What is Ramadan all about?
Ramadan is the most holy month of the Islamic calendar. In Egypt, it is a month of fasting and celebration. Muslims fast from sunup to sunset, meaning going without food, liquids, cigarettes, and sex. This is an exercise in discipline and those that partake do it seriously. As a guest in Egypt during this time, it is not required that you abstain, but it is considered polite to refrain from smoking, drinking, or eating in front of Muslims. Tourists, however, must keep in mind the need to re-hydrate themselves, so please use common sense regarding water intake during the day. After the day long fast, the evenings come alive with festivities and social gatherings every night.
