At a time when the topic of migration is at the center of debate, it is usual to take under scrutiny how foreigners coming to Western countries integrate. Do they learn the language of the host country? Do they open themselves to the local communities? Do they adapt to the new customs and traditions?

On the contrary, the same questions are rarely posed when it comes to discussing how Westerners travel and settle in other countries in the world.  Particularly in the so-called “developing countries” like Egypt, it is easier for foreigners to stay in their own bubble, preserving their Western lifestyle without opening up to the local culture.

Nonetheless, during my stay in Egypt I came across a number of people who have travelled, and then settled here using a different approach. From Cairo, to Alexandria, Dahab and many other cities, it is possible to find inspiring stories of people who have built a new life in Egypt driven by a strong desire to integrate with this culture, language and society.