Egypt has always been one of the favorite destinations for European tourists. However, after the Arab Spring, there was a decrease in security that caused many travelers to change places for their vacations. The truth is that today you can return to the country on Trip to Egypt without worrying too much about security (except in some conflict areas) although it is always useful to know certain details that will make our getaway a little safer.
We must not forget that although in Egypt they are accustomed to Westerners, it is still an Arab country, so there are traditions beyond mere religion those contrasts much with ours. Thus, a respectful and understanding attitude must always be maintained.
Avoid traveling in summer
This is a very important detail to consider before traveling to Egypt. You have to select the dates carefully and avoid the hardest part of the summer. The reason? You cannot go to Egypt without seeing the pyramids, but most of them are in the desert, so very high temperatures are reached that can make it difficult to enjoy your visit. The best time is in spring and autumn.
Remember to have your passport in order
Everything must be in order before entering Egypt. Otherwise, we will have to return to our place of departure. For this, it is recommended that the passport be in force for at least six months before the date of entry into the country, and in most cases (except citizens of some Arab countries) we must request a visa obtained in the airports of the country or at the consulate or embassy, ​​and you must also declare the money you enter into the country when you pass through customs.
Take enough money
In Egypt, the Egyptian pound is used, which in turn is divided into 100 piasters. In addition, each euro costs approximately 18 pounds (at the close of this edition), although this change may vary over time.
Since you are not allowed to take pounds out of the country, it is advisable to travel with euros or dollars enough to change there in offices, banks and even hotels. It is wise to ask for fractional money with bills and small coins to leave tips. However, in large hotels and surfaces, credit cards are accepted.
Be careful with the photographs
It is necessary to be respectful with the taking of photographs in Egypt. While you are outdoors, there are usually no problems, but inside the tombs and museums, they cannot be done. It is good to be attentive to restrictive signs so as not to be mistaken.
You also have to be careful with people's photographs. There are people who charge to let themselves take pictures, so it is important to ask first.
Get ready to haggle
If you don't mind paying more than a product is really worth, then don't worry about haggling. Otherwise, rest assured that you will have to negotiate with local merchants to get a good price for your memories and purchases.
Be respectful of their customs
In general, the Egyptians are respectful and pleasant people who do anything to please the visitor. Of course, you have to be patient, because everything does not always go well at first. It is not a very organized country despite the fact that they do a lot of their part, so do not be overwhelmed if you are involved in traffic chaos. In the end, you always get ahead.
Don't take anything
It is important not to catch anything in Egypt. Many people want to take a stone from the monuments, but the police are quite attentive to this because there have been enough robberies in previous years.
Beware of religious rules
While the Egyptians are very accustomed to seeing Westerners (and increasingly oriental), do not forget that it is a Muslim country. Especially in the case of women, even if it is very hot (and generally so), they should always worry about wearing clothes that do not unnecessarily expose certain parts of the body, so shorts and short blouses should be avoided.
Accept punctuality
In Egypt, if any place is to meet you at some time, add enough time to that as a precaution, and do not be surprised if it appears some hours late or does not appear at all. Try to organize for this, and if you are going to spend a few days in the country you can buy a local telephone chip, in order to be more communicated with the locals.
Learn some words in Arabic
The Arabic language is considered one of the most difficult to learn but that should not limit you to learn some basic words such as greetings, farewells and others. For example, "thank you" is said shokran (show-Krahn ') and "good morning" is said saba al khir (sah-bah' al - khear '). In doing so, you will get more of a smile on the premises and they will certainly appreciate it.