A solo travel experience in Egypt turned potentially dangerous for a 25-year-old tourist when a taxi driver demanded extra money. The incident took place shortly after the turn of the century, during an overnight journey from Cairo to Dahab. Arriving in a desolate area around 3am, the young female traveller found herself the only tourist, and only woman, in a shared taxi heading into town.
The situation became tense when the driver, speaking a language she did not understand, grew aggressive. In response, two fellow passengers, Egyptian men in the back of the utility vehicle, intervened. They informed the traveller that the driver was demanding additional payment. When she instinctively reached for her wallet, the men advised her against it and instead settled the fare themselves, encouraging the driver to leave.
Left with apprehension, the traveller realised she was now alone with the two men. However, her concerns were soon alleviated. The men inquired about her accommodation, discovering she had not pre-booked a place to stay. They escorted her to a nearby hostel, ensuring she received the local rate, and then left without expecting anything in return.
Keen to express her gratitude, the tourist spent three days searching for her benefactors in Dahab. Eventually, she encountered them working in an internet café and learned they were medical students financing their studies by installing internet services throughout Egypt. Sharing a mutual understanding, as she was a student nurse, they developed a heartfelt connection. The men invited her to visit their home town, where she was warmly introduced to their families and friends, receiving protective companionship on every outing. This developed into a lasting friendship, with continued contact over the ensuing years.
Reflecting on her travels, the woman acknowledged that while solo travel could expose her to less favourable encounters, the selfless aid from the two Egyptian men stood out as an act of genuine kindness. They had become, in her view, among the best people she had ever met, helping out simply because it was right.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.