Today, we explored Algerian culture, history, and social dynamics during a guided walk through the City and its parks. The main street, up from the Port, is filled with French Colonial white-washed buildings. Our guide (Houssem Degdeg) shared stories about local flora, the diverse Berber tribes represented in French-era statues, and the traditional dances of the women of the N'aili tribe. Soon, the conversation shifted to modern social dynamics, including the influence of Turkish and Mexican employment strategies, and the development of the metro subway system, the second to be built in Africa (after Eqypt).
Houssem told us of the five main tribes: Kabiri, Tuareg, Mozabite, Shawia, and
the N'aili. On our walk, we stopped at a statue by a French sculptor which depicts N'aili women dancing, showcasing traditional headdresses and demonstrating belly-focused movements. While there, Houssem revealed that he, like other Algerian men, leaned toward "full-figured" or voluptuous women rather than the skinny aesthetic common in the West. He also told us that male grooming trends have shifted significantly due to the popularity of Turkish soap operas. Women now prefer men with beards and romantic dispositions, moving away from the clean-shaven look of previous generations.
We asked about how Algeria supports families, and learned that the country houses its citizens by utilizing a mortgage system where the government builds apartments for low-income citizens, requiring a small down payment and long-term installments. Once the mortgage is repaid, the house is free of sale restrictions. Education is free, and students are paid a stipend. Basic healthcare is free, and medical training requires six years of service in poor neighborhoods in the southern areas of the country, general unemployment is a challenge, particularly for graduates, as the country transitions from government-led employment to a growing private sector. Gasoline is about twelve cents a gallon, and Algeria exports to all countries in the area. It's currently renegotiating prices, taking advantage of its positive bargaining position. It has built pipelines to Spain and Italy, and has cut its previous pipelines through Morocco and Tunisia. The metro system, opened in 2011, is a vital resource for skipping heavy traffic and is widely used by students and seniors due to discounted rates.
Marriages are not arranged, but carefully handled to honor and respect the bride and groom's fathers. Houssem, his wife, and daughter live with his parents. He does not expect to live in his own house for twenty years. Social interactions are often gender-segregated; it is uncommon for men and women to be "just friends" unless they are dating.
There is a localized drug problem involving prescription pills and hashish, though the government enforces very strict penalties for distribution.
Finally, there was a moment of relaxation at a public square and sidewalk cafe, mirroring the Parisian lifestyle with coffee and snacks.
In the late afternoon, the group transitioned to a visit to the Bardo Museum, which features a prehistoric section in a stunning Ottoman palace. A group welcome dinner is being coordinated via WhatsApp, at the Latin Quarter, with the guide ensuring everyone’s dietary preferences.
To see more of the photos taken today, click on Wednesday, April 22nd, Algiers, Algeria.
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