{"id":1608,"date":"2020-01-11T09:11:32","date_gmt":"2020-01-11T09:11:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cheapfareguru.com\/fly-away\/?p=1608"},"modified":"2020-02-06T09:16:25","modified_gmt":"2020-02-06T09:16:25","slug":"food-tips-when-traveling-to-the-middle-east","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cheapfareguru.com\/fly-away\/food-tips-when-traveling-to-the-middle-east\/","title":{"rendered":"Food Tips When Traveling To The Middle East"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Middle East lies between the continents of Europe, Asia, and Africa and thus, is greatly influenced by the diversity, yet it is fairly homogenous. The food of the Middle Eastern countries is not just unique; it is also one of the best tastings in the world. But the food habits across these countries vary greatly. So, you\u2019ve got to know them beforehand. Lucky for you, we\u2019ve got some quick food tips<\/a> for you to remember when traveling to the Middle East. You can thank us later!<\/p>\n

No pork:<\/strong>\u00a0Well, the Middle Eastern countries are predominantly Muslim and as per the Islamic culture, preparation and eating of pork are forbidden. So, don\u2019t go around asking for a pork dish or be surprised to not find a single one on the menu. Even for international food chains in these countries, pork is not listed on the menu, nor served.<\/p>\n

Know the drinking laws:\u00a0<\/strong>Some of the Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia have very strict laws in concern to alcohol. Since alcohol consumption is restricted in Islam \u2013 a lot of the Middle Eastern countries will not be serving it. But a few others are open to its consumption; however, drinking in public places and on the street is punishable. So, know the laws before you make a mistake!<\/p>\n

Know the dining etiquettes<\/strong>: In the Middle East, the dining etiquettes are very different from those of the west. Some activities such as blowing your nose, stretching your hand to another side of the table for food, leaving the table before coffee\/tea, handling the food with the left hand, etc. \u2013 are considered rude. Though, picking your teeth after a meal is acceptable!<\/p>\n

Relish the hookah:<\/strong>\u00a0Even though alcohol is fairly less common, hookah, on the other hand, is very widely consumed in the Middle Eastern world. It is referred to as Shishah and it is one of the best in the world.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t refuse coffee:\u00a0<\/strong>When you are shopping at a store and someone in offers you coffee, be respectful and accept it. Refusing it is considered rude, especially if you are in a mood to make a buy. The concept is simple hospitality throughout the Middle East.<\/p>\n

Remember\u00a0<\/strong>Baksheesh<\/strong><\/em>:\u00a0<\/strong>In the Middle East, Baksheesh is another word for a tip. And the culture of these countries encourages tipping. Thus, when visiting the Middle East, remember to tip the hotel maids, servers, bellhops, waiters, etc. Not leaving a tip implies that you did not like the service.<\/p>\n

Know the local food language:\u00a0<\/strong>We do understand learning a new language can be quite daunting, but in the Middle East it could help you blend in. So, when you book your tickets, brush up some common food words of the destination country. This will help the servers get friendlier with you and we believe you\u2019d be served well.<\/p>\n

Other useful food tips:<\/strong>\u00a0Well, if you\u2019ve been invited to someone\u2019s house for food, a few things will come handy.<\/p>\n