What Foreigners Find Most Annoying About Egyptians and Egypt

As an experienced SEO professional specializing in Google's content standards, I see that understanding the cultural and practical aspects of a country from a foreigner's perspective is essential. This essay explores the challenges, cultural differences, and daily annoyances that foreigners might encounter in Egypt, focusing on the city of Cairo, a place that presents unique experiences.

Embedded Cultural Practices and Objectification

During a visit to the Valley of Kings, a local man approached my husband with what seemed like a misguided compliment, stating, "She… so beautiful. I give thousand camels for her." This perplexing statement was not an isolated incident. We heard similar remarks in the bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar in Cairo. These remarks highlight the cultural practice in some parts of Egypt where women might be evaluated based on their value rather than their worth or personality.

As a respectful and unbiased observer, these practices did not just annoy me; they also caused a deep sense of sadness. In the modern era, it's concerning to see such primitive views of women persist in some parts of the world, especially when we are in the 21st century. The commodification of women as objects, unfortunately, is a persistent issue that needs to be addressed.

Congestions and Traffic Annoyances in Cairo

The vast size difference between my home city and Cairo is hard to fathom. My hometown, which is a small city, is only 1/3 the size of Cairo, and 82 times smaller than the city of Cairo as a whole. Driving in Egypt is a complex and challenging experience, often advising non-natives not to venture into the city's maze of streets without a local guide. The traffic, honking, and aggressive driving habits can be overwhelming:

Traffic Rules: Drivers do not follow the standard traffic rules, and lanes are often ignored. Pedestrians have no priority, and poorly designed and maintained roads make for a chaotic and dangerous environment. Traffic Horror Stories: Encountering internal and external traffic hazards, such as an occasional KHARA (a term used for honking without reason) when someone angers you, would make any non-native driver feel like they are in the middle of a war zone.

The experience of driving in Cairo definitely made me feel incompetent and made me realize the value of following traffic rules in my home country. The last time I drove was in the United States, after which I returned to Cairo. Adjusting to the Egyptian driving habits was a challenge, and I would strongly advise against renting a car in the city.

Challenges of Tipping in Egypt

Another aspect of the Egyptian culture that can be quite frustrating is the practice of tipping. Tipping is common and sometimes becomes a nuisance. Tips are expected everywhere, from airport restaurants and cafes to medical facilities such as hospitals. Furthermore, there are new job opportunities like car park attendants who only need a microfiber towel to earn their living by asking for tips. These jobs often do not require any real service or assistance, but people feel compelled to pay to tip.

Sexual Harassment and Poor Hygiene

The issue of sexual harassment in Egypt is quite significant. It affects both covered and uncovered women and can happen even in public spaces, such as parks and public transportation. However, it is highly recommended to cover as much as possible to minimize the risk, as it makes your chances of being harassed higher. The urban areas in Egypt often suffer from poor hygiene, with piles of trash and sanitation issues that are often the responsibility of a corrupt government. While fancy neighborhoods like Zamalek might be free from such issues, the broader metropolitan areas face these challenges.

In conclusion, while Egypt offers a rich and diverse cultural experience, it also comes with its fair share of challenges and daily annoyances. From cultural practices that can be seen as objectification and harassment, to traffic chaos and unsanitary conditions, understanding these aspects can help visitors prepare better for their experiences. By learning about these challenges, we can appreciate the diverse and rich culture of Egypt more wholeheartedly.