science laboratories and computer facilities are plentiful. Outdoor courts and athletic fields accommodate the PE courses and intramural and interscholastic athletic programs. There is an additional campus in Ain Aar for 800 students, pre-school through middle school.

The International College, Beirut has an Educational Resources Center whose main purpose is to organize professional development activities for faculty and staff and an outreach program for teachers and schools in Lebanon and the Middle East Region.

International College, Beirut has approximately 12,000 living alumni/ae, of whom well over 1,000 reside in the United States and Canada. Throughout the Middle East, Europe and North America, thousands are holding positions as physicians, business executives, scientists, and government officials. A number also teach from the pre-school through the university levels at institutions around the world

Institut Moderne du Liban

Address
PO Box 90593, Jdeidet Metn, Metn, 12 02 2050, Lebanon
Tel: (+961) 1 680160/1/2
Fax: (+961) 1 680160/1/2
instmod@inco.com.lb
www.instmod.edu.lb

School Summary:
National curricula.
326 students, 3-18 yrs.

The 'Institut Moderne du Liban' was founded in 1958 and offers the Lebanese and French Baccalaureates. English is taught throughout the whole school. Students are expected to learn three languages. The school's philosophy centres on the formation of the full individual through a personalized approach to teaching and leaning and the development of a sense of responsibility. The academic program is enhanced by numerous elective classes, such as PE, art, music, social and cultural events. The facilities include, in addition to the classrooms (the maximum class size is 25 students), three fully equipped laboratories for physics, chemistry and biology, a computer centre, two basket ball courts, one tennis court, one volleyball court, an all-weather playing surface, an audio-visual resource centre and a library containing more than 10,000 volumes under the supervision of a full time qualified librarian. Hot lunches are available or students may bring their own. School uniform at Institut Moderne du Liban' is compulsory for each child and is available in school. Students of all races, nationalities and religions are welcomed to attend the school. Prior to admission, students sit an entrance test to evaluate their entry level and abilities, admission to the school is by a parental application, followed by a personal interview or a written test. Students with special educational needs are not usually accepted. A summer program is held from mid-July to the end of August. Although the student body at Institut Moderne du Liban' has a rich variety of backgrounds, representing 14 nationalities, the majority of students are Lebanese. The school year begin in mid September and ends in mid June, (working hours from 08:00 till 16:00) with two major breaks, two weeks at Christmas and two weeks at Easter.

Source: english-schools.org

LEBANON EXPAT HOUSING GUIDE

Admin2 — Thu May 11, 2006 3:56 am

Author: Admin2

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 3:56 am

LEBANON EXPAT HOUSING GUIDE

There are different ways to find accommodations. You can go through the ads for apartments in the local newspapers where you will find an extensive advertisement section; you can also advertise in the local newspapers; or you can go through a real estate agent.

For unfurnished apartments, a lease of not less than one year is normally required. The majority of landlords request one year’s rent in advance. Depending on the location and the type of building, accommodation is available at yearly rents varying between US$12,000 to US$30,000 for a three to four bedroom unfurnished apartment. The rent usually includes water supply but excludes electricity and service charges, which have to be incurred by the tenants.

Furnished studios with up to three bedroom apartments are available from US$1,500 to US$3,000 per month (weekly and daily rates are also available at some furnished apartments) and usually provide a refrigerator, cooking stove, kitchenware, plus basic domestic services, i.e. cleaning and maintenance.

Source: idal.com.lb

The centre of the city is the rebuilt Downtown area, which comprises the Parliament building, the Banking district, numerous restaurants, shops as well as historic archaeological sights and the largest number of mosques and churches concentrated in a single area. To the east are the hip residential areas of Gemaizeh and Achrafieh, packed with bars and restaurants and many traditional Lebanese houses with their arched windows and red tiled roofs. Monnot Street in Achrafieh is the trendiest party area of the city. West Beirut offers the former pre-war shopping paradise of the city, Hamra, and the extremely fashionable neighbourhood of Verdun, as well as the lush, green campus of the American University of Beirut and the recently replanted pine forest – the major park of the city. Surrounding all is the Corniche, the wide shoreline promenade, full of charm and contradictions and Beirutis of all faiths, factions and ages walking, exercising, sitting and chatting. Downtown: Is the newly renovated downtown area that was totally destroyed during the war. It is filled with top international fashion shops and vast array of cafés, restaurants, bars, clubs and pubs. Great for a stroll day and night, in an almost surreal and hauntingly beautiful setting.

