Wazzup Pilipinas!
Egypt is one of those countries that most people wish to visit at least once. It's a classic 'bucket list' vacation choice. There aren't many places left on the planet where you can see one of the seven wonders of the ancient world with your own eyes, but the Great Pyramid of Giza is still standing tall and attracts millions of visitors every year. The land of Egypt has played a vital role in the history of our whole civilization, and you owe it to yourself to find out what it has to offer.
Some solo travelers are put off the idea of visiting Egypt because of the misconception that it isn’t safe. This isn’t particularly fair. As with many countries in the region it occupies, Egypt has seen some trouble and strife in recent years, but it’s currently considered to be safe to visit. Not only that, but it relies on tourism as a major contributor to the well-being of its economy. Egypt doesn’t just want tourists - it needs them.
With flights to Egypt available once again, and a tourism industry waiting to welcome you with open arms, it's time to think about planning your trip. Egypt is a beautiful country, and one with a character and history so significant that it's seeped into every area of our mainstream culture. It was the lore of Egyptian mythology that persuaded movie-goers to head out to see 'The Mummy' in their thousands. It's the lore of Egypt today that has people flocking to play Egyptian-themed games on mobile slots websites like Late Casino. From the traditionalism of 'Ancient Egypt' to the more modern style of 'Cleo's Wish,' the iconography of Egypt has proven to be a great draw for mobile slots designers. Why let mobile slots players have all the fun, though? Why not go and see what all the fuss is about for yourself?
We appreciate that if you're a solo traveler, you'll still have a few concerns about safety and practicality even if your tour operator reassures you that everything is safe, so here's a few basic tips that we've been able to compile based on experience.
Always Use Uber
Uber might sometimes get bad press in other parts of the world, but in Egypt, they're a lifesaver. Without wanting to be disrespectful, the standards of driving in Egypt can be a little erratic, and that goes for the local taxi operators as much as the everyday civilians. Uber has been expanding its operations within the country to try and make things a little easier for travelers. There are several benefits to using Uber while you're there - not least that you'll get an estimate of your fare before you set off, which means less haggling while you're on the road. It also means it's less likely you'll be taken 'the long way round' in order to maximize your fare. On top of that, from a security point of view, both you and Uber know who your driver is, and where you're supposed to be headed. That can be particularly comforting for single female travelers.
Wear Sunglasses Outdoors
This isn’t just because of the weather, and nor is it because we want you to look like a celebrity while you’re there. If you’re headed to a tourist-heavy part of Egypt, you’ll encounter dozens of traders, market-stall owners, and other people trying to part you from your money. They keep a particularly keen eye out for people on their own, because they make for an easier target. Making eye contact with you is the first stage of trying to lure you into a conversation. If you’re wearing a pair of reflective sunglasses, they can’t make eye contact with you. It won’t be one hundred percent effective, but it will reduce the amount of hassle you’ll encounter.
Book Tours Through Your Hotel
For reasons we've never been able to explain adequately, it's more expensive to book tours before you arrive in Egypt than it is once you've reached your hotel. You'll save money by doing it all once you're in the country. Don't believe your package operator when they tell you everything will sell out - it never does! If you're staying with a reputable hotel, part of their service to you will include arranging tours to popular locations - and they'll undertake vetting of the people and companies they work with. That means you'll get a better quality of tour and guide, and you'll have the security of knowing you can take it up with the hotel if something isn't to your liking.
Research Each Area Before You Visit It
Some parts of Egypt are deeply conservative. Other areas are accustomed to seeing high numbers of western tourists, and are therefore more relaxed about what they expect from you. That means in some places you'll be free to drink alcohol, and in others, it will be strictly off-limits. Expectations of dress code will vary from location to location, too. You don't want to offend your hosts by doing the wrong thing in the wrong place. If you're in doubt, ask your hotel or your tour operator. In general, consider dressing more conservatively than you do at home. Your hosts will appreciate your politeness and consideration.
Learn A Few Basic Words
Unless you already have a good grasp of it, learning Arabic before your trip isn't going to be possible! Here's a handy phrase which will help you immeasurably:- "Shoukran." It's pronounced "shock-ran," and it means "thank you." Whenever you receive a service of any kind from any person, make sure to thank them. On the other hand, if you're being hassled or pestered about something you're not interested in, say "la shoukran." As you've probably guessed, that means "no thank you," and it will have the desired effect. "Salam-Alaikum" is also a helpful phrase to have in your vocabulary; it means "peace be with you," and is a standard greeting within the country.
Aside from all of the above, just relax and have fun. The Egyptian people are broadly friendly, and happy to see you. If they can speak a little English, they'll probably try to engage you in polite conversation. If they do, don't be nervous of them - they probably just want to thank you for visiting their country!
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
