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Question for Women in Egypt

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ebrooke91

Hello everyone!


My questions are for the women of this forum (sorry guys, but I really need to know what the ladies have to say about this).
I've recently been offered a position working for an elementary school in Heliopolis after I graduate for next year. It seems like a wonderful opportunity, both to gain teaching experience and to travel, but I am feeling more and more nervous about issues of safety.

If I had to run an errand on the streets of Cairo on my own, could I? I mean, will I need to find a group of male friends to do things with to avoid harassment? Has the situation gotten worst in the past year, stayed the same, gotten better? (And I guess in what direction does it seem to be headed?)


I guess, just generally, how is it for young foreign women (and keep in mind that I am pretty pale by American standards, let alone Egyptian, so there's probably very little hope of me blending in)? I recognize that media often distorts and sensationalizes stories, so I'm trying to take everything that I read with a grain of salt. Hopefully this post doesn't come across as paranoid, because I'm not - just curious about the place I might be moving to.

So for those women with first hand experience, I'd love to hear what you have to say!

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Tisha Joy

Well, I myself am pretty pale. I do stick out all the time, but slowly I am getting used to it. In America , where I am from I say hello to everyone and am very friendly. But here the best thing for you to do is ignore. I know that sounds mean, and it was difficult for me, but slowly the remarks and noises have hushed a bit.

An important thing to do is cover up. At least 3 quarter length sleeves, pants or long skirts. If you do wear pants buy shirts that cover your butt. And your neckline should be nowhere close to low!

Bring a bag that crosses over your chest.

I walk alone sometimes and I feel I get the same amount of attention as when I am walking with others.

resha_p

Heliopolis is a nice area and you shouldn't have too many problems - it will be possible for you to get out and about and do things of your own accord, but take precautions. I wouldn't advise going out late at night by yourself, so do make use of your doorman (bawab), every building has one in Egypt - they will be willing to help you out or go to the shops for you at any time. Obviously dressing sensibly and modestly helps and if you are going to an area by yourself and feel a bit apprehensive about it, if you don't mind wearing a hijab it might make you feel more comfortable... although sometimes it can attract more attention from people who assume you're a convert and want to congratulate you or know your story!
As hard and frustrating as it is, never ever react to any comments... just keep your cool, look straight ahead and act as if you can't even hear them. Most of the guys here are just looking for reactions, or an excuse to talk to you, so when you don't give them one they soon give up. It's really not that much of an issue though :) good luck on the move!

ebrooke91

Thank you to both of you for your helpful and honest advice! It will definitely be an adjustment for me to do as you say and ignore followers. I don't usually like to back down from a challenge/confrontation. But, I guess just ignoring annoying people is good advice no matter where you are....

Also, I am beginning to shop around for longer, more conservative clothes for when I do move, considering that the ones that I have now 3/4 or full sleeves are designed for functionality in a colder climate.
But that's another question I had, in regards to shopping and clothing availability in country. I'm a size 12, and wear a Large in America. Will it be hard to buy clothes in Egypt? Tisha Joy, can you comment on that?  I'm thinking that I will get most of my wardrobe in country since it'll be easier to find more appropriate clothing once there (not to mention save space when packing).

Tisha Joy

Yes there are clothes for mostly all the sizes I believe. But the thing to remember that a lot of the clothes are imported. So I have a friend that generally wears medium or large and had to buy it in a 2xl. So when you do come here try everything on.
There is a place here  that has used clothing, if you don't have a problem with that, in one part of town. You get off the metro at Orabi and there are cheap clothes everywhere!
But I myself live in skirts so I brought all of them from the us since that is what is in style and they were easy to come by. I found a couple tops that I had to alter myself at Target and Lane Bryant. So the choice is yours:)

fishermansfriend

i think maadi for u is very good

ebrooke91

Thanks again so much Tisha Joy! I really have no problem with second hand clothing (lets be honest, most of my clothes here come from consignment and thrift stores), and I'm just glad that if need be I will be able to find clothes there. I am so exited about Egypt, and really appreciate everyone's advice. It certainly helps make the idea of moving to Cairo a little less daunting!

Tisha Joy

Yes, don't worry at all, I really enjoy Egypt and am about to go clothes shopping here soon to try to fit in better(as well as any blonde can). But yes breathe easy. :)

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