Source: bradmans.com

LEBANON HOSPITALS : Hospitals in Lebanon Guide

Admin2 — Thu May 11, 2006 2:26 am

Author: Admin2

Posted: Thu May 11, 2006 2:26 am

LEBANON HOSPITALS : Hospitals in Lebanon Guide

(Beirut)

American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC):
Address: Makdissi Street
P.O. Box: 113-6044, Beirut
Tel: 01-350000;1-340460;1-340740;1-374444;1-374374
Fax: 01-345325
E-mail: aubmc@aub.edu.lb
Website: www.aubmc.org
Services Provided: Internal medicine, General surgery, Heart surgery, Maternity, Pediatrics, Urology, Ophthalmology, Specialized Eye center, Family medicine, Intensive care unit, Physiotherapy, Blood bank, Pharmacy, Laboratory, and Emergency services.

Hotel Dieu Hospital:
Address: Adib Ishak Street, BVD. Alfred Naccache, Achrafieh, Beirut
P.O. Box: 166830
Tel: 01-615300;01-615400
Fax: 01-615295
E-mail: hdf@usj.edu.lb
Website: www.hdf.usj.edu.lb
Services Provided: Internal Medicine, General Surgery -Heart Surgery, Kidney, Liver and Bone marrow transplant, Maternity, Pediatrics, Intensive Care Units, One day surgery, Outpatient care, Diagnostic procedures, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, blood bank, Medical Imaging services, Radiation Oncology, Hem dialysis, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Emergency services.

Saint George Hospital University medical center:
Address: Rmeil, Youssef Sursock street
P.O. Box: 166378, Achrafieh, Beirut
Tel: 01-585700; 01-525700
Fax: 01-582560
E-mail: admin@stgeorgehospital.org
Website: www.stgeorgehospital.org
Services Provided: internal medicine, general surgery, heart surgery, maternity, pediatrics, intensive care unit, physiotherapy, blood bank, pharmacy, laboratory and emergency services.

Clinique Dr. Rizk Hospital:
Address: Zahar St., Achrafieh
P.O. Box: 11-3288, Beirut
Tel: 01-200800;01-328800
Fax: 01-200816
E-mail: info@cliniquerizk.com
Website: N/A
Services Provided: Internal medicine, surgery, maternity, pediatrics, kidney transplant, specialized eye center, intensive care unit, physiotherapy, pharmacy, laboratory and emergency services.

Makassed Hospital:
Address: Ouzai St., Tarik Al-Jadida
P.O. Box: 6301, Beirut
Tel: 01-646590/1/2/3/4/5/6
Fax: 01-646589
E-mail: mghadmin@cyberia.net.lb
Website: www.makassed.org.lb
Services provided: Internal medicine, surgery, bone marrow transplant, maternity, pediatrics, intensive care unit, physiotherapy, blood bank, pharmacy, laboratory and emergency services.

Najjar Hospital:
Address: Maamari Street, Ras Beirut
P.O. Box: 113-5984, Beirut
Tel: 01-340626; 03-669911
Fax: 01-343992
E-mail: najjarhp@inco.com.lb
Website: N/A
Services Provided: Internal medicine, Surgery, Maternity, Pediatrics, Intensive care unit, Blood bank, Pharmacy, Laboratory and Emergency services.

