BEIRUT, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- As the New Year approaches, a sense of respite washes over downtown Beirut, Lebanon's capital.
The city's residents seem to have momentarily set aside the hardships of recent times, rediscovering a long-missed sense of peace and joy. Shops lining the streets are adorned with colorful lights and festive banners, while shopkeepers arrange displays of lights and New Year's gifts to entice passersby. Crowds stroll leisurely, and preparations for New Year's Eve celebrations are underway.
