Egypt SCAMS and INSANITY (Watch before visiting!) | Egypt Travel Guide PART 1

[@ProjectUntethered]

I hope this didn't scare you away from Egypt, because it truly is full of insanely cool stuff. Just make sure to watch PART 2 for the tips we discovered to make traveling Egypt much more enjoyable 😎

[@jemb710]

After all the things you told us? 😂

[@ProjectUntethered]

Haha yes! If you’re worried, I think doing everything through a tour would be worth it in this case. Normally I’m not a big tour guy, but this is an exception!

[@SuperRabbit36]

AHH another thing I guess you know why it's like this the average monthly wage in Egypt monthly is less than $100

[@glennwiltsee7405]

yeah, that horse has left the barn. you didn't do people any favors scaring them from this amazing country and experience.

[@Jesyce86]

How could it not? They are completely unworthy of the legacy that was given to them.

[@adamblack6867]

I’ll describe it . Constant harassment and scams trying to get money no matter where you turn a completely miserable experience.

[@annaec1822]

Agree… so sad

[@osimpy4593]

Savagery with the hussle there, camels was skinny as sheit

[@nextgenaviation24]

OMG. I'm planning for November but now I'm very concerned. 😢

[@neilsonhans4763]

Cancel the trip....it is more worth to pay whatever cancellation fee that the endless amount of scams you will get over there.

[@triathleteuk]

you said it 👍

[@johnthefinn]

Nice to hear Egypt hasn't changed since I was there in 1980.

[@jpbenliu]

Probably for the worse

[@nomadic8409]

Epic 😂

[@AA-cx6jd]

Shit never ends

[@thesmartArab]

Is it true that Egypt is a third world country with stupid population?

[@Dan-m2n6s]

😂😂😂😂

[@gavinballin2323]

That does not sound like a vacation I’d want to take

[@AndriyValdensius-wi8gw]

It sounds like a hell hole. KZbin is as much of Egypt as I'm going to visit. 🙂😉

[@jakehall3925]

What’s so sad is I want to go see the pyramids so bad but no way am I spending all that money to deal with this 😂

[@omnipresent1215]

I've had to do business with Egyptians in the west. I've learned to avoid them like the plague. Awful to do business with. Mark my words. Thus and certainly there is no way in hell I'd go to Egypt. BAD idea. B-A-D.

[@kevinc9065]

It's awful, and dangerous.

[@RamblingGreek]

I'd say it's the opposite of a vacation. Can confirm sending his from my shitty Airbnb in Cairo

[@mmcin719]

We travelled to Egypt independently to Egypt 10 years ago covering the entire country. They constantly tried to scam us in ways you could never imagine. I would never go there again unless on an organised tour where the tour guide would protect you, if that was possible.

[@AndriyValdensius-wi8gw]

I've seen Nile boat trips organised which take in the main archaeological sites etc and you stay in 4 or 5 star hotels. Most but not all meals are included. They are very expensive however. If they protect you from scam artists, as well as the horrendous customs and police hassles, they may be worth the money.

[@AndriyValdensius-wi8gw]

The Nile riverboat is the main accommodation but you might stay in a hotel at beginning or end of the trip.

[@michelegray9007]

​@AndriyValdensius-wi8gw unfortunately they don't protect you from hassle at the sites or when you get of the boat. There is no respite, it's a tragedy. The whole country us totally corrupt 😢

[@makarchodra4766]

No matter how wonderful the country is.If its people exploit the tourist in every corner, then this country does not deserve the hardship of visiting .

[@AndriyValdensius-wi8gw]

You're right. Especially these days when everything and just about everywhere is on YT you can see the sites of all countries without leaving your house. Of course if there is a place you want to visit, go by all means. But do you really need to fight your way through scammers and thieves just to visit some pyramids and temples which are already photographed and videoed to death and all over YT.

[@pyroxenez3704]

It baffles me people would still flock to Egypt despite all the scathing reviews of the tourist situation there. I for one, will just tour Egypt from the comforts of my computer chair and let other people get scammed on my behalf.

[@Mistermoomoo24]

Because most are pedos. I don't care what anyone says, i was done by one and my dad has. Unfortunately he hasn't realised, hes 71 and his wife 30. I stopped talking to him after this.

[@ddlang2514]

My aunt warned me never to go to Egypt. I’ve heard these stories and worse from others. Will stick to museums, books, and videos when it comes to Egypt. All the cons and scams, hassles, and harassment just isn’t worth it.

[@bogeydope3022]

Yap, i wouldn't let my gf travel alone to muslim countries. A guide can't be there all the time and finding a good one is the other hassle. Go travel with someone you know, at best a capable men besides having a guide. How i know this? Enough time spend deployed in several middle eastern countries as a military advisor.

[@HassanAliHassan1960]

sympathize with the situation in Egypt, but that doesn't justify harassing visitors or significantly overcharging them, thus tarnishing the reputation of all Egyptians. Such actions erode trust, regardless of whether some individuals are honest or not

[@JJW77]

Excellent video! 90% of the of the scams that you mention on this video happened to me. When I went on a so called camel ride. We agreed on just going around for $25.00 close to the market place in Cairo for 20 mins. After a few mins he was walking the camel up toward a hill. I told the guy that I didn't want to go up a hill away from the crowd. He stopped the ride and said that I owe him $25.00. I pay the $25.00 and walk away. Then he proceed follow me asking for a tip for camel. When I refuse by reminding him that he only gave me a 5 min. camel ride for $25.00... He then signals his so called young son with over for a tip... I gave the kid a dollar, then when I was leaving, I noticed that he handed my dollar to his so called camel driver father... Watch out for people grabbing your hat off your head and giving it back only for a tip... I could tell you many more Egypt scams that is not on your video... I concluded by the end of of trip - that the best way to enjoy Egypt is watching documentaries in front of TV/videos in your own home not surrounded by scammers....

