Quote:
Originally Posted by HarryT
Extremely sound advice, Switchawl, especially for a country like Egypt which is so very different to western countries. Most westerners would really struggle to get around on their own without a local guide.
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Living most of my life away from Western cultures has taught me a few things... One of them is 'when in Malaysia, let the Malays teach you how to be in Malaysia!'
That's our normal course of action when we visit any new place, even new cities in the US. For the 'first day' we book a 'full day tour' at the hotel's tour desk, to get an overview of the area, then spend the rest of the time traveling around on our own. When we visit new countries, we find this method a very good way to learn the local customs, money transactions, social behavior, foods, etc., as well as what to see or do in the locale, and might book a full day tour or hire a car and driver every other day or so. In city areas, letting someone else deal with parking problems alone can make or break a vacation!
""If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay at home."
Stitchawl