The locals of Sharm el Sheikh are very polite and friendly and love to make their foreign guests feel at home. Because roughly one in seven Egyptians rely on the tourist industry for jobs and income, they are generally very warm and accepting of the tourists and the customs they bring with them. However, it is always worth remembering and respecting the customs of Sharm el Sheikh as you are a guest in their home.
One of the most important things to remember about Egypt and therefore Sharm el Sheikh is that they are a Muslim country. Therefore you are advised not to show public displays of affection such as petting a kissing. Although not illegal, these actions are frowned upon.
Women, too, must not go topless at any point and in public areas should wear moderately covered up clothes. If you are going to be visiting the resort during Ramadan, then remember not to eat, drink or smoke in public as this would be highly disrespectful to the local Muslims.
Shopping abroad can bring many people out in a cold sweat, but Sharm el Sheikh is very laid back. If a shop-keeper calls out to you in the street, a simple 'no thanks' does the trick if you are not interested. However, try not to enter a shop if you know you won't be buying anything. It is common custom to haggle in Sharm el Sheikh so if you can't get something lowered in price, it's worth trying somewhere else before committing to a purchase.
Also be aware that Egyptians do not really have the same concept of personal space as Westerners, so don't be alarmed in you find a local talking very closely to you, even grabbing your arm or shoulder during mid-conversation. And finally, if you get invited into a local's home, remember to dress conservatively, take off your shoes, compliment them on their house and try and remember their names.
One of the most important things to remember about Egypt and therefore Sharm el Sheikh is that they are a Muslim country. Therefore you are advised not to show public displays of affection such as petting a kissing. Although not illegal, these actions are frowned upon.
Women, too, must not go topless at any point and in public areas should wear moderately covered up clothes. If you are going to be visiting the resort during Ramadan, then remember not to eat, drink or smoke in public as this would be highly disrespectful to the local Muslims.
Shopping abroad can bring many people out in a cold sweat, but Sharm el Sheikh is very laid back. If a shop-keeper calls out to you in the street, a simple 'no thanks' does the trick if you are not interested. However, try not to enter a shop if you know you won't be buying anything. It is common custom to haggle in Sharm el Sheikh so if you can't get something lowered in price, it's worth trying somewhere else before committing to a purchase.
Also be aware that Egyptians do not really have the same concept of personal space as Westerners, so don't be alarmed in you find a local talking very closely to you, even grabbing your arm or shoulder during mid-conversation. And finally, if you get invited into a local's home, remember to dress conservatively, take off your shoes, compliment them on their house and try and remember their names.
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