The more time I spend in Egypt the less I notice the things that make Egyptians Egyptians. The mannerisms of a culture that we forget we have. You see a friend you know(of the same sex) either you a) jump up immediately to greet them giving them a kiss on each cheek and a warm hug or b) wait for them to come to you and do the same. If you happen to be eating it is necessary to offer the person a portion of it, or else you are considered rude. Instead of saying no, use your tongue to click a couple times and shake your head a little bit or, if you agree don't say "iwa" (yes) say "oh" a sort of combination between "ah" and "oh". When talking to a friend and another one interrupts just keep on talking, or to be polite; look at them for a brief second while making the "wait" gesture. To do this bring all 5 fingers together and and bring your hand down slightly. While in conversation if someone dares to mention the future, say inshallah a couple times just to be safe, and if something good happens say Alhomduallah a couple more. When someone compliments another make sure that Mashallah is said to ward off the evil eye. To make a point raise your voice, and gesture by banging on the table or something of the sort (contrary to my initial observations, this does not necessarily mean anger.) Now, let's say you are driving a car and someone is in your path, kindly honk to let them know you're behind them. (In the beginning this had me pretty paranoid, wondering why everyone was honking at me!!) When going out, all ways dress your best, appearances, or reputations are everything! If someone enters a room full of people and wants to greet them all at once he will say "salaam alekoom" and you will hear the in sync response of "alekoom asalam"
Well, I hope this is an accurate description of some common behavior and that it helps you to become one with your Egyptian side :D
Two weeks ago there was a holiday, and it just happened to coincide with Easter. It is called Shem al Nesiem (the smell of spring) and is celebrating just that; the arrival of spring. It is celebrated by both Muslims and Christians by spending time in the outdoors. My family also uses the occasion to eat various types of fish that they get just this once every year.
On my recent trip to Port Said I explored one of the fish markets the town is famous for and had a lengthy discussion with a fisherman and his wife about fishing practices. Here is a picture of them and some of their ware:
Well, I hope this is an accurate description of some common behavior and that it helps you to become one with your Egyptian side :D
Two weeks ago there was a holiday, and it just happened to coincide with Easter. It is called Shem al Nesiem (the smell of spring) and is celebrating just that; the arrival of spring. It is celebrated by both Muslims and Christians by spending time in the outdoors. My family also uses the occasion to eat various types of fish that they get just this once every year.
On my recent trip to Port Said I explored one of the fish markets the town is famous for and had a lengthy discussion with a fisherman and his wife about fishing practices. Here is a picture of them and some of their ware:
This weekend I will be heading to the middle of the desert for a brief vacation to Siwa (an oasis) before my exams. It will also be a community service project and we will be helping to clean wells.
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