[@ProjectUntethered]

Wow if someone stole my hat for a tip, I think my patience muscles would be put to the ultimate test. Several people recommended to take out your phone and start videoing people if they’re messing with you and threaten to show it to the tourist police. Not sure if this would actually work, but it’s probably a better alternative to punching someone in the face 😅

[@JJW77]

The tourist police are crooks too. One of them came up to my husband and pointed to a site of interest. Then he held out his hand in gesture for a tip. @@ProjectUntethered

[@rainerschmid9965]

Shithole. Shitpeople. Shiteverything. Me no go there.

[@pyroxenez3704]

@@ProjectUntethered From the other Egypt reviews I've seen, I wouldn't be surprised if the tourist police charged you a tip to get your hat back for you...

[@lucschoesetters4307]

Am i allowed to state that this is the filtiest mentality of muslim North Africa, scams, lies, threats allover by every native, pouce and authorities included, proves a deeply depraved and amoral mentality and society. . You will enjoy zero respect and zero protection in such countries, you are fair game. Corruption index 85%. Travel advice: no travel. Business advice: forget Egypt. Do not intetacr or trade with these nations as they are nefarious. There are similar countries like Nigeria. Stay out and you avoid serious trouble and frustration.

[@annasalko]

OK 3 minutes into this video and I am already certain I will not visit Egypt ever in my life unless the government does something about this insanity.

[@ProjectUntethered]

If you’re interested in the history, I think a tour would be much less stressful!

[@monjiaitaly]

You would miss out then. Egyptian people are nice, the problem is the corruption is from the top down, just get an Egyptian tour guide and he or she will spare you the hassles of dealing with scammers.

[@manzero134gd]

@@monjiaitaly Do you recommend anybody?

[@M_SC]

The government is quite corrupt too, how do you think they got into power?

[@Sriwijaya888]

@@ProjectUntethereddo u have a recommended tour for egypt?

[@annaec1822]

Miserable experience, even saying hi or smiling at someone is used against you to get money from you. Stressing and just sad. You feel exploited, unsafe and you cannot even trust your shadow.

[@ProjectUntethered]

It certainly can wear you down after a while. I’m glad we got the experience, but perhaps I’d do it with a tour if I ever went back.

[@nikhiljoe]

Egypt was one of the most unpleasant travel experiences. Everyone is out to scam you and you always have your guard up. Can’t really enjoy anything because of that. They scammed me multiple times in about 36 hours, and I’m an Indian, so you can just imagine the level of it all.

[@queenmiret1971]

The same thing happened to me when I visited India, several prices for the same thing

[@engkarrar2582]

I stayed 2 weeks in Cairo in 2017, although I speak Arabic as i am from Iraq 🇮🇶 and tried to imitate the egyptian dialect but that never stopped them to attepmt scamming on me. Fairly i met some good people who gave me some advices to avoid the scams.I hated it to the extent i didnt visit the pyramids !! and just went to the museum only. I do not recommend to visit Egypt under any circumstances .there are other tourist destinations where you can have a better travel experience.

[@M_SC]

That’s truly awful. I feel bad for you. But I feel a little better that they scam all foreigners equally.

[@newgabe09]

well if you had a bad time and you speak the language.. it's even more a NOPE from me.

[@cubertmiso]

Can you suggest a list of alternative places to visit? I'm not wealthy and love nature. Living in EU but have passport now.

[@r.a.3984R.A]

Iraq is a country of ISIS and terrorism

[@richardrabe5031]

Went to Egypt with U.S. Army in 1994 as part of Operation Bright Star. It was fascinating to see, but generally awful. Came home with Sand Mites (yuck), dysentery from a pita-bread sandwich (the lettuce was probably washed in Nile River water), and exposure to toxic burn pits. There was a bombing in downtown Cairo one block from us, and the taxi cabs have to side-mirrors because the cars are three inches from each other. There were naked toddlers begging for food at the Khan Al Khalilli (the world's first "shopping mall") and everything is a huge rip-off !! In addition to the excellent advice given in this video, I would add the following Rick's Rules: Rule #1, haggle, haggle, haggle. Rule #2, Walk away as soon as you feel uncomfortable. Rule #3, Go in a group, but keep the women nearby lest they be kidnapped and sold into slavery in some other M.E. country -- REALLY. Rule #4, Never hand over your passport, even to a cop, and never hand a cell-phone, credit card, or your wallet to anyone in Egypt, as you probably will never see these items ever again and it takes thieves only ONE SECOND to run away. Rule #5, Compare ten prices on a thing you might want to buy, then go back to the best place the next day. Rule #6, DO NOT BUY GOLD of any kind. 99% of the jewelry stores have rigged scales and do not sell the true gold content by weight. If it feels too light to be real gold, it probably is just gold plated over tin (or dense plastic!!). Lastly, Rule #7, Keep your camera covered and tucked away until it really needs to be used. The desert dust permeates every nook and cranny, and it's impossible for an amateur to clean it out adequately.

[@platoon1081]

So basically Egypt would be an amazing place to visit if it weren't for the Egyptians..😂

[@ProjectUntethered]

Haha we did meet a few awesome Egyptians, so I wouldn’t lump them all together. But the ones involved in tourism or working in touristic areas have gained a pretty horrible reputation.

