Egypt

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Do's and Don'ts

 

Do's

• A Nile Dinner Cruise - considered touristy but worth it if you don't have the time for a full Nile Cruise.
• Ask for recommendations for designated shops with a government seal guaranteeing an original Egyptian product.  At bazaar's most things are dupes, but the vibe is amazing
• Bargaining - polite haggling is encouraged to get the best deal
• Carry small bills for easy transactions and tipping
• Support the Nubian community by going to the Philae temple.  For some this is their main source of income along with jewelry made from wood or camel bone.
• Dress Accordingly - casual dress with comfortable shoes is acceptable, shorts and short sleeved shirts are suitable for both men and women.

Dont's

• Skip weather warnings.  Pay attention to weather forecasts, especially during rare extreme conditions.
• Don't ignore dress codes especially when visiting religious sites.  Aswan tends to be more traditional and conservative than Luxor so keep this in mind.
• Don't drink tap water!  Only consume bottled water (including brushing your teeth).
• Don't add last minute activities to ensure safety and quality.
• Don't use your left hand for greetings to avoid cultural insensitivity.
• Don't miss local markets

 

The River Nile - best time to visit September thru May.  Along the Nile you can visit, Luxor.  The world's largest open air museum featuring grand temples of Karnak, the Valley of the Kings/Queens.  Aswan has exquisite landscapes and tranquil beauty including the majestic Philae Temple. Abu Simbel where colossal rock temples of Ramses II show off Egyptian engineering.  Sphinx avenue is a remarkable path connecting Karnak and Luxor lined with sphinx statues of historical significance.  Tip: get to know the Nubians, local indigenous people.

Cairo and Giza - visit between September and May.  Places to see - Historical Cairo and Downtown Cairo.  Immerse yourself in rich history, vibrant culture, gourmet dining and lively nightlife.  The Grand Egyptian Museum takes you through Egypt's ancient history.  Giza where you can view the splendor of the Pyramids and St Simon Monastery is unique carved into the Mokattam hills.

Deserts and Oases - St Catherine is the ancient trail Moses was said to walk.  Fayoum is Egypt's best kept secret with lakes, waterfalls, pyramid ruins and Unesco's Whale Valley.  Wadi Al-Natrun is Holy Christian sites with ancient monasteries in desert landscapes.  Siwa Oasis is a natural spring desert sanctuary.  Al-Bahariyya with stuning white desert and black desert formations.  Al-Dakhla and Al-Kharga Oases is an adventure amidst lush palms groves and ancient ruins.

The Egyptian Med - best month to visit is between March - June and September - November.  Here you will find Alexandria, once a metropolitan city that now blends ancient history with modern elegance.  North Coast and Al-Alamein has some luxury beach vacations for a relaxing retreat.  Marsa Matrouh is a classic old world summer getaway perfect for families.  El Montaza Palace with opulent gardens and royal history filled with regal architecture and lush landscapes.  Rosetta (Rashid) is where the famous Rosetta Stone was discovered.

The Red Sea -  All months with the exception of January and February are best to visit..  Five star seaside resorts can be found at Sharm El Sheikh.  Great scuba diving is at Hurghada.  El Gouna has upscale accommodations and pristine beaches.  Dahab is more laid back with a bohemian vide and great watersports.  Marsa Alam is a tranquil location with less crowded beaches and the chance to swim with Dolphins.  Soma Bay is a luxurious seaside destination with some great golf courses and spa's.