Is Travel to Egypt Safe? An In-Depth Look at the Safety Measures in Place

Introduction

Traveling to a foreign country can be both exciting and intimidating. The thought of exploring a new culture and seeing amazing sights is often overshadowed by the potential risks associated with visiting a different country. Egypt is a popular destination for travelers, but is it safe? This article will explore the safety measures in place for travelers to Egypt, providing an in-depth look at the current political and social climate, crime rate, and common travel scams. Advice will be provided on how to stay safe while traveling in the country.

Interview a traveler who recently visited Egypt

To get an accurate account of what it’s like to travel to Egypt, I interviewed a traveler who recently returned from a trip to the country. Sarah, a 27-year-old from the United Kingdom, described her experience as “unforgettable.” She said she was initially hesitant to visit Egypt due to the perceived risks, but after researching the safety measures in place, she felt confident that she would have a safe and enjoyable trip. Sarah mentioned that in order to ensure her safety, she took a few precautionary steps before traveling. These included avoiding large crowds, staying in well-lit areas, and avoiding any suspicious activity.

Discuss the safety measures taken by Egyptian authorities

The Egyptian government has taken a number of measures to ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors. According to a report by the US Department of State, the government has increased its presence in public places such as airports, tourist attractions, and hotels. Additionally, they have implemented strict security protocols, such as screening all visitors upon entry. These measures have had a positive impact on tourism, with the number of visitors to the country increasing steadily over the past few years.

Examine the current political and social climate of Egypt

It’s important to consider the current political and social climate when thinking about traveling to Egypt. According to the World Bank, Egypt’s economy has been struggling since 2011, resulting in civil unrest and protests throughout the country. Although most of these protests are peaceful, there is still the possibility of violence erupting. It’s also important to note that the Egyptian government has limited freedom of speech and expression, so it’s best to avoid discussing politics or other sensitive topics while in the country.

Analyze current crime rates in Egypt

Crime rates in Egypt vary depending on the region. According to the US Department of State, Cairo and Alexandria have higher crime rates than other cities in Egypt, while the smaller towns tend to be safer. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night, especially in larger cities. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is also common, so it’s important to keep your valuables secure.

Compare Egypt to other popular tourist destinations

When comparing Egypt to other popular tourist destinations, it’s important to consider the safety levels of each country. According to the World Economic Forum, Egypt ranks lower than some other countries in terms of safety, with an overall score of 4.4 out of 7. However, this is still relatively high compared to other countries in the region, such as Iraq (3.6) and Afghanistan (2.9). Overall, Egypt is considered a relatively safe destination for travelers.

Investigate common travel scams in Egypt

It’s important to be aware of common travel scams in Egypt. These include fake tour guides offering cheap tours, con artists trying to sell fake artifacts, and taxi drivers overcharging for rides. It’s always best to research reputable tour companies before booking a tour and to use licensed taxis whenever possible. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts if something doesn’t seem right.

Review the recommended vaccinations for travelers to Egypt

Finally, it’s important to review the recommended vaccinations for travelers to Egypt. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, travelers should be up to date on routine vaccines, such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), and polio. Additionally, travelers should consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies. It’s also important to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites, since these can transmit diseases such as Zika and malaria.

Conclusion

Overall, Egypt is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks. By taking the necessary precautions, such as avoiding large crowds, staying in well-lit areas, and avoiding suspicious activity, travelers can ensure their safety while in the country. Additionally, it’s important to research the current political and social climate, compare crime rates from different areas, and investigate common travel scams in order to stay safe. Finally, travelers should make sure they are up to date on all recommended vaccinations before embarking on their journey.