Egypt has a rich history and culture dating back thousands of years, from the culture of the pharaohs to Christianity and Islam. Egypt became the birthplace of one of the first civilizations. His culture was influenced by many other ethnic groups that either lived or invaded the country.
The traditions of modern Egypt may seem a little different from those to which we are accustomed, which, in turn, can make tourists sometimes embarrassed. To understand the atmosphere of Egypt, it is necessary to carefully study the culture, customs and family values of the people living in this country. If you learn to understand and respect other people's values, a trip to Egypt will bring you even more pleasure.
Egyptian Traditions: Believers and Food
Most Muslims in Egypt do not have the habit of drinking alcohol. However, they do not mind when others drink. However, it is important that you drink alcohol in moderation in Egypt. Egyptian traditions do not imply eating pork, but for visitors there is always a restaurant or cafe serving dishes from this meat.
Note for women
In Egypt, there are several restrictions that apply to visiting women. In the ticket line, foreign women stand in line with other women.
Direct interaction with Egyptian women is never recommended. It is always wise to speak with them through someone from the locals or people you know well.
Crime
In Egypt, crime rates are low, but domestic violence is widespread. From time to time there are small thieves and pickpockets. Women should be on their guard, especially in areas remote from the city center. Drug use is not approved, so public use and carrying of drugs is not recommended in order to avoid problems with the law.
Warmth and hospitality
Egypt has amazing natural, historical and cultural attractions, so tourism here is one of the main sources of income. The Egyptians are extremely friendly, open to other cultures and famous for their hospitality, so do not be surprised if people invite you to their homes and insist that you accept the invitation.
Egyptians are usually friendly in nature and love to help people. If you ask them any question, they will be happy to answer it. It is also interesting that whenever you ask a question to the Egyptian, he will call other people to discuss this, and will try to give you the most accurate and correct answer to the question asked.
A family
The traditions in Egypt, when it comes to family matters, are strictly followed. Family is very important for the Egyptians, so they pay special attention to family values and relationships. Respect between family members leads to the fact that children most often live with their parents until they create their own family and have children. In general, parents encourage marriage and financially support their sons and daughters so that they get married. The Egyptians love to hold large weddings, where they invite all family members and friends.
Usually, responsibilities are distributed in such a way that child care remains with women, while men are responsible for the material support of the family.
Because family members are very attached to each other, they deeply mourn the death of a family member. It is usually customary to wear only black for at least 40 days after the death of a family member, while they can grieve for up to a year. This is one of the traditions inherited from the great pharaohs. The traditions in Egypt are such that it is considered unacceptable to show any signs of happiness during a funeral.
Holidays
Egyptians love different celebrations. Close family members and friends always come together during the holidays and special celebrations.
Due to the great love of food, the whole family usually prepares and sets the table; in such cases, joint cooking is common here. It seems that the culinary traditions of ancient Egypt have been preserved here to this day. Women are usually proud of their ability to cook: they like to compete with each other in who will cook the most delicious dish. Interestingly, restaurants are one of the most prosperous businesses since the Egyptians like to try new cuisines and they value delicious food.
How to answer if an Egyptian invites you to his house
Traditions in Egypt suggest that if you are invited to visit, you must first refuse. If the owner really wants you to visit his house, he will give you a second invitation. In this case, do not refuse the invitation. If for some reason you do not have the opportunity to visit an Egyptian, be sure to promise that you will visit him next time. However, it is still better to accept the invitation, because otherwise it is likely that your host will feel humiliated. Hospitality is one of the characteristic features of the Egyptians, therefore, inviting guests is the national tradition of Egypt. Representatives of the people of this country are always pleased to show respect and care for the guests. If you want, you can even grab a few gifts for the owner, but check if the gift matches its status.
Egyptian Culture, Traditions, and Customs: Religion
Religion plays a large role in the life of the Egyptians, and it is mixed with the daily activities of Muslims and Christians living in Egypt. Mosques are located here and there, therefore, walking along the streets of Egyptian cities, you can hear the call to pray up to five times a day.
Although the Egyptians use the western calendar, they refer to the calendar of Islamic religious holidays, and Ramadan is the most important month of the year. Ramadan is a holy month for the Egyptians, which they celebrate with friends and relatives. During this month, the Egyptians are awake at night and spend time in prayer and spiritual activity. In addition, they are engaged in charity work, are engaged in the restoration of relations and share love and affection for each other. Despite this, the tourist season in Egypt continues even in the holy month.
Places of prayer
Places intended for prayers are considered sacred to the Egyptians, and therefore tourists from abroad should respect such churches and mosques, which in Egypt are huge.
So, when a person enters the territory of the place where prayers are held, he should take off his shoes and cover his head. You should also wear the most modest clothes that will cover most of your body. Interestingly, Friday in Egypt is considered the holy day of the week.
Tip
In Egypt, gratuities are welcome and often expected. You can offer tips not only to waiters, but also to all the people who helped you during your trip. However, try to avoid large sums - the Egyptians perceive this as an insult. In any case, a tip is a great way to make a good impression on the people around you. However, you should not tip people of your status or professionals.
