EGYPT

Welcome to www.RichCitroadventures.com/EGYPT The text in white was written as my diary, and a bit wordy.

So where helpful, I include an shortened version in green for you to scroll to, making the experience less time consuming.

EGYPT May 2025

CAIRO

Why Go? Reddit threads about Egypt are filled with warnings like: “Don’t go!” and “You’ll regret visiting.” Many travelers report being scammed, harassed, or relentlessly targeted by aggressive vendors. Unfortunately, I found much of that to be true—except within higher-end hotels, where things were noticeably more peaceful.

It’s also strongly advised NOT to visit in May, when daily temperatures regularly exceed 100°F. Knowing this, I scheduled my sightseeing for early mornings and spent the hotter afternoons relaxing somewhere cool. The upside? Fewer crowds, lower prices, and the freedom to visit some of the world’s most iconic sites practically alone—often arriving before anyone else.

At Cairo’s airport, two things immediately stood out. First, because Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, alcohol is not widely available—even though beer was invented here some 9,000 years ago. Second, many women wear hijabs or full burkas, revealing only their hands and eyes. The modesty leaves much to the imagination. You can’t help but notice that while some women may be concealing less flattering figures, others are clearly not—often sparking curiosity.

When I checked into the Hilton, my backpack was scanned—a process that repeated almost everywhere I went. Security is thorough and ever-present.

The Hilton Grand Nile cost just $130 per night—or in my case, 30,000 Hilton points, the lowest redemption I’ve ever used for a Hilton stay. As a Diamond member, I enjoyed a full breakfast and enough snacks in the VIP lounge to skip dinner. This was another perk of traveling off-season—and this Hilton turned out to be one of the nicest properties I’ve ever stayed in.

Why Go?
Egypt often gets a bad rap on Reddit, with many warning of scams, harassment, and aggressive vendors. Unfortunately, much of that proved true—except in upscale hotels, which offered a more peaceful experience.

Traveling in May isn’t ideal due to extreme heat, but by sightseeing early and resting during the hottest hours, I avoided crowds, paid less, and often had major sites to myself.

At Cairo’s airport, two things stood out: alcohol is rare in this Muslim-majority country, and many women wear modest clothing like hijabs or burkas, sparking curiosity with what’s concealed.

Security was tight everywhere—starting with a bag scan at the Hilton Grand Nile, where I stayed for just $130 (or 30,000 Hilton points). As a Diamond member, I enjoyed VIP lounge perks and free breakfast, making this one of my best Hilton experiences—helped by the low off-season rates.

VIDEO OF HILTON GRAND NILE

I took an Uber from the Hilton to the historic site and, using a translator app, asked the driver to stop so I could be fitted for a traditional Egyptian head covering. It turned out to be a brilliant decision. I share many physical features with Egyptians, and by dressing like a local—long sleeves, long pants, and muted colors—I was able to blend in. Unlike most tourists, who were constantly and aggressively harassed, I avoided much of that unwanted attention.

Getting to the Great Pyramids from Cairo involved driving through the gritty heart of Giza, a city weighed down by poverty and trash. Still, I felt reasonably safe. The area’s strong religious culture seemed to create an underlying sense of order.

I didn’t hire a guide, but the experience was no less powerful. Being largely alone made it even more moving, awe-inspiring, and at times, chilling.

The isolation was part of what made it unforgettable. In many areas, I was completely alone. The first time I encountered a crowd was inside the Great Chamber—where an attendant quickly scolded me for filming. These photos and videos capture the story better than words ever could.

I took an Uber from the Hilton to the historic site, stopping to buy a traditional Egyptian head covering. Blending in with locals by wearing modest, muted clothing helped me avoid the harassment most tourists face.

The drive to the Great Pyramids passed through Giza’s gritty, impoverished streets, yet I felt safe—thanks to a strong religious presence that lent a sense of order.

Though I skipped a guide, the experience was deeply moving. Being mostly alone added to the awe and intensity. Aside from a brief scolding for filming in the Great Chamber, I explored in near solitude—an unforgettable, hauntingly powerful visit captured best through photos and video.