Another side of Lebanon

Dear readers, 2023 was a tough year for Lebanon, again. And it’s easy to get caught up in the news and feel depressed about the state of the country. Yet there are some stories that can give us a glimpse of hope, that show us a different side of Lebanon, geared towards the future. This is the side we want to show with this article, featuring stories far from the gloomy headlines and closer to the unlikely optimists. We hope you enjoy, and we wish you, dear readers, a happy new year, surrounded by your loved ones.Tripoli soap factory keeps tradition alive — as long as the building remains standingAmmiq wetland: An oasis of life in the Bekaa ValleyFrench teen athlete ascends Lebanon’s most challenging rock climbWar and home in Beirut’s Club SudanUnpaid and underfunded, volunteer firefighters battle the odds to save Akkar’s...