[@mohammedbasheer9588]

True

[@eb7027]

Nothing but scammers in Egypt.

[@RusselXJoyce]

Pro tip. When you are on vacation with aggressive vendors. Pretend to use sign language

[@dentalmedica8594]

Bad tip. You would be even more of a target.

[@javiermoretti1825]

I speak Spanish. Not very widely spoken in the Arabic-speaking world.

[@dennisnelson7777]

Then use a mumble jumble language you make up...😂

[@tawfikahmed.2526]

Lol damn nice hack!

[@RusselXJoyce]

@@dentalmedica8594 a target for what?

[@mohamedramadan5220]

Unfortunately this is happening to us as Egyptians as well. There are some greedy people who are distorting the image of our country

[@mjc3502]

They sure are and being on KZbin doesn't help.

[@M_SC]

What do you think would improve the situation?

[@mohamedramadan5220]

@@M_SC I believe that the government has a role in this situation. If it sets laws that bind these people and there is punishment for those who violate it, the situation will improve.

[@barry341]

Avoid this country..was there 20 years ago..only thing that has changed by the look of it...its worse!!

[@yvettel.5981]

The Egyptian government doesn't do anything to protect Tourist. They don't go after the Scammers & thiefs.

[@Derezzer]

Yeah, I'm good, thanks for taking one for the team.

[@sandrasamcarson1602]

Exactly what we experienced in October 2023. We were on a tour so we were generally protected, but everybody around us was on the take. An armed guide escorted us around the Pyramids, to avoid scammers. We stayed close to our group to avoid problems, but someone still had theur tablet taken without consent. Not a country I will ever return to.

[@Sriwijaya888]

What tour u use in egypt?what price per person?

[@sandrasamcarson1602]

@Sriwijaya888 Wingbuddy. About 6000 each including Jordan x 1 week.

[@mads5000]

Thank you, now I never have to go to Egypt and be disappointed.

[@NeroMichael]

I just came from Egypt cairo myself i was meant ro stay for four nights i ended up staying for one and i can confirm everyone you experienced is truth and more, I say from the moment you arrive the scam begains, Am not against helping people or given tips but is the lies and expectation i dislike.

[@ProjectUntethered]

I’m sorry you weren’t able to enjoy yourself!

[@maysounsaheed9377]

Scamming people is an occupation ..i can tell any man or woman not to marry them..

[@nevrcn4get]

I visited Egypt as a solo female traveler earlier this year. It was one of my favorite trips EVER. The key is get a reputable tour guide. That will elevate all of these mishaps.

[@ProjectUntethered]

Yup I can imagine that would help a ton!

[@andreannarodriquez7574]

Is Odynovo tours legit? I am supposed to do a solo trip with them this November

[@bogeydope3022]

Well, i wouldn't let my gf travel alone to muslim countries. Your guide can't be there all the time and finding a good one is the other hassle. Go travel with someone you know, at best a capable men besides having a guide. How i know this? Enough time spend deployed in several middle eastern countries as a military advisor.

[@glennwiltsee7405]

@@2ticketsoneadventure we booked through Egypt Tours Portal, and had a most amazing and secure trip. Highly highly recommended

[@Febrinasvlogs]

Hello ma'am, can you share the details of your reputable tour guide? We appreciate it. Thanks :)

[@paraagshah4153]

Disgusted with Egypt. Not worth the hassle. Far better places available to visit in a relatively short lifetime. Definitely skipping Egypt.

[@ProjectUntethered]

It was frustrating but still worth it for us to see the insane historical sites. I suppose it depends on what you’re interested in and what type of vacation your looking for. If you want to relax, this isn’t the place. If you want to be Indiana jones, then Egypt will knock your socks off

[@CarbossaLafayette]

I was in Delhi last month.. Far worse than Cairo. Yucckkksss

[@scruffybackpacker]

When people get physically aggressive toward you for not playing along with a scam that's when you need to intimidate them back. Not the best strategy yet it could work. I know other people here disagree yet I believe it's logical. Stand your ground. Most bullies will back down.

[@elizabethvirata3498]

Egypt is in my bucket list after watching this not anymore.

[@Peter-w4s1e]

Complaining about scams as you run 2 back to back scam commercials is REAL RICH!

[@kazkat1994]

Don’t let this video persuade on not going, I’m there right now and the people have been nothing but incredibly friendly and help me and my disabled mother without asking. It is such a great place even though not perfect

[@alisam4537]

The museum in Cairo was an amazing experience, also the Valley of the Kings. Had to flee the pyramids due to the constant harrasment. Would not go back.

[@thealien_ali3382]

I am going to Egypt in January with my elderly mum and will be visiting the pyramids wish me luck

[@sleepnomore6065]

In Rio dJ, Brazil at a famous resturant by the water, they added an extra zero to my credit card charge, compared to the bill... and was so pushy I only noticed after paying and freaked! It made the bill like 140usd! I asked for the mgr and neither even apologized, despite stopping the transaction. I was livid

[@ProjectUntethered]

Wow, that is a tricky one! I bet this would be especially hard to detect in countries with high inflation, like in Laos for example where $1 = 20,000 kip. Easy to lose track of those zeros!

