Dear Egypt,

Although I understand that baksheesh (tipping) is a way of life and part of the price when you pay for services. However, in the case of tourists, I believe some of you are getting a little bit cheeky in respect to some of the services you believe require baksheesh. Here is a list of some of the things I will not be giving you money for;

• Showing me how to use an ATM
• Giving me an unasked for tour of a temple
• Leaving me alone in a temple
• Giving me directions when I know where I am and where I'm going
• Getting in the way of a photograph I'm trying to take
• Pointing at a place on the beach to sit down

While we're talking about tourists, do people really ever fall for the following lies?

• The train has stopped, take my taxi
• The museum is closed for prayer. Come in my taxi and we'll have tea in my friends perfume shop.
• My papyrus shop is having an anniversary sale today. Massive discounts just for you.

In my opinion, if anyone does get sucked in by that, their passports should be confiscated and put on the next plane home.

While I have your attention, I'd like to point out that mobile phones are actually not radios. When music starts playing on one, it means someone wants to talk to you. So, instead of looking at it and listening to the screechy music how about pushing the little phone button and talk to your friend who so obviously wants a chat.

That's all. I enjoyed my time in your country, but try to do something about the pollution in Cairo. It sucks.

Cheers,
Patrick