"For generations much of Cairo’s business had been conducted at the Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Located inside the gates of Cairo’s old historic center, it was a place that harkened back to simpler more glorious time. The sprawl that had killed the charm of the rest of the city was not existent near the bazaar. Old gates such as the Bab Al-Futuh gave a glimpse into Cairo’s past as an epicenter of beautiful Islamic style architecture. The bazaar was a traditional souk was a cut off between the tourist area and local wares. Sellers in the tourist area were incredible bargainers. They’d start at $50 and get down to $5 after a long, drawn out act heavy on gesticulation and fake emotion desperate for pity. These men were the pros of hustling. They could deal in English, French, Spanish, German and some even knew Mandarin and Japanese. I watched in awe as they swindled sucker after sucker, even talking some poor lady into paying a $1 for a plastic bag. Well conditioned to their act, I played along for a t-shirt. The man insisted the Egyptian cotton was handmade by his mother-in-law though it was clearly factory stitched. I got him from $60 to $8 and considered it a win. We both walked away twice only to come back with a firm handshake and embrace."
-Luke's Journal
CITIES VISITED:
MUST DO:
FAVORITE MEMORY:
Cairo
Giza
Memphis
Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza.
Stand in Tahrir Square.
Peruse the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities.
Have a coffee and unwind in Zamalek.
Bargain at the Khan El Khalili Bazaar.
See St. Mary's Coptic Church in Zeitoun.
Being asked to say the "Our Father" to prove I was Christian before entering a Coptic church.
Getting into Egypt can be quite chaotic. The visa process upon landing at the Cairo airport was disjointed and confusing. There are touts in the customs area. Keep an eye on your passport as sometimes "officials" grab it and ask for money to return it (saw this happen to a man with my own eyes). Uber operates well in Cairo. It's best to hire a proper guide and driver for visiting the pyramids. Research ahead regarding the political situation as instability rears itself on occasion.
The pyramids are so wondrous you don't believe them to be real upon first glance. How man did that...is right up there with the Great Wall as an "impossible is nothing" moment. Cairo is not an easy city to visit but is walkable in certain parts. If you want a calmer experience stay in Zamalek. Many Egyptians are very hospitable and want to talk, they miss the tourist boom of prior years. Hopefully it comes back.
