Boldly Go Solo

How to set out solo, but not travel alone: Trips, tips and ideas for the active traveler.

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Photos of Egyptians from many walks of life

Nubians with their dark skin and galabeyas. Women in colorful head scarves or abayas. Children shouting "hello" and "Obama, Obama" to Americans. Egyptian families visiting the Pyramids during school vacation. Vendors at Khan El Khalili, the Cairo souk.

If you've been to Egypt you can imagine the colorful chaos of the place. If you haven't, the slide show below offers a look at the faces of Egypt.

If you're a solo traveler, taking photos like these breaks the wall between tourist and local and often leads to conversations and connections. It's a good reason to take photos, even if you're not the best photographer.

But always ask first. Not everyone wants his or her photo taken. And in Egypt it's quite common, at tourist sites in particular, for locals to hang out all day for the express purpose of being in a photo and then pressing you for baksheesh (a tip) for the privilege.

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2 responses to “Photos of Egyptians from many walks of life”

  1. Barbara Avatar
    Barbara

    I have never been to Egypt, but watching the slide show of your photos makes me want to go. I like the way you have focused on people going about their daily lives — so much more intimate a view of what a place is really like than the standard tourist shots.

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  2. Ellen Avatar
    Ellen

    Thanks Barbara,
    Traveling with some professional photographers reminded me that people are as compelling as scenery, and often more so. A combination of the two? The best. Getting those shots? Sometimes possible, sometimes not. You do your best.
    Ellen

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