[@MrPickledede]

Any vacation destination that I have to study really hard and fight really hard not to get scammed is not a place where I would want to go to most people want to spend their hard-earned money on a place where they can relax and don't have to constantly be worried about being scammed and robbed

[@ProjectUntethered]

Yeah definitely not the relaxing type of vacation if that’s what you’re after. Unless perhaps you go to a cheap all inclusive resort like in Hurghada, that was quite relaxing - we made a vid on it in case you’re interested 🤓

[@M_SC]

Places don’t think of themselves as a vacation destination though, that’s the wrong mentality. They’re just people living their lives and all these tourists are in the way.

[@AndriyValdensius-wi8gw]

@M_SC That's not the point. Every country is full of its inhabitants living their lives etc. Some places are more welcoming to tourists and visitors than others. There are places where the locals are warm and friendly and at the least don't try to scam, rob or mug you. Besides he describes somebody following him around for a long time and even crossing a river and continuing to follow him trying to sell something he doesn't want. Is this scammer "living his normal life "? It sounds like scamming and ripping off tourists IS his normal life and his day job.

[@garioldwin]

​@@ProjectUntetheredHurghada has sharks attacks so not really relaxing vacation. If you cant swim in red sea its not anything special and not worth it.

[@murk2002]

Great video, definitely had most of these things happen whilst visiting Egypt. In addition, taking pictures in just public places can be dangerous the police force is very overreactive I’d say.

[@ProjectUntethered]

Yeah I’ve heard KZbinrs say they had trouble recording videos in public 🤔

[@M_SC]

You have to respect the culture you’re visiting. You are not allowed to take video of other people in many middle eastern cultures. People in the background count.

[@erakelly]

Egypt was one on my bucket list, but after watching this video I'm afraid its crossed off the list. Thats very unfortunate though as I would have love to go. I hope Egypt government will intervene and make some kind of rules about hasslers... Thank you for your video.

[@ProjectUntethered]

I'm sorry to hear that! Perhaps if you went on an organized Nile cruise, you could see many of the sites without the hassle. It truly is an astonishing country if you can get past (or avoid) the bad stuff!

[@dinamohamed6122]

Hello❤️ I am from Egypt. Apparently we have lots of problems here but I assure you many of the locals are welcoming and very helpful..we have always arranged exchange culture programs …if you have changed your mind and need any help choosing anything…please dont hesitate to ask

[@terrysplace2566]

I took an organized Nile Cruise and tour and it worked out great. I just basically did not go into shops or engage with the vendors. And never take anything anyone hands you they will not take it back and will want money. Really, let it fall to the ground and maybe put your hands in your pockets.

[@GypsyBarbie-dg7gz]

Stay safe dont ever visit egypt

[@maryfletcher4]

You’d think if a few shops put up a sign ‘no hassle’ and meant it they would make a fortune from tourists fed up with hassle,

[@LarryLMelton]

Egypt is on my bucket list, or at least it used to be. In recent years, I’ve given more thought to a visit. It’s not the heat. I’m from Texas, and heat and high humidity are given. Additionally, I once lived in Morocco, and I experienced the heat of summer. There is an especially hot period when the winds blow from the Sahara, and I can recall temperatures of 115 degrees Fahrenheit. What I dislike most about Egypt is the crowds. So many tourists and Egyptians working in the tourist trade are present that it is difficult to get much more than an abbreviated tour of the major sights. I am a photographer, and the stories concerning the harassment of professional photographers are legendary, in addition to the constant demand for tips or fees. While Egypt is generally safe for foreigners, the existence of petty crimes is great. Pickpockets are everywhere, and as a photographer, I carry a lot of high-profile camera equipment, which can make me a target. The last time I was in Morocco, I was about to be mugged when I used my walking to dissuade my attacker, how shall I say … in a very decisive way. I was almost thrown in jail for defending myself, and ended up paying a fine directly to the police to take care of the “paperwork” I would have spent half a day filling out. Finally, while Egypt is the real deal, there is still too much fraud, and you need to be aware that all is what it seems. Staying with a good tour group protects you, but in doing so, you must travel at their pace. My photography can take longer than a simple snapshot. Larry from Texas

[@Celisar1]

Egypt is dangerous, seriously dangerous. That’s another level than just being scammed.

[@maysounsaheed9377]

Means

[@chefewubskitchen2447]

This was so educative that pyramid guard in particular living near the pyramid does scam people and lies is for the government, I truly was disappointed when I learnt it was a scam😔

[@IAMBENNYBLANCO.]

Don't go to Egypt ... ✅

[@gawievandermerwe2443]

I visited Egypt many times from 2009 to 2015 for periods of 2 weeks at a time. It was for working purposes. My work was mainly outside Cairo, at Sadat city, near Alexandria, Luxor and Abu simbel. I have also been to Ismalia and Hurgada. Unfortunately the scammers at the touristic attractions is a nightmare. They are like flies. I quickly learnt to speak a foreign language, other than English. But beware, many of them are fluent in languages like French, German, Italian, Spanish, etc. When they can not communicate with you, they eventually leave you alone. It also help if you know some basic Arabic phrases. You need to be rude and strict. If you are not with a tour group and on your own, get a certified guide. Single women and especially blondes will be targeted and harassed. They will respect a married woman.The car in which friend of me was on its way from Ismalia to Cairo airport was killed in an ambush. The reason never came out. However, on a personal level, Egyptians can be very friendly and kind. Drink "shay" (tea) or coffee with them or smoke shisha. Remember it is rude to refuse food which they offer you. Always use your right hand when you eat. Respect the Arabic culture and they will respect you.

[@levideane]

Never travel to Egypt. ✅ Got it💯

[@aho2204]

Call Tourism Police number in Egypt: 126 . If you just told them that you are going to call the Tourism police they will definitely stop.

