10 Tips For Travel In Egypt

Use these 10 tips for travel in Egypt and make your trip even more enjoyable. Egypt is quite a culture shock for many tourists. But when you travel in Egypt you can also see some of the most fascinating historical sites the world.

1. Clothing. Because of the heat in Egypt, wear natural fabrics that breathe such as cotton or silk. Wear loose flowing garments for natural ventilation and cover the neck and head to prevent heat stroke. Wear comfortable shoes as many places you will visit require some walking and have uneven surfaces.
2. Packing. Travel light by packing only the essentials. Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes and sun block to protect your skin from the strong sun in Egypt. Bring your camera to capture the sights.
3. Visa. Apply for a visa before you go. Contact the nearest Egyptian embassy or Egyptian consulate in the US. Under certain circumstances, such as US citizens living abroad, may be able to get a visa when they arrive.
4. Tipping. You will need small notes to tip anyone who provides a service when you travel in Egypt.  Small notes (1's, 5's, 10's) are difficult to find. It is difficult to get change even at banks or money exchanges. So when you find them, stock up on them.
5. Go off-season. If you want less crowds and better prices go in the summer. Summer in Egypt is hotter than the winter but the throngs of tourists may be worth the heat.
6. Be respectful. When you travel in Egypt, remember that you are in a Muslim country. Public displays of affection and wearing revealing clothing are frowned upon. Beware that they consider homosexuality a crime.
7. Take a tour. Consider taking a guided tour with an Egyptologist to see historical attractions or with an experienced guide to see local artisans. Ask at your hotel for a recommendation or ask other travelers which tours they enjoyed. Be wary of buying a tour from someone who approaches you on the street.
8. Drink lots of water. Because of the heat, be sure that you drink plenty of water. In Egypt you can buy bottled water much cheaper in a local shop than in the hotel.
9. Traders. You will be approached many times by people begging or trying to sell you something. Learn to simply say, “La Shukran” (no thank you). Be polite, these are poor people just trying to feed their families. Report anyone who really hassles you to the Tourist Police.
10. Security. When entering some sites in Egypt you will have to line up to go through a metal detector or have your bags searched. If video equipment is taken it will be returned to you when you exit.