One of these items just doesn't belong: 1) Istanbul to Cairo on a Shoestring 2) Street Falafel 3) Ancient Ruins 4) 3 days in Beirut

Tip: Free 48h visa for Lebanon actually means up to 72 hours of fun in the Paris of the Middle East. The good news is you get all the comforts of home, the bad news is you get all the prices of home as well.

Ironically, before we left, Lebanon was the country we were least likely to consider including in our itinerary. However, once we got there, we wanted to stay for a couple of weeks - luckily the budget didn't allow it!

We started off on the right foot, visiting the spectacular Roman temple complex of Baalbek - but, from the time we hit Beirut it was a downward slide into Western indulgences of lattes and brownie sundaes.

The Lebanese have made an impressive effort in rebuilding Beirut since the end of their 16 year civil war in 1995, but the reminders can't be ignored. There are rows of European Cafes right next to war-ravaged apartment buildings.

However, we're pleased to report that our scariest moments were crossing the roads - truly. The cars are Mercedes, Audis, and BMW's, the signage and the roads could be California, but the rule of the road is anything goes!!

Easiest Answer Anecdote -Midnight, lost somewhere in Beirut... Local: 'Where are you from?' Neil: 'Canada' Local: 'Which is better, Lebanon or Canada?' Neil: 'Lebanon' Local: 'Welcome'