Learn more about customs and cultures all over the world, from your fellow members of PTPI.
We believe that greater understanding between individuals and peoples, worldwide, reveals universal values and aspirations. We believe that if people can better understand other cultures, they are more tolerant and accepting of differences.
Name: Ranya Ahmed
Country of Residence: Bahrain
1. What is your favorite cultural tradition?
Henna parties before a wedding! All of the ladies invited to the wedding come together and get henna on their hands or feet in preparation for the wedding. It’s a lovely ladies night!
2. In your opinion, what is the most significant issue facing your country in the present day?
Unfortunately, sectarianism.
3. What do you consider to be the most important holiday in your country and how is it celebrated?
Eid al-Adha, which is a religious Muslim holiday. It’s a three-day event. You spend lots of time with family, but unlike Christmas, you receive money instead of presents. And instead of trick-or-treating for candy like at Halloween, you go door to door and receive money.
4. Who would you say is your country’s most significant historical figure?
Mohammed Bunafur. He was the symbol of British resistance and his resilience, many would say, led to our independence from colonization.
5. Which part of your country’s history do you find most interesting?
The Dilmun Civilization, which is thousands of years old, but our museum is full of artifacts from that era. They are so fascinating – it amazes me to think how old our country really is.
6. What languages are spoken in your country? How many of those languages do you speak and which ones?
Arabic is the main language but many people speak English as well. I speak both!
7. What is the customary form of greeting in your country?
Shaking hands and kissing on the cheek (depending on how well you know the person!).
8. What is the most popular sport in your country?
Football (soccer).
9. What is your favorite traditional meal and how do you make it?
Machboos. It’s basically a chicken/fish/lamb dish with rice but what is so wonderful is the spices and that it’s all made in one pot.
10. Do you have a favorite quote or words that you live by?
“Speak up even if your voice shakes” and “My purpose holds to sail beyond the sunset” – Tennyson.
11. Where in the world would you most like to visit?
I would really like to go to Brazil!
12. What is your favorite word? If that word is not in English, what does it mean?
Nafas. There is no translation because it is a concept, not a word. It basically conveys patience but also calmness. It is said that if you cook with nafas, the foot tastes better because you put your heart, soul and time into it.
13. What is the school system like in your country?
It depends. If you are in public schools it is either an all male or all female school. I went to a private school that is co-educational, but we did have to wear uniforms. School is incredibly challenging. Besides the three-hours-a-day amount of homework, you are required to do 150 hours of community service in 11th and 12th grade in order to graduate.
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