Other

In Egypt, especially in tourist areas like Luxor, street vendors can be very persistent. To deter them: 1. **Avoid initial conversation:** Do not engage, as even a single word can encourage them. 2. **Use polite refusal phrases:** 'La shukran' (no, thank you) is often effective. For a more definitive, yet polite, refusal, use 'Inshallah bokra' (God willing, tomorrow), which implies 'never' in Egyptian context. 3. **State lack of funds:** Phrases like 'Mafish flus' (no money) or 'Ana mish ayiz' (I don't want/I'm leaving) can work. 4. **Pretend to call authorities (as a last resort):** Mentioning or pretending to call the tourist police (numbers like 112 or 126) can be effective but is an extreme measure. 5. **For women feeling unsafe:** Use English phrases like 'I don't feel safe. Don't come. Police.' 6. **Ignore and walk away:** If they follow, maintain a neutral or stern demeanor. Do not smile or appear overly friendly. 7. **Companionship:** Traveling with a local male or someone who appears local can significantly reduce harassment, as vendors may be more cautious.

In Egypt, particularly in tourist hubs like Sharm El Sheikh, expect persistent street vendors. They might follow you, offering goods or services aggressively. Some tourists report vendors entering shops or offices (e.g., during SIM card registration) and observing them, which can be uncomfortable, especially if carrying significant cash. The key is to remain polite but firm, say 'no,' and walk away. Vendors typically do not pursue far from their stores. Maintain a calm demeanor and focus on enjoying your vacation. If feeling threatened, publicly asking for tourist police contact information might deter them. It's important to distinguish between aggressive sales tactics and genuine danger. Most vendors are harmless; asking for water might even result in a free drink. However, caution is advised regarding invitations for dinner from strangers. While some see it as a social overture, many warn women against such encounters due to risks of deception or crime. If accepting such an invitation, choose well-populated tourist areas and inform someone of your plans. Be aware that local vendors might have a quick temper and can become aggressive if they feel insulted or ignored. It is generally advised to avoid private meetings with vendors, especially at night or in secluded places. If a vendor is excessively persistent or makes you feel unsafe, report them to your hotel or the local authorities.

If a lost suitcase is opened and its contents are being used (e.g., AirPods playing music), this situation may escalate from a lost luggage issue to a theft. Standard lost and found procedures through the airline or airport may not be sufficient. In such cases, it is advisable to involve the police rather than relying solely on the airport's lost and found service.

Security check procedures at Egyptian airports can vary in strictness. Sharm El Sheikh and Cairo airports are generally considered to have more rigorous security measures compared to Hurghada. While Hurghada's security is typically less strict, there can be exceptions, such as instances where hand luggage is weighed, which is not a common practice historically. Cairo airport security is reported to be particularly stringent. Travelers should be prepared for differing levels of scrutiny depending on the specific airport.

Airport security in Egypt may enforce liquid restrictions inconsistently. Travelers have reported being asked to discard water before security, while others passed through successfully with liquids. Items purchased in duty-free after security are generally permitted.

Personal experience in Egypt indicates that hotel safes, even in reputable hotels, might not be entirely secure. While items left openly in rooms were never stolen, a safe in a good hotel was once emptied. Travelers should exercise caution and consider alternative security measures for highly valuable items.