Egypt is a country of contrasts, old and new blending together, tall minarets &modern buildings are standing together with huge temples & great pyramids& this can be seen everywhere on a daily basis. Truly a country rich inHistory and Culture, the prices are reasonable,. The people are friendly and hospitable, and crime is rare. Once you are in Egypt, you will never feel as astranger. we are providing some traveler's information that we hope will assistyou in your journey.

 

 

Language:


Arabic is the official language in Egypt; however, English and French are widely spoken in all major tourists cities

 

Currency:


The Egyptian Pound is divided in 100 Piasters .Our currency is available in notes and coins. Currency notes are divided to 5, 10, 20, 50,100 and 200 pounds notes. Coins are available in 25, and 50 Piasters.

 

Electricity:


Electric current in Egypt is 220 Volts, also the outlets require a two-pronged rounded plug, not flat. So please if you have 110 Volt appliances, do not forget your adapter.

People:


The population is made up of mainly Moslems and Coptic Christians. The main day of worship is Fridays, which is their weekend holiday. Government offices, Institutions, and Banks close Fridays and Saturdays. Tea(Shei) is the main drink of the Egyptians, and is served frequently with mint. Egyptians keep themselves and their homes very clean. Cairo in particular is a 24 hour city when most stores and activities go on around the clock non-stop Its common form of greeting to see men or women holding hands, linking arms, and embracing on the cheek with  others of the same sex. This is their culture and there are no sexual overtures to it. Men and women do not show affection to each other in public. It is acceptable to hold, or link arms with your partner in public, but that is it. To be on the safe side, and so as not to offend, it is best to follow what you see.

 

Tipping


In Arabic it is called Backshish. We have 12% service charge usually included in most hotels & restaurants bills; however, you are expected to add a little extra.

Climate:


Egypt's climate is characterized by a hot season from May to September,  Summers are hot at mid-day, but cool-off at night with a constant desert breeze. The best season is from October to April when the temperature is comfortable by day and cool by night, Clothing Dress modestly in Cairo and off beach cities, Bathing suits should only be worn on beaches. Women should cover their arms and legs while visiting mosques. In summer, loose cotton clothing may be the most comfortable. Conservative clothing is the preferred wearing apparel

Transportation:


Taxis and Limousines are widely available in all major cities in Egypt; however, there are many less expensive alternatives in most cities, e.g. Subway, Metros, Trains, and Buses. It is not advisable to use taxis in traveling between cities, as Planes, Buses, and trains are accessible for a modest fee.

 

Buses:


Street buses are a basic, but a cheap means of getting around. Buses between cities are of a higher standard, and have bathroom, Videos, central air-condition and a waitress service onboard for longer trips.

 

Trains:

 

On day trains it is well worth paying the extra for First Class, still very reasonably priced. The seats are comfortable, reclining, almost like flying first class on a plane. There is a trolley wait service for snacks, sandwiches and drinks. The night sleeper trains are owned by Carlson Wagon lit and are quite comfortable. Beds are one up and one down bunk beds. Adjoining carriages are available for families. An adequate dinner and breakfast are served directly to the cabin as part of the price. Drinks with the meals are not included other than coffee with breakfast. There is a wash sink in each cabin, toilets at the end of each carriage. Luggage is stored overhead in your cabin.