Last night, I was honoured and very touched to be invited to share in Iftar - the breaking of the fast Muslims are having daily during the Holy month of Ramadan. It was the first opportunity I had to meet local ladies and, I must admit, I was a little nervous before I went because I haven't enough knowledge of their etiquette and traditions. I knew I would be mortified if I caused offence without meaning to, so I contacted a new friend who is married to a local gentleman to guide me. And thank you Charley - you gave me perfect advice for all through the evening.

I will not go through details of the evening here - I feel these ladies like their privacy and I will respect that all the way.

However, I feel sure they would be happy to know that I have never, ever, anywhere in the world met such a wonderful, gentle, loving, generous crowd of ladies before in my life. I feel special just for being with them and their wanting me to stay longer and longer through the evening and half the night! And all the hugs and kisses they gave me before they let me go touched my heart so much - I had tears in my eyes because I was so afraid that I won't see them again.

Warda, Aisha, Asma, Sheikha and all your gorgeous, wonderful sisters and aunts (I'll bring paper and pen next time to write down all the names) - you are delightful and warm and I love you all so very much. I hope to see you again soon - in an abbaya and burqa and speaking broken Arabic next time inshallah!

May Allah be with you always - jacky xx