After being shadowed by a long civil war, Beirut is reborn again in the 2000s as the "Paris of the Middle East". The city has been polishing its old world beauty ever since, with ambitious architectural projects changing the face of the downtown area. Outstanding new hotels and neighbourhoods buzzing with new life prove that the city has never lost its appetite, despite all the depressing circumstances of its recent history. Corniche, the city's waterfront promenade, is still the favourite spot for an evening stroll. This coastal walk ends at Pigeon Rocks –a natural stone arch that became the city’s symbol. Don't forget to explore the Christian neighbourhoods of Achrafiye and Gemmayzeh as well, that are full of leafy streets, hip boutiques, galleries, antique shops, interesting small cafes, bars and restaurants.