I didn't really run in to too many scammers at the Pyramids, I managed to avoid a lot of them, however there was a lot of people continually following and harassing me to go on horse or camel rides.
" The best thing you can do is say no straight away to avoid the hustlers at the Pyramids"
Where do I even begin? It was my first day in Egypt, and damn, was it a whirlwind (I’ll save the details for another time!). After a restless night in a questionable hotel, courtesy of late-night construction work, I woke up feeling a mix of exhaustion and anticipation. Nevertheless, I was determined to make the most of my time in Giza and document every moment through my vlog.
To my astonishment, Giza greeted me with a sight far from what I had envisioned. Instead of the pristine and organized surroundings I had anticipated, the area surrounding the pyramids was marred by scattered rubbish, giving an air of neglect and disregard. It was a stark contrast to the majestic and awe-inspiring images I had seen in brochures and documentaries.
With the pyramids as my ultimate goal, I set out to figure out the best way to reach them. I contemplated hiring a tuk tuk, a popular mode of local transportation. In my search for a tuk tuk, I found myself in the backstreet where I encountered a couple of shady characters. Surprisingly, they offered to assist me in finding a tuk tuk. However, little did I know that their involvement would extend beyond a simple arrangement.
As I settled into the tuk tuk, one of the individuals who had helped organize the ride hopped in alongside me. Despite his lack of English language skills, he compensated for it by incessantly making phone calls, attempting to engage me in conversations that were beyond my comprehension. It soon became apparent that his intentions were not limited to providing transportation; he was keen on offering organized tours and various other services, most likely for a commission.
Upon arriving at the pyramids, I found myself engulfed in a sea of touts and tour guides, each competing for my attention and striving to lure me into their preferred tours. It was disheartening to witness these opportunistic individuals seemingly ignorant of the fact that this was meant to be a personal and extraordinary experience for me. Their persistent and forceful tactics threatened to overshadow the significance of the moment.
Nevertheless, I resolved to take control of the situation and protect the authenticity of my journey. I refused their relentless offers, steadfastly determined to explore the pyramids at my own pace. It was vital for me to absorb the atmosphere, allowing the magnificence and historical weight of these ancient wonders to resonate with me on a personal level. It was during these solitary moments of reflection that I truly connected with the essence of the pyramids.
Despite the initial challenges and the disillusioning encounters, my visit to Giza served as a poignant reminder that travel isn’t always a smooth ride. It shed light on a different side of Egypt, one characterized by neglect and opportunism. Yet, it also reinforced the importance of embracing the unexpected and discovering beauty even amidst the chaos.
So, if you find yourself in Giza, prepare yourself for the realities that await. Approach the experience with a spirit of adventure, an open mind, and a resolute determination to carve your own path. Amidst the persistent touts, you may just uncover the hidden treasures that make Egypt truly captivating.
As I reflect on my time in Giza, I realize that the challenges I faced ultimately enriched my experience. They allowed me to see beyond the glossy surface and delve into the raw and authentic soul of this remarkable destination. Giza, with its imperfect charm and the resilience of its ancient wonders, left an indelible mark on my journey, reminding me that beauty can be found even in the most unexpected places.
