BEIRUT: Jbeil’s selection as Arab Tourism Capital for 2016 was officially announced by Tourism Minister Michel Pharaon at a news conference Thursday.

The title recognizes the efforts Jbeil has made to attract new visitors and officials hope it will draw even more to the historic Lebanese city. Over the past few years, Jbeil has become a major economic hub and tourist destination. People from across Lebanon and the Arab world visit the city, one of world’s oldest. Its new title crowns a series of efforts made by its citizens and municipality.

The city made headlines at Christmas with a spectacular 25.5-meter-high golden tree. The elaborate display drew international attention and was mentioned in The Wall Street Journal. The buzz drew visitors from across Lebanon, giving the city an economic boost.

(Link)