9 Egypt Traveling Tips You Will Want to Know
Egypt is a country steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Its ancient wonders, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, draw visitors from all over the world, while its stunning Red Sea coastline and bustling cities offer a diverse range of experiences. However, traveling to Egypt can also pose unique challenges, from navigating cultural differences to dealing with the heat and crowds.
To help you make the most of your trip, this article will provide a range of tips for traveling to Egypt, including advice on culture, food, transportation, and more. Whether you’re coming to NET24 Cairo Workshop on March 3, 2023, a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, these tips will help ensure that your trip to Egypt is enjoyable, memorable, and hassle-free.
1. Don’t carry a lot of cash, but be prepared to tip
In Egypt, it is customary to give tips, known as ‘backsheesh’ in some parts of Asia and the Middle East. When dining at cafes and restaurants, it is customary to tip between 10-15% of the total bill, while street vendors and market purchases typically require only loose change. It is also a common practice to leave a small tip for waiters, drivers, and other service providers if you are satisfied with their service. For small purchases, rounding up the bill or declining change is an acceptable way to give a tip.
However, it’s essential to check if a 10% service charge has already been included at restaurants or hotels and consider tipping the wait staff a little extra, as they may not receive any of the service charge.
2. Dress conservatively
It is crucial to show respect for local traditions and customs when traveling, and this is also the case in Egypt. Although there is no specific dress code, it’s essential to avoid drawing unwanted attention that can make others feel uneasy.
Men and women can wear pants and trousers without any issues in Egypt, but it is recommended to choose lighter and more breathable fabrics to cope with the hot weather.
For women, a practical clothing choice that is both modest and comfortable is a maxi dress or long skirt. There is a wide variety of options available that can be mixed and matched, and they also pack easily for travel.
To stay cool in the Egyptian heat and still be respectful to the conservative culture, it’s best to bring clothing that is lightweight, loose-fitting, and comfortable.
3. How to give gifts properly
To celebrate significant events in the lives of close relatives of important business connections, gifts are often given in Egypt. For example, giving a greeting at the beginning of Ramadan would be a greatly appreciated gesture by many Muslims, especially from non-Muslim foreigners.
Egyptians place great value on building and maintaining personal and professional relationships, and gift-giving is an essential part of these long-term connections. Suppliers and vendors often exchange gifts with their clients, such as calendars and items featuring their company logos.
It’s essential to be mindful when visiting the home of a Muslim family and not to bring alcohol, unless you are certain they will consume it.
4. Special dining tips!
It is customary to leave a small amount of food on your plate after finishing a meal, as it is a polite way of indicating that you have eaten well and are satisfied. Additionally, it’s essential to keep in mind that each hand has a distinct purpose: the right hand is generally used for most everyday tasks, while the left hand is reserved for tasks considered “unclean,” such as putting on shoes or wiping oneself after using the restroom.
If you are left-handed, it’s essential to be mindful not to eat with your left hand directly. While using cutlery is a simple solution to this issue, it’s still considered unhygienic to pass food to another person or put food directly into your mouth using your left hand.
5. Weather in Cairo
March, the first month of the spring in Cairo, is a warm month, with an average temperature fluctuating between 11.6°C (52.9°F) and 23.5°C (74.3°F).
Sunrise is at 06:05
Sunset is at 18:04
6. Egyptian Currency
The Egyptian currency is called the Indian Egyptian Pound (EGP).
The current equivalent is:
1 EUR = approximately 32.72 EGP
1 USD = approximately 30.27 EGP
7. Transportation
The best ways to get around Cairo are by metro train or taxi. Egypt’s capital is constantly choked by traffic. But below Cairo’s congested streets, the metro system is clean, affordable and extremely efficient. If you prefer to stay above ground, several fleets of buses can take you where you need to go for very little money.
8. Emergency numbers
General emergency call: 112
Ambulance – 123
Tourist police – 126
9. Plug types
For Egypt there are two associated plug types C and F.
Egypt operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz.
All in all, Egypt is a remarkable country with a rich culture and history that any traveler will find fascinating. While planning your trip, keep in mind the tips discussed in this article to make the most out of your experience.
The B2B educational workshop by NET24 is taking place very soon on March 3, 2023. If you want to connect with worldwide educators and student recruitment agencies, click here to register.
Go ahead and enjoy all the beautiful sights, sounds, and tastes that this incredible country has to offer. Safe travels!
