egyptian security

[hobsonbear]

what is personal security like in egypt?   will i be hassled by touts?

[SC00BY]

It depends on where you are going. The Red Sea area is ok. You do get hassled but if you just say 'no thanks' politely but firmly no problems. Cairo is ok if you are with a guide. I wouldn't recommend wandering off on your own!

[StevieBoy]

From the minute you get off the plane! By the way the Tourist Officials ...AREN'T! And only take the black and white official taxis.

A few useful phases(phonetically)

1. Imshee! : say it to irritating children only..means "go away"

2. Anna Misree...Anna sack in henna. : Means I'm egyptian...I live here.

[Oneeyedvic]

We went to Luxor 4 years ago - one week on a cruise, one week on hotel on Crocodile Island in luxor. There were touts everywhere - our guide suggested we act German - they take no cr@p.

The resort we stayed at was just outside of Luxor, and two girls who were staying there at the same time never left the resort - even my wife didn't always come with me when I took the shuttle to Luxor as she felt intimidated.

Personally though, it didn't bother me.

[mightywease]

Yes you will get hassled but don't let it bother you. 

Hawkers and touts will approach you and their attentions can be persistent. My advice is be courteous whatever your answer. If you are interested in a camel ride or in buying something then negotiate what you feel is a reasonable price. If not politely say no and walk away. That is, however, much easier said than done as no is not always immediately taken as an answer. Just be persistent, a friendly but firm  "No thank you" is generally all that is needed. Try not to take anything - usually small souveniers - that are placed in your hands, this happens a lot at the pyramids, and don't get your money out unless you really do want to buy something.

We have wandered round Cairo, the Pyramids and Alexandria independantly with no guide and it seemed to work for us. Above all enjoy yourself. Egypt is a eonderful country

[angelmerlin]

I have travelled on the Nile and to the Red Sea several times, once on my own and once with my son.  Yes, you get hassled, but a firm "No thank you" will stop it. In arabic: La Chokran (Shockrun).

Personal security is good - very low crime rate by the Red Sea at least.  As has been said, Egypt is a wonderful country and the people are very friendly - enjoy!

[hobsonbear]

thank you all, i have now booked a trip which will be escorted (something i don't like but i'll see the most places).  touch wood -- i have been okay everywhere else i have visited.