What should we watch out for as far as crime or places?
Did you have a good time there?
2006-08-23 13:37:45 · 8 answers · asked by Tilly123 1 in Travel ➔ Travel (General) ➔ Health & Safety
My best day in my life was strolling through the Karmak temple on the Islamic Sabbath (I think). A close second was amongst the pyramids.
Guards were posted outside all of the hotels and tourist sites. I wondered what they were for. A tour bus was hijacked about a year later near the valley of the kings, and the guards didn't do much of anything until it was over. Thus I know what they are for, but know they aren't effective. So you are a bit on your own and need to be street smart like any city. A guide told me Egypt is resource poor, and relies on a lot of tourism. That the extremists attacks within Egypt are typically foreigners as well. Not much comfort in an attack. You can tell they like tourist money, as they are quick to carry your bag, sell you a small trinket, or show you a bit about the ruins, all for a small pittance. That becomes tiring, someone always in your face for money. But overall they are very friendly! My biggest bad expedience was a buggy ride from the Karnak Temple. I paid and walked away, and the guy basically switched the midsized pound bills I gave him for singles, and called me back saying I didn't pay. It was like I paid $10, and he said I paid $2, so not a lot of money, more a principal. After that I would keep eye contact in any money exchange and confirm the deal was complete before continuing. Oh well, I have lost more to thieves in Louisiana and the Egyptians needed it more.
I sweltered in 45 degree heat and not in a tshirt and shorts. My female companion said no way and was always in shorts. I think if I went back I would still do the covered thing, even as a male. You sure stick out in shorts, especially by the busload. Looks to be easy marks to me.
2006-08-23 14:09:33 · answer #1 · answered by JuanB 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've been to Egypt and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I definitely want to go back. There is nothing to worry about. The best way to travel is with a small tour, you're much more protected. There are guards and secret police around all the time to watch. Beware when the Egyptians want you to take a ride in their felucca (sail boat), or on the horse and buggy. These guys tend to bug you for a buck, but go up to one of the guards and let them know that you are being harassed. Most of all beware of Luxor, they have a habit of getting you to make purchases. I was caught one time by a shop owner there by pretending he needed my help to write a postcard in English, only to be locked up in his store and the only way I could get out was to buy something. Therefore just beware of anyone offering you anything for 'FREE" cause it ain't free.... If you haven't found a tour group try the Imaginative Traveller, they are inexpensive and fun to be with. They also cater the solo traveller. Gold is the best to buy there, really cheap for 18 - 24 karat, also Egyptian cotton. Internet at almost every corner so you can keep in touch with family and friends. Don't use the phone it's expensive, use the Internet cafe to call out. You can find someone that will hook you up.
2006-08-23 16:45:08 · answer #2 · answered by tonip 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Egypt? Ok.
Well watch out for crazy Islamics with guns. Crazy Islamics with knives. Crazy Islamics with bombs. They seem to be fond of bombing tour buses and tourist areas. Don't tell anyone your American. Might as well paint dollar signs on your butt and a target on your chest. Say you're Canadian if (when) you're ask. Keep your voice down. Keep your eyes open. Watch your back. Take lots of film. Have a great time.
2006-08-23 13:40:02 · answer #3 · answered by perfecttiming1 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You may want to buy a light scarf and cover your hair in the out lying areas.Make sure you keep your legs covered,and wear a shirt with sleeves at least mid way down your arms.Remember to be polite as most Egyptian will be polite as long as you are.Ask the price for everything before you accept it,If you are taking a taxi anywhere make sure to walk a ways from the hotel, it will be cheaper.
2006-08-23 13:45:37 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Wear accodring to thier customs. IF you show off your wealth in anyway, you can get mugged (in other words robbed), kidnapped, killed in anyway.
Stay within a group tour and NEVER let go of your group tour, if you plan to take a group tour in Eygpt.
AND ALWAYS keep a handy list of numbers of emergencies of local embassies or consulates, emgerency contacts, medical & travel insurance and extra money if anything happens to you.
2006-08-23 14:12:09 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Watch out for the many terrorists who will take great pleasure in blowing you away at one of hot western tourists spots you'll be at. Take a look at www.state.travel.gov before you go.
But, besides that, you'll have a great time!!
2006-08-24 11:43:00 · answer #6 · answered by traveller 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Like a lot of places, there are sleezy places and people. Dont be a mark or leave your valuables exposed.
2006-08-23 13:55:08 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
watch out 4 the mummies
all d best coz "death is only d beginnin"
hee hee
2006-08-26 23:48:14 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