Bedouins of Egypt: Med Pearls brings you Slow Tourism Elements in Alexandria

Bedouins and Bedouin culture are not limited to Egypt, nor are they limited to a specific region of Egypt. They are ancient people found in many parts of the world who, throughout the decades, kept their ways and traditions alive. Traditional Bedouins live in desert areas, although many may now be found in Sinai resort communities and even in Egypt's bigger cities, such as Cairo and Alexandria.

In Alexandria, particularly in the project's pilot area of the lakes Mariout and Edku, the inhabitants stick close to their traditions while also adapting to the needs of modern times. Many of them can be found living along the shores of the lakes and the areas surrounding them. The traditional Bedouin tribe's way of living is the epitome of slow living, hence why it's such a perfect place to experience Slow Tourism.

Alongside the lakes, travellers can enjoy birdwatching (the lakes act as their resting places during their seasonal migration), fish with the local fishermen for Nile perch and local seafood, or catch a ride across the river on the flouka, a traditional wooden sailing boat that is crafted by the local carpenters who inherited the generations-old craftsmanship tradition. They can enjoy a Bedoun style cuisine along the shores of the lake or visit the many restaurants managed by the trips.

If you're more into the history of the place, you can visit the temple site where the Rosetta stone was discovered in 1799. You will also find many historic ruins of ancient tombs and monasteries (Saint Mercury or Abu Sefein and Mar Girgis) and the remainings of a Christian monastery from the 4th century called Mar Minas. Close to the ruins, you can visit the newer buildings, the church of St. Mary and St. Mina, and the new Cathedral with its two towers where the remains of Pope St. Kyrillos VI are held.

Each of the monasteries has its unique ambience and architectural characteristics and offer locally crafted, harvested, or handmade products made by the residing nuns or monks. Visitors can purchase organic honey, fresh vegetables, oils, natural hair products, plants, which will help fund the monasteries.

There are many things to be seen and enjoyed along the lakes. The ambience of the place and the welcoming nature of the inhabitants are sure to rest your minds and recharge your souls with its beauty, history and amazing food!