SUP Mag UK August 2016 issue 10 | Page 45

In a simple way you could say there are more Muslims in the south and more Christians in the north. And with the Lebanese Druze and Jews there are a total of nearly two dozen religious groups recognised by the state. This mix of culture makes Lebanon what it is. for me to ride with my Neo 10m. I even saw a turtle diving as I skimmed across the water. After kitesurfing we enjoyed a great sunset, sharing the experience with the Lebanese kitesurf community. I wanted to do some SUP Yoga before I left. In Byblos, an ancient harbour founded by the Greeks 5000 years ago, I almost get arrested by the police. It's my own fault as I forgot to introduce myself. I am reassured by Astir who says the worst case would have been deleting the pictures on our camera. I go back on the water and enjoy the atmosphere before taking a walk through the streets of this city, once known for its textile trade with Mesopotamia. In Saida, one of the great cities of the south, I ask Astir about the meaning of green flags flying over the city, accompanied by large portraits of young men. She explains that the flags represent Esbola and its martyrs missing in action. Back to the water and I scored a kite session at Guava. A beautiful spot with a long and really super nice white sand beach. The water was warm, the wind light but enough 45 s t a n d u p p a d d l e m a g u k