Cairo assaulted the senses by its noise and air pollution, and the mind through its ancient monuments and buildings and its people. Of the many impressions of Egypt, three stand out. First, there is Ramadan, the holiest month of Islam, during which the faithful fast between sunrise and sunset. They give up all food, all drink, cigarettes and sex. There are differences among the adherents to Islam.
Some women wear scarves and some are fully veiled.
Some attend daily prayers and many do not. But during Ramadan, almost all are strict in their observance of the holy month and in observing the fast. The faithful rise early before the sun to prepare a meal for their families, usually of soup, so that they will have something to support them during the day. But in the summer, it begins well before 5 a.m. and continues until after 8 p.m., creating real problems for those who are ill, and for children. But exceptions are made for these.