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TO EASTERN MONGOLIA
MONGOLIAN HOSPITALITY
On entering a Mongolian home, tea will be offered first. In summer it quenches thirst, and in the winter, spreads warnth through the body, and raises spirit. The tea is traditionally made with salt and milk. Dairy products are then usually offered. Milk is regarded as a symbol of unselfishness, purity and kindness. Other products include urum (a thick layer of cream), mongolian butter, aaruul (dried cottage cheese), airag (fermented milk) and tarag ( a sort of yoghurt).While a European considers it necessary to prononce his thanks, in Mongolia, it is customary to express thanks with symbolic gestures. The host will serve dishes with both hands or with the right hand supported at the wrist or elbow. The guest should receive the offering in the same way. Nevertheless the difficulty to eat what is offered, a small amount should be tasted, as a refusal is offensive. A guest will almost always be given a seat in the northwestern part of the ger, which is considered place of honour for esteemed guests and elders.
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