Last week I shared my take on how I consider Cairo to have the worst major international airport in the world. That’s just my opinion, based on having traveled through the airport a countless number of times over the years.
For that matter, I hardly view that as being such a controversial take. Which airport with 20+ million passengers annually is worse? Do some people think Cairo should be ranked as one of the world’s best airports?
Well, I think my days of visiting Cairo Airport may be over, because the country’s government is accusing me of lying, and is threatening me for spreading false information.
Admittedly I know my job comes with some risks, but I’ve gotta say, in my nearly 17 years of blogging, this is perhaps the most bizarre response I’ve ever seen from a government to any negative story I’ve written. So unless you think Cairo Airport is the finest in the world, make sure you keep it to yourself! I know Egypt isn’t necessarily the most pro-free speech place on earth, but I wasn’t expecting a Pyongyang-esque response.
In this post:
My criticism of Cairo Airport went viral in Egypt
Over the past few days, several readers have told me that my criticism of Cairo Airport is going viral in Egypt. I didn’t think much of it, but then yesterday I saw the below clip, where I guess my story was covered during a major news program, hosted by broadcaster Amr Adeeb.
If I’m understanding what he’s saying correctly, a blogger (me) made a report about Cairo Airport, which he calls “a very dramatic report” and “an awful report.” He then goes on to basically acknowledge that Cairo isn’t the best or biggest airport in the world, and that it has problems, that the airport’s capacity isn’t enough for the demand. He also questions my expertise or credentials to judge an airport. Sorry, but:
- What credentials does he think you need to be able to share your opinion on an airport online?
- I think I have sufficient firsthand knowledge with airports to chime in on passenger experience
Egypt’s Minister of Aviation attacks me
It’s not just that the news in Egypt has picked up on this, but Egypt’s Minister of Aviation has even gotten involved. He has called my claims baseless, and has said that the country will “take all necessary legal action against those who attempt to harm the credibility and reputation of the civil aviation sector through unfounded allegations.”
Here’s the wildest part of all — the government believes that the purpose of my trip to Egypt was not for “tourism or any official purpose,” but rather was “aimed at undermining Cairo Airport.” I’ve also seen some people suggest that I’m on the payroll of a foreign airport management company, and that I was trying to ruin the airport’s reputation to get a new contract for them?
Right, and I’m the one making up baseless claims? As any OMAAT reader knows, I was in Cairo for one simple reason — the airport has among the most reasonable premium airfare in the world, so I often position myself there (well, past tense at this point).
My experience at Cairo Airport is taking on a life of its own. A story written in the Al-Marsad newspaper in Egypt makes the following claims (I’m using Google Translate, so I’m not sure if that was the intent or not, but I’ll view “the worst in the world blogger” title as a badge of honor):
A foreign blogger angered the Egyptians, after he posted a video in which he said that he was subjected to ill-treatment at Cairo Airport, and that he was forced to wait hours until his procedures were completed.
The worst in the world Blogger Ben Schlappig claimed that Cairo Airport is “the worst in the world,” accusing the employees of aggression. He wrote in his popular travel blog, “ONE MILE AT A TIME,” that he had a bad experience in Cairo.
Unfounded, the Egyptian Minister of Aviation, Sameh Hefny, responded to these allegations, saying that they were completely baseless.
He explained in an intervention on the “Al-Hekaya” program on MBC Misr that the ministry will publish, today, Sunday, a video supported by facts to respond to these false rumours.
He also revealed that the blogger who attacked the airport used fabricated videos, stressing that he did not deal with any of the workers, and stood filming the crowd for half an hour, knowing that he left the airport in only 18 minutes, according to what surveillance cameras showed. In addition, it was considered that there are attempts to target Cairo Airport and distort its image.
Yes, indeed, Egypt’s Ministry of Aviation has published a video of me at the airport “supported by facts,” which I’ll address in a different post. But I honestly have no clue what the government is talking about with that last paragraph:
- I used fabricated videos? Huh? I don’t take videos, and certainly didn’t share any in my post about the airport
- I stood filming the crowd at the airport for half an hour? Again, huh? I don’t take videos, and certainly didn’t stand anywhere for 30 minutes filming anything
- The story also references how I claim I “was forced to wait hours” at the airport, only I never made that claim? Funny enough, I rate Cairo Airport so low despite the fact that I don’t find the lines to be very long, which should tell you something 😉
Anyway, the government did a bizarre and creepy level of tracking of me at Cairo Airport, including publishing videos of me at the airport, which the government claims prove that I’m lying… only they don’t? Like I said, I’ll be addressing that in detail in a separate post.
Ultimately I’m the one who will lose out here in terms of no longer having access to some cheap premium airfare out of Cairo, but I’ll be fine, and if anything, they’re doing me a favor. That being said, the Egyptian government really is digging itself a hole here:
- Egypt is continuing to try to grow its tourism industry, so threatening foreign travelers for simply sharing a negative opinion of the airport online doesn’t exactly instill confidence in the country
- Rather than accepting constructive feedback or even ignoring it, the government is instead amplifying this negative feedback, and making up untrue claims about me
- It’s clear the government has no interest in improving the airport, since it’s claiming that everything that I (and many others) say is untrue; according to the government, everyone is friendly, no one asks for tips, and everything is totally orderly, and if you disagree, you must be there specifically to sabotage the airport
- Does the government not have anything better to do…?
