and the henna

My story of the Nubian village was interrupted... We arrived, and walked a block to the Nubian house. We passed an older woman sitting outside her blue home, and I asked if I could take her picture - yes, did, and paid her 1 pound. As we arrived at the house we were to visit, the homeowner (woman) was there to greet us. We came into the "reception room" (seems many Egyptian homes have a reception room) and then off to another room with tables and benches.

She served us hibiscus juice or mint tea as a welcome drink - this is another custom here. When we arrive at a home or hotel, you are served a welcome drink, usually these options or a palm juice called dom. We heard, from her, of the USA woman who studied Nubian culture in the 1960s for her PhD, and lived with this family for 3 months. Homeowner, her mother, and sister and their husbands/kids all live here, and love Americans, they said.

We were told that Nubian women love bright colored clothing, are Moslem and keep heads and arms covered, and when out and about where a black see thru dress over their bright dresses and scarves. I have a pix of gigi in the dress.

We got a little education about the relocation to Aswan during the dam building, and some about the adoption of Islam for religion back in the olden days about 1500 AD. And we were served some appetizers - pita bread, baked in the brick oven in the next room, cabbage rolls, and falafel made with fava beans. It was all very delicious!

After this we were given the option of getting henna tattoos on our hands or arm - this for 20 LE. Of course, this you will see when I get home as it will last 10 -15 days. Took pictures all over the house. And then we bid them adieu.

Today, came to Cairo. It is 10:30pm and there is a wedding reception in the lobby, dancing and music!!