Cairo, Egypt and a Writer’s View
Egyptian Safari
My Egyptian Safari
The stars that could be seen were uncountable, so numerous and bright that they more than made up for the lack of a moon as our jeep bounced through and around and over sand dunes of various sizes. Our driver claimed he could see better without headlights. As the mushroom-shaped chalk monuments the White Desert is famous for became obvious in the distance, I gave up my fear of accidental cliff diving and surrendered to the thrill of whipping wind.
It was adventures like this that first drew me to Egypt: opportunities to live in the city but to dwell in the desert sands, the contrasts of life in Egypt stirred my suburban-raised heart. But as my first contracted year of teaching came to an end, I sensed that there was more to discover. As each progressive year brought me to the decision to continue, the relationships I built became a great part of my choice. As I became an active member of the communities I'd joined, I learned more about the Egyptian character and its incomparable energy.
My Life in Egypt
And so I fell in love. Somehow the whirl and swirl of it all came to settle in my soul. Twelve years since my arrival in this incredible place, I'm still in awe of its people, its places and its potential. Life in Egypt is not easy in the best of times. Difficulties abound in accomplishing even the most basic of tasks — that doesn't make me love it any less. It simply requires an added layer of persistence and patience. It's never been dull. It's regularly chaotic. It's always frenetic. However, since the January 25th movement turned into a revolution being in Egypt has also been confusing. And unstable. And in many instances, unsafe.
Then Came the Egyptian Revolution
The Egyptian "revolution" is an ongoing process. News coverage tends to cut and paste stories into simplistic categories with neat beginnings and endings. The travel industry, on which so much of the struggling Egyptian economy is based, is even more motivated to present situations in clear-cut ways that comfort potential visitors. So much of what is being written now about touring Egypt is focused on the benefits of short lines and discounted rates. And while better deals and quick entries to the sites are big draws right now, they are certainly not the only factors to consider. Safety concerns still exist. Violent incidents still take place. Tourists are still being targeted.
And Why There is Always Adventure in Egypt
Egypt has never been a destination for the faint-of-heart. Its history, its geography, its culture have always required an adventurous spirit and a higher level of attentiveness than most other countries a traveler could choose. These days, the need for awareness and caution is greater than usual. Egypt is still a realistic and wonderful opportunity for a traveler to consider but to do so without taking into account all of the concerns isn't practical. Do your research. Connect with locals as you are making your plans. Keep your eyes on multiple media sources. Learn the lay of the land before arriving. Go with eyes and ears wide open.
Egypt has always been and will always be an incredible country. Current events should not prevent visitors from considering it as a travel destination, but nor should these events be ignored as a factor. I welcome you to visit my adopted home. Come as a knowledgeable and aware visitor. I challenge you to not fall in love with it.
Written by Amy McMahon
Amy McMahon
Of course, I still need to see the pyramids and wander around Cairo trying not to buy a rug. It is a shame how politics enters into travel considerations.
Actually, alabaster is a much better take-away. Its only available in a few places in the world as a natural resource and in Egypt they make incredible objects with it, from the small (carry-on size) to the extremely large (and therefore shippable). Come on over, I’ll take you around!
Good to know about the alabaster. And yes, when I make it to Northern Africa I plan on giving you a call.
Amy,
Great read. My wife and I are always looking for nee places to go an our six year old daughter loves reading about Egypt. We also have a 16 month old boy, do you think Egypt would be too hard of a trip for us and the kids? They are pretty used to travelling
Great article.
Matthew, Egypt has some great family-friendly options. Its not the same as Disney Land by any means. Sometimes you have to think outside the box in regards to children’s activities, but if you know your kids and their interest levels you can plan some really memorable adventures.
Amy I’ve always loved your way of writing . the simplicity of description and words … you always makes me feel that I am there with you , seeing and experiencing all . keep it up.
Thanks Rania! As you know well, Egypt can both build and break your heart. I write about it for the exact reason that you express….to give people a chance to experience it. So happy the article reached you!