Bottom line
I guess my days of frequent travel through Cairo Airport are over, as the country isn’t happy with my criticism of the airport. I just shared my take on why Cairo has the worst major airport in the world based on my many visits over the years, but apparently that means that I’m just making stuff up.
Standby for part two, because this gets even wilder, with the government making some really strange accusations against me. Like I said, I’ve been doing this for nearly 17 years, and this is no doubt one of my wildest situations, and gives the Aegon Mykonos saga a run for its money.
What do you make of the response of Egypt’s government?
what you have mentioned is actually less far for what it is !! CAI airport is not only the worst to see in your travel life but a true nightmare, aggressive police & immg officers, security offers help but they ask for tips after assisting you, to make it short on how worst it is; i was carrying 02 iphones i was asked to leave one and go with only one and this is not...
what you have mentioned is actually less far for what it is !! CAI airport is not only the worst to see in your travel life but a true nightmare, aggressive police & immg officers, security offers help but they ask for tips after assisting you, to make it short on how worst it is; i was carrying 02 iphones i was asked to leave one and go with only one and this is not a joke !! after insisting and proved that both phones are for business & personal use they let me go but after a hard burden.
PLEASE DO NOT TRAVEL TO EGYPT WHILE RULED BY ILITARY REGIM
Typical attitude and behavior of a military dictatorship from the 50’s and 60’s. Cannot take criticism from any one. And instead of thanking the blogger for constructive criticism, they dig a bigger hole for them selves.
What an embarrassment.
LOL!
Please let this be a lesson to ALL travelers. Our first amendment rights as Americans cease to exist once we land in virtually any other country in the world. You have no god given, inalienable right to criticize another country/government/airport from that country at all. I don't know why any of you are shocked that a borderline dictatorial regime would take offense to what Ben had posted.
The fact that a known homosexual...
LOL!
Please let this be a lesson to ALL travelers. Our first amendment rights as Americans cease to exist once we land in virtually any other country in the world. You have no god given, inalienable right to criticize another country/government/airport from that country at all. I don't know why any of you are shocked that a borderline dictatorial regime would take offense to what Ben had posted.
The fact that a known homosexual like Ben even considers traveling to and reviewing any Islamic country is bewildering to me.
Trust me Ben, we've seen enough of Dom Perignon in Emirates First Class. It's not worth it for you to be thrown in prison for a trip report. Get a clue - the rest of the world is not on the same page as the USA. Time to consider another career or at least stay domestic or Europe for a long time.
What a rude comment. Not an american here, but people should be able to share their opinion. This kind of attitude hopefully makes people think many times before planning to visit such place
'... the rest of the world is not on the same page as the USA. "
Well yes, since Nov. 7 that is indeed the case.
Too late now though; you shall reap what you sow, in due course.
Trump won in a landslide on November 6, 2024 - if that's what you're referring to - not November 7. You may have sobered up on the 7th and realized what happened, but he won in a decisive fashion long before.
I honestly don't care what other countries think about us, that's kind of the reason we picked a badass like Trump.
Enjoy the next 4 years, beta male.
He did NOT win a "landslide"...
An egyptian here and you don’t offend me or anyone, the government sucks, they are living on bribes and they are out of touch with the public. Just avoid Egypt and may their days get shorter in reign.
Headline: Surreal experience in airport in the Middle East.
Do normal passengers (99%+ passing through) transit on 2 tickets?
Do your experience represent the majority of customers that transit via CAI on MS or visitors to Cairo or Egypt?
What do you expect? Going to the middle east where they behead people for asking for human rights. Twat.
Your report gone worldwide and this is the reason why the minister of aviation had to respod without going thru the negatives at the airport or do a visit !!! we been complaining for years thru their website as well as " X " but it goes without attention !!!
Given the state of the economy in Egypt, I'm not surprised that any negative comments about their tourism industry is seen as a threat.
Keep in mind that the news was most likely targetting their domestic audience and not for global consumption, just like most other macho macho countries and leaders like to control the news.
We've all met people (in some cases are related to) who boast to the moon about themselves...
Given the state of the economy in Egypt, I'm not surprised that any negative comments about their tourism industry is seen as a threat.
Keep in mind that the news was most likely targetting their domestic audience and not for global consumption, just like most other macho macho countries and leaders like to control the news.
We've all met people (in some cases are related to) who boast to the moon about themselves in smaller groups and any external criticims are seen as unacceptable and a threat.
I'm with you on this one. I also fly through the hell-hole of CAI regularly because of the low premium fares I can get. It starts the moment you enter security. The handlers are asking for money. The airport check-in area is positively laughable, especially for premium. People yelling, pushing in, showing not one iota of manners and good behavior. But one becomes accustomed to it in Egypt.
As for the Lounges, Egypt Air...
I'm with you on this one. I also fly through the hell-hole of CAI regularly because of the low premium fares I can get. It starts the moment you enter security. The handlers are asking for money. The airport check-in area is positively laughable, especially for premium. People yelling, pushing in, showing not one iota of manners and good behavior. But one becomes accustomed to it in Egypt.
As for the Lounges, Egypt Air in particular should be embarrassed, but they won't be. They are not fit to be in Star Alliance.
This Minister needs to pull his head in, listen to valuable criticism and act on it. Not do what he did and threaten you. Again, this is Egypt. Maybe if you offer him a bribe you might get some action.
What does this idiot think he's doing threatening foreigners because they dare say something he doesn't like.