[@ProjectUntethered]

There was one occasion where I wish I would have known this tip!

[@josephbenadam]

Well said: The government can't control over 100 million people. People need to tackle these scammers that are ruining the country

[@Bettieg1]

This is insane! Egypt is off my bucket list.

[@ZGundam83]

I was in Egypt last March on a Tour. Beautiful sites. I have been scammed into things and I have seen things that been mentioned in this video. I will only go back to Egypt if it's with a tour group.

[@mjpascuzzi]

I am here right now and I can verify everything in this video is 100% true. The one way I’ve insulated myself is taking a group tour with a reputable guide staying in nicer hotels. The scams have definitely come to a head here in the Luxor area but if you know ahead of time and can be firm, it’s very survivable. The temples and pyramids of this lovely country are definitely worth seeing but the “tipping” culture is out of hand.

[@johnriddington9514]

"You'll be safe if you follow my tips". No, never going, this is just gnarly and I've been to 20+ countries.

[@wxbull-sr5sh]

As an Egyptian, problems like this are even common with Egyptian kids who grow up outside of the country, even in other Arab countries ( they are more naive), if u visit Egypt I'd say go to hotels in hurghada and sharm el sheikh and go to tourist shops in those cities, those are tourist cities and more of the fancy places in the country, with hotels by the beach and swimming pools alongside parties ect. But visiting Cairo, alexandria or other cities alone is tough 😂😅.

[@coolterest]

*Careem* was acquired by *UBER* in 2020. Careem operates in over 70 cities, covering 10 countries across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.

[@jaynesummers2168]

Thanks for reminding me… going for my second holiday in Egypt and all you spoke about, I have experienced (2017). Know the conversion rate so you can barter prices back to normal and tip helpful people only! ❤ Can’t wait.

[@power4things]

Their tourist radar is very sharp ... many of these scams seem to be variations on the typical Mariachi band that won't go away until you tip them, or the ring-and-bracelet scam in Las Vegas - "you took/ate/handled it, you bought it". The guy following you on the boat to the other side was obviously "in de-nile ..." couldn't resist, I am so sorry ... 🤣

[@jwkm6918]

I've always wanted to visit Egypt. However, it honestly sounds like a giant pain in the ass. Having recently visited India, seems like a lot of the same scams are practiced in both countries with Egypt taking the prize.

[@ProjectUntethered]

I recommend going, but perhaps with a tour!

[@nikkired5584]

@@ProjectUntetheredIve seen alot of videos on this & many people unfortunately say having a guide doesn’t help. You’re still harassed just as much because some guides are friends with the scammers

[@SuperRabbit36]

The people who scam need to think smart and learn that with kindness and warmth with honesty they might find themselves in a better way of living

[@1945wittman]

I made the mistake of going to Egypt about 12 years ago. The locals can't leave you alone for 5 seconds. Hotels and beaches were mostly empty. One of those holidays I needed a holiday to get over.

[@luckie79]

I have been to many countries in the world, in majority of cases all was great with some common sense approach, some countries I would not go back to, but Egypt is the only one I would not recommend for self-organized holidays. It just never feels safe, relaxed or comfortable. It's only fine in the big all inclusive resorts on the red sea, well kind of fine, as also there you will be scammed and constantly offered some services you do not want. Every day. 50 times a day. Visiting ancient sites? Only with a guide who can protect you from the scammers and minimize harassment.

[@ElVicho]

We bought the vodaphone chip at the airport and it worked great, also they had an official printed prices, not only at Vodaphone but at the other companies booths.

[@ProjectUntethered]

That’s good to know! We arrived by land so didn’t have that option 😕

[@Wolf3fd]

It is part of the experience. If you know what to expect, it is actually fun to try not to get scammed. I spent 10 days there with a buddy of mine and it was a pretty cheap vacation. Was paying 300 Egyptian pounds to get from Cairo to Gyza by taxi and back... I mean $7-8 for 2 hours of car driving is a great deal. You just have to know how to say no and get on board with the negotiations. And also there is no reason to be afraid of the soldiers with the guns. They are there to protect you. So if some of them try to scam you at the temples and take you into rooms that are locked, well then just say thank you and don't give anything. Worked for us every time. Of course they are not happy about that, but they are well aware that they are trying to pull one on you, so sometimes it just backfires.

[@faisalr.3536]

يا إخواننا المصريين الأعزاء.. ضبطوا أموركم شعبا وحكومة.. السياحة تجلب الخير على بلدكم العظيم.. نتمنى منكم التعاون والتعامل بشكل ألطف مع الشعوب الأخرى لأن كل هذا يفضحنا كعرب. تحياتي المخلصة والكثير من الحب والتقدير لكم يا أحبائنا المصريين.

[@donfades7869]

Good luck with that! 😄😂

[@loodiksa]

The most disgusting, dirtiest, and rudest place I've ever been!

[@sleepnomore6065]

Have you been to India?

[@mohammedbasheer9588]

Agree 👍🏽

[@esinohio]

I get where you are coming from sir, I do. My problem with all this is that if you are having to spend so much time avoiding getting scammed and outright fleeced, how is this fun? How are you enjoying a vacation if your time is consumed avoiding daylight robbery? Save your time and go somewhere you're actually welcome.

