Giza: The Timeless Wonder of Cairo

• Helloالسلام عليكم
  [as-salaam alaykum]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaa'an]
• Yesنعم
  [na'am]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlak]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathirana]
• How are you?أزيك؟
  [ezayak?]
• Fine. And you?تمام. وأنت؟
  [tamaam. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [ureed an ara al-qa'ima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!مساعدة!
  [musa'adah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansurif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atasil bialshurtah!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atasil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostأنا ضائع
  [ana daa'ee]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mariid]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [ureed an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarrag]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam sa'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [yumkinuk khafdh al-sa'ru?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-saa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة واحدة
  [al-saa'ah wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al-'ashirah wal-nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [al-subah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [al-dhuhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-masaa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [ayn huw/hyi...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-unwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'an turini (ala al-khariitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata al-hafilah al-qadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tadhkirah (ila ....)]

Giza is best known for the Giza Plateau, where the iconic Pyramids of Giza were constructed during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom around 2580–2560 BCE. The Great Pyramid of Khufu, the largest of the trio, exemplifies the ancient Egyptians' architectural prowess and their beliefs in the afterlife. This period marked a zenith of pyramid construction, symbolizing the pharaohs' divine status and their connection to the gods.

Adjacent to the pyramids lies the Great Sphinx, which dates back to the reign of Pharaoh Khafre. Carved from limestone, this mythical creature with a lion's body and a human head serves as a guardian of the Giza necropolis. The Sphinx has captivated the world for centuries, embodying the mystery and grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization.

During the Islamic Golden Age, Giza saw the establishment of several mosques and educational institutions. The region's proximity to Cairo, founded in 969 CE, allowed for significant cultural exchanges. Notably, the Mosque of Abu al-Hajjaj al-Ashrafi, built in the 12th century, showcases the architectural style of the time and reflects the Islamic influence on Giza's development.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Giza transformed into a major tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the globe to witness its ancient wonders. The establishment of the Giza Sound and Light Show in the 1960s further enhanced its appeal. Today, Giza continues to be a focal point for tourism in Egypt, with facilities and services catering to millions who flock to explore its rich heritage.

In recent decades, there has been a growing awareness of the need to preserve Giza's archaeological sites amid the pressures of urbanization and tourism. Organizations, both governmental and non-governmental, are actively involved in restoration projects and educational programs aimed at safeguarding the cultural heritage of Giza for future generations.

Giza is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Cairo. The most common way to reach Giza is by taking the Cairo Metro to Giza Station. From there, you can take a taxi or a microbus to the Pyramids. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available and provide direct routes to your destination.

Giza is best explored by taxi or ride-sharing services, especially when visiting the Pyramids and the Sphinx. Local microbuses also operate but can be crowded and less comfortable. Bicycle rentals are available in some parts, allowing for a more leisurely exploration of the area. Walking is an option for short distances, but be prepared for the heat and traffic.

Giza is generally safe for tourists, although petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, particularly in crowded areas near the Pyramids. It is advisable to avoid poorly lit streets at night and to stay in groups. Areas around the Pyramids and tourist attractions are more secure, while more remote neighborhoods may pose higher risks.

In case of emergency, dial 122 for police assistance or 123 for medical emergencies. The nearest hospital is the Giza Hospital, with several clinics in the area. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical needs. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly in mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful, and offer your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; a smile is always appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Giza like a local, visit the bustling local markets, such as the Giza Market, where you can purchase fresh produce and traditional Egyptian goods. Engage with local vendors, as many are friendly and eager to share stories. For a unique experience, try traditional Egyptian street food from local stalls, and don't miss the sunset views from the Giza Plateau.