This week, IT's tentacles extend deeper into the National Geographic Society to snag a tip from Claire Griffin (whose husband John is the president of NG's magazine group). She sent us the following about the overland trip she and her sister recently took through Mongolia:
Hospitality is part of Mongolian culture, and needy travelers are never turned away from the traditional round felt tent called a ger. This offering of food and shelter provides an important safety net for all Mongols. Since travel here is unpredictable, everyone, including Westerners, should carry gifts to show appreciation for food, water, or an afternoon's nap on a soft bed waiting for a mechanic to perform mysterious vehicle repairs.
On our trip, we brought needles, thread, and safety pin necklaces for the women, plus batteries, pliers, and bungee cords for the men. Small plastic horses from my local dollar store were popular with children and old people. One of these two-cent animals would be received in both hands and then held up to the Buddhist "third eye" in the middle of the forehead, a gesture honoring both the gift and the giver. Gifts are given as you leave, though gifting can sometimes extend your visit. One stop to buy wild strawberries turned into a chance to sample airag, fermented mare's milk, and ended with a cuddle with the new family pet: a baby antelope.
Dreaming of a ger you can call your own? Look no further. Or, if you prefer armchair to overland travel, read "Among Nomads" in our March 2006 issue.
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