The annual rainfall on the coastal plain is around 35in, and more than 50in in the mountains. Humidity is high along the coast in summer and daytime temperatures average 30 C with night temperatures not much lower. Beirut in summer becomes a commuter society as families move to the mountains to enjoy the cool dry climate. Winters on the coast can be dry and mild one day and wet and chilly the next. In the mountains summer daytime temperatures average 26 C and the nights are pleasantly cool.
Winters are cold and it snows at the higher elevations.
The snow ensures good skiing from December through April. Most shops, restaurants and hotels will accept US dollars. The currency fluctuates according to the international market and to political developments in Lebanon and the Middle East. Most banks will only change US dollars and UK pounds in cash and travellers cheques, but moneychangers will buy and sell almost any currency. The import and export of foreign currency is not restricted.