You're wise to stay away now. You'll be a target and are likely to disappear into the ether.
Hey Minister, Give yourself an almighty upper-cut.
PS: I just cancelled 3 flights out of there. If they can do this to you with the platform you have, imagine what can happen to us regular folks without the substantial platform you have. Thanks for bringing this to our attention.
Egyptian here , funny thing we have been complaining about the same Sh8t for years and they've been giving us the middle finger, actually keep exposing these corrupt frauds, from an Egyptian, we're loving every minute believe me
If I had any plans to visit Egypt, the Egyptian government's response to your blog post would discourage me from ever visiting or even passing through.
But fortunately, I already visited Egypt once, a number of years ago, and frankly, I came away with the impression that it was the dankest armpit of the world. I have discouraged many friends from traveling there in the ensuing years. Apparently, things haven’t improved since. So I’m pretty...
If I had any plans to visit Egypt, the Egyptian government's response to your blog post would discourage me from ever visiting or even passing through.
But fortunately, I already visited Egypt once, a number of years ago, and frankly, I came away with the impression that it was the dankest armpit of the world. I have discouraged many friends from traveling there in the ensuing years. Apparently, things haven’t improved since. So I’m pretty sure that the Nile will freeze over before I’ll ever set foot on their territory again.
Wow
How stressful and awkward a situation
Doing what u do typically without a peep and now this high drama
I give u and your partner a lot of credit
Flying into such a wide array of global airports and cultures where man’s inhumanity to man is common or the norm.
I’ve often thought about in the past how open minded you are to go to such destinations.
Thankfully...
Wow
How stressful and awkward a situation
Doing what u do typically without a peep and now this high drama
I give u and your partner a lot of credit
Flying into such a wide array of global airports and cultures where man’s inhumanity to man is common or the norm.
I’ve often thought about in the past how open minded you are to go to such destinations.
Thankfully you didn’t do your review in Russia where the headline may have read popular blogger fell out of a 29th story window and died of natural causes
I won’t be traveling there ever
Even if Lufthansa flew me there in first for free!
Hopefully you have a good lawyer just in case
And stay the heck out of there!
I was flying from Cairo to Istanbul on Egyptair a few years ago and it was.....something. We all waited around in a very crowded gate area until a gate agent yelled (literally YELLED) "BOARDING TIME!!!!" and that was literally the boarding announcement. We all got up, got on the bus and were driven out to the plane. When we got there we were held on the bus for about 15 minutes or so until a...
I was flying from Cairo to Istanbul on Egyptair a few years ago and it was.....something. We all waited around in a very crowded gate area until a gate agent yelled (literally YELLED) "BOARDING TIME!!!!" and that was literally the boarding announcement. We all got up, got on the bus and were driven out to the plane. When we got there we were held on the bus for about 15 minutes or so until a maintenance truck pulled up and a mechanic ran up the stairs and into the plane with a roll of duct tape, came back a few seconds later without the duct tape, and drove off. We were then allowed to board. Not exactly the most confidence building of sights, but obviously i'm still alive.
So yea, that airport is definitely a YIKES.
Like all big government trying to sweep dirt under a rug, there will be a rule about no filming or taking photos going forward, it's probably already in place. Don't attempt to improve, just don't allow bad information into the public scope. Egypt should hire the US Democrat Party and MSM to consult, nobody does it better.
Not surprised. Many youtubers have documented the shameless way officials behave towards tourists from rude to taking possession of luggages containing expensive cameras and then denying they took it but you know cameras don't just walk off. One reason I won't bother visiting.
I’m sorry you’re going through this epic waste of government resources.
If the ministry would just observe the chaos at the front door and make positive changes in procedures to make the air port more welcoming.
If the government wants to really improve tourism they should first perhaps think about changes at the person who spent time and resources to make this very creepy video.
I have traveled to Egypt extensively and...
I’m sorry you’re going through this epic waste of government resources.
If the ministry would just observe the chaos at the front door and make positive changes in procedures to make the air port more welcoming.
If the government wants to really improve tourism they should first perhaps think about changes at the person who spent time and resources to make this very creepy video.
I have traveled to Egypt extensively and I find the people of Egypt to be kind and friendly and helpful Except at this airport.
This weird video demonstrates the total incompetence of those who can improve the airport experience. Rather than making themselves useful they are acting defensive because they are guilty of incompetent management.
If Egypt wants to improve tourism they need to look no further than the Cairo airport.
The first step should n
Be to fire this minister.
Watch out this vindictive minister may have you detained.
Their character assignation tactics are straight out of the DNC playbook.
Scary how they followed you around...
Wait till January 21 ... will be the same here
Anyone not familiar with the Arab culture ..... Please Google : "Arab culture saving face".
This may help some understand the response from the Egyptian government.
Many Egyptians will be very upset if you call them Arabs.
@ Jerry Wheen -- Very true. The impact of the Islamic Arab invasion during the seventh century began a change that last to this day, to their language, identity, religion, and culture. Invaders, throughout history and throughout the world, often attempt and sometimes succeed, in their goals of assimilating those they have conquered.
But as true as that is, Egypt was a founding member of the League of Arab States, it's official name...
@ Jerry Wheen -- Very true. The impact of the Islamic Arab invasion during the seventh century began a change that last to this day, to their language, identity, religion, and culture. Invaders, throughout history and throughout the world, often attempt and sometimes succeed, in their goals of assimilating those they have conquered.
