Join YPT’s Caitlin Graham on a Special Episode on Travel to Lebanon

A Different Host!

In our latest episode of the Young Pioneer Podcast, host Justin Martell hands the mic over to Caitlin Graham, our Middle East and Central Asia Manager, who sits down with local guide Mira in the heart of Beirut to discuss Lebanon’s past, present, and future.

S3, Ep 8: General Butt Naked – From Cannibal Warlord to Preacher – The Young Pioneer Podcast

Send us a textIn this episode, we speak with Joshua Milton Blahyi, better known to the world as General Butt Naked, one of the most feared rebel commanders of Liberia’s brutal civil war, which ravaged the country from 1989 to 1997. Once infamous for his violent tactics and ruthless reputation, Blahyi has since turned his life toward faith, preaching, and a mission of reconciliation. We discuss his rise during the conflict, the horrors of the war years, and his journey as he seeks redemption and voices support for justice, even if he himself stands among the accused.For more information on how you can visit our "destinations your mother wishes you'd stayed away from" visit us at youngpioneertours.com.

1. S3, Ep 8: General Butt Naked – From Cannibal Warlord to Preacher 48:30
2. S3, Ep 7: Bougainville – Culture, Conflict, and the Path to a New Nation 31:03
3. S3, Ep 6: Lebanon Unveiled – Navigating History, Culture, and Resilience 32:25
4. S3, Ep 5: No Filter, All Adventure – Interview with Travel Content Creator Mike O'Kennedy 01:21:18
5. S3, Ep 4: Behind the Headlines – Interview with CNN's Will Ripley on Covering North Korea 01:07:26

A Return to Lebanon

Lebanon has long been a beloved destination for Young Pioneer Tours. Each year, we run four group tours that can be combined with excursions to Syria in February, April, August, and September, offering travellers a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of both nations.

Understanding Lebanon’s Complex History

Lebanon’s history is anything but straightforward. Founded in 1943, the country has a much older legacy, with the first recorded settlements dating back to the Canaanites in 3000 BCE. Over the centuries, Lebanon has seen the rise and fall of numerous empires, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Crusaders, Mamluks and Phoenicians. Each of these influences has shaped Lebanon’s diverse society, resulting in a country that boasts 18 recognized religious groups, including Sunni, Shia, Druze, and various Christian denominations.

The Challenges of Recent Years

Lebanon has faced significant challenges in recent years, from the devastating civil war of the 1980s to the recent financial crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the tragic Beirut Port explosion. These events have profoundly impacted the nation and its people, driving many tourists away and leaving a mark on the local economy. Caitlin and Mira discuss the complexities of these issues, providing a nuanced understanding of Lebanon’s current situation.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges, hope remains for the future of Lebanon. In this enlightening discussion, Caitlin and Mira explore what lies ahead for the nation and its resilient people. With the return of travel to Lebanon, there is renewed optimism for economic recovery and cultural exchange.

Conclusion

Tune in to this episode of the Young Pioneer Podcast to gain a deeper understanding of Lebanon’s rich history, varied culture, and the resilience of its people. As we look forward to bringing travel to Lebanon, we invite you to tune in and learn more about one of YPT’s favourite destinations!

About Post Author

Justin Martell

Justin Martell is a filmmaker and author living in New York City. He has shot documentaries and promotional videos in North Korea and, in 2017, co-founded YPT’s partner, Pioneer Media, offering production services across a wide variety of unique locations from Asia to Eastern Europe. For more information on all of Pioneer Media’s filming locales and services for filmmakers and journalists, visit mediapioneers.net.

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