I bet you they would make a great raincoat or something to wear in the cold weather.

Well it seems weird but covering yourself like that does help keep the sun off you in that Mediterranean heat. I don’t know about black though. Generally the men wrap themselves in white.

For a start, do not lump all muslims in the same pile.
A burka is only an item of clothing in some islamic countries.

Im guessing you are referring to the "ninja" look?

In Egypt it is called the Niqob. It is purely voluntary.
It is used so that the only being that can see the wearer is allah.
It is a religious item of clothing, and apparently is very refreshing for the wearer, as there is no one to stare at her. she is happy to be totally invisible to the "outside" world.

I had a long chat with a couple of Egyptian women. Both of whom cover their heads and do so because they want to, and not because they are forced to. They both said that they respect any woman who totally covers up, as it show religious devotion.

Just as some Jews wear a prayer shawl, and some xtians wear a cross around their neck to show their religious views, Egyptian women are proud to cover totally.

I am not saying that I am for subjugation of women, as anyone who knows me, will tell you that I am very much against anyone taking another's freedoms away, but you have to understand that some women do it voluntarily.

It may be abhorrent to you, and you may find it difficult to believe, but the power of someone's beliefs are an overwhelming factor.

Belushi,

I don't find it abhorrent at all Belushi. I only find it disagreeable when the women are forced to wearing them. And they are in some places.

Personally, I would not mind wearing them when I'm having a bad hair day.