Local Customs & Etiquette in Latakia, Syria
1. Salam Alaikum Greeting
A traditional Syrian greeting used in Latakia. It's a sign of respect and friendliness.
- Formal Greeting: Use 'Salam Alaikum' instead of casual hellos.
- Response: The response is 'Wa Alaikum As-Salam'.
- Timing: It's used at any time of the day.
2. Lady Finger Etiquette
In Latakia, offering a lady finger to someone is considered rude. Use flatbread instead.
- Politeness: Avoid offering lady fingers as they are associated with funerals.
- Alternative: Use flatbread or other acceptable finger foods instead.
- Context: Know the context before offering any food.
3. Shoes Removal Custom
In many homes and some establishments in Latakia, shoes are removed upon entry.
- Cultural Respect: Respect local customs by removing your shoes.
- Signage: Look for shoe racks or signs indicating where to leave shoes.
- Cleanliness: Ensure your feet are clean before removing shoes.
4. Eye Contact Custom
Maintaining eye contact during conversations is considered polite in Latakia.
- Politeness: Maintain eye contact to show attentiveness and respect.
- Exceptions: Avoid prolonged eye contact with elders or strangers.
- Body Language: Combine eye contact with nods and gestures to show agreement.
5. Handshaking Custom
Handshakes are common in Latakia but can vary based on age and gender.
- Age: Elders may not offer a handshake, defer to them.
- Gender: Women usually don't initiate handshakes with men but may offer if initiated.
- Firmness: Handshake should be firm but not overly so.
6. Alms Giving Custom
Charity and alms giving are deeply valued in Latakia. Contributing to the needy is common.
- Religious Significance: Alms giving has religious significance in Islam.
- Common Practice: Charity boxes can be found in many public places.
- Appreciation: Verbal or physical appreciation is expected when giving alms.
7. Covering Hair Custom
Women in Latakia usually cover their hair with a scarf or hijab.
- Respect: Respect local customs by dressing modestly.
- Local Attire: Long dresses and loose-fitting garments are also common for women.
- Tourist Attire: Western attire is acceptable for tourists.
8. Dining Etiquette
In Latakia, dining etiquette includes eating with right hand, sharing food, and not leaving food on the plate.
- Hygiene: Eating with right hand ensures cleanliness.
- Sharing: Food is often shared among family and friends.
- Leftovers: Leftover food on the plate may be considered wasteful.
9. Smoking Etiquette
Smoking is common in Latakia but public smoking laws apply.
- Public Smoking Laws: Avoid smoking in prohibited areas.
- Smoking Space: Look for designated smoking areas.
- Offering a Cigarette: Offering a cigarette is considered polite but not all will accept.
10. Drinking Etiquette
In Latakia, tea and Arabic coffee are common drinks. Alcohol is available but less common.
- Tea & Coffee: Tea and coffee are offered in many social situations.
- Alcohol: Alcohol is available in some restaurants and hotels but not widely consumed.
- Coffee Making: Coffee is often prepared using traditional methods.
11. Public Holidays Customs
Public holidays in Latakia are celebrated with family gatherings, prayers, and visiting holy sites.
- Family Gatherings: Expect larger crowds during public holidays.
- Religious Significance: Understand the religious significance of each holiday.
- Visiting Holy Sites: Many people visit holy sites during holidays.
12. Invitation Etiquette
Accepting an invitation is considered polite in Latakia. Gifts are not expected but appreciated.
- Politeness: Accept invitations graciously.
- Gift-giving: Gifts are not expected but appreciated if you choose to bring one.
- Timeliness: Arrive on time for invitations, unless explicitly told otherwise.
13. Bargaining Custom
Bargaining is a common practice in Latakia markets and shops.
- Negotiation Skills: Develop negotiation skills to get the best price.
- Respectful Tone: Maintain a respectful and friendly tone during negotiations.
- Fair Price: Aim for a fair price that both parties can agree upon.
14. Photography Custom
Asking permission before taking someone's photo is customary in Latakia.
- Respect Privacy: Respect the privacy of locals by asking permission.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Be culturally sensitive when photographing religious sites or people in prayer.
- Tips: Offering a small tip if the photo is published may be appreciated.
15. Visiting Homes Custom
In Latakia, visiting homes usually involves removing shoes, offering gifts, and eating together.
- Shoes Removal: Removing your shoes is expected.
- Gift-giving: Bringing a small gift is appreciated but not required.
- Dining Together: Eating together is a sign of friendship and hospitality.