Egypt Useful Information
Introduction Herodotus once said "nowhere are there so many marvellous things", and Egypt certainly fits this profile. From the Nile to ancient structures such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the profusion of art and architecture continues to draw crowds to ancient monuments such as the Sphinx and ancient Luxor. This cradle of civilisation is a living museum which attributes its mysteries to its ancient and current culture. Walk through history, past the numerous temples throughout the country including Abu Simbel, the location of Rames II four colossal statues. Wherever you turn in Egypt, you will be amazed by the history, the culture and the friendliness of the locals. Visit the stunning resorts of the Red Sea, admire the Temples of Karnak, Philae or many other towns throughout the country,glimpse the painted tombs in the Valley of the Kings and appreciate Luxor, the world's largest open air museum. Enjoy the hospitality of one of the oldest civilisations in the world. Population Egypt's population is estimated to be approximately 82 million in 2008. Time Zone The time zone of Egypt is two (2) hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time, and therefore, is approximately 7 hours behind AEST during summer and 9 hours behind during winter. Official Language Arabic is the country's official language, however, English is understood in most hotels, restaurants and tourist areas. Currency The Egyptian Pound is the official currency; however the US dollar and Euro are widely accepted. Most credit cards are accepted and ATM's are available. Our suggestion is to travel with Australian currency and convert into Egyptian Pounds in Egypt. Your Tour Guides will assist with currency conversion. Climate Egypt has a climate varying dependant to the area from hot to dry to Mediterranean along the coastline. The country is hot and dry except during the winter months of December to February. During the summer months of July and August, temperatures can reach 41 degrees especially in the south, but temperatures generally stay around 35 degrees. The best months to travel are between October and May, due to the slightly cooler temperatures making more suitable for sightseeing. Our tour does travel to St Katherine's where the temperature does drop dramatically in the evening and early morning. Be mindful of this if you decide to experience the early morning climb of Mt Sinai. You will need a warm jacket, gloves and a warm hat. Electricity 220 volts, 50hz, as in Australia. A 2 pronged cylindrical plug adaptor is required. Food The Egyptians have always loved their food and still enjoy most foods eaten thousands of years ago. Today Egyptian cuisine is excellent combining aspects of many different cultures which have inhabited Egypt at one time or another. Some of the national specialities include Foul (beans), stuffed vine leaves, grilled Aubergines (eggplant) and kebabs, while some other dishes include Fesieekh (salted and dried fish), aish bread ( a pita like bread) and kofta ( a spicy, minced lamb). Visas A visa is required when travelling to Egypt. We suggest that our tour group members obtain their visa on arrival at Cairo airport. The tour guide in Cairo will assist with visa requirements and procedures on arrival. The cost is USD$20.00 and must be paid in US dollars. Tipping Salaries are low and as such tipping, or baksheesh, is expected for almost every service provided. The tour guide in Cairo will collect AUD$150.00 per person for tipping. This is a compulsory payment and cannot be prepaid before departure. Shopping Try your bargaining skills at the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar bursting with spices, copper materials, perfumes, clothes and trinkets such as gold and silver jewellery.Purchase Alabaster in Luxor but don't forget some Mother of Pearl products and delicate glass blown perfume bottles. If you like art, pick up fine Papyrus artwork depicting classical Egyptian scenes. What to pack Don't forget your hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. A small Umbrella would be handy as some sites have no shade. Anti-bacterial hand wipes are very handy for personal hygiene and a small packet of disposable tissues are handy as some toilets do not have paper. Ensure you have spare batteries for cameras and any other battery operated devices. Remember to pack your mobile phone charger. What to wear Don't forget your swimmers, it is always warm enough to swim. There is no need to dress formally. Make sure you pack comfortable clothes and good walking shoes. You will need a warm jacket, gloves and a warm hat for St Katherine's. Dress is smart casual for dinner in the hotels and on the Nile cruise. Do not hesitate to pack walking shorts and sleeveless tops. There is a few places were you will need to wear long pants and cover your shoulders. A pashmina or shawl is very handy for this. Your guide will advise the day before so you are prepared. |
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