The Egyptian connection
Picture the scene…
You’ve arrived in Cairo eager to start the next chapter of your life, and your new boss has invited you over for lunch. Unfortunately, you had to refuse yesterday’s invitation, as you just felt too tired after your journey over. You saunter out of your house, brush past your doorman and jump in the taxi. On arrival, you’re enthused by your host’s warm greeting and extend your hand to his wife, who happens to be wearing a hijab. As the food is brought to the table, you feel so at ease in this new setting that you help yourself to a generous serving. It seems this new relationship has got off to a great start.
Except… what you don’t know is that you’ve already committed four cultural faux pas. No idea what they might be? No problem – Meraki is on hand to explain all.
And there’s more…
Social niceties and etiquette are merely the tip of the iceberg (or sand dune in our case!) Egypt is a culture that may well be very different from your own in its attitudes to greetings, clothes, food, taxi etiquette, and tipping, not to mention the broader issues of gender, social life, business, and religious practice, and the role of people senior to you in age or status.
And for any new arrival, let’s not forget the host of practical issues, from language to accommodation and from red tape to schooling for the kids.
All your questions answered
You want this latest phase in your career – whether it’s a long- or short-term mission – to go as smoothly as possible for you and your family.
Relocating involves enough stresses and strains as it is, without adding worries about doing the right or wrong thing at every turn. With Meraki, you benefit from expert friendly advice on cultural, linguistic, social, moral and practical matters in Egypt – advice that replaces stereotypes with real insight. Besides being fluent in English and Spanish, I have spent several years outside Egypt and perfectly understand the needs of new arrivals in my country. As a native speaker of Arabic and several dialects, with years of experience in the international development sector, I’m perfectly positioned to accompany your journey towards understanding and enjoying Egyptian culture.
My sessions are designed for individuals or groups, and in consulting or training mode, according to your needs. Just outline your situation and I’ll adapt.
Reach out to me today
for a free 15-minute consultation.
I look forward to working with you!