Sahel Hospital:
Address: Airport Ave., Dergham Street
P.O.Box: 99/25, Ghobeiry, Beirut
Tel: 01-858333
Fax: 01-840146
E-mail: info@sahelhospital.com.lb
Website: www.sahelhospital.com.lb
Services Provided: Internal medicine, general surgery, maternity, intensive care unit, physiotherapy, blood bank, pharmacy, laboratory and emergency services.

Trad Hospital and Medical Center:
Address: Mexico Street, Fifth Floor, Clemenceau
P.O. Box: 113-6431, Beirut
Tel: 01-341740, 01-369494/5
Fax: 01-361663
Services Provided: Internal medicine, surgery, maternity, pharmacy, and laboratory services.

Fuad Khoury Hospital:
Address: Maktabi Bldg., Abdelaziz Street, Hamra, Beirut
Tel: 01-742140/3/7, 01-348811
Fax: 01-350208
E-mail: ffhosp67@dm.net.lb
Website: www.fouadkhouryhosp.com
Services Provided: Services provided: internal medicine, surgery, gynecology, blood bank, pharmacy, laboratory and emergency services.

Barbir Hospital:
Address: Fuad The First Street, Barbir
P.O.Box: 11/4302, Beirut
Tel: 01-652915/6/7/8; 01-652955
Fax: 01-631429
E-mail: barbir@terra.net.lb
Website: N/A
Services Provided: Internal medicine, surgery, maternity, pediatrics, intensive care unit, physiotherapy, blood bank, pharmacy, laboratory and emergency services.

