Aley, Lebanon

Capital City

This "Bride of the Summer resorts" is more like a fickle mistress. With a population of around 75,000, Aley boasts a diverse demographic, but Druze make up the majority at 67.26% of registered voters, followed by Christians at 28.65%. While the city's cooler climate and mountainous setting offer an escape from Beirut's heat, its frequent fog can be a persistent headache. And despite recent renovations to the historic downtown, the bureaucracy around the city's 18 municipal members remains a source of friction.

Overall, Aley's appeal as a tourist destination, with its casinos, hotels, and outdoor attractions, may outweigh the challenges of daily life - but only for those seeking a summer respite, not a permanent relocation.