Currency: Lebanese Pound (L£) = 100 piastres. Notes are in denominations of L£100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5000, 1000, 500, 250 and 100. Coins are in denominations of L£500, 250, 100 and 50.
Currency exchange: There are a large number of banks in Beirut where international currencies can be exchanged. Numerous licensed exchange shops also operate and some hotels offer exchange services. US Dollars are best and do not need to be exchanged as they are accepted even in small shops.
Credit & debit cards: All major credit cards are widely accepted. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Travellers cheques: Limited acceptance, as major banks only accept certain types of travellers cheques. Travellers cheques also require up to two weeks to clear and are therefore generally not recommended.
Currency restrictions: There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency.
Exchange rate indicators: The following figures are included as a guide to the movements of the Lebanese Pound against Sterling and the US Dollar:
Date May '04 Aug '04 Nov '04 Feb '05
£1.00= 2705.05 2789.32 2789.32 2975.14
$1.00= 1514.50 1514.00 1514.00 1575.40
Banking hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1400, Sat 0800-1230. Some banks stay open until 1700.
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