Beirut

The polished Beirut Souks are far from an Oriental understanding of a boisterous marketplace. Stores that line these tranquil streets include upscale international names like Louis Vuitton, D&G, Armani, and more - along with more affordable high-street brands. The Souks are more than just a shopping complex, with entertainment options, street markets and attractive public spaces.

Started by a non-profit aiming to support local artists nearly four decades ago, L'Artisan du Liban now boasts two locations (a further one on Clemenceau Street) where artwork, woven rugs, embroidery, home decor items, and jewellery all made exclusively by Lebanese craftsmen and women are on sale.

Weekends see the Souq al Ahad fill up with vendors selling all manner of goods, from books to knick-knacks and original antiques, most sold at prices that are simply unbeatable.

If one-stop shopping is more your thing, head to the capital's most popular shopping centre, ABC Mall, and browse through local and international brand-name stores with dining and entertainment conveniently at hand.

Skip the magnets: a nicely packaged jar of Lebanon's very own natural honey makes for a souvenir miles ahead of any trinket. There are a surprising many kinds of honey to choose from, along with other honey-based treats. The Mar Mikhayel location also contains a trendy cafe.

Sophisticated jewellery, interior decor items, cosmetics, pieces of clothing and more are all carefully selected from across the region (nationally and internationally). The brand prides itself on supporting "sustainable luxury", so do expect prices slightly above average.