Category: Uncategorized

The Lebanese are shallow – or so say many of them about themselves: We are only interested in cars, clothes and having a good time. This also corresponds with the stereotypes commonly held about the Lebanese. They only live for today. And there is some truth to it, especially when the Christians are concerned. People… Continue reading On Lebanese self-hatred

It seems we are settling in. Instead of running around all the time saying ‘wow’ and feeling like travellers on a long trip, we have entered the DIY home-building phase. At the moment we are in the middle of building a bed, without a screw or nail. This asks for precision carpentry, naturally not something… Continue reading Open season

In the 1960s the math wizard Jay Forrester pioneered systems analysis. That is a way of modelling complex interdependent relationships in corporations, cities and whole societies. His work resulted in the now classic book ‘Limits to growth’ that became the foundation for the sustainablity movement. The basic point being that the world’s ecosystems cannot sustain… Continue reading Fear and looting in New Orleans

if anyone is thinking of visiting us in lebanon you know you are welcome. just to say that we will be away for two long weekends in november (3-6 and 19-22). the first persons to take the plunge are bert and algis who will be here 20-29 september. so for now they take the most-adventurous-friends… Continue reading visitors calendar

We’re just back from the beach. Ale had decided to stay home today, look after the house and generally be homies. But then at half five she looked down onto the sea and saw that there are big waves. So we threw the body board in the car and raced down to Tamary beach. It… Continue reading Palaces, rocks and ruins