FAQ's and Ideas (suggestions) for things you might want to bring or have with you.
Most Pressing Question
Q: Is it safe to Travel in Egypt?
A: Many U.S. travelers think negatively when it comes to safety issues about traveling to Egypt due to concerns for traveling in other Middle Eastern Countries. Air travel has probably never been safer than it is now. Once you are in Egypt, the Egyptian people are warm, hospitable, and for the most part, genuinely delighted to interact with us. Since the change in the government, they are excited for our return and happy to see us. Tourism is the mainstay of the Egyptian economy, and the security precautions the new Egyptian government has put in place to protect tourists are impressive. If seeing Egypt has always been your dream, this is a good time to turn the dream into reality, especially now since there are not so many crowds everywhere you look. We have our own private escorts with us at all times with our own private transportation. We are extremely protected and looked after very well.
MONEY AND CURRENCY EXCHANGE: The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound, You will have no difficulty exchanging U.S. dollars into Egyptian pounds. Many banks in Egyptian hotels are open around the clock. We recommend waiting until you are in Egypt to exchange money. Traveler's checks are more of a hassle because you are required to show your passport in order to cash them, and many shops will not accept them. Hotels and some larger shops will take VISA (not as many take MasterCard). ATM's are available . A money belt or other safe, secure means of carrying money and documents is advisable and easier handling for you. Once currency is exchanged, it helps to carry many one and five pound notes for gifting and tipping. IMPORTANT NOTE: Be sure to let you credit card companies know you are traveling so you can more easily use your card instead of carrying larger sums of money with you at times. They will need to know the where you are traveling ex:, London to Cairo and when (depart and return dates of the journey).
DOCUMENTS: All are required to have a passport that is valid for 6 months beyond the return date, to be carried on your person or stored safely at all times. A visa is required for entry into Egypt. If you are a US, Canadian or British citizen or a member of the EU, you can bring $20-$25 in cash and we will get it for you at the airport in Cairo (no picture is necessary). Or You can also get a visa from your nearest Egyptian embassy, It ‘s always a good idea to photocopy the picture page to carry in a separate place in case of loss and to also keep a copy at home.
Adaptor plugs are the standard European type with two round pins. An adaptor is adequate for most appliances. A converter is optional but required for certain appliances.
CLIMATE/CLOTHING: The climate in Egypt is dry year around. October, November, December are perfect times to visit Egypt with the daytime temperature average in the 70 - 85+F ranges..The evenings get quite cool, especially on the river, and you will need a wrap at night. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for layers in the daytime. A light jacket or sweater for early morning and evening and also for the air conditioning. Wear comfortable walking shoes, there will be a lot of walking at times. Pants are certainly acceptable for the women and are definitely recommended for camel or horseback riding. Shoes that cover your ankles are good for riding also. Casual is acceptable for most evenings and evening cruise wear for the dinner on the Nile evening. We certainly have opportunities here to be festive, and we will have a chance to shop where wonderful, fun clothing can be purchased. Egyptians are very used to tourist and their attire however; it is a conservative country for the most part. Ladies, if you prefer to keep their shoulders covered when outside it is totally up to you. It is a nice gesture but not required. And just so you know, there are some beautiful shawls available in Egypt which you could wear and really enjoy if you want.
There are no inoculation requirements for persons with flights originating in the US or Europe. However, it is advisable to consult your physician regarding your personal needs. Doctors and medical facilities are available to us. Be sure to bring any personal supplies plus any medication needed. Remember to keep medications handy in carry-on, not packed away in luggage, if they meet TSA standards. Check online for current TSA restrictions.
All Toiletries (must be compliant with TSA rules or placed in checked luggage)
Do not drink the tap water in Egypt! Drink only bottled water, and use bottled water to brush your teeth. Bottled water is readily available everywhere. Diarrhea is not uncommon but drink bottled water and you should be very safe. You also can take megadophilus or acidophilus daily for at least one month prior to travel and for the duration of the trip if you prefer.
You might want to take:
Lomatil, Pepto Bismal or other diarrhea medication of personal preference but local medications are available.
Earplugs (can be very helpful since we are not used to all the local noises in the streets of Egypt)
Tissues — many public toilets lack paper
Wash n’ Dry towelettes are refreshing
Washcloth (sometimes not available in rooms)
Camera
Travel with an open mind. The cultural differences that you will experience are part of the adventure. You will find the Egyptian people welcoming and eager to help make your journey everything you hoped for. Embrace the exuberant quality of Egyptian life, smile and relax, and soon you will feel comfortable and at home as you move through our magical mystery tour. Bring with you your Intention, focus, and especially your sense of humor and sense of adventure.
