©
Marie Cavalié
Mongolia Travel Guide
©
Marie Cavalié
For a hassle-free trip, where mutual respect is paramount, here are some tips on daily life. Even though Mongolians are an easy going lot, it's wise to avoid misunderstandings if you want things to run smoothly!
Life in a yurt follows certain codes of conduct that all Mongolians respect. As a newbie, it won't be the end of the world if you're not up to speed on the 'house rules'. Mongolians are hospitable and they enjoy inviting guests into their homes.
In Mongolia, before you enter a yurt where the occupants are not expecting you, it's common practice to ask the owner to call his dog inside (Nokhoi khorio!). After this little ritual has been completed, you'll be invited inside and offered something to eat or drink. When you enter, don't step on the threshold, as this may anger the spirits and quite possible your host as well.
Once inside, accept what you're offered to eat or drink, as it's impolite to refuse. Whether you're a foreign visitor or a local passer-by, your host will do his/her best to make sure your thirst is quenched and your belly filled. You're likely to be served tea, airag (fermented mare's milk), milk or yak butter! It's fair to say that certain foods and drinks may not immediately appeal to Western tourists. At the same time, if you don't like the taste or texture, don't feel obliged to clear your plate - just have a sip or nibble if that's the case.
During your Mongolian adventure, you may be surprised that such a welcoming people can so get on your nerves when it comes to organising outings. You need to understand that daily life and the Mongolians' concept of time are radically different and it can be a bit annoying. So, if there's one thing you need to practise in Mongolia, it's your patience. An inifinite patience, more like! Mongolians like to take their time. However, this can be refreshing for travellers wanting to get as far away from the rat race as possible. In Mongolia, everything happens in its own time and if it's not happened yet, it means the time's not right. Fine-sounding words! Better to look forward to a gallop across the steppes, surrounded by a breathtaking landscape. Bear in mind that during a 5-day trek, you'll probably spend a couple of days waiting - horses here are free to roam the Mongolian countryside and frolic as much as they please. So you'll need to patiently wait for them to finish!
When you look back on your trip to Mongolia, such stories may make you smile, but at the time they're a bit annoying...
