Egypt, considered one of the most historical places on earth has received its fair share of praise and negative criticism over the years. Marketed as a family destination in some areas and an historical oasis in others, it firmly remains in the eyes of the world because of its heritage and current political situations. There is no denying that it is unlike other countries, so there are some helpful hints, and tips that will help you have a better travel experience.
Ten Travel Tips for Egypt
Tipping is expected so you should always carry some loose change. Even if the service is not what you expected, it is considered rude not to leave a tip. Bottled water is essential to avoid tummy upset. Never drink from the tap and in the mid-day heat, always carry a small bottle of water around with you to prevent dehydration. For souvenir shopping, learn the art of haggling. If buying in bulk, it can save you a tremendous amount of money. Research the destination you are traveling to, to ensure you pack the correct clothes. While some of the touristic resorts are not adverse to women’s beachwear, in other areas, it is wise to wear trousers and cover your arms to prevent unwanted attention The cultural face of Egypt is vastly different to other countries and if you are not an experienced traveller, you may find it daunting. For your first visit, we recommend our tours with a professional guide who will give you in-depth information from a local to enhance your trip. If you intend to travel to more than one place, research the distance carefully. While road travel is cheap, it can also be tiring because of the long distances between major attractions. Consider using the domestic airline called Egypt Air but book your tickets well in advance. Before setting out from your hotel, make sure you have the name and address, incase you get lost. This way you can easily jump into a taxi to find your way back. A local SIM card is a better option than relying on public phone boxes because in some places, they do not exist and a pre-paid card is needed to use them. Make sure you inform your bank before departing that you will be using your credit / debit card in Egypt. This will ensure any usage does not get flagged up as a security concern. If you are a solo woman traveller, avoid eye contact, dress conservatively and don’t accept food or drink from strange men as it can be perceived as a sign that you are available.
Further Reading
See our wide range of tours and excursions for all destinations in Egypt