Learn Lebanese Arabic with weekly transcribed podcasts exploring Lebanon and its people | تعلم اللغة العربية باللهجة اللبنانية مع البودكاست الأسبوعي والمكتوب الذي يعرفك على لبنان وشعبه
The Lebanese cedar tree has held cultural and economic significance throughout history and is the principal feature of the Lebanese flag. The Barouk forest is one of the largest reserves of cedars in the country. In this episode, Rana and Khaled chat about their hike to Barouk forest, which is located in the Chouf region. … Continue reading Episode 82 – Barouk cedar forest
The Lebanese music icon Fairuz is widely considered as one of the leading vocalists and most renowned singers in the Arab world. Just like many others in Lebanon, Khaled and Rana are two of her adoring fans. In this episode, the two friends discuss different aspects of Fairuz’s life and career, including her musical collaborations, … Continue reading Episode 81 – Fairuz
Mariam is considering emigrating from Lebanon not because of the economic crisis in the country but rather to spare her foreign husband and potential future children from Lebanon's discriminatory citizenship laws. Lebanese men can pass on Lebanese citizenship to their spouses and children. However, this right is not extended to Lebanese women. In this episode, … Continue reading Episode 80 – Discriminatory citizenship laws
When Khaled is not sure what he should get Hala for her birthday, Rana suggests an unusual gift; traditional Lebanese soap. At first he questions if it is a good idea, but Rana reassures his doubts. Their conversation about Lebanese soap extends from its history to its applications and commercial revamps. Mainly made of olive … Continue reading Episode 79 – Traditional hand soap
Two flatmates, Rana and Dalia, are inviting some friends over for dinner. They are discussing what food to prepare. They will be a big group so the two need to plan what dishes to make and take into consideration their friends' tastes and dietary restrictions. Once they agree, they will need to go to the … Continue reading Episode 78 – Skit: Dinner Party Planning
Graffiti art has witnessed a renaissance in Lebanon in the past several years. New colorful works of street art celebrate the country’s resilience and shed light on its social and political challenges. In this episode, Rana and Khaled discuss their views on this art, explore influences on modern Lebanese graffiti, and share their favorite local … Continue reading Episode 77 – Graffiti
Rea and Mariam are leaving work early when Rea suggests that they get shawarma for lunch because she is craving meat after the end of the Christian fasting period. Mariam, who is a Muslim, reminds Rea that Ramadan has begun and she is fasting. The two colleagues and friends discuss Christian and Muslim fasting traditions … Continue reading Episode 76 – Religious fasting
Nadine and Lama were told about a lovely hidden beach in Naqoura, a beautiful coastal city in the south of Lebanon. They went there early in the day ahead of their friends who plan to join later. The two start discussing how to spend their time before the rest of the group arrives. They decide … Continue reading Episode 75 – Skit: trip to the beach
The sun is out and so is Khaled! He calls Rana asking for her suggestions, as he is planning a trip to the beach with his siblings. They go over the most famous Lebanese beaches, from Anfeh in the North to Naqoura in the South. Dive into this week’s episode to know more about Lebanon’s … Continue reading Episode 74 – Lebanese beaches
Lebanese movies are recently achieving a growing success and many have been nominated for international awards. These movies are a great way to know more about the local society. In this episode, Rana and Khaled are trying to decide what movie to watch. They suggest different titles and highlight what they like best about each … Continue reading Episode 73 – Lebanese movies