But as true as that is, Egypt was a founding member of the League of Arab States, it's official name is the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the official language is Egyptian Arabic.
How many is "many"? What is this based on?
At least you weren’t thrown in jail for a tweet or FB post like you can be in the UK nowadays! Welcome to 1984
Now you know why Cairo has cheap fares
I think that the Egyptian government is going through a severe crisis and has become sensitive to criticism and is trying to deceive the population that everything is going well and any leak of the truth about the deteriorating situation is being tried to prevent and terrorize critics and throw them in prison if they are under its authority.
There was a time when one was of the opinion that this website was a serious entity.
With the passing of time one learns the truth.
Read the comments for conformation that the lunatics have taken over the asylum.
Sorry you have to deal with this, but as a reader it sure is entertaining. I’ve got my popcorn ready.
Only been there twice, back in days bribes were common. But yep I'd cross CAI off for the next couple years at least; hassle of trying to get embassy to get you out of jail would take months.
"We're a nearly four-star airport" - Translation: "We're a three-star airport!"
"The airport is non-smoking, and we post signs forbidding tips." - This is like saying a society has no rapes and murders, because those things are illegal.
Just changed my trip to not fly through Cairo and with EgyptAir. I didn't wanna fly with them/thru Cairo anyway based on the hour stories out there, but now with all of this, I definitely do not want fly thru there. Now flying thru Venice with Lufthansa. Phew.
Shall we just call you Josh Cahill?
For that you have to create a video and "promote" Sam Chui's videos
Maybe Cairo needs a Sam Chui video to show how great it is?
I can already imagine Sam posing with the security guards at CAI and saying how everything is so lovely.
I still cannot figure out if I trust and like his (Sam Chui) work or not.
I respect his love for aviation, but not his process. I’ve read a number of people write how he’s disruptive with the flight crew when making content onboard, and based on his videos, I have no reason to disagree. Also, his interactions with flight crew is often cringe worthy.
Plus, if the airlines know he’s on a flight and, therefore, gets special treatment, there’s less legitimacy with his reviews.
So yeah, I’ve stopped...
I respect his love for aviation, but not his process. I’ve read a number of people write how he’s disruptive with the flight crew when making content onboard, and based on his videos, I have no reason to disagree. Also, his interactions with flight crew is often cringe worthy.
Plus, if the airlines know he’s on a flight and, therefore, gets special treatment, there’s less legitimacy with his reviews.
So yeah, I’ve stopped watching his videos unless there’s something really unique.
I flew on a flight with Sam Chui. I have photo proof. They had to shoo him out of the galley and into his seat so they could close the door. He was insistent that he stand behind the crew to film the door closing. Airline's handler basically told the F/A oh let him do it.... Wish I was a FAA inspector at that moment.
Chui once sweet-talked Starlux crew into opening the cockpit door mid-flight so he could just get some b-roll from outside looking in. After getting multiple assurances from him that he would stay out of the cockpit, the crew (quite stupidly, really) agreed. Chui then—would you believe it—stepped inside and snapped some photos of himself in the cockpit, landing the crew in hot water. So if nothing else he's a dick.
So, I guess that you are going to have to move out of Miami and avoid Fort Lauderdale due to your recent postings about their airports.
Yes, you will need to be very careful making any criticism lest you make Trump's ginormous hit list.
You have to remember you're in a very different country with a very different culture. I certainly don't agree with the culture but if I go to such a country I need to understand and abide by that culture. Why I have zero desire to visit the ME other than maybe Dubai.
What culture are you referring to exactly? The one that doesn't tolerate criticism of a country run by a dictator. Newsflash this is quite common around the world. For people who claim they're the most educated on the planet - westerners have deeply held retrograde anti middle eastern stereotypes.
@Victor Moses --There is a difference in culture. It is not a "retrograde anti middle eastern stereotype".
Please read the comment I wrote on the other article related to this. Below is a copy and paste of it.
It is all about "saving face". The Arab culture is different from western culture. You can respond with "facts" all that you like. It will not change anything, this is about saving face. Please Google...
@Victor Moses --There is a difference in culture. It is not a "retrograde anti middle eastern stereotype".
Please read the comment I wrote on the other article related to this. Below is a copy and paste of it.
It is all about "saving face". The Arab culture is different from western culture. You can respond with "facts" all that you like. It will not change anything, this is about saving face. Please Google "Arab culture saving face". You will find a long list of articles related to this.
I don’t think Cairo airport is that bad compared to Delhi Airport.
That's like doing a review of luxury hotels but your selections are Best Western or motel 6.
Cairo is also the worst airport I have ever been to -- from the very start where people ask for tips for putting your bags on the security scanners, it only gets worse from there. While Egypt has a lot to offer and my brief visit there barely scratched the surface, I would be very hesitant to go back.
The defensiveness/denial with which the government approached this post also reminds me a lot of how...
Cairo is also the worst airport I have ever been to -- from the very start where people ask for tips for putting your bags on the security scanners, it only gets worse from there. While Egypt has a lot to offer and my brief visit there barely scratched the surface, I would be very hesitant to go back.
The defensiveness/denial with which the government approached this post also reminds me a lot of how they respond to aviation disasters involving Egyptian pilots. Letting national pride get in the way of the truth has real consequences for aviation safety.
Exactly how much baksheesh is required for menial 'services' at CAI? Coming from a non-tipping country I'd hate to annoy the asker with too little, or embarrass myself by offering too much.
