Darb 1718

I arrived to this spot in July of 2023, in the middle of summer heat. First time to Egypt. It was one of the worst experiences of my traveler life and definitely the worst "residency" I've ever done. And I am very experienced. Most of it had to do with location and the time of year, but also a seeming breakdown of the support systems which should have helped me through all the crumbling failures of the space. It's the first residency I quit and left early and I highly advised everyone against it. After much more time in Cairo, I have realized how much of a scam and health & safety risk it really was. From what I understand their primary space in Fustat got demolished shortly after, which I'm sure was sad but possibly a much needed change. That space was not a place to have folks living. I guess they still have one building left from this compound, and I'm not sure of conditions. In my opinion it's a place to have events, not a living space. But if you have cultural funding covering the fees and you're a male, and maybe if it's winter, it could possibly be better. They definitely need better systems and staff in place.