Egypt is country of non limited possibilities, we are saying. And definitely, it is. Egyptians can be very friendly and helpful with you. However, while expecting their help and cooperation, you should know that as in any other country, there are some “no do’s”. Because we have already collected for you some useful tips and “do’s” before, today we are adding the list of things you should avoid during your visit here. Some of them are just friendly advice, some of them strict rules.

1. Don’t be intimidated by vendors

Yes, you will find “business people” practically everywhere. They will shout their offer from the behind the open door in bazaar while you are walking, passing by the shop. But they will also run behind you with their goods while you are exploring the cultural sites in Cairo or Luxor. We know this can get you weird feeling, but if you are not interested in any buy, simply ignore. Don’t make yourself upset for it, this is simply what they do and most probably this will stay here forever. But you will get more used on it.

2. Don’t ride camels or horses in distress

This point is connected with point no 1 – the owners of these animals are vendors themselves and unfortunately, many of them are not bothered by welfare of the animal. Don’t let yourself to be involved in riding the animal which you can see is already tired from the heat, maybe malnourished and God forbid, abused by human standing next to him. This kind of business will not bring you beautiful memories. There are many decent places in Egypt where you can find animals who are well cared for, ride camel or horse in beautiful atmosphere and with all the respect to the animal.

3. Don’t dress too provocative

We have already written about “How to dress in Egypt”, therefore this is just small reminder. In tourist’s cities, Red sea governorates, you are most of the time not limited when it goes around clothing. The basic rule of clothing here is to keep covered your arms and knees. This applies to women and men. Specific dress code must be applied for religious places (mosques, churches)

4. Respect the entry into religious places

Referring to point 3, there are specific rules not only for clothing but also entry to places with religious services. The mosques should not be visited by non-Muslims by time of prayers. Visits to church must also be respecting the time of the ceremonies. Otherwise you are welcome to get information about the religion and its community.

5. Give respect and distance to Egyptian women

This rule is applicable in every country, however as foreigner in Muslim country, be informed, that the rules are very strict about connections with local women. It’s not appropriate neither to get in conversation with strange woman either to make photos of her. Especially if you are a man! In the eyes of local people it’s very impolite. If the Egyptian family starts the contact with you, they will get you full attention as to their guest. Here is also preferable contact man to man, woman to woman.

6. Don’t drink alcohol in the street

Although there are many touristic places serving alcohol in the bars, it’s always advisable not to consume alcohol in the streets. This is seen as big “no-no” in the eyes of majority of Egyptians. In some cases even police can be involved. Save the trouble.

7. Don’t be afraid of local people

Don’t, because Egyptians can be loudly and noisy. They love to be in bigger groups, speaking and discussing really loud. This can be kind of cultural shock to understand that they are really not fighting! They are loud when they are angry, but they are loud also when they are happy! Try to get some basic words in Arabic and you will see how positive it will be taken at their end.

8. Get information from trusted sources

In the digital age we are living, it is hard to get proper information from trusted source. There are so many contradicting informations circulating about topics in Egypt. Please choose the reliable and possibly official source as not to get confusing answers for your question. Social media is not one of it! As example, only if you will try to get simple information about the price of the entry visa, you will get 10 different prices, guessing and “hearing” posts.

Again as all our articles about Egypt, we are reminding you this in positive way saying that Egypt is always worth of visit. When you are ready to meet the country with all its pros and cons, you will be ready to enjoy it.