Looking up the street towards Mr.Hourani's house in Marjeyoun

Our last day of the hike seemed like a blur of reporters and town officials. It was quite emotional for us (The core team) as the reality of having hiked 440 km sank in suddenly. What I do remember clearly is that I promised myself I would come back to Marjeyoun.  I’m so glad I did. We took a leisurely walk in the town center, starting at the municipality. It was nice to revisit the streets lined with numerous old Lebanese style houses, that I had only glimpsed fleetingly from the bus.

Abandoned houses in Marjeyoun

Some were renovated, some abandoned and all were uniquely beautiful. While strolling past  a charming renovated  home, I paused to admire the craftsmanship of the large entrance door. Like many village homes in Lebanon, the door was ajar. The owner came out and insisted that we all come in for coffee and cold drinks. As it turns out Mr. Adnan Hourani (President of Jdeidet Marjeyoun Club)  remembered me from the press conference on April 30th (not that it had anything to do with his warm hospitality). It is wonderful that one can feel so welcome with people they have just met.