Beirut

The legendary Sporting Club has persevered through some of the most tumultuous years in Lebanese history and come out on the other end unscathed - so much so, in fact, that it almost qualifies as a living museum of the Lebanese 1950s. No longer an exclusive hangout for the jet-setting crowd, The Sporting Club now welcomes all.

Damaged severely during the Civil War, the iconic Saint-George no longer functions as a hotel, but still stands as part of the Marina complex frequented by local elites and expats. Pop-up parties are held by the poolside during the summer; there is a bar and restaurant on site.

Ferdinand is a feisty bar with class, that serves excellent cocktails and a wide selection of locally produced beers. Fun vibes are Ferdinand's main draw, but the house burgers are certainly a very close second.

The stylish rooftop Iris is a place few can find fault with: it can both be a relaxed sea-view terrace and a full-on DJ party spot, with live music weekends and a stable clientele of locals that can at times feel a tad too sizeable. Drinks are mixed by skilled bartenders.

A premier concert venue and party location, The Grand Factory is known to electro music fans as Beirut's best night time hangout, one that hosts artists performing in varying genres. One comes here to dance the night away, and no setting could be better than The Grand Factory's rooftop with a view of the mountains and the sea.