|
| |
"TIPS FOR VISITING THE MIDDLE EAST" >
Page 1, 2
Clothing
Abu
Dhabi airport courtesy uwasa.fi
Although the Middle Eastern region
can be as hot as you've never experienced before, you may have to wear
more clothes than less. Check this site under the country information
to learn about customs and dress for the different countries. Some are
more "liberal" (Parts of the UAE, Bahrain, Cyprus) than others (Kuwait,
Saudi Arabia, Iran). It is generally good advice for women to cover
their bodies at least below the knees and to the elbows. Also, men should
not generally travel wearing shorts and sandals (unless you are on the
beach of course). Usually you won't have to worry too much about how
you dress if you are on a structured tour with a bus and a guide, but
it is safe to be conservative when on your own. At most hotels, resorts,
nightclubs, etc. dress is usually not an issue but keep in mind that
you are a visitor in another culture, respect goes a long way.
Illegal Activity
Illicit drugs are dealt with pretty
harshly throughout the Middle East. Persons found with even a small
amount can receive stiff punishment and your embassy won't be able to
do much. Buying drugs on the street is a very unwise affair as well,
anywhere in the world. Tales from Turkey, Egypt, and Morocco of drug
dealers turning into muggers or police informants are frequent. Alcohol
is not generally permitted in public throughout the region, in most
places it is restricted to hotels and resorts. Some countries (Kuwait,
Saudi Arabia, Iran) do not permit alcohol at all and attempting to bring
in any into the country will bring unwanted negative attention to yourself
(although they usually just take it away from you upon arrival).
Talk To People
The best advice on where to go and
what to do is always always always through other people who have been
there. Contact friends of friends who have travelled for the best "off
the beaten track" restaurants and sights. Ask around, maybe someone
knows someone where you are going, and no-one knows the country better
than the locals. You may even get a free place to stay (be sure to return
the favor as well). You will find the level of hospitality in the Middle
East in general is superb and refreshing.
Have Fun!
Last but not least, have a good time.
This is your vacation, your time to explore and enjoy new worlds. You
won't find a more hospitable region in the world, the Arab tradition is
almost based entirely on pleasing guests. The region is also generally
open to the curious visitor, and most people have no problem talking to
you about themsleves and what they do, and will probably be as interested
in you as you are in them. Be careful however, if the person is a shopkeeper
or taxi driver, then they are probably just drumming up business. Have
a good time, and come back to this site in the future to post your own
travel tales and advice!
Previous Page Packing
Your Bags, Travel Agents, and More! >Page
1, 2
More
Travel Articles
for inquiries (non-commercial
only please):
info
@ gomideast.com
gomideast
home page
Copyright
©2003-2005 gomideast.com unless otherwise credited
website
terms of use
| |
|
