Egypt

Everyone knows something about Egypt - images of the pyramids and an ancient culture are widely known. But Egypt is also a country of contrasts, old and new blending together, which can be seen everywhere on a daily basis.

Rich in history and culture, the Egyptian people are friendly and hospitable, and crime is rare. To help you better understand what to expect and to ensure that you get the most out of your trip, here is some information about the country.

Climate

Cairo's weather is mild in winter, hot in summer. Summers and winters are dry. Rain is rare even in winter and sand storms are common in spring. Expect temperatures in the high 90s during summer months and mid to high 60s in the winter months.

Drinks

Please note that drinks are not included with any meals in Egypt, this includes water and soft drinks. Coffee or teas are served for free with breakfast but all other drinks must be paid for. It is important to check the prices of drinks before you order.

Although local water is treated it is best for the traveller to drink bottled water which is freely available. Be careful of fruit juices as these may be diluted with local water rather than filtered or mineral water.

Money & Tipping

Egypt is a cash community so don't go expecting to be able to use credit cards as widely as you would in Europe or North America. ATM machines, cashing money on credit card, or changing traveler's checks are accessible at major hotels as well as any bank in the streets. The US Dollar is well received almost everywhere.

Tipping (baksheesh) is a general practice everywhere (even amongst the Egyptians themselves), and will ensure extra services at monuments, museums etc. If you have a guide with you, check with him beforehand where tipping is expected. Guides normally take care of any baksheesh at tourist attractions, as well as for included meals etc.

It is customary to tip guides and drivers at the end of the tour, reckon on approximately US $3 for the driver per day and US $3-5 for each guide per person per day, the same for cabin services and waiters on cruise ships and restaurants. The best way is to use an envelope, and put in the tip with a little note if appropriate and hand it to them in person at the end of their services.

Shopping

Shopping can be great fun in Cairo, whether for an everyday souvenir or for something a little more valuable. Egypt has many malls with boutique style stores but no department stores that could be compared to those in Europe and North America. Street markets, food carts and small stores are everywhere and they are the normal way of shopping in Egypt.

Some items that make great souvenirs : Gold Cartouche's: with your name in hieroglyphics,
Papyrus Pictures: again you can have your name put on in hieroglyphics, Clothing made from Egyptian cotton. Hand-made Carpets and Wall hangings, alabaster carvings.

Unique Perfume Essences: these are wonderful. Many French perfume houses source their supplies from Egypt, and in the perfume shops pure essential oils are for sale.

Check over any purchase carefully, you may ask your guide for advice but the final price and quality of any articles you purchase are your own responsibility.