Caramel has all the neutral tones and functional amenities of a straight-forward European hotel, but without the impersonal room numbers into the hundreds. What this hotel can boast about most is its excellent location; set right in the heart of Beirut’s bustling Hamra district, here you’re just steps away from a wide range of shops, restaurants and bars. In fact, Caramel has its very own gin bar – Propaganda – on the ground floor, perfect for a nightcap after exploring the nearby lanes. Despite being in the thick of some of the city’s best nightlife, the rooms are well sound-proofed so noise isn’t a problem at night.

When the hotel is at a higher capacity breakfast consists of a buffet, but if there are just a few guests staying you have two options: a traditional Lebanese breakfast of flatbreads, fava beans and garlic (known locally as foul but don’t let the name put you off!), halloumi, labneh, and fresh vegetables, or a European option of pastries, toast and jams. The staff at the hotel are friendly and accommodating, and will be happy to point you in the direction of anything in the local area you might need.