[@meljenkins1016]

Yes, this happened to myself and my friend inside the Cairo Museum. The guard was showing us the area where a lot of Egyptian artifacts were still in crates behind walls of curtains. Some of them don't know how to speak English. Just a few "grunts" here and there as a means of communicating with you. 1:56 Being in Egypt for the first is also the first time I actually saw AK-47 weapons. The place was full of guards with AK-47. Even when riding one of the city buses a soldier who looked like in his teens was carrying an AK-47 inside the bus. After talking to him he spoke pretty good English. He was nice enough to tell us where the bus was going without asking us for any tips. This was back in 1979.

[@DonDapa]

Wow really put me off going here with my family as it sounds like the scammers are off the chain. Also with the recent shark attacks I think I shall go on a family holiday to turkey. Shame really would of loved a tour of the historical ruins and pyramids.

[@ProjectUntethered]

Turkey is also an amazing choice! But if you stick with yours in Egypt, you may be able to avoid a lot of the hassle. The ruins are seriously awesome.

[@1olive1olive4]

Turkey is even worse!

[@thomashughes_teh]

I traveled to Conneticut in the USA from Indiana in 2007. I was car camping and tried to book a slot in an RV park. I was told on the phone that "It's 100% full". I went there anyway because I know that some RV'ers leave suddenly late in the day and my route took me right by the entrance anyway.. I was astonished to find the place almost completely empty with only two other travelers and a few long term parked rigs that looked unoccupied. I thought this was bizzarre for new York. The doped up attendant continued to insist that the place was 100% booked, but that he could get me into "overflow". Short of the long...I got a regular spot with the best view of a river of my choosing at a regular price. The two other guests had a similar outcome and our stories were the same. Something wasn't right there.

[@diegocanale1124]

I wish I knew most of these before my trip to Egypt!

[@LeapingRat]

The first few minutes of the video i thought its tolerable but as you kept going it shocked me more and more. I would not be able to take that level of scamming

[@kirschrot77]

Thank you for your insights, I have heard similar things from my mother when she travelled there in the 1970s, the constant harassment and scamming is not going to lead to a healthy tourism industry, bc of what my mother has told me I never went to egypt and I never will go there

[@mdleweight]

The boat driver story is classic. In India there was a tuk tuk driver who bothered me one day for at least an hour, while I was walking. He eventually went away. Next day, I am 30 miles away on the other side of the city and a tuk tuk pulls up and offers me a ride. Same guy! At least he had a sense of humor and started laughing with me.

[@VisaFan81]

just came back from Cairo, and I confirm all the insanity explained in this video!

[@juleshart8984]

When I go to Egypt I’ll have a guide with me the whole time.

[@ProjectUntethered]

I think that's a wise move

[@dennisnelson7777]

I was thinking this in any city that is known hugely for scams...Perhaps you can make a list of them for us...especially ones like Egypt

[@zuberali7542]

Everything is true in this video, I just came back from Egypt although avoiding all these issues is pretty easy. If your not a confident person/traveller you may struggle otherwise I'd still definitely recommend going.

[@AbdullahHashi-kw3qj]

Betahazar? Confidence and personality is a non issue There's so many people who just depend on scamming tourists for income Of course you wouldn't have problems if you speak Arabic since your name is zubayr ali and even less so if you use local accent I lived in egypt for 9 years as an expat, so I know these things

[@Tony.Technics.1200s]

I wouldn't eat anything from that place after previously having a bad experience with the server...

[@ProjectUntethered]

Yeah it wasn’t a very comfortable situation haha.

[@Tony.Technics.1200s]

@@ProjectUntethered never mind I’m comfortable situation, but who knows what he did with your food😳

[@ProjectUntethered]

I’m still here so it must not have been anything too sinister! The owner of the restaurant was really nice and friendly to us, and I don’t think he would let his employee spoil their reputation. But it certainly made me think twice

[@Mumsgardenoasis]

you can get a local sim card at the airport when you arrive - thus avoiding the scam.

[@ProjectUntethered]

Assuming you arrive at an airport that sells sims (we entered by land). But honestly, I’d be careful wherever you buy them, even in airports

[@SuperRabbit36]

Even at sharm airport with the official Vodafone shop people have been scammed

[@darthrubik8384]

Never go to a foreign country without learning essentials of the language.

[@Jojo-yb3kg]

I was married to an Egyptian for a while who lived/worked in one of the tourist areas. His main advice to me when I was shopping was to say to the shopkeeper firmly "Ana Ayesh hena" (which means I live here), otherwise I would have been charged the "tourist" rate, which is often about 5 times the local price. And yeah, Cairo shopping area especially was horrible trying to evade the sellers coming up to you. Even my Egyptian husband found it irritating. And we did a camel ride at Giza Pyramids and the (very tall) Egyptian camel owners were aggressive as anything afterwards trying to get extra tips from us. lol And Cairo indeed is probably the most nerve-wracking experience I've ever had of driving in a foreign city (and I'm an experienced confident driver). Donkeys with 3 people hanging off them crossing high speed roads randomly... people just crossing the street oblivious to oncoming traffic... absolutely crazy!

