Egypt: After Further Exploration
by Tristan Sansbury, Michael Repper, Ben Arnstein, Christine Karamagi, and Lee Jackson
When Egypt is mentioned, Americans typically think of the pyramids, sphinxes, pharaohs, large deserts, etc. However, what Americans should know about is the sporty, recreational tourist environment also prevalent in Egypt. Beautiful Mediterranean and Red Sea beaches, adventuresome safaris, and bustling cities are all part of the tourist experience in Egypt.
Egypt is also one of the centers of economy and industry in all of Africa! One of the most world renowned tourist destinations in its region, it is interesting that the highest population of tourists visiting Egypt comes from Europe, rather than the surrounding Arab countries or even America. Clearly, Egypt’s combination of cultural history and modern tourist vacation spots appeal to and international crowd.
At the same time, there are underground aspects of Egypt, most notably sex tourism. Destinations like Dehab are not highlighted by the Egyptian Tourist Authority and it was never apparent that Egypt attracted tourists other than those academically inclined looking to explore ancient history or wealthy tourists seeking the “Egypt experience”. As Americans it was interesting to discover that an Arab country attracts visitors described as “hippies” and “vagabonds”.
At face value, we never seemed to realize that Egypt is a modern country with more to offer than just the pyramids. At second glance, it is revealed that Egypt boasts a diversified tourist sector that caters to a wide variety of potential visitors. In addition despite the image of a healthy, controversy free industry, we were made aware of underlying controversies within tourism existent in Egypt.
Works cited:
Egyptian Beach Resort. Digital image. Tour Egypt. 19 Feb. 2009