Egypt is a country of non-limited possibilities, we are saying. And definitely, it is. Egyptians can be very friendly and helpful to you. However, while expecting their help and cooperation, you should know that, as in any other country, there are some "don'ts". Because we have already covered for you some useful tips and "dos" before, today we are adding the list of things you should avoid during your visit here. Some of them are just friendly advice, while some are strict rules.
1. Don't be intimidated by vendors
Yes, you will find "business people" practically everywhere. They will shout their offer from behind the open door in the bazaar while you are walking, passing by the shop. But they will also run behind you with their goods while you are exploring the cultural sites in Cairo or Luxor. We know this can get you a weird feeling, but if you are not interested in any buy, simply ignore it. Don't make yourself upset about it. This is simply what they do, and most probably, this will stay here forever. But you will get more used to it.
2. Don't ride camels or horses in distress
This point is connected with point no 1 – the owners of these animals are vendors themselves, and unfortunately, many of them are not bothered with the welfare of the animal. Don't let yourself be involved in riding the animal which you can see is already tired from the heat, maybe malnourished, and God forbid, abused by the human standing next to him. This kind of business will not bring you beautiful memories. There are many decent places in Egypt where you can find animals who are well cared for. You can ride a camel or horse in a beautiful atmosphere and with all respect for the animal.
3. Don't dress too provocative
We have already written about "How to dress in Egypt", therefore this is just a small reminder. In tourist cities, Red sea governorates, you are most of the time not limited when it goes to clothing. The basic rule of clothing here is to keep your arms and knees covered. This applies to women and men. Specific dress codes must be applied for religious places (mosques and churches.)
4. Respect the entry into religious places
Referring to point 3, there are specific rules not only for clothing but also for entering places with religious services. The mosques should not be visited by non-Muslims at the time of prayers. Visits to churches must also respect the time of the ceremonies. Otherwise, you are welcome to get information about the religion and its community.
5. Give respect and distance to Egyptian women
This rule is applicable in every country. However, as a foreigner in a Muslim country, be informed that the rules are very strict about connections with local women. It's not appropriate either to get into conversations with a strange woman or to take photos of her, especially if you are a man! In the eyes of local people, it's very impolite. If the Egyptian family starts to contact you, they will get your full attention as to their guest. The preferable contact is man to man, woman to woman.
6. Don't drink alcohol on the street
Although there are many touristic places serving alcohol in the bars, it's always advisable not to consume alcohol in the streets. This is seen as a big "no-no" in the eyes of the majority of Egyptians. In some cases, even the police can be involved. Save the trouble.
7. Don't be afraid of local people
Don't, because Egyptians can be loud and noisy. They love to be in bigger groups, speaking and discussing really loudly. This can be kind of a cultural shock to understand that they are really not fighting! They are loud when they are angry, but they are also loud when they are happy! Try to get some basic words in Arabic, and you will see how positive it will be taken at their end.
8. Get information from trusted sources
In the digital age we are living, it is hard to get the proper information from a trusted source. There is so much contradicting information circulating about topics in Egypt. Please choose a reliable and possibly official source so as not to get confusing answers to your question. Social media is not one of them! For example, if you will try to get simple information about the price of the entry visa, you will get 10 different prices, some guessing and "hearing" posts.
Again, as all of our articles are about Egypt, we are reminding you of this in a positive way, saying that Egypt is always worth of visit. When you are ready to meet the country with all its pros and cons, you will be ready to enjoy it.