Would a cap with 'NOT AN AMERICAN' or the like temper expectations a tad d'ya think?
This is beyond amazing. It's not like this blog is The New York Times. Does the Egyptian government just casually read frequent flyer blogs? I wonder if someone internally in Egypt found the article and was using it to criticize the government. That would explain the response.
To be totally fair Ben has very good SEO. Almost all airline reviews have him at the top of search results. It wouldn't be unreasonable for him to be have been seen on Google.
This is the same country whose aviation authority still spreads false information about one of their pilots murdering an entire plane of pax (see: EgyptAir 990).
Having been in the Cairo Airport almost yearly for decades - it HAS GREATLY IMPROVED from the filth , corruption of having to pay bribes to just enter the country. Egypt is not a country where even the slightest negative comment is allowed regarding any public authority. The political turf battles are a struggle for every authority. I do strongly suggest you never ever land again in Egypt.
Egypt is on that sad list of countries with massive potential but which may never really amount to anything because of the combination of shockingly poor governance and lack of education amongst the general populace to challenge it (other notables include South Africa, Brazil and Pakistan). This was partially masked by rising commodity prices in the past, but now that’s over and stagnation beckons all of them will probably become increasingly authoritarian. Sad, but it’s...
Egypt is on that sad list of countries with massive potential but which may never really amount to anything because of the combination of shockingly poor governance and lack of education amongst the general populace to challenge it (other notables include South Africa, Brazil and Pakistan). This was partially masked by rising commodity prices in the past, but now that’s over and stagnation beckons all of them will probably become increasingly authoritarian. Sad, but it’s not like there aren’t plenty of other places to visit.
I have been in CAI a few times. Yes, arriving at 1:30 am on a Star Alliance flight and connecting to the first BA flight in the morning from another terminal without entering the country is a very tiring experience. However, this would be impossible in the USA. Also, how many people do just that?
On another tip we did exit the airport by getting visa on arrival and then left a few days...
I have been in CAI a few times. Yes, arriving at 1:30 am on a Star Alliance flight and connecting to the first BA flight in the morning from another terminal without entering the country is a very tiring experience. However, this would be impossible in the USA. Also, how many people do just that?
On another tip we did exit the airport by getting visa on arrival and then left a few days later on the same BA morning flight after staying in the airport Le Meridien. I do not recall any lines and any problems.
Bottom line, there are certainly worse airports in the world and especially in Africa. While the lounge One World is using in CAI is nothing to rave about, it certainly shines vs. one used by Qatar in ZNZ!
Sorry you have to deal with this, Ben, just for doing your job (very well, I might add)
Went through CAI several years ago and I agree with you- it is a less than good airport. Too bad the authorities can’t accept that.
I really don't get it. How ignorant and petty can these Egyptian officials be? Have they never heard anyone say CAI is not good? Have they never heard anyone criticize any airport (EWR, anyone?)? If they think Lucky is a nobody, then why bother responding to his opinion? If they know Lucky has a following, wouldn't they realize people will believe Lucky more than Egyptian officials' senseless attacks on him? The whole thing is utter stupidity.
Middle east. And this is just an airport review. Now imagine what Israel has to deal with with all the lies Arab and Muslim countries spew out
@Alexis
Lies, you mean the truths?
Because all of you Zionist libs seem to classify every truths on the world as a lie.
Israel would have to deal with way less threats at least if they didn't promote their genocide as a justice.
Creating the problem and blaming it all on their enemies. And the braindead First World takes it directly.
Man I wish I was an Israeli so whatever I do...
@Alexis
Lies, you mean the truths?
Because all of you Zionist libs seem to classify every truths on the world as a lie.
Israel would have to deal with way less threats at least if they didn't promote their genocide as a justice.
Creating the problem and blaming it all on their enemies. And the braindead First World takes it directly.
Man I wish I was an Israeli so whatever I do is always justified.
What, am I being anti-Semite for telling you this?
Not sorry at all. Try to be less sensitive, the world isn't as childish as AeroB13a, the pedophile poop freak BA apologist Apple and Airbus fanboy.
Amen to that Mason. If Assreal didn’t still people’s land and ethnically cleanse people then nobody would hate them
Anne, did you have fun at the "kill the jews" torchlight rally with the other antisemites?
Oh give me a break with your nonsense about Zionists and Israel committing genocide.
Look up the definition of genocde and tell us how Hammas best fits that label.
As for Ben I would avoid any airport in the Middle East regardless of cost savings. Your name is on some blacklist.
Way to deflect, Alexis. And none of it is lies.
I have visited Cairo a few times and think you were being nice. I have been asked for a bribe by the person screening my bag. Worst airport and worst airline goes to Egypt air
That one whinging dude from LoyaltyLobby had something similar happen to him a couple years ago at DPS.
If I were Ben, I'd definitely stay clear of Egypt from now on. And he's right, Cairo airport is absolute rubbish. Even the EgyptAir lounge last time I was there in January was horrific.
And if memory serves me right, rather than defending that case Ben took every opportunity to gloat, lapping up every word of those lies given by the Balinese authorities. Wonder how it feels for him to be on the other end of the line. But as expected he's playing the victim card again. Not saying that he's wrong as CAI is a dump, but it shows that karma sometimes comes swinging back in life.
And if memory serves me right, Balinese authority wasn't lying.
Bali had issues and they admitted it. It just wasn't as bad a what a blogger claimed.
