Visiting Egypt

Egypt is the world's oldest civilization having emerged from the Nile Valley around 3,100 BC, historically. Egypt is probably one of the oldest vacation spots. Early Greeks, Romans and others went there just for fun, and to see the wonders of some of mankind's earliest triumphs. But Egypt is much more than Pyramids and monuments. It is also Red Sea scuba diving, hot night spots, luxury hotels and five star restaurants. Known for it's romantic cruises down the Nile on festive river boats, mesmerizing nights at the grand opera; it is a cultural experience like none you have ever experienced. Egypt is a land bustling with life, sound, visual beauty and excitement. More than anything else, we want you to think of Egypt as fun. For thousands of years, it has been the playground of emperors and kings, and we hope you will take the time to find out why.

Egypt presents the visitor with many striking contrasts, particularly in its landscape and in the ancient, Christian and Islamic elements of its heritage. Signs of Westernization and tradition are sometimes found in startlingly incongruous juxtaposition, bur more usually the new is adapted to blend harmoniously with the old. The country itself is united by the great river which flows down its entire length, and which indeed the creator of the country.

• Geography: Egypt occupies the Northern corner of Africa. It is bounded by the international frontier of the Mediterranean Sea in the North, of the Red Sea in the East, of the Libya in the west and Sudan in the south.
• Area: The Arab Republic of Egypt has a total area of 1.01 million Km2
• Capital: Cairo
• Population: 81,713,520 (July 2008 est.)
• Languages: Arabic is the native language here. However, the English language is widely spoken and is considered the first foreign language. French, Spanish and Italian are also used in many touristic areas.
• Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP, L.E.)

• Do not expect to find things to be like at home. You left to find things different.
• Do not take anything too seriously. A carefree mind us a vital to a good vacation.
• Do not let other travelers get on your nerve. You paid good money to enjoy yourself.
• Do not forget: you are a representative of your country at all times.
• Try not to worry because he who worries has no fun. Remember that few things in life are fatal.
• Know where your passport is all times because a traveler without a passport is a traveler without a country.
• As a stranger in a strange land, be prepared to do as its people do.
• Do not judge all people of a country by the one person who has given you trouble.
• Learn how to say thank you in Arabic “Shoukran” A sincere thank you, along with a smile, doubles the value of any tip you may give.
• Stock up on sun cream to avoid sunburn, especially between 11 am and 2 pm in summer time...
• Wear sunglasses and a hat to protect your eyes and head.
• Make sure you have a rough idea of where you're going and always have a map or guide book close at hand.
• Respect customs. There are dress rules when visiting mosques, holy places, and some other public places too, so be aware.
• Keep your valuables and all your important documents in a safe place.
• Go for the nearest local Information Tourist Office to get the most of Egypt.
• Check opening and closing times for monuments and museums for they might change during national holidays and Ramadan.
• Take your camera with you. That way you won't be disappointed.
• Don't forget to take enough money with you on your daily outings.
• Don't take anything from the natural habitats that you visit and don't feed the animals.
• Don't get into a taxi without asking the price or use a meter counter Yellow cab in Cairo.
• Don't go on holiday without telling your friends or family how to reach you.
• Don't leave your hotel or any other accommodation without some form of identification.