Sun soakers in the midst of war: unforgettable beach life in torn Lebanon

The Life Affairs Podcast - echte levensverhalen (EN/NL)

Welcome to this episode where I journey through time and memories. Join me in this serene moment at my kitchen table, sipping tea and gazing out the vast window. The ever-changing view of nature unfolding in front of me brings back memories of 1989 when I lived in war-torn Lebanon. Amidst the never-ending conflict, my friends and I, known as the sun-soakers, found beautiful moments in the darkness.

· The War-Torn Background: In 1989, Lebanon was embroiled in a fifteen-year-long war involving multiple countries and factions. Despite the chaos, our group of teenagers found solace in small pleasures, determined to embrace happiness amidst the turmoil.

· Preparing for a Beach Day: The scarcity of water and electricity during the war forces me to be resourceful. We gather water from a distant location, and although showers are rare luxuries, I make the most of it to look my best for the much-anticipated beach adventures.

· The Perfect Beach Outfit: With immense excitement, I dress in my trendiest bikinis, oversized shirts, and favorite jeans shorts. These outfits make me feel fabulous, and as I stroll towards the harbor of Beirut, my friends and I are unstoppable.

· Negotiating with Soldiers: In a city under siege, our beach options are limited, but we are determined to make it to the harbor. One of our friends, Mike, uses his charisma and a family connection to negotiate with the soldiers guarding the entrance.

· A Day at the Beach: With tension lifted, we reach the beach area, surrounded by tanks and militants. This peculiar setting does not deter us from having a blast. We bask in the sun, swim, flirt, and create unforgettable memories.

· The Allure of Arak: The adults enjoy arak, a traditional Lebanese alcohol, which becomes even more magical when diluted with water. The transformation of arak and the laughter of our parents add to the lively atmosphere.

· A Safe Haven: During the war, we visit Electricite du Liban beach, a refuge for employees and their families. This oasis brings us together, and it is here we form unforgettable bonds with our neighbors' kids.

· Remembering Friends: Looking back, I reminisce about friends from those war days. Some are still connected, while others have faded away, leaving me with treasured memories of unity and resilience.

· Challenges of Identity: As the war ends, we face the challenges of discovering our identities in a transformed Lebanon. The bonds that held us together during the war began to change, and some friendships evolved differently

· From War to Peaceful Escapes: Today, I find solace in new beach memories with my family at Zandvoort beach. The beach holds a special place in my heart, symbolizing freedom, and escape, providing a sanctuary from the weight of the past.

Join me as I find joy amidst chaos and cherish the moments that define my youth during the tumultuous times of war. Through nostalgia, I paint a picture of life on the beach, where the laughter of teenagers echoes louder than the sounds of battle.

teenagers in war, beach adventures, Lebanon, arak, summer beach outfits, nostalgia, resilience, cherish memories, escape, freedom, Nostalgic memories, Never-ending war, Childhood during war, Chaos and uncertainty, Harbour of Beirut, Beach adventure, Depeche mod

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