For the next few weeks leading up to the tour, I will be posting cultural and social things about Israel that any traveler should be aware of, especially when staying in Israeli or Palestinean homes.
LESSON 1: The left hand.
We will frequently be staying in Palestinean (Arab) areas during the tour. In Arab cultures, the left hand is considered "dirty" (Guess why). Therefore, these rules of thumb apply:
1: It is important to not eat with your left hand. If you need two hands, like when eating a sandwich, then that's fine, but never eat with just your left hand. When taking food from a communal plate, take it with your right hand!
2: Don't ever shake left hands. Keep your left hand away from contact with people.
3: Always give and receive gifts with the right hand.
So, Lesson 1 complete! Watch out for tomorrow's installment!
Arabic Lesson of the day:
Hello - "Marhaben"
Goodbye - "Waderan"
