The travel piece has sparked a significant backlash from Egypt's authorities who aim to elevate their tourism sector amid criticism.
**Egypt's Government Strikes Back at Travel Blogger After Airport Critique**
**Egypt's Government Strikes Back at Travel Blogger After Airport Critique**
Blogger's harsh review of Cairo Airport prompts robust response from Egyptian officials, citing security footage and threatening legal action.
In a development that underscores the tensions between the Egyptian government and media criticism, a travel blogger's recent remarks about Cairo's airport have ignited a fierce response from officials. Ben Schlappig wrote a scathing review on his travel site, One Mile at a Time, where he described his experiences at Cairo International Airport as disorganized and frustrating. He mentioned unhelpful staff, incessant demands for tips, and subpar dining options, ultimately questioning if there's a worse airport globally.
Egypt's Civil Aviation Ministry was quick to respond with a lengthy 1,100-word rebuttal. The government not only disputed Schlappig's claims but also threatened legal action, drawing attention to security footage that contradicts his narrative—specifically questioning the blogger's statement about needing to visit two lounges prior to a single flight.
The critique arrived at a sensitive time as Egypt is rolling out ambitious initiatives to boost its tourism numbers, aiming for 30 million visitors annually by 2028. The travel sector plays a vital role in the Egyptian economy, providing jobs for many and contributing significantly to the nation's foreign currency earnings. In addition to hotel developments and the refurbishment of tourist attractions, the government is also gradually unveiling a new museum dedicated to its ancient history next to the Great Pyramids.
While criticism from foreign commentators is not new to authoritarian regimes, the swift and pointed response from Egypt's authorities reflects the heightened stakes as the country grapples with both economic and diplomatic challenges. The severe backlash against one travel blogger's experience is emblematic of Egypt's larger goals and sensitivities related to its image and tourism potential.
Egypt's Civil Aviation Ministry was quick to respond with a lengthy 1,100-word rebuttal. The government not only disputed Schlappig's claims but also threatened legal action, drawing attention to security footage that contradicts his narrative—specifically questioning the blogger's statement about needing to visit two lounges prior to a single flight.
The critique arrived at a sensitive time as Egypt is rolling out ambitious initiatives to boost its tourism numbers, aiming for 30 million visitors annually by 2028. The travel sector plays a vital role in the Egyptian economy, providing jobs for many and contributing significantly to the nation's foreign currency earnings. In addition to hotel developments and the refurbishment of tourist attractions, the government is also gradually unveiling a new museum dedicated to its ancient history next to the Great Pyramids.
While criticism from foreign commentators is not new to authoritarian regimes, the swift and pointed response from Egypt's authorities reflects the heightened stakes as the country grapples with both economic and diplomatic challenges. The severe backlash against one travel blogger's experience is emblematic of Egypt's larger goals and sensitivities related to its image and tourism potential.
