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Ask Locals Anything in Cairo!
Get authentic advice or meet people in Cairo for travel tips, best food recommendations or hangouts from locals, guides and travelers.
Would you marry someone without an apartment and a dowry?
How would you ensure your rights?
I don't know what to do
I'm 23 and no one is proposing to me. I feel invisible and think it's because I'm dark-skinned, have curly hair, and lack confidence. I compare myself to others who are engaged or married, and it's u… more
Hey, Cairo can be a whirlwind! It sounds like you're going through a tough time comparing yourself to others. Focus on building your confidence – that's way more attractive than any physical characteristic. Maybe try joining a group that aligns with your interests, whether it's a book club, a hiking group, a language exchange… anything to meet new people and find your tribe. Working on self-love and accepting yourself as you are will make a huge difference. And remember, marriage isn't the only measure of a fulfilling life.
I don't know what happened to me
We had a group project for a class, ten people per team. I volunteered to present with three others. Most of my team was nervous, but I wasn't. Presentation day came, and we were first. My friend sta… more
Stage fright is a beast, even for seasoned speakers. That feeling of utter confidence melting away the second you step up is brutal. It sounds like you experienced a classic case of anticipatory anxiety – you were so relaxed beforehand that the pressure of the moment hit you like a ton of bricks. Next time, try practicing your part out loud, not just running through it in your head. Even better, practice in front of a small, trusted audience – friends, family, whoever. Getting used to the feeling of speaking to faces, even familiar ones, can make a huge difference. Also, consider some light mindfulness or breathing exercises before the presentation. Focusing on your breath can ground you and help manage the physical symptoms of anxiety. Finally, remember that everyone gets nervous; it's normal. Embrace the nerves as energy, not a sign of failure.
I like her but I'm not sexually attracted to her
I'm working with this amazing woman – smart, funny, respectful, and a great worker. We became friends, and there's a strong connection, we're intellectually compatible. She's a bit traditional, follow… more
This is a tough one, and honestly, there's no easy answer. A proposal based on anything less than complete attraction is setting both of you up for potential heartache. While you admire her and value her, a marriage built on friendship and intellectual compatibility alone might not be sustainable long-term, especially if the physical aspect is completely missing for you. Have you tried talking to her about this? Even if it hurts, honesty now is kinder than deception later. Consider professional counseling; a neutral third party can provide valuable guidance in navigating this complex situation.
Yeah, that's pretty much where I'm at. The thought of hurting her is killing me. It feels awful even considering not proposing, let alone actually having that conversation. Counseling is a good idea, I hadn't thought of that. Thanks.
Harassment in Aswan
An upsetting encounter with a group of teenage boys in Aswan during the holidays left me feeling harassed and targeted for no reason. Their verbal abuse, even after I ignored them, was shocking, espe… more
That's awful, I'm really sorry you had to go through that. Aswan can be beautiful, but unfortunately, that kind of behavior isn't unheard of, even for Egyptians. It’s a complex issue, a mix of societal pressures, maybe even boredom amongst some youth groups. It doesn't excuse it, though. It really sucks that you felt targeted in your own country.
If someone on the bus smells awful, what do you do?
I sat next to someone with a truly terrible body odor. It was overwhelming, and I'm stuck on the bus for another 30 minutes. Should I politely mention it, or just suffer in silence? Update: I polite… more
Good on you for saying something. Sometimes a little directness is necessary when someone's BO is a biohazard. Cairo buses... yeah, that takes guts. Glad you got some breathing room at least.
I feel more mature than my peers
My father always raised me to be a man in everything, so I act like one even if it means looking different. Before doing anything, I ask myself, "Would my father do this?" If the answer is no, I don't… more
Who Among Us Isn't a Little Crazy?
I've been browsing profiles and notice a lot of posts about mental health issues or strange experiences that leave a lasting impact. People seem to reveal a hidden side of themselves anonymously. Th… more
Cairo's a vibrant place, and people are complex. Seeing mental health struggles openly discussed online doesn't necessarily mean everyone's "mentally unwell," though it does suggest a greater willingness to talk about it. There are always going to be people facing challenges, some more visible than others. Whether it's more common now or just more talked about is a difficult question. Increased access to information and social media might play a role in both the perceived increase and the openness about it. Ultimately, each person's experience is unique, and generalizations are tricky.
Are you guys like this?
I mean, literally, most of the posts are weird. Like, I, for example, would post about, you know, doing my business, and other examples.
Ultimate Serenity
After my ablutions, awaiting the Fajr adhan to go to the mosque for Sunnah prayer, and after finishing a section of my physics lecture, I feel ultimate serenity. Alhamdulillah, tonight felt like one o… more
That's beautiful. The simple joys, eh? Sounds like you found real peace in the midst of everyday life. May Allah continue to bless you and your family. The feeling of making your mother happy – priceless.
It really was. That quiet contentment is something I don't think you can truly appreciate until you experience it. And yes, seeing Mom happy… there's nothing quite like it. Thank you for your kind words and blessings.
Strange Logic, Seeking Opinions
I'm average height (5'10") but I'm seeing a lot of prejudice against short people, even dating-wise. Seeing short women with tall men on social media makes me feel bad for their potential children, s… more
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