The One Place in the U.S. which is Identical to Lebanon
By: Myrna Daher/Contributing Writer
Are you homesick for Lebanon, but can’t travel that far? Then, consider spending time in California, U.S.A. The similarities between the two are endless
California, with its mountains and valleys, with its warmth and beaches, an abundance of Lebanese restaurants, and warm receptive Lebanese communities, with its churches and mosques, will surely satisfy your craving for Lebanon.
There are quiet village-like areas throughout California, easy- pace lifestyle with backyards filled with grown gardens that include: lemon, figs, and pomegranate trees, in addition to other Middle Eastern herbal greens, like zaatar (thyme). From such countrysides, you can drive anywhere within a couple of hours and be around populations with a great vibe and high energy, just like in Lebanon.
California attracts many Arab Americans, and in particular Lebanese who establish their homes throughout California. The large Lebanese communities in California encourage the upkeep and preservation of their culture stemmed from Lebanon. The huge representation of the culture naturally creates awareness of different religions that recognize all faiths of the Lebanese.
Just as in Lebanon, where there is an overflow of refugees and immigrants that have taken refuge in numerous parts of Lebanon, there are diverse refugees and immigrants that have made their homes in California.
As in Lebanon, Californians are also optimistic; they even often say “what’s there to be unhappy for? “We are surrounded by oceans waves and brisk breezes from the mountains while driving through the freeway. All people are welcoming to diverse ethnicities–everyone is welcome!
The Lebanese in California have generated interest for both visitors and locals to enjoy authentic Lebanese food and entertainment, attend social events, and participate with either churches or mosques.
For example, House of Lebanon, located in Los Angeles, has the mission to celebrate Lebanese heritage and culture. Once completed, (expected to launch very soon), House of Lebanon will portray the culture, arts, and crafts of Lebanon; and contribute to the educational development and growth for all the people within the community.
The Consulate General of Lebanon also has an office in Los Angeles with a list of 15 different Lebanese organizations. The Lebanese are well recognized in California with numerous events. Check them out on Arab America!
The state of California is surrounded by ocean and mountains. Any Lebanese would feel a sense of home and familiarity of surroundings. In the mountains of California, you see houses overlooking the ocean, steps away from the beaches with endless miles of shoreline.
In San Diego, the city and suburban areas are family oriented with a relaxed pace similar to Lebanese people who are very aware of how precious life is and the time they invest in must serve a purpose. The Lebanese love entertaining people and celebrating life in their California homes, similar to Lebanon, where guests are treated royally.
Like in Lebanon, you will find in California plenty of nightclubs, restaurants, and hookah lounges, along with popular singers for a Hafla (party). With such a high population of Lebanese and Arabs within the state, there is a high demand for restaurants, bakeries, grocery stores, houses of worship, schools, and various events.
Lebanon, like California, is socially active and has been called “the Paris of the Middle East,” Beirut, Lebanon’s capital was recently awarded for conducting the longest party ever, Beirut decided to organize an event to show the world that it is the best party city in the world. In collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism in Lebanon, Nurai Beirut, one of the best nightclubs in Lebanon, set a new record (56 hours) in the Guinness World Records.
Similar geographically, residents of Lebanon and California can travel north to go skiing, enjoy cooler weather, and find towering mountains covered with snow. Both places are active with extremely healthy eating habits and unique fashions. Their people not only boast about the perfect weather almost all year round, but also about the abundance of fun events, festivals, hiking, picnics, and at the same time, find corners for a slower pace of living.
So do you miss Lebanon in America? Go ahead, visit California and feel at home! Enjoy strong cultural influences, authentic cuisine, warm weather, scenic views of palm trees, large mountains, oceans, and unusual qualities of life, just like back home!
