WHAT I WISH I KNEW BEFORE GOING TO EGYPT

Egypt is not the easiest place to go as a female traveler, but I am so happy I was able to experience it and I would absolutely go back. I do think it’s naive to think you can navigate Egypt alone as a female traveler and highly advise going with a tour group or hiring guides as I did find myself in some predicaments even with another female accompanying me. Below is the advice I wish I had before I went on this trip and a few tricks I learned along the way. 

Negotiate Prices For Everything 

Unfortunately, you are going to be constantly charged almost ten times the actual cost of items as a tourist. You will never get the same prices as a local but assume you are being upcharge and negotiate prices in markets, for taxis, and anywhere that isn’t a restaurant or store with fixed prices. 

Do Not Accept Help From Or Follow Strangers

This probably seems like an obvious one, but my friend and I made the mistake of accepting a stranger's help for directions when we were lost and he ended up locking us inside of his store until we bought something in the Khan el Khalili Bazaar of Cairo. The whole situation would have been completely avoided had we gone there with a guide but hopefully you can learn from my mistake and be friendly but don’t accept strangers' help. 

Cover Up 

Despite the heat you want to make sure you dress conservatively during your time in Egypt (with the exception of beach towns). I highly suggest loose fitting clothes like linens, silk scarves, and cargo pants to not stand out too much while avoiding overheating. Ladies, despite your marital status I also suggest wearing a wedding ring as it can help you avoid unwanted attention from men. 

Learn How To Say Hello and Thank You 

I think this should be a habit to follow in any new country but I found that people especially appreciated it in Egypt when we said hello and thank you to them in their language. Even though many people speak English, this gesture will make you friends.  Below are the terms I would add to your notes. 

Hello - Marhaba 

Goodbye - Ma-salama

Thank you - Shukran 

Let’s Go - Yala