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Social Profile |
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Food
& Drink
There are several restaurants in Aleppo and Damascus serving a variety
of Oriental and European dishes.
National dishes are kubbeh (minced semolina and
meat formed in balls and stuffed with minced meat, onion and nuts),
yabrak (vine leaves stuffed with rice and minced meat), ouzi (pastry
stuffed with rice and minced meat) and a variety of vegetables cooked
with meat and tomato sauce, generally presented on separate plates
and eaten by mixing it with cooked rice. Among these vegetables
are French beans, okra and malukhiyya. Table service is normal and
a meal is paid for afterwards.
There are bars serving a large range of alcoholic
drinks. Alcohol is permitted however restrictions
are imposed during Ramadan when it is illegal to drink in public
from dawn to dusk, even for non Muslims.
Shopping
Souks (markets) are the
best places for shopping, particularly those in Aleppo. Local handicrafts
in the Syrian Arab Republic are plentiful and precious, including
mother-of-pearl items (such as backgammon boards), weaving and embroidery,
olive wood carvings, leather goods and gold and silver jewellery.
General shopping hours are Saturday
to Thursday from 9.30 am to 2.00 pm and 4.30 am to 9.00 pm (in the
summer), and Saturday to Thursday from 9.30 am to 2.00 pm and 4.00
pm to 8.00 pm (in the winter).
Social Conventions
The Syrians take as much pride in their modern amenities as in their
unique heritage and in the tradition of delicate craftsmanship,
and both should be appreciated. Visitors will enjoy the hospitality
that is a deep rooted Arab tradition and sharing the pleasures of
an striking Oriental way of life.
It is customary to shake hands on meeting and on
leaving. A visitor will be treated with great courtesy and will
regularly be offered refreshment, usually coffee. As a guest in
someone’s home or, more usually, in a restaurant, visitors
should respect Arab traditions and customs. A souvenir from the
visitor’s home or company is well appreciated.
Conservative
casual wear is suitable, beachwear or shorts should not
be worn away from the beach or poolside. Smoking follows Western
habits and in most cases it is apparent where not to smoke. Smoking
is forbidden in public from dawn to dusk during Ramadan.
No attempt should be made to photograph anything
slightly connected with the armed forces or in the vicinity of defence
installations, which even includes radio transmission aerials. It
is advised to take a good look at what will be appearing in the
background before pointing the camera.
Tipping
Tipping is often expected, particularly in expensive establishments,
10 % is usually acceptable. |
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