A: Many U.S. travelers think negatively when it comes to safety issues about traveling to Egypt due to concerns for traveling in other Middle Eastern Countries. Air travel has probably never been safer than it is now. Once you are in Egypt, the Egyptian people are warm, hospitable, and for the most part, genuinely delighted to interact with us. Since the change in the government, they are excited for our return and happy to see us. Tourism is the mainstay of the Egyptian economy, and the security precautions the new Egyptian government has put in place to protect tourists are impressive. If seeing Egypt has always been your dream, this is a good time to turn the dream into reality, especially now since there are not so many crowds everywhere you look. We have our own private escorts with us at all times with our own private transportation. We are extremely protected and looked after very well.
MONEY AND CURRENCY EXCHANGE: The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound, You will have no difficulty exchanging U.S. dollars into Egyptian pounds. Many banks in Egyptian hotels are open around the clock. We recommend waiting until you are in Egypt to exchange money. Traveler's checks are more of a hassle because you are required to show your passport in order to cash them, and many shops will not accept them. Hotels and some larger shops will take VISA (not as many take MasterCard). ATM's are available . A money belt or other safe, secure means of carrying money and documents is advisable and easier handling for you. Once currency is exchanged, it helps to carry many one and five pound notes for gifting and tipping. IMPORTANT NOTE: Be sure to let you credit card companies know you are traveling so you can more easily use your card instead of carrying larger sums of money with you at times. They will need to know the where you are traveling ex:, London to Cairo and when (depart and return dates of the journey).
DOCUMENTS: All are required to have a passport that is valid for 6 months beyond the return date, to be carried on your person or stored safely at all times. A visa is required for entry into Egypt. If you are a US, Canadian or British citizen or a member of the EU, you can bring $20-$25 in cash and we will get it for you at the airport in Cairo (no picture is necessary). Or You can also get a visa from your nearest Egyptian embassy, It ‘s always a good idea to photocopy the picture page to carry in a separate place in case of loss and to also keep a copy at home.
Adaptor plugs are the standard European type with two round pins. An adaptor is adequate for most appliances. A converter is optional but required for certain appliances.
CLIMATE/CLOTHING: The climate in Egypt is dry year around. October, November, December are perfect times to visit Egypt with the daytime temperature average in the 70 - 85+F ranges..The evenings get quite cool, especially on the river, and you will need a wrap at night. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for layers in the daytime. A light jacket or sweater for early morning and evening and also for the air conditioning. Wear comfortable walking shoes, there will be a lot of walking at times. Pants are certainly acceptable for the women and are definitely recommended for camel or horseback riding. Shoes that cover your ankles are good for riding also. Casual is acceptable for most evenings and evening cruise wear for the dinner on the Nile evening. We certainly have opportunities here to be festive, and we will have a chance to shop where wonderful, fun clothing can be purchased. Egyptians are very used to tourist and their attire however; it is a conservative country for the most part. Ladies, if you prefer to keep their shoulders covered when outside it is totally up to you. It is a nice gesture but not required. And just so you know, there are some beautiful shawls available in Egypt which you could wear and really enjoy if you want.
There are no inoculation requirements for persons with flights originating in the US or Europe. However, it is advisable to consult your physician regarding your personal needs. Doctors and medical facilities are available to us. Be sure to bring any personal supplies plus any medication needed. Remember to keep medications handy in carry-on, not packed away in luggage, if they meet TSA standards. Check online for current TSA restrictions.
All Toiletries (must be compliant with TSA rules or placed in checked luggage)
Do not drink the tap water in Egypt! Drink only bottled water, and use bottled water to brush your teeth. Bottled water is readily available everywhere. Diarrhea is not uncommon but drink bottled water and you should be very safe. You also can take megadophilus or acidophilus daily for at least one month prior to travel and for the duration of the trip if you prefer.
You might want to take:
Lomatil, Pepto Bismal or other diarrhea medication of personal preference but local medications are available.
Earplugs (can be very helpful since we are not used to all the local noises in the streets of Egypt)
Tissues — many public toilets lack paper
Wash n’ Dry towelettes are refreshing
Washcloth (sometimes not available in rooms)
Camera
Travel with an open mind. The cultural differences that you will experience are part of the adventure. You will find the Egyptian people welcoming and eager to help make your journey everything you hoped for. Embrace the exuberant quality of Egyptian life, smile and relax, and soon you will feel comfortable and at home as you move through our magical mystery tour. Bring with you your Intention, focus, and especially your sense of humor and sense of adventure.
