How to Travel to Egypt

The Nile River area of Egypt is known for its famous ancient civilizations, monuments and artifacts. Modern Cairo, built along the Nile, continues to attract people who appreciate Egypt's role in history. Follow these travel tips plus recognize how history and the present interact to enjoy your trip.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Name a nearby landmark to direct a taxi driver. Street addresses are not normally used to locate hotels, museums and restaurants. Give more details when you get closer to your destination; this will eliminate confusion between you and the driver. Postal codes are used, but like street names, they are not commonly used.
2. Ask directions several times. Lacking a clear understanding where something is will cause problems later. Skip the embarrassment about needing extra time and help to process information. Several people on the same block will give entirely different directions to a destination, usually out of a desire to be helpful.
3. Avoid taking photographs of government buildings. This action is seen as threatening to national security, leading to confrontations with passersby and security personnel.
4. Signal your presence by honking your horn. Otherwise, other drivers may be unaware that you are there. Egyptians frequently honk their horns to warn other drivers of their location, to tell other drivers to move out of the way, to signal a turn and to signal a desire to pass.
5. Wear conservative clothing for churches and mosques. Women need to bring a light scarf to place over their heads, if a head covering is required.
6. Refuse dog-eared money. Many vendors will not take it. Politely give the worn bills back and ask for newer bills.
7. Follow local etiquette. It is considered rude to put one's feet on a table or any other furniture. The taboo against using one's left hand at communal meals has virtually disappeared because using utensils is the norm. However, use your right hand if you share food with someone.
8. Don't drink the water. The major health risk for travelers to Egypt is "gippy tummy" which causes mild to severe diarrhea. Drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled for at least 10 minutes. Avoid uncooked vegetables that have high water content (watermelon, lettuce and green salads). Avoid ice in drinks.
9. Avoid locally-produced alcoholic beverages. Alcohol poisoning is not unheard of in Egypt because quality control is a problem. Do not accept alcohol to someone's house as a guest gift unless you are sure of what the hosts drink.
10. Watch out for offers to take you to a shop. Offers to take you somewhere are mostly harmless; most people will treat you with genuine honest and kindness. There are exceptions though. The offers usually come from unofficial guides who make a percentage from the shop owner who also makes money from any purchase you make.
11. Recognize the difference between a police officer and a dangerous scam artist. Police impersonators will ask to see your wallet and/passport then leave with whatever is given them. Refuse to turn over your passport to anyone who claims to be a police officer but fails to produce official identification. Refuse to get into an unmarked "police" car.