I've traveled extensively for work all over the world for 20+ years, and have never encountered a culture as incredibly hospitable as the Egyptian people.

&#x200B;<br><br>I've traveled to over 150 countries for work, and never felt such an incredible connection with a nation of people as I do now, and have never experienced such hospitality as the Egyptian people. In fact, the entire region seems incredibly hospitable - I've traveled extensively in the Middle East, but never felt the incredible welcome that I've received here.<br><br>&#x200B;<br><br>I work for a UN agency, and am currently in Cairo for the next 10 days. Due to the current situation, costs are incredibly high, and my accommodation is quite basic, so just the fact that I have a place to stay at such short notice has been a blessing. On top of that, upon arrival I was gifted fruit, water, flowers, and a beautiful gift from the lovely lady of the house who I am staying with - something I've never experienced before, and is certainly a first for me. I think the only other place where I have been offered gifts and food was in Bangladesh, but that was certainly not to the same level.<br><br>&#x200B;<br><br>A few days into my trip, I decided to visit Giza, the Pyramids, and the Sphinx - one of the things I most wanted to do while in Egypt. I knew that it would be incredibly crowded, and would not be easy to navigate, so I thought that taking a guide would be the best option. I had been approached by numerous agents offering their services, but decided to go with one who approached me and introduced himself. His name was Ahmed, and he was an absolutely incredible young man who took care of everything, made sure I had water, and was so knowledgeable about the history of the Pyramids and the Sphinx. The whole day cost me $45, which is an absolute bargain for a day out with a guide. Due to his exceptional service, I want to specifically mention him in the post.<br><br>&#x200B;<br><br>As the weather has been extremely hot, I've decided to stay by the pool during the day, and go out at night. Unfortunately, the pool rules are quite strict, and only allow guests to use the pool between the hours of 6am to 8pm, with the bar closing at 7pm. As the heat is so intense, I was permitted to stay at the hotel and cool off, and was even offered a snack at the restaurant. This is something I've never encountered anywhere else, and kudos to the hotel management and staff for understanding the plight of guests in the heat.<br><br>&#x200B;<br><br>On a personal note, I came here as a solo female traveller, and never once have I felt unsafe in any way. I've walked alone at night, and feel completely comfortable.<br><br>&#x200B;<br><br>Thank you, Egypt, for your incredible warmth and welcome.