North Africa Travel Advice

North Africa has some of the most exotic and ancient countries with unique cultures. Some of the popular countries include Egypt, Morocco, and Algeria. However, it can be daunting for tourists who are visiting these countries the first time.

Here is a guide on how to enjoy a trip in North Africa.

1. Although Egypt is a relatively safe and friendly place for travelers.
Tourists, particularly female, may experience a lot of hassling at the sites of major attractions. Usually, an eloquent Egyptian man will try to start a conversation in English, then proceed to ask the tourist to have a drink with him or visit his favorite souvenir store which he will get commissions for luring tourists into the shop. Politely refuse any offers.

2. Pickpocketing is rampant in Cairo.
Pay a lot of attention to your valuable items and be alert to the surroundings.

3. Female tourists should wear conservative clothing and avoid bearing too much skin in public.
However, this will not eliminate all the hassles women get on the street. Some Moroccan men may hiss and yell obscenities but they usually will not do any harm to the tourists. If the men linger, go into a shop or ask a local woman for help. Be fierce and there is no need to be polite if situation like this occurs.

4. Do not accept drinks from strangers.
Tourists in Morocco in particular have a high chance of being drugged. The common medicine criminals use will be effective for three hours but will remain in the body for seven hours. Harmed tourists should report the case to local authority right after they regain consciousness.

5. Algeria, like many other North African countries, is Islamic.
Respect the culture and dress conservatively.

6. Travel to Algeria by plane and avoid driving on the road as it is relatively dangerous with erratic local drivers.

7. Drink only bottled water and use plenty of sunscreen.