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Is it safe to travel to Jordan and Egypt this year (2009)?

Is it safe to travel to Jordan and Egypt this year (2009)?

Old Sep 25th, 2009, 01:20 PM
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Is it safe to travel to Jordan and Egypt this year (2009)?

My husband and I are planning to take an escorted tour to Jordan and Egypt in December. However, we are a bit concerned about safety matter. Would you please advise? Thanks in advance.
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Old Sep 25th, 2009, 01:52 PM
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Very safe.
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Old Sep 25th, 2009, 01:54 PM
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What specific concerns do you have other than those travelers anywhere should normally be watchful - avoid crowds/protests, don't flash jewelry/money, keep cameras close?

Otherwise, wear comfy/loose fitting clothing (especially covered arms and legs) and shoes, a hat and SPF lotion to protect from the brutal sun, drink plenty of water (available everywhere and inexpensive).

You'll love both countries.
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Old Sep 25th, 2009, 02:23 PM
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I was in Egypt and Jordan in February/March. I felt very safe in both countries-particularly safe in Jordan where the King makes sure that every tourist is taken care of. Egypt was spectacular. However, in Cairo, there was a bombing while I was there in the Khan el-Khalili market and a young French girl was killed while sitting on a bench under which there was a bomb. I had been there the day before and you have those "where but for the grace of god" talks with yourself. But, I would have had the same talk with myself in London or Madrid when they had the bombings. There have been very few incidents in Egypt or Jordan in the last five years. Both countries love visitors and are gracious and friendly. The worst thing is to not venture out. Go to Egypt and Jordan and absorb these spectacular cultures. You will love the trip. You simply cannot die before seeing the Nile Temples and Petra.
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Old Sep 25th, 2009, 03:41 PM
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I've been to both Egypt and Jordan and I felt perfectly safe the entire time. I was particularly impressed by how many Jordanians stopped me on the street to thank me for coming to thier country. You will be fine, really.
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Old Sep 25th, 2009, 07:13 PM
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Thanks so much for all of your responses.

We are specificcaly concerned about terrorism. But hey like BostonHarbor said, we will "venture out" and "obsorb these spectacular cultures".

We are planning to book the 11 day Jordan and Egypt tour with Gate 1. Does anyone have experience with Gate 1? If so, would you recommend booking with this company? Thank you.
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Old Sep 26th, 2009, 05:18 AM
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Unfortunately, we now know that terrorism can happen anywhere; you don't even have to leave home!

I haven't used Gate-1, but they are a well established company with a very good reputation.
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Old Sep 26th, 2009, 05:39 AM
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I went to Egypt with Gate1 in Dec. 2000. The guide was very good, and the hotels were fine. I now prefer to travel solo, although I'll be in Jordan with an Explore! tour group in November.
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Old Sep 26th, 2009, 05:39 AM
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I have taken 2 trips with Gate 1 and I loved it. My first was in Feb 2007 to Israel, then in December 2008 to Turkey. I would not hesitate to use Gate 1 again.
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Old Sep 26th, 2009, 05:41 AM
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Adding to what sandi said, have you heard the news in recent days about the terrorist plots to blow up buildings in Dallas and NY? You are just as safe in Jordan as anywhere else. Believe me, once you get there you will wonder why you ever worried about this.
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Old Sep 27th, 2009, 02:12 AM
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Hi,
We are planning a trip to Egypt & Jordan next March & wondering if anyone has any feedback on Travel Talk 'Egypt & Jordan Discovered' or On the Go 'Road to Jordan'?
I am slowing narrowing the different tour companies down!
Many thanks
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