When you used to say the word "Beirut", people would equate it to "hell on earth". But lately, the city has experienced a bit of a rebirth and has become a major tourist attraction. I would imagine that's why food expert and raconteur Anthony Bourdain and his crew flew over there this month to do an episode of his Travel Channel show No Reservations.

However, because of the battles between Israel and Hezbollah that broke out last week, Bourdain and crew are now stuck in the Lebanese capital, which is being hit for the first time in many years by artillery fire. After a thread about their predicament got started on the Travel Channel's bulletin board, Bourdain responded with his usual brand of weary nonchalance: "We are all of us (Diane, Jerry, Toddles, Tracey and me) in good health, good spirits and working ferociously on our tans and sipping blender drinks while watching the fireworks from a secure location. Our masters at Travel Channel have made sure we are being well looked after."

I would hope that the Travel Channel folks are trying to get Bourdain and crew out, but it's probably really difficult right now. Here's hoping that everyone continues to be safe.

[via Pop Candy]