Why I still visit Egypt and will continue to do so

[Chloe Miller]

Only if you live in a cave you managed to miss that uprising problem in some of the most popular destinations in the world - Turkey, Tunisia, Egypt. Many of my friends cancelled their trips even honeymoons to Egypt, thanks to this hype about hell in paradise.

 

I decided to take my chances and go to Hurghada, despite my mom and friends asking me not to - somehow, my gut was certain that everything will be just fine. And it did! So, here’s how’s it been in Egypt for me, during the “dangerous times” and the main reason why I’ll always get back to it.

 

People.

 

Probably the main reason I’m returning to this beautiful country. Though I have some Yugoslavian blood in me, who are known for their hospitality, Egyptians are probably one of the nicest people on the planet. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a hotel, or just strolling down the street - they try their best to help you with any problem you might have. Of course, there are some trying to pickpocket you, but they’re really rare. When it comes to the younger people, they’re basically the same as everywhere. Thanks to the internet, I had a chance to maintain some contacts and get to know also their online personas. Believe me, you wouldn’t recognize an Egyptian party from American one.

 

Nature.

 

You might think - oh, well, what’s there to see? It’s only sand and nothing else.

Egyptian desserts are magnificent jewel of the nature. If you ever get a chance, make sure you visit Farafra, or better known as the White Desert. Farafra is really a depression, the second largest in that part of Egypt. You’ll be stunned by the rock formations, oasis with springs, salty rocks and desert roses.

If you’re a horse lover, you’ll be glad to know there are riding trips in the desert where you can ride off into the sunset. Watch out for the snakes, though.

 

Diving

 

This is also about nature, but about people as well, so I’d like to make it a completely paragraph. I’d suggest you go diving, even if you’re not a pro. The people in charge of diving tours are great and really friendly and supportive. We were in Hurghada, from where we used a boat to get to the coral reefs. When you get underwater, you’ll be faced with amazing marine wildlife - from turtles, to fishes of all shapes and sizes. I kind of had that Little Mermaid moment while swimming next to the seahorses. Of course, if you’re a beginner, there will always be someone to support you and help you with regulating your oxygen bottle pressure so you wouldn’t float up.

 

 Everything else

 

You should know that the average income in Egypt is around 50 euros. Having that in mind, you can find really cheap accommodation, whether you prefer a 5-star hotel or a house for rent. You can rent the house in Egypt for as little as $1000 a month. Also, note that in Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh, you'll be protected as a polar bear, and there's nothing to worry about, because tourism is the main source of income for Egypt - they wouldn't let anything happen to you.

If you're still not convinced, check out the internet for more great journey journals from people that just packed and went. Believe me, you won't be sorry for a minute. And