Egypt is safe if you are smart
My wife and I traveled independently the entire year we lived in Cairo - 2004-2005 - and we always found it to be very safe. Take the train from Cairo to Alexandria or Luxor as it is cheap but comfortable, quick and safe. We also traveled by bus to Port Said and by car to various stops along the Red Sea - people were generally helpful and women seem to "look out for" other women as my wife spent many days during the year wandering about Cairo by herself. Learn at least a little basic Arabic and it will help you to feel more in control and able to bargain with drivers, sales people, etc...Police are everywhere in the cities and always available for an obvious ex-pat. They discourage vehicle travel to small villages, especially in once you venture south of Cairo toward Luxor. Be cautious and prepared and you should have adventurous outings but no trouble.
