Egypt Travel Tips
When in Egypt you will be trading in Egyptian pounds, which are generally worked out as equivalent of 5.50 to 1 US dollar, 8.50 to 1 British pound and 7.50 to 1 Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATM machines are ubiquitous in most cities and towns. There is generally a better exchange rate once inside the country, so it is a good idea to take your domestic currency with you and then exchange it once you touch down in Egypt. Should you run out of money for any reason, there are also Western Union branches throughout the country, just in case of emergency!
Local Egyptian culture
Egypt is a country, and so there are a few cultural differences, but nothing that cannot be easily remedied. Kissing in public is frowned upon, as is wearing revealing clothing away from the beach. The country is very conservative socially, so, as with any country, do pay some consideration to the cultural norms of the locals. Bargaining is a local custom, so do not be alarmed if the first price offered seems startlingly high, as a general rule, 50% is added to the price of anything, especially as a foreigner. A key thing to consider is water, only drink bottled water as the tap waters in untreated and not fit for human consumption. Visit the local tea rooms where the politics of the day are discussed, although it is generally only Egyptian men that frequent these places, foreign women are tolerated.
Egypt visa and climate information
Travellers to Egypt require a visa. Costs differ depending on your country of origin, but citizens of the United States of America can obtain a visa for $15 on arrival at Cairo airport. It is possible to obtain a visa from the Egyptian embassy at your country of origin, but is generally cheaper to obtain on arrival in Egypt. If arriving by boat it is also possible to obtain a visa on arrival, as Alexandria’s port has full immigration status and is able to process your visa without hassle. Be aware that it can get very hot in Egypt during the day, and quite cold at night, so be sure to bring suitable clothing with you. Seasons follow the pattern of northern hemisphere countries, but temperatures vary wildly between seasons, so be sure to check the weather forecast before you arrive, and be sure to consume lots of water, as well as applying sun cream regularly.
European Travel Advice & Tips – European Traveller offers general travel advice for Europe, including cheap flights to Europe, ferrys to France, rail travel and bus travel for Europe
Local Egyptian culture
Egypt is a country, and so there are a few cultural differences, but nothing that cannot be easily remedied. Kissing in public is frowned upon, as is wearing revealing clothing away from the beach. The country is very conservative socially, so, as with any country, do pay some consideration to the cultural norms of the locals. Bargaining is a local custom, so do not be alarmed if the first price offered seems startlingly high, as a general rule, 50% is added to the price of anything, especially as a foreigner. A key thing to consider is water, only drink bottled water as the tap waters in untreated and not fit for human consumption. Visit the local tea rooms where the politics of the day are discussed, although it is generally only Egyptian men that frequent these places, foreign women are tolerated.
Egypt visa and climate information
Travellers to Egypt require a visa. Costs differ depending on your country of origin, but citizens of the United States of America can obtain a visa for $15 on arrival at Cairo airport. It is possible to obtain a visa from the Egyptian embassy at your country of origin, but is generally cheaper to obtain on arrival in Egypt. If arriving by boat it is also possible to obtain a visa on arrival, as Alexandria’s port has full immigration status and is able to process your visa without hassle. Be aware that it can get very hot in Egypt during the day, and quite cold at night, so be sure to bring suitable clothing with you. Seasons follow the pattern of northern hemisphere countries, but temperatures vary wildly between seasons, so be sure to check the weather forecast before you arrive, and be sure to consume lots of water, as well as applying sun cream regularly.
European Travel Advice & Tips – European Traveller offers general travel advice for Europe, including cheap flights to Europe, ferrys to France, rail travel and bus travel for Europe
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