[@nodewizard]

Travelling in MENA is not like travelling in the West. Cultural sensitivity is important. How you dress and act are observed 1000% of the time. Egypt is definitely not for the newbie traveler. Spend some time in a low-level scam country like China, Thailand or Vietnam, where you'll be hasseled and have your skin toughened up. Africa is a different animal and Egypt requires a seasoned veteran. You need to follow all of the rules with thick skin: avoiding eye contact, avoiding the lost expression with excitement and bewilderment (it gets the scammers really excited), and never touch or try anything (nothing's free in Egypt, not even a "salam"). Don't talk to anyone, don't tell them where you're from - they want to please you and befriend you by telling you a stupid fact about your nation (England? Wow I love the Queen... bro she's dead...). Don't be intimidated - Egyptians will intimidate you. Women should dress appropriately because Egyptian men can be gropey. If you don't want to buy something - WALK AWAY. You should know the local prices. The simple way is to go to a big supermarket with fixed prices and write them down or memorize them. Usually the souq charges locals 10-20% less than the supermarkets - and if you don't know the base price for food, you'll be screwed over. Locals usually try fruits before buying them anyways, but if you're not a local and you try the fruit you'll be shamed and guilted into buying it with a high price.

[@ProjectUntethered]

I totally agree! And the queen comment made me laugh 😅 so true

[@ddlang2514]

Great advice!

[@Sriwijaya888]

Do you know the recommended tour in egypt?

[@samanthaemm3854]

It's really sad that the government/whoever is in charge won't do anything about this.

[@Chi-n7q]

I will stay away from Egypt 💔. Have heard in many of our travel conversations everyone is saying don’t go to Egypt. Maybe someday when their government is realizing how much money they are losing as more tourists are avoiding their Country until they crack down on these out of control scamming😱

[@omarhelmy6334]

after watching many foreigners reviews of Egypt , and as an Egyptian my Number 1 tip in Egypt is travel with a normal educated Local egyptian, you will save sooo much hassle, scams, money, travel and make soo many friends and get to know so many cool places you would never knew otherwise and have the trip of a lifteime, thus you have to choose wisely. if you went to venture alone thats also fine but you will be an easy target and theyll get u eitherway if they find u with an egyptian its almost very hard to scam you at all.

[@ProjectUntethered]

Great tip! What’s the best way for a foreigner to link up with a good Egyptian friend/guide?

[@islammahmoud5980]

@@ProjectUntethered I work in tourism for 18 years and I will be very happy to help you in Hurghada or Cairo . And if you need more advice's to share it with your followers i can help you with this.

[@ProjectUntethered]

Thanks so much! We’ll reach out if we make it back to Egypt someday! 🤗

[@platoon1081]

Sounds a bit like extortion or like paying the mafia for "protection", no thanks, like many other people, Egypt has been crossed off as a travel destination due to this predatory behavior towards visitors.

[@sleepnomore6065]

Was planning to visit with a jordanian man (as a single female)

[@wrldtrvlr4vr]

Definite eye opener. Thanks for the video.

[@Faye-vr6jc]

the BEST way to experiene egypt is via a tour group. I loved every second of my trip, they meet you at the airport and guide you through, the guide makes sure the scammers leave you alone, the guide buys all the tickets for you and they take you to reccommended no hassle souvenir shops, plus the guide and other our group members can take pictures for you. the most amazing time, egypt is one of my absolute favorite locations in the world, the sights, the food, and the people are all amazing. YES they are forceful, but that is a result of capitalism, overconsumption, a corrupt gouvernment and it being a toursit destination since the 5th century BCE... if you just walk on by or enjoy a bit of bartering you will have a good time.

[@richardgoff6739]

Why in the world would I even think of going to this place?

[@maheribrahim409]

I prefer visiting Paris and see the Egyptian artifacts at the Louvre!

[@myfinancechannel2432]

Everything you said is true 💯 These guys are relentless 😢

[@Psytoad]

I would never go to Egypt. Never ever.

[@BLOGOSERCU_PL]

In fact, when you go on holidays that you worked hard for you want some piece and enjoy, not be harassed. This constant harassment is maybe OK for professional travellers, not for a random dude with family. I'd never be willing to go there, even though I'd kinda want to.

[@thebouncer9107]

I spent two weeks touring Egypt last December and it was about a week and a half to long. Everywhere I went I was constantly pestered and harassed. There literally was not a moment of peace. Scams are everywhere. I can truly say that I was not involved in one single honest transaction in my entire visit. After about 3 days I couldn't wait to get out of the place. Forget the Nile "cruises". Like everything else in the country, they are a total grift. The boats spend at least 3/4 of the time docked in port, wedged tightly between two other boats. The historical sites are interesting and if you really must see them, my advice is to go in, see what you want to see and get out as fast as you can. 4 days should be more than enough. One final note: get a local throwaway sim card to communicate. Never, ever give your normal number to any guides or hotels. Your number will be passed around and you will be pestered for money relentlessly for weeks after your return. Trying to block them all is like playing whack-a-mole.

[@nyrubin]

If you travel throughout Egypt yiu quickly encounter all the military checkpoints, sometimes we stood stuck on a checkpoint for over 4 hours, onky to be released randomly.

[@haythemization]

Without an Egyptian friend by your side, it is everybody’s duty to extort you. I just went to a popular cafe, made couple of friends and we talked. They saved my trip! With real local prices, Egypt suddenly became the best place on earth ❤

[@jeffreypreston-w1z]

Thank you! Now THAT was news that I can use! Very well presented.

[@здравствуйтемаманасти]

I flying Egypt every year ❤❤ my favorite vacation is Egypt just book with tour agency and you gonna enjoy every second 😜😜

[@Brancoladage-zk3xr]

And than the agency will scam you big time

[@alohakamaaina]

This is why when you go to Egypt you go with a guided tour. Im going in Nov and doing the Dahabeya and all..with a guided tour of 12 people only. Can't wait. Have an egyptologist with us as well

[@ProjectUntethered]

Should be a blast!!

