Egypt travel tips
Egypt is fabulously rich in terms of history and culture, and is an extremely affordable travel destination, provided you are willing to stay in budget accommodation and take local transport. However, the country does pose a number of threats to health and security, and visitors should take some basic precautions in order to avoid being a victim to disease or unrest.
-
Except for the Mediterranean coast, Egypt has a desert climate, and tourists should avoid overexposure to the sun, which is extremely harsh and can easily cause heat stroke, severe burns or dehydration.
-
Cairo is unbearably hot between June and August, so it is best to visit the capital at other times of the year.
-
Don’t drink juices or iced drinks outside of good hotels – these may be contaminated.
-
Don’t swim or paddle in the Nile River as it is infested with bilharzia, an aggressive parasite that can cause serious illness.
-
Egypt is a Muslim country, and women are expected to dress conservatively in long skirts or loose-fitting trousers, and to cover their shoulders. If you do not follow this custom, expect both physical and verbal attention.
-
During the month of Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking should be discreet as it is forbidden by Muslim culture during daylight hours.
-
Pickpockets operate around tourist sites, so be vigilant in public places and don’t keep valuables in your back pocket.
-
Haggling is part of the Egyptian culture – with some light-hearted banter you could get up to two-thirds off the initial asking price.
Useful travel tips resources
Footprint Guides - Egypt
Incomparable resource on Egypt travel from this well-known travel guide publisher.
http://www.footprintguides.com/
Bugbog
Travel guides incorporating useful, updated travel tips for around the world.
http://www.bugbog.com/exotic_places/egypt_travel.html
Wordtravels
Site providing invaluable travel information and advice for a plethora of destinations.
http://news24.wordtravels.com/Travelguide/Countries/Egypt/
More topics on this site…
Egypt travel information
Egypt health and safety
Egypt maps and geography
Essentials
Visas: Most nationals require both a passport and visa for travel to Egypt. Citizens of the UK, US, Canada and Australia may obtain a 30-day visa for tourist purposes on arrival for US$15.
Season: March – May, September - November
Money: Egyptian pound – ATMs in short supply but credit cards and travellers cheques are widely accepted
Language: Arabic is the official language but English and French are widely spoken
Emergency #: Ambulance 123; Police 122