How should a tourist behave in Muslim countries?
As you know, "they don't go into someone else's monastery with their own law." Therefore, when
traveling to Muslim countries, tourists should study the rules and norms of behavior in them. In the East, people live according to Sharia, which imposes many restrictions and taboos that may seem incomprehensible and strange to us. The specialists of the Businesswomen's Club hotline will tell you about them.
The left-hand rule. In Islam, the left and right sides of the body are clearly delineated. The right hand is pure and pleasing to God, the left is dirty and unclean. Therefore, it is not customary to hold a fork or cup with your left hand, take food and hold it out for handshakes. At the same time, the left hand is not completely excluded from the process of eating, it can be used during a meal, but food should be put in the mouth exclusively with the right. Don't eat on the go and stare at people chewing. And also always accept the offered treats. A refusal may be taken as a personal insult.
The length of the skirt is "maxi". Do not go out in public places in sports or beach clothes – this is extremely indecent. Women should wear clothes covering their arms, neck and knees. And certainly not provocative short skirts, dresses or tops. Men are not allowed to wear shorts.
Give it to the beggar. Charity and giving alms are an important religious rule in Islamic states. Despite the fact that beggars can be intrusive, they should be treated with respect in Arab countries. They definitely need to give alms.
I'm taking everything with me. When leaving the tourism area (hotel, resort village), always take your documents with you. Document checks and rather meticulous monitoring of compliance with traditional norms in public places are not uncommon.

The
tan is canceled. It is forbidden to appear naked, topless, or even in a bikini on the beach. Special, fully enclosed bathing suits for women are called burkinis. In a number of countries, there are designated days when beaches are open only to women and children, and then you can easily wear swimsuits of any style.
Carousing is at a minimum. Muslims do not drink alcohol and will not understand a person who drinks in public places. The punishment for staying in crowded places while intoxicated will be deportation or imprisonment. Buying alcohol in Arab countries is an almost impossible task. Even in restaurants, it can be difficult to drink a simple glass of wine. You can drink alcohol in hotels. But don't offer alcohol to the staff. Locals will also be confused about a gift in the form of a bottle of alcohol or even sweets with alcoholic filling.
Gambling is taboo. Not under any pretext, not anywhere.
With smoking, everything is a little easier – it is possible only in specially designated places.
Think about it first, then take a picture. Due to religious beliefs and social views, some Muslims criticize photography. Take photos of local residents only with their permission. It is forbidden to take pictures during prayer and meals. Do not take photos of women in a veil – big trouble may arise. Tourists are also advised not to photograph government, military, or state-owned buildings, airports, or other public facilities.
Bargaining is appropriate. Bargain with all your might. Haggling is a whole ritual for Muslim sellers. Feel free to tell incredible stories about your poverty and the vital need to buy this particular item from this particular dealer, and for these pennies. Sellers will appreciate a lover of haggling, and as a result, it may be possible to bring down the price even several times. But this rule applies only to markets, it is forbidden to bargain in department stores and supermarkets.
Be healthy! Blowing our noses with a handkerchief is a common thing for us. However, when traveling to Muslim countries, refrain from this action. You shouldn't do this in the company of other people, it's better to go to the bathroom. Residents of Arab countries believe that putting a used handkerchief back in their pocket is disgusting. Also, if you decide to blow your nose on the street, don't be surprised if you get scolded by Arabs.
Flirting for later. This is especially true for men, do not show any signs of attention to Muslim women. Do not try to start a conversation with them, do not look at women and do not point at them with your hand or finger. Such liberties with women are bound to lead to trouble, including criminal liability. If you are introduced to a Muslim woman, tilt your head slightly to indicate that you are pleased to meet her, but do not extend your hand first. If the woman considers it acceptable, she will extend her hand.
Following these rules will not only help you avoid trouble but also show respect for the local residents' religion and way of life. If you accidentally violate any of the points due to ignorance or carelessness, apologize.
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