Volume 11, 2nd Edition
November, 2023
Tour Highlights
- Cairo | Giza Pyramids & Sphynx
- Abu Simbel | Temple of Ramessess II and Queen Nefertari
- Luxor | Valley of Kings- King Tut
- Karnak | Karnak Temple
- Aswan | Philae Temple
- Saqqara | Step Pyramid
- Kom Ombo | Temple of Kom Ombo
Table of Contents
Celebrating Togetherness:
Eid al-Fitr vs. Thanksgiving
In a world that spans diverse cultures and traditions, celebrations often serve as the glue that binds communities together. Two such celebrations, Eid al-Fitr in the Islamic world and Thanksgiving in the United States, stand out for their shared emphasis on togetherness, gratitude, and family bonding, despite their distinct cultural and historical roots.
Eid al-Fitr: A Time of Spiritual Renewal and Family Connection
Eid al-Fitr, the Festival of Breaking the Fast, is one of the most significant Islamic holidays celebrated worldwide. It marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. While the religious context differs from Thanksgiving, the core values align remarkably. Families gather to celebrate the successful completion of a month-long spiritual journey.
During Eid al-Fitr, homes are filled with joy as families exchange heartfelt greetings and gifts. The act of giving is not merely a tradition; it is a symbol of love and appreciation for one another. The festive meals shared during Eid echo the abundance of American Thanksgiving dinners. It’s a time when the aroma of delicious dishes wafts through homes, and the dining table becomes a focal point for family bonding.
Thanksgiving: A Historical Harvest Feast Turned National Day of Gratitude
In contrast, American Thanksgiving has its roots in the early 17th century when Pilgrims and Native Americans gathered for a harvest feast. Over the centuries, it evolved into a national holiday, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. Thanksgiving is a day when people express gratitude for the bountiful harvest and the blessings in their lives.
Families across the United States come together for a special Thanksgiving meal, usually centered around a roast turkey. The act of sharing food and stories at the dinner table echoes the communal spirit of Eid al-Fitr. It is a day when people set aside their busy lives to appreciate the presence of loved ones and acknowledge the significance of family ties.
Common Threads: Family, Togetherness, and Gratitude
Despite the differences in religious and historical contexts, Eid al-Fitr and Thanksgiving share common threads that weave through the fabric of human experience. Both celebrations emphasize the importance of family and togetherness. The act of gathering around a table, sharing a meal, and expressing gratitude for the blessings of life transcends cultural boundaries.
In a world that often highlights differences, these celebrations remind us of the universal values that unite us all. Whether breaking the fast after a month of Ramadan or giving thanks for the harvest, the essence lies in fostering connections and appreciating the relationships that enrich our lives.
As we navigate the tapestry of global traditions, Eid al-Fitr and Thanksgiving stand as beacons of shared human experiences. They invite us to celebrate the joy of togetherness, acknowledge our blessings, and cultivate a sense of gratitude that resonates across cultures and continents. In essence, both celebrations teach us that, regardless of our backgrounds, we are united in our pursuit of love, gratitude, and the warmth of shared moments with those we hold dear.
Upcoming Tour Dates
2024 Dates
Sep. 28, 2024 to Oct. 11, 2024
Oct. 19, 2024 to Nov. 1, 2024
Nov. 09, 2024 to Nov. 22, 2024
Nov. 30, 2024 to Dec. 13, 2024
Limited Spaces
2025 Dates
Jan. 11, 2025 to Jan. 24, 2025
Feb. 1, 2025 to Feb. 14, 2025
Feb. 15, 2025 to Feb. 28, 2025
Mar. 1, 2025 to Mar. 14, 2025
Mar. 15, 2025 to Mar. 28, 2025
Apr. 5, 2025 to Apr. 18, 2025
Apr. 19, 2025 to May 2, 2025
Sept. 13, 2025 to Sept. 26, 2025
Oct. 4, 2025 to Oct. 17, 2025
Oct. 18, 2025 to Oct. 31, 2025
Nov. 1, 2025 to Nov. 24, 2025
Nov. 30, 2025 to Dec. 13, 2025
2026 Dates
Sept. 12, 2026 to Sept. 25, 2026
Oct. 3, 2026 to Oct. 16,2026
Oct. 17, 2026 to Oct. 30,2026
Oct. 31, 2026 to Nov. 13, 2026
Nov. 14, 2026 to Nov. 27, 2026
Dec. 05. 2026 to Dec. 18, 2026
Jan. 10, 2026 to Jan. 23, 2026
Jan. 31, 2026 to Feb. 13, 2026
Feb. 14, 2026 to Feb. 27, 2026
Feb. 28, 2026 to Mar. 13, 2026
Mar. 14, 2026 to Mar. 27, 2026
Apr. 4, 2026 to Apr. 17, 2026
Apr. 18, 2026 to May. 1, 2026
Word of the Month
Ma’a as-salama (مع السلامة): Go with peace / Goodbye
Monthly Weather
In November, Egypt experiences transitional weather as it transitions from the hot summer to the cooler winter. Overall, the country enjoys moderate temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). Cairo and northern regions see temperatures around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit), while southern areas like Luxor and Aswan can be slightly warmer. Coastal areas, including popular destinations like Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, have milder temperatures, making it an ideal time for beach activities. Egypt generally remains dry in November, with minimal rainfall. It’s a pleasant month for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
Sobia
A popular Egyptian drink made from coconut milk, sugar, and water. It’s a refreshing beverage, especially during hot weather.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice
- 4 cups water (for soaking rice)
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups water (for blending and diluting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Ice cubes (for serving)
Instructions:
Soak the Rice:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Soak the rice in 4 cups of water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Rice Paste:
- After soaking, drain the rice and blend it with the coconut milk until you get a smooth paste.
Strain the Mixture:
- Strain the rice and coconut mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to extract a smooth liquid. You can use the back of a spoon to press the mixture and extract more liquid.
Prepare the Sweetened Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, dissolve the sugar in 4 cups of water. You can adjust the sugar to your taste preference.
Combine and Flavor:
- Combine the strained rice and coconut mixture with the sweetened water. Add vanilla extract if desired and mix well.
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the Sobia until it’s well chilled.
- Serve the Sobia over ice cubes in glasses.
Enjoy your homemade Sobia! This coconut-based drink is not only delicious but also a perfect way to cool down, especially in warmer weather. Adjust the sweetness and consistency according to your preferences.