The only person that was "allegedly lying" was the "allegedly real person" who told a blogger that he was waiting for hours.
Speaking of karma, this and Bali reminds me of The boy who cried wolf.
Only that it more like a blogger cried not...
And if memory serves me right, Balinese authority wasn't lying.
Bali had issues and they admitted it. It just wasn't as bad a what a blogger claimed.
The only person that was "allegedly lying" was the "allegedly real person" who told a blogger that he was waiting for hours.
Speaking of karma, this and Bali reminds me of The boy who cried wolf.
Only that it more like a blogger cried not hot water and get $100, cried construction and get $12, cried dirty lounge and get 5000 miles, cried AC was at 20C not 18 he requested no room upgrade and get 5000WOH, and lound wind noise in room for 15000 Bonvoy, a broken seat that can still manually recline and get $140.
That's a sample from about a year ago. There's even more from last year.
Sucks to be a travel blogger. Seems everything is broken or wrong all the time.
Of course the boy only tells about when he cried wolf. He would never share stories of when the wolf bites back. (And they do, shared by the wolf itself) Careful.
As an Italian I am already avoiding Egypt since 2016, when Giulio Regeni was tortured and murdered by the Egyptian police and everything was covered up by their government.
The travel bloggers have always been smart at rationalizing going to places they shouldn’t visit and flying state airlines they shouldn’t fly for the sake of ‘reporting’. Good on Ben for calling spades spades vis a vis this airport.
Sonny (Best Ever Food Review, YouTuber) didn't have a good experience with Egyptian authorities too, even though he submitted and was approved to shoot his videos by one of the ministries before arriving. He's been to many different countries now and has stated that he would never go back to Egypt because of that experience.
Sonny's mistake was the fixer he chose to help him. He alluded to him being bad. I actually met that fixer once (long before Sonny worked with him) and he is the only person I have ever insulted straight to his face, without any qualms. I told him he was fraud and full of himself and should knock off the unearned self-aggrandization. I had known of him from online and through friends previously and really...
Sonny's mistake was the fixer he chose to help him. He alluded to him being bad. I actually met that fixer once (long before Sonny worked with him) and he is the only person I have ever insulted straight to his face, without any qualms. I told him he was fraud and full of himself and should knock off the unearned self-aggrandization. I had known of him from online and through friends previously and really he is an arrogant fake. If he had hired ANYONE else as a fixer, Sonny's experience would have been completely different. He could not have chosen a WORSE person to help him out in my opinion.
I saw that video. It was shocking that officials are allowed to behave that way. But I I guess they're so used to it they just assume it's a expected job perk like food servers and tips. In any case after that video I stopped researching trip ideas to Egypt. Not worth it.
A couple of things.
First, Ben, really sorry about this. However you slice it, no one wants to be PNG in a country with decent premium fares!
Second, there's a bit of hyperbole in some of the comments that needs to be addressed. If you were to transit CAI again -- that that you would -- you would not be detained or mistreates. You're not Egyptian and carry US and EU passports. It's one...
A couple of things.
First, Ben, really sorry about this. However you slice it, no one wants to be PNG in a country with decent premium fares!
Second, there's a bit of hyperbole in some of the comments that needs to be addressed. If you were to transit CAI again -- that that you would -- you would not be detained or mistreates. You're not Egyptian and carry US and EU passports. It's one thing to be pissed off at you and another entirely to take actions that would cause a serious diplomatic incident. Egyptians can be dumb but they're not stupid. Same for travel elsewhere in the Arab world. There is *zero* chance the Egyptian government would ask much less get the agreement of other countries to retaliate against you. Not even worth thinking about.
Finally, I just have to shake my head at how utterly stupid it is for the Egyptian government to react this way. While I can understand how embarrassing it is for the relevant authorities to have their dirty laundry outed for the world to see, and their heavy-handed reaction is not all that surprising given the government's track record in dealing with criticism, you'd think at the very least they would understand that going after you is going to take a relative nothingburger blog post (no offense!) and make it a full-blown international news item. This is definitely going to get picked up by the travel press and generate orders of magnitude more bad press for Egypt than your OP could ever have done. Streisand Effect extraordinaire.
Will make popcorn settle in!
I think the risk in returning is in manufactured offenses, at security and/or customs. They aren’t foolish enough to detain someone for writing a bad review, but what about that contraband that was ‘found’ in the travelers bag?
My bingo card did not have “Foreign government makes wild accusations against Ben” on it!
Bravo!
I would not worry about it ben. Obviously, the Egyptian government cannot handle the criticism. Just like Puerto Rico doesn't want to hear the truth about it being an island of garbage.
Oh just like you Miguel, still failing to realize you are an ACTUAL HUMAN TRASH?
It’s because you are Jewish. That’s why all the hate hits you.
um. he def is not. are you kidding?
Exactly! This is pure and simple antisemitism. They can’t improve their country or the lives of their people, so they pick on the American Jew.
But their airport is actually the least of the aviation minister’s problems. Because of the airspace closures in Russia, Ukraine, Syria and Libya (sometimes Iran and Iraq too), Egypt is having to handle way too many aircraft flying through its airspace.
Ask any pilot who frequently flies through Egyptian airspace...
Exactly! This is pure and simple antisemitism. They can’t improve their country or the lives of their people, so they pick on the American Jew.
But their airport is actually the least of the aviation minister’s problems. Because of the airspace closures in Russia, Ukraine, Syria and Libya (sometimes Iran and Iraq too), Egypt is having to handle way too many aircraft flying through its airspace.
