Unlike the US or EU, where people may hesitate to ask for help, Israelis rarely hesitate to ask for a favor. Although this may seem rude, it is just a different system. They see no harm in asking and are rarely too offended by a no.
In fact, much of the local culture reflects Silk Route trading and merchant cultures, based on bargaining. The concept of not being ripped off, a sucker or frier is key. If you say yes too often, you won’t be seen as nice, you’ll be seen as a sucker. So, practice those no’s!
Contributor: Kristina Barger