thursdaysd

"the "modest dress requirement" is overstated. " - just because some people violate local norms doesn't make it a good (sensitive, considerate, etc.) idea.

dmlove

I don't disagree at all. As I said, I always followed the "rule" and dressed "respectfully". I was just pointing out that it is not only not always followed, but I'd say that at the monuments it was more often NOT followed....and that there's no consequence to not following it.

Casual_Cairo

The guides will tell you that you can wear what you want because they want their tips....Plain and Simple.

Pissed off (unhappy) customers tip much less.

dmlove

I'm talking about advice we got from our very reputable tour representatives. I don't agree with your comment AT ALL that they were looking for tips when they gave us that advice.

Grcxx3

<<and that there's no consequence to not following it. >>

except for offending the locals and perpetuating negative images of tourists

dmlove

And I agree with that, too (obviously, my choice of words is failing me today LOL!)

teacherCanada

Wow, what a lot of great advice. Thanks to everyone who has ponied up with their personal experiences. They are usually worth more than guide books and government publications.

Well, we had our day in Toronto with all but three of our student travellers. It was a lovely day weatherwise and besides a few traffic slowdowns and one minor glitch in the morning everything went smoothly.

The group was enchanted with the IMAX movie "Mysteries of Egypt". It was especially relevant becuase we will be travelling to nearly all of the temples and sites shown in the movie. Our next stop was the Royal Ontario Museum for a guided tour of the ancient Greek and Egyptian areas. We were very pleased with our guides. It was 90 minutes well spent. I wish we could have stayed longer. Our day was rounded out by spending a few hours at a shopping center before returning to our home towns.

As the chaperones reflected on the day, we all felt it was worthwhile because it allowed the students to get to know each other better - and in a social situation, rather than at school. It also allowed the students to see the expectations of the chaperones in action... you know, polite, respect, be quiet while your guide is talking etc. All in all it was very successful.

Diane60030

I'm glad to know the hair tugs were for good luck. I was wondering if it was just because it is soooo different. I suspect my height at just under 5 ft made it more reachable too.