Amy,as always, I love your writing. You could make even the most boring interesting and entertaining. All you say of Egypt is so accurate. On my visit there a few years back, I can honestly say it was my favorite place of all the other countries I have been to. You certainly were a great guide, hostess, and friend. Keep on writing and entertaining.
We are waiting for you again Geri!!! Even in the few years since you visited so much has changed, and yet so much is the same as it always has been. That’s one of the fascinating elements of this place. I’m waiting for your ticket info. Yalla!
This is a fascinating story and I also really enjoyed reading your blogs. Egypt is definitely on my destination list, has been for some time, and especially because in my novel “Shadow of the Lion” I am writing a bit about the establishment of Alexandria by Ptolemy, Alexander the Great’s illegitimate half-brother. But Egypt and archaeology have always fascinated me. Just saw the King Tut exhibit in Seattle.
Ruth,
What a fascinating time period to focus on. Then again, Egypt doesn’t have a dull moment within it’s history! I welcome you to come and see for yourself what Alexander’s city has become. I have some great friends there who would host you royally! Its one of my favorite places to visit here in Egypt.
Oh, and thanks so much for visiting my blog! My excavations have been another incredible aspect of my time here. The travel blog that will be up in January will go beyond Egypt but still have the adventurous feel. Hope you check that one out as well.
Been in Egypt myself for a while and you’re right on with the perspective. Its not an easy place but it really is a great one. You wrote this out well.
I agree Justus. SO nice to see another Egyptophile on the site!
I do so want to visit Egypt someday. That has never changed. It saddens me to think of it becoming less safe – for tourists as well as natives, because unrest is never clean and simple.
Lovely writing, Amy!
We all have so many hopes for the future here. At this point even the hopes are in flux. But it is still an incredible place, full of opportunities for residents and visitors alike. I’ve been comparing the revolutionary movement here with the one that led to the rise of the United States. There are some incredible similarities. I wonder how the 13 colonies would have fared in the days of television and internet.
Excellent article! You have captured the feel of this marvelous country. Your words explain well how Egypt can get into your heart. Having traveled there myself 4 years ago and lived among the locals for a whole month, I still have moments of nostalgia for Egypt. There is a beauty there that is unique, and the people are so friendly, welcoming and polite. I hope some day to return, because a month wasn’t enough. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
The way you portray Egypt, in such a good light with blotches of darkness here and there – although these blotches aren’t big enough to dim the light – it’s enough to excite even a citizen of this country of ours, to make him or her feel a longing to explore.
I can’t wait to see the day when Egypt’s a hotspot for tourists once more. 🙂
Adel, I’m thrilled to hear from a fellow lover of Egypt! You seem to know of what I speak when I blend the beauty and the difficulties. So much of understanding this country comes from the way it touches your spirit. But the reality of travel here requires the use of our brains as well. I’m hoping to include some more articles on this site soon so please check back and continue to share your perspective. The more voices we speak with, the better for Egypt!
I think even many Egyptians need to discover and take adventures in their own country. Unfortunately, Egyptians take tourism and as a source of income and little else. If Egyptians were as grateful as foreigners, this country would be a much more amazing place than it already has been for many centuries.
Gee, Its so difficult for people to appreciate the beauty in their own back yards. I think most Egyptians have been so focused on day-to-day practicalities for so long, that exploring beyond their immediate needs has been a luxury. I’ve worked for many years in the education system in Egypt and can honestly say that when provided with the opportunity to see the sites Egyptians are just as awestruck about their heritage as tourists can be. I’ve seen the youth discover pride in their country…and this is the main reason I have such hope for Egypt. Thanks for reading!
This is an excellent article! I like how this article invites people worldwide to visit Egypt, yet sheds light on events currently happening within its borders.
I believe the combination of modernism and anti-modernism is what causes this case which affects not only tourism, but almost every aspect in Egypt.
Your support through writing articles will increase the awareness of the currents events taking place, and will encourage solidarity towards Egypt and the Egyptians.
Please keep writing articles like this, words are sharper than a sword.
Dr. Elshaikh, Egypt is certainly “in process” and balanced voices are the best way to support it. You’ll here my own voice quite frequently I hope, encouraging discussion and consideration for and from Egyptians. Thanks for your support!