[@neilsonhans4763]

Prepare to get scammed

[@alohakamaaina]

@neilsonhans4763 Had an amazing time..The reason you go with a great guide and an Egyptologist is so your safe and you avoid the scams and craziness..Egypt can be overwhelming and wow..Gus at Egypt Adventures Travel was amazing. He chose the Kemet for our Dahabeya. Chose great hotels and restaurants. Made it an absolutely amazing experience. I'd also recommend the hot air balloons..wow..

[@neilsonhans4763]

@@alohakamaainaOkay good to know you had a good experience. I still won't ever go there anyway since I always love free and easy. Can't imagine having to pay tips or haggle for even a piece of toilet paper at restaurants

[@alohakamaaina]

@neilsonhans4763 You Have been severely misinformed..Terribly..Egypy isn't a big toilet paper place. Mainly Bidets. Even our Dahabeya had a bidet. If you have a guide..They take care of all tips...and keeps you away from the scams and craziness. Nothings more important then going with a Reliable company to Egypt..Cant recommended Gus at Egypt Adventures Travel more..was perfect..His guy was at the bottom of the escalator at the airport before I even got my luggage. And he was there when I left as well.

[@RBB52]

I did Egypt on an organized tour four years ago. With a tour you miss many of the issues discussed in this post but certainly not all and I was aware of pretty much everything mentioned was happening around me. Some sites were fine and some where horrific with hawkers and scammers. I enjoyed much of my time in Egypt and I would like to go again because once is not enough time to process all that you see and experience. As well there were some wonderful and truly friendly people there. However, when I remember the constant harassment of hawkers at some of the sites and the insane traffic in Cairo I realize there are other more calm and inviting places I would rather go.

[@bigsky5346]

Egypt is a beautiful coutry unfortunately they have a lot of scammers all over the place ..Sad.

[@ProjectUntethered]

It is 😥

[@acmelka]

Sounds like a good strategy is to stay at Four Seasons and never leave your room.

[@SarangKoryo]

Nope, no Egypt. Too stressful and being on alert at all times, trying to guard your money. There are plenty places to visit and really enjoy and relax. Not worth it. Thanks for the tips.

[@AlexHR5459]

I remember a bathroom guard in Egypt had removed all the toilet paper from the stalls and was holding it ransom. He'd offer you pieces under the door for a fee. I think it might have been cheaper to cut out the middleman and use the money but that seemed a bit excessive. Next time we were prepared and had paper of our own.

[@acclaimpolyol6197]

You have to visit northern Iraq...save and worm welcoming people..modren vasilities..and dilshes food...plus there are pretty Bergs Site and Resorts

[@yassin9669]

as an egyptian, im deeply sorry for anything that happend to you .....but not all egyptians are bad tho.....we egyptians are known for that we are very kind and helpfull ........if you want to meet those egyptians go to the non touristic places bc there will be no scammers ..but at the touristic places yea there are scammers ....... and i have an advise now for anyone who wants to come....the egyptian poeple are suffering from alot of things bc of the government .......and i dont recommend going to egypt nowadays bc....you know they dont wanna see any tourist around bc the government cares about tourism more the thier poeple so yea....i recommmend going to egypt when it becomes better for its poeple , and once again im sorry.:( (guess no one loves us :(

[@ProjectUntethered]

Next time we’ll come visit you!

[@yassin9669]

@@ProjectUntethered you are always welcome 💝

[@SuperRabbit36]

But we know why this happens the economical times and the wages in Egypt are the lowest in the world

[@ddlang2514]

Good to know.

[@javiermoretti1825]

If you want to experience BAD traffic, go to Dhaka, Bangladesh. It's the worst nightmare I could imagine.

[@tamgen9319]

Visited Egypt in June. Co-signing this video and comments. Enjoyed the tour part but the scamming, harassing locals put such a nasty taste in my mouth that I have zero desire to ever return. The government or someone really needs to address this on behalf of the “hospitality” industry. The citizens are ruining that industry for that country.

[@nathanielreichert4638]

Haha the two-cellphone driver is wild

[@sarahwhite5621]

I lived in Egypt for 6 years and never visited the Pyramids. I used to get all my clothes washed and ironed at a local laundry and they charged me 20 pounds for all my clothes washed and all my husbands clothes as well. So beautifully done as well. I loved The Valley of the Kings completely amazing but was within tour and our guide was amazing. Egypt is a hard country to live but there is also something about the place that you will love and for me was the life long friends of the amazing genuine people I met. The scammer types just forget them and move on.

[@Curlyblonde]

It's everywhere in Egypt, that's how they do business there. The best and cheapest way to visit Egypt is to be part of a tour group. This cuts out and shields you from much of their nonsense. What I found disconcerting was their habit of trying to get more money from you even after you have agreed on a price. After you purchase an item or service and have paid for it, they will run after you and tell you they sold it for the wrong price, or that they have 5 kids who are hungry at home and they need some extra money to feed them. You are not safe from their scams even when staying at the 5 * hotels and resorts. Luckily our tour guide and armed escort would intervene when the staff would try to impose extra charges or try to manipulate extra tips on top of what we already paid, out of us. Any tourist is fair game to them. Watch out for pickpockets too in crowded areas.

[@thomashughes_teh]

Remember, that when a mummy was a popular Victorian era souvenir with tourists psychopaths started selling their sun dried friends and relatives.

[@jameslemire570]

Regardless of all these issues, if you use a legitimate outside (ie your country) package travel company (all inclusive tours) then Egypt is the BEST place you will ever visit!!!

[@Zatschana]

😂😂