Just a SLF here but one with extensive experience working in the Middle East--including multiple visits to Beirut during the troubles in the 70s and 80s.
Since those troubles Beirut had been an increasingly safe destination, to the point were they were even beginning to get some of their tourist industry back.
Clearly this is changing for the worse again, likely as a result of the Syrian war and Hezboallah's involvement--but prior to this kidnapping I doubt Beirut would have shown up as a high risk destination. THY's reputation may or may not be deserved but in this particular circumstance it would have been very difficult to predict this kidnapping.