Top 10 Things you Should Know when Traveling to Egypt

Everyone who visits Egypt needs to have a visa. Similar to traveling abroad to any other country, it is recommended that you get your Egyptian visa prior to your trip. If, for some reason, you don’t get your visa beforehand, you can easily, and cheaply obtain one at the airport when you arrive in Egypt. There are marked kiosks for visas and visas costs around $25.

Driving and walking can be very dangerous in Cairo, Egypt’s most populous city. Expect rush hour traffic at all times of the day. The rough roads, the large number of cars on the road, lack of traffic enforcement and confusing layouts lead to vehicles speeding around every which way. At any given moment a 15 minute drive can turn into a 2-hour long, unpleasant endeavor. If you’re traveling apart from a tour group, it is highly recommended you use Uber as you’ll get prompt service at a rate lower than that of taxis.

The US dollar goes far in Egypt. The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound and it takes roughly 17 of them to make one US dollar. With a favorable exchange rate one can easily find transportation and food for mere US cents and luxury hotel accommodations for around $150 a night.

Islam is the predominant religion in Egypt and as a result, the culture is very conservative. One will not likely see couples kissing or holding hands in public and the selling and consumption of alcohol may be limited or prohibited in some areas and neighborhoods. Women tourists should cover their arms and legs and possibly their heads. Women won’t shake hands, hug or touch men with whom they aren’t related to. There may also be dietary restrictions and other religious rituals such as a daily call to prayer to be mindful of. Depending on when you travel there may be religious holidays and festivals happening which offer a more enriching experience.

Throughout Egypt, bread is often called “aish” which is Egyptian Arabic for “life.” Bread has been a staple of the Egyptian diet for centuries, being sustenance for both the rich and poor. If you go to a sit-down restaurant, regardless of whether it’s a causal café or a 5-star establishment, aish baladi, or “peasant bread” is served as an appetizer. These disc-shaped pita bread served with a mezze spread.

The Egyptian economy relies heavily on tourism and he US dollar is highly preferred over the Egyptian pound. While one can pay for things using a credit card, purchases are easier and quicker when cash is used. If you’re buying souvenirs in a public market or eating lunch at a small family-owned eatery cash may be the only payment option.

Photo Credit: By Revised by Reworked - Own work, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9563805

As the country’s most populous city as well as being the center of business, commerce and entertainment, Cairo offers a nearly unlimited supply of cafes, restaurants, museums, shops, theaters, parks, bars and more. With so much going on as well as the great diversity of people in the city, Cairo has come to be Egypt’s version of the “city that never sleeps.” In Egypt’s city center, it isn’t uncommon to find many places open through the early morning hours.

Like in the US, it is expected you tip your waiter, taxi driver, tour guide and hotel housekeeper. Additionally, you should also tip your baggage carriers, valets, parking attendants and others who provide you with a service. Not tipping is greatly looked down upon and is considered a sign of disrespect. Tips usually range from 5-10 Egyptian pounds.

Over the last few years, there has been a negative stigma about terrorism, insecurity and instability in Egypt. Unfortunately, this negative stigma still exists, discouraging many tourists from visiting and experiencing this great country. With a bulk of its economy depending on tourism, great efforts have been made to make Egypt a safe place to visit. With heightened security at the airport, in hotels and public places, tourists have less to be worried about. The increased police presence has also reduced crime and theft. For tourists who are still leery, visiting Egypt with a tour group will increase the level of security.

Additionally, Egyptians are nice people and are always pleased to help. If you are lost or are looking for recommendations, many Egyptians will gladly give you directions and recommendations.

Egyptian Arabic is the most commonly spoken language in Egypt. This form of Arabic is the standard used in Middle-Eastern movies, television, books and news media. Learning the basics of Egyptian Arabic before your trip can enhance your cultural experience. Egyptians enjoy conversing with visitors and tourists who attempt to speak to them in their native language. Though your conversations with locals you’ll also better your Arabic speaking skills, comprehension, and vocabulary.

Egypt is a safe, memorable place to visit. Before you embark on this bucket list adventure, you must be mindful of things such as allowing extra time, the culture, getting a visa and carrying cash. It is also helpful to have a basic knowledge of Arabic beforehand. Arab Academy is a world-recognized online Arabic language school that teaches Egyptian Arabic for children and adults or all experience levels. Contact us today to learn more.