Ask any pilot who frequently flies through Egyptian airspace and they’ll tell you how bad the situation has gotten with Egyptian ATC. It’s a disaster waiting to happen.
If Israel had a peaceful situation, they could easily open a transit corridor from the Mediterranean to Jordan (and then to Saudi). But we all know this wouldn’t be able to happen anytime soon
Sorry that yet again true independent observations by a credible source are subject to this kind of political theatre in a region that has a track history of suppressing free speech!
"I guess my days of frequent travel through Cairo Airport are over"
Yes, but think of all the new views, clicks, and comments your site will be getting and how the extra $$$ from that will help your bottom line.
(Cloud, silver linings, etc).
Its because you are Jewish.Should have realised that would happen.
Lucky isn't Jewish.
Saw the title and thought that Josh Cahill became a guest writer!
Please apologize. Life is not worth it.
Cairo airport is among the best in the world.
I see your weed gummy has kicked in...
I'm guessing you're an Egyptian official using Google translate because ummm yeah, I think LIFE is definitely worth it. I think you meant to say life is too short, it's not worth it. And saying cairo airport is among best the in the world well thats like saying Mickey Ds is a Michelin restaurant.
Hmm… they could have ignored you and this would have gone nowhere… but instead they choose to post a bad review all over their headlines. Makes no sense to me.
The Streisand effect in action!
I would be a bit nervous that this extends to other countries in Egypt's sphere of influence as to issues arising when traveling there in the future.
Their approach would be considered in any study of how to respond to poor publicity as the absolute worst you could ever take. If you respond at all you simply do so cordially, with empathy, and with the pledge to look into this review to learn more....
I would be a bit nervous that this extends to other countries in Egypt's sphere of influence as to issues arising when traveling there in the future.
Their approach would be considered in any study of how to respond to poor publicity as the absolute worst you could ever take. If you respond at all you simply do so cordially, with empathy, and with the pledge to look into this review to learn more. If you respond at all. This would have been buried and forgotten in 10 minutes and Egypt would have come across as a serious country rather than a complete joke.
Their response will cost them much more than the initial review ever would.
I agree, some journalist was killed in an embassy, an italian student was also killed and tortured in Cairo and any unexpected diversion can happen any time.
At least they didnt pay attention to blogger, husband and son coming from Who knows....
I think its not a funny thing...
I shouldnt have written this 2nd post
Egypt has no influence. The country is a third-world dump.
Nothing lost here, Lucky. You're fighting the good fight. Keep your chin up.
The flood of 5 star / no comment reviews of CAI on Google in the last week tell a different story, and the 1 star with comment reviews must be a global blogger conspiracy ;)
Sorry you are being targeted for just speaking the truth Ben. I’m sure it’s stressful!
Makes me want to never visit Egypt
You wanted to visit Egypt prior to this?
If this was drama queen Josh or extortionist Sebastian, I would have totally believe the government.
It seems extortion in Indonesia continues, but the queen was never seen in QSuites again.
One hotel, one airport, what could be next.
Ben should avoid the Mediterranean east of Italy for now. Lot's of crazy people, lot's of power hunger warlords, lot's of propaganda, and lot's of coverups.
I wonder would fingering pedophile poop reader will get...
If this was drama queen Josh or extortionist Sebastian, I would have totally believe the government.
It seems extortion in Indonesia continues, but the queen was never seen in QSuites again.
One hotel, one airport, what could be next.
Ben should avoid the Mediterranean east of Italy for now. Lot's of crazy people, lot's of power hunger warlords, lot's of propaganda, and lot's of coverups.
I wonder would fingering pedophile poop reader will get me banned from eating alphabet pasta.
I've seen airlines and airports push back on (what is usually fair) criticism but never a whole country. You have unlocked a new level.
It would have been so much easier for them to say, "Fair cop, Gov. Fancy coming to see us to hear about our future plans and how we want to make things better."
I’m just wondering, how did worst in the world blogger end up having a proper travel blog ?
That’s quite a feat
Dear Lucky,
Now it’s Egypt next is the US dictatorship which is coming for sure and you cannot say your opinion anymore in the US. We are all very concerned about that!
@Joe
What a stupid and baseless comment.
@Joe
That won't happen for next four years to come.
Republicans will protect the freedom of speech.
On the other hand Democrats will limit those freedom that the constitution has granted the people, because snowflakes are getting offended.
The recent election will be remembered as the beginning of the resistance against the liberal hypocrisy.
who is walking around yelling 'retribution' and appointing an FCC chair who wants to go after the media (network TV licenses, etc?). Get a brain.
Dear Joe,
You should be. The right term isn't 'next'.
Snowden is living proof that it already happened.
You are living proof that propaganda works.
No, you're wrong, unless Ben writes a piece against PBI, where the dictator resides (PB County). Although he may be banned from Broward County as a "foreign" enemy from Miami-Dade.
Correct Joe, the citizens of the US were concerned and thats why we voted a certain way, you will have your chance to vote again in 4 years thx.
You are letting politics damage your well being, please seek mental help
Glad we’ve already seen all we need to see in Egypt … plenty of other places to see in the world.
Oh boy! You have your hands full on this one. Good luck.
CAI is awful and EgyptAir is a dangerous and untrustworthy airline (see the crash of EgyptAir Flight 990 by the pilot and subsequent cover up). Egypt is a lovely place but avoid air travel there at all costs.