Source: www.usembassy.gov.lb

CONSULATES IN LEBANON Directory Guide

Admin2 — Wed May 10, 2006 4:33 am

Author: Admin2

Posted: Wed May 10, 2006 4:33 am

CONSULATES IN LEBANON Directory Guide

Algeria
Jnah
Tel: 961.1.826711/2
Fax: 961.1.826711

Argentina
Starco
Tel: 961.1.987900/901
Fax: 961.1.987903

Armenia
Rabiyeh - Mtayleb
Tel: 961.4.402952 - 961.1.418860
Fax: 961.4.402952

Australia
Ras Beirut
Tel: 961.1.374701/2
Fax: 961.1.374709

Austria
Tabaris
Tel: 961.1.217360 - 961.1.217712
Fax: 961.1.217772

Bahrain
Manara
Tel: 961.3.611936
Fax: 961.1.367952

Belgium
Baabda
Tel: 961.5.920551 - 961.1.468487
Fax: 961.5.923987

Bolivia
Dora
Tel: 961.1.240711/2/3
Fax: 961.1.240710

Brazil
Baabda
Tel: 961.5.921256 - 961.5.923003/4
Fax: 961.5.923001

Bulgaria
Raouche
Tel: 961.1.861352
Fax: 961.1.800265

Canada
Jal El Dib
Tel: 961.4.713900 to 904
Fax: 961.4.710595

Chile
Naccache
Tel: 961.4.418670 - 961.4.418671
Fax: 961.4.418672

China
Ramlet El-Baida
Tel: 961.1.864552 - 961.1.850314
Fax: 961.1.822492

Colombia
Jal El Dib
Tel: 961.4.712646/7/8
Fax: 961.4.712656

Cuba
Ain El Tineh
Tel: 961.1.805025
Fax: 961.1.810339

Czech Republic
Baabda
Tel: 961.5.468763 - 961.5.920501
Fax: 961.5.922120

Denmark
Ain Mreysseh
Tel: 961.1.364264 - 961.1.372580
Fax: 961.1.372970

Egypt
Ramlet El-Baida
Tel: 961.1.867917 - 961.1.868295
Fax: 961.1.863751

France
Museum - Consulate
Tel: 961.1.616578/80
Fax: 961.1.616585

Gabon
Hadath
Tel: 961.5.924649 - 961.5.924875
Fax: 961.5.924643

Germany
Rabieh - Mtayleb
Tel: 961.4.914444
Fax: 961.4.914450

Great Britain
Jal El Dib
Tel: 961.4.715900 to 903
Fax: 961.4.715904

Greece
Naccache
Tel: 961.4.521700 - 961.1.418772
Fax: 961.4.418772

Hungary
Fanar
Tel: 961.1.898857 - 961.1.898840
Fax: 961.1.873391

India
Kantari
Tel: 961.1.373539 - 961.1.372619
Fax: 9611.373538

Indonesia
Baabda
Tel: 961.5.924682/683
Fax: 961.5.924678

Iran
Bir Hassan
Tel: 961.1.821224 - 961.1.821230
Fax: 961.1.821229

IRAQ
Hazmieh
Tel: 961.5.459940 - 961.5.452823
Fax: 961.5.459850

ITALY
Parliament Square
Tel: 961.1.985200 - 961.1.985300
Fax: 961.1.985303/305

JAPAN
Baabda
Tel: 961.5.922001/2/4
Fax: 961.5.922003

JORDAN
Baabda
Tel: 961.5.922500/1
Fax: 961.5.922502

KOREA
Baabda
Tel: 961.5.922151/2
Fax: 961.5.922153

KUWAIT
Bir Hassan
Tel: 961.1.822515/6/7
Fax: 961.1.840613

LIBERIA
Ain Mreysseh
Tel: 961.1.367319 - 961.1.367326
Fax: 961.1.367297

LIBYA
Verdun
Tel: 961.1.806314 - 961.1.866623
Fax: 961.1.805349

MOROCCO
Bir Hassan
Tel: 961.1.859829 - 961.859851
Fax: 961.1.859839

MEXICO
Naccache
Tel: 961.4.418870 - 961.4.418871
Fax: 961.4.418873

NETHERLANDS
Tabaris
Tel: 961.1.204663
Fax: 961.1.204664

PAKISTAN
Raoucheh
Tel: 961.1.806638 - 961.1.863041
Fax: 961.1.864583

PHILIPPINES
Raoucheh
Tel: 961.1.791092/3
Fax: 961.1.791095

POLAND
Baabda
Tel: 961.5.924881 - 961.5.468152
Fax: 961.5.924882/3

QATAR
Chourane
Tel: 961.1.865271 - 961.1.804258
Fax: 961.1.810460

ROMANIA
Baabda
Tel: 961.5.924848/9
Fax: 961.5924747

RUSSIA
Mazraa
Tel: 961.1.300041/2
Fax: 961.1.303837

SAUDI ARABIA
Chourane
Tel: 961.1.860242/248/351
Fax: 961.1.860411

SPAIN
Hadeth
Tel: 961.5.464120/1
Fax: 961.5.464030

SUDAN
Hamra
Tel: 961.1.350057 - 961.1.353270
Fax: 961.1.353271

SRI LANKA
Louzieh, Baabda
Tel: 961.5.924765/6
Fax: 961.5.924768

SWEDEN
Tabaris
Tel: 961.1.339505
Fax: 961.1.339394

SWITZERLAND
Tabaris
Tel: 961.1.324129 - 961.1.324131
Fax: 961.1.324167

TUNISIA
Hazmieh - Mar Takla
Tel: 961.5.457431 - 961.5.950436
Fax: 961.5.950434

TURKEY
Rabieh
Tel: 961.4.520929 - 961.4.412080
Fax: 961.4.407557

U.A. EMIRATES
Jnah
Tel: 961.1.857000 7 lines
Fax: 961.1.857009

UKRAINE
Hazmieh
Tel: 961.5.510527
Fax: 961.5.510531

URUGUAY
Jounieh
Tel: 961.9.636529
Fax: 961.9.636531

U.S.A
Aoukar
Tel: 961.4.543600
Fax: 961.4.545136

VATICAN
Harissa
Tel: 961.9.903102/3
Fax: 961.9.903763

VENEZUELA
Zalka
Tel: 961.1.888701
Fax: 961.4.403670

YEMEN
Bir Hassan
Tel: 961.1.852688
Fax: 961.1.821610

Souce: lebanon.com