My daughter, 22, and I, 56, are planning a trip to Egypt. We think we'd like to go independently rather than take a tour. We want to meet real people. See pyramids, camp in the white desert. I know we can arrange day or just a few day tours after we arrive. Any thoughts, recommendations for us?

Hello,
I am Greta (Belgium), i am 48 and I stay for about 8 months a year in Egypt. Most of the time i am along there and I never feld unsafe.
The only think you have to be very carrefull of is the quality and the competance of your guides. Espacially in the white desert. They will all claim being the best, just try to find out about theyr reputation.
I am in charge of a Lodge in Sinaï, near Nuweiba. www.ghannahlodge.net. The Lodge as been building by young Belgian people for sustainable development. So I need to organise often safari's and I know the difference off services can really be very different. So just look out to enjoy! Regards Greta

I agree with you Greta. Just like the medina district of Marrakech city in Morocco, Africa is really a safe destination to explore. Unless you are unfortunate enough to have encountered incompetent guides, you do not have to worry about travel safety once in Africa. But still, it is advisable not to be too trusting, especially to strangers.

By now you ladies may have gone to Egypt already. If not let me give you some first hand advise. If you are females on your own be very careful of the Egyptian men. I have just come back from a trip with another female and have not had a good experience with the men. Most of them are very lustful and are willing to do anything for money and in order to get out of the country. Even when they appear dangerous still be very careful.I was charmed by a guy which I would have never let myself be involved so quick in the past. Now I have to live with the consequences and the guy does not even care. They usually reveal their true colours when they can see they cannot get money out of you. Please be very careful with your hearts. If the guy seems too good to be true trust your instincts. By the way they all say they don't like Egyptian women and of course they would because you are with a Western non-Muslim women. If you do meet someone who wants nothing from you then you are very lucky. Also be tough with your bargaining and do not go anywhere you are not sure about. Remeber what is written about women traveller in Egypt do take heed. Egypt would be a fantastic place if most people were not so poor. Happy journey.