Information and Culture
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No PDA - Whether it's the smell of camel dung in the air or the sweltering heat you may experience a sense of amorous feelings, As this is a conservative country please avoid kissing and even hugging in public out of respect. Money- Egypt is a country that prefers the dollars at times and at others only the local currency will do. Finding ATMS should not present a problem, even though most of your expenses are covered, make sure to have some local currency on you, at all times. And have small bills when you can. Bring small dollar bills with you to the market either in EGP or USD. Keep in a separate pocket from big bills Clothing - Dress conservatively, which means no sleeveless shirts, and no shorts above the knee, for women avoid skirts and probably best to avoid shorts. And a head covering is to be worn by women in Mosques and some other religious sites Smoking - Is a norm in egypt (80%) even children as young as 12 smoke, and it is common everywhere, Shishas are a big part of the culture and should be indulged by you on occasion. Taking Photos - Do not take photos of locals without permission and never take photos of military bases, government facilities or soldiers. Do not let a local you do not know take a picture of you, as they may ask for baksheesh. |
Greeting people- When you approach any individual or a group of people for the first time, the best thing to say is the local variation of the Islamic form of greeting "Es-Salāmu-`Alēku" which literally means "Peace be upon you". When leaving, you can say the same "Es Salamu Aleykom", or simply "Maa Salama", literally: "with safety" or "with wellness" which is used to mean to say "goodbye".. Handshakes are the more customary greeting among acquaintances. When a more close relationship is formed, it is more common to kiss on one cheek then the other while shaking hands. (mostly men) It is best to follow the lead of the person you are meeting. For no confusions to happen. Conversations- Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, so say nothing that might be perceived as an insult to Islam or the Egyptian culture. The same applies to any mention of the Middle East as a whole. Do not touch an Egyptian during a conversation. Do not cross your legs in front of a person or point your foot at anyone Thumbs up - Is generally considered rude by the Arabic world Visiting Locals - We may have a chance to visit locals at their houses. Simple rules apply: Take off your shoes when entering a house, unless you are told not to. Do let the master of the family have the first bite, unless he offers you the first bite. Again try all the food, and eat what you take. If the food is served to you eat it even if you dislike the taste please eat it so as not to insult your host. |