Those wishing to journey to Lebanon could save their money and time and see all there is to see in natural attractions and historical sites and all that through e-tourism before actually boarding a plane.

Surfing the net brings you official tourism sites, tourist and travel agency sites, and sites and data posted by individuals all aiming to promote the country's natural and cultural wealth. All information is accessible on tourist attractions, hotels, transportation and routes, shopping areas, news, sports activities and events, and, particularly in the summer, the song and music festivals. Some sites would also introduce the Lebanese cuisine and list the restaurants and their specialties and menus. Official business could also be handled better with the information available on visas, customs, currencies in circulation, public holidays, and necessary phone numbers. Experts believe this kind of preparation is vital and the tourism industry is largely dependent on it. Rather than optional service, it is an integral part of the fast growing industry. The Tourism Ministry had last January a center for documentation and information in keeping with today's demands in terms of diverse services and to supply information for those wishing to spend time in the state for study. A manager in a tourist company utilizing the potential of e-tourism, Ahmad Sheheitly, told KUNA such service cuts cost in promotion and adverts and contacting customers. It also assists in development of new products and services that suit the user's needs. The figure said the ministry's recent project on e-tourism was carried out in coordination with computer and internet service companies to best line up the services and load data for easy access to help boost this sector which is a major source of income for the national economy.(end) an.