Do they not have bigger issues to address?
The Aegon Mykonos saga was truly entertaining. This one is even more bizarre and troubling. Looking forward to the Ben's follow up posts and hopefully some improvements at CAI airport as a result...
As someone who has experienced rude service in Cairo airport, I can only agree. I did experience terrible lines trying to enter the airport from the outside as only one security machine worked.
Love the archeological sites in Egypt, but the airport shouldn’t be an Archeological site!
Lucky: good on you for sharing your frank opinions on CAI, which I think was an entirely fair article. Having traveled through CAI myself enough times, the air there is indeed pervasively polluted by cigarette smoke.
Wow. I couldn’t agree more that it is an awful airport, but this is absolutely unacceptable. Best believe I won’t be giving any more of my dollars to the country’s economy either.
As an Egyptian I'm truly sorry you've had to experience this. To clarify in case it's not obvious, the ministry has to refute dimiss and deny any issues with the airport because under our bureaucratic system of government admitting or even acknowledging any of the very valid constructive criticism you've raised would be seen as failures on their part and have potentially very serious repercussions on the officials running the airport. All this to say...
As an Egyptian I'm truly sorry you've had to experience this. To clarify in case it's not obvious, the ministry has to refute dimiss and deny any issues with the airport because under our bureaucratic system of government admitting or even acknowledging any of the very valid constructive criticism you've raised would be seen as failures on their part and have potentially very serious repercussions on the officials running the airport. All this to say I hope you can take it in your stride as a compliment for you and your work and nothing more. I would still avoid going through CAI in the near future to avoid any undue hassle. Happy travels.
They can't even tell the difference between a video, a written article, or photos. That's all I need to know to assess the credibility of what they're saying. That government definitely should have better things to do, like working to improve the lives of their people instead of making up cheap PR dramas.
Geez. Wait until a few more bloggers chime in. Then they will accuse you of running a pyramid scheme.
Well played.
What better place to run a pyramid scheme than in Egypt.
That was funny!
I see what you did here
:)
I've seen stories of Thailand going after people for negative reviews as well.
One MORE reason to never travel there again. Wild story... but as Lucky said, I didn't think much of the initial post, was chuckling and thinking, seem about right but the reaction really makes me think twice to ever going there again. Kind of a warped Streisand effect they are creating here...
I agree with you. Ben's post was comical at best and I was thinking "OK, now I know what to expect." But after this, I'll never be putting a foot there.
I am sure the fact that you are Jewish is playing a huge role in the government’s baseless claims. Of course, it is easy to accuse of being a “foreign agent.”
Ben is not Jewish.
Matt, you're dumb.
Hah! Ben, here's an article discussing things in more detail:
egypttoday.com/Article/1/136251/Egypt-refutes-claims-accusations-made-by-blogger-against-Cairo-International
Wow. Unbelievable. This is super creepy!
Doesn't it violate privacy laws? Oh wait, Egypt is a lawless country....
Wow, that's just creepy!
This is so creepy
Hi Ben. I just wanted to reach out after reading about the troubling situation with the Egyptian government. From reading your blog and speaking with you before, it’s clear to me that you’re someone with integrity and a strong ethical code. I fully believe your account of what you experienced.
It’s unacceptable that they chose to attack you personally rather than addressing the real issues you pointed out. They could’ve taken a lesson from how...
Hi Ben. I just wanted to reach out after reading about the troubling situation with the Egyptian government. From reading your blog and speaking with you before, it’s clear to me that you’re someone with integrity and a strong ethical code. I fully believe your account of what you experienced.
It’s unacceptable that they chose to attack you personally rather than addressing the real issues you pointed out. They could’ve taken a lesson from how LGA responded to criticism—by working on improving the airport, not targeting the critic.
Please know that my family and I stand with you through this.
Absolutely nuts. I'd also expect this kind of behavior by the UAE for criticizing anything. But Egypt isn't far off.
Yeah, I definitely wouldn't be transiting through Cairo ever again. They definitely will have flagged your name and passport and would absolutely detain you.
Doubtful they would detain him. I can see some level of "extreme security" at their weird visa/bank counter. I'll be there agai next month & can't wait to deal with there entry security
Leave it to the Egyptian Government to look to blame, slander, and ultimately claim falsehoods instead of even considering the reality that they may have issues with their terrible airport and the horrendous staff--and the disgusting smell of smoke that fills the whole space.
Yet aren't they wasting billions with a failed attempt at a super city in the middle of no where?
This is wild and while I would expect this from some countries Egypt definitely isn’t (wasn’t) one of them!
Did Josh Cahill also happen to be flying through Cairo around the same time?
“Hold my beer.”
- Josh Cahill
Lines were God-awful both my times leaving. Arrived 3.5 hours before departure & only got past the final security check 60 minutes before departure both times
Worst non-COVID-related airport experience
It actually translates to:
"Worst in the world"
Blogger Ben Schlappig claimed that Cairo airport is the “worst in the world”,-
Any else read 'in the world' in a Jeremy Clarkson voice?
What a horrifying story! I will travel to CAI this weekend so this behavior of the government doesn’t instill me with confidence about the situation there. As I would personally rank HRG as the worst airport I have been at it’s not a stretch to believe CAI is even worse.
this is genuinely comical, speechless at the severity of the reaction, this is one blog post…. i lol’d when i saw the ‘attempts to target Cairo Airport’