Despite the influence of western commerce and technology, the Arabian Peninsula has retained its own distinctly Arab culture, a culture that has remained closely aligned to its desert origins, and the nomadic bedu life with its ancient hierarchical structures and tribal traditions. The age-old rhythms and customs manifest themselves throughout the Arab world to this day in the many different ways, not least in the renowned Arab hospitality and enduring ties to family and kinship. The author of "The Arab World Handbook" proves once again to be an indispensable guide and companion for any visitor (on business or pleasure) to the fascinating and sometimes demanding land that is the Arab world. Split into two parts, "Simple Etiquette in Arabia" and "The Customs and Culture of Arabia", James Peters extracts the common denomiators of etiquette in the Gulf, as well as describing the essential first steps in understanding the place, the people and the culture.