Language - Arabic
Dress code - even in a tourist destination, women specially should consider the following: dress modestly and gain more respect! (In other words: no bare shoulders or bare knees - specially leaving the hotel).
Tea Invitation - there is a good chance that you will get invited by Egyptians for tea (shay), a soft drink or even be asked to share some food with them. This is not a sales trick, it just expresses their natural hospitality. If you can't accept, you of course can deny, but please do so in a friendly way.
Tipping Advice - Egyptians are very friendly people and will assist whenever they can. But even if they might not ask tipping is always very much appreciated. It is expected by the vendors. Otherwise you might pay too much! There are only a few shops that have fixed prices.
Whats your name - or "where are you from" are typical first approaches especially from salesmen almost anywhere you go. If answering this be prepared for further questions...or you firmly but friendly state " la shokran" (no thanks) and you should be left alone.
Public Affection - although this is very common in Europe it is not in Egypt! Please try and avoid it as it will not be appreciated.
Shells & Corals - belong in the sea, and they should stay there. It is forbidden to touch or even take them to the surface. Please follow this law as it helps to protect the envoronment.
Minibuses - this is a common way to travel short distances around town, and the cheapest. make sure that you have small change with you and tell the driver politely that you are not willing to pay any more before entering the bus. Try to avoid empty buses as they may try to charge higher taxi rates. In the case of a problem just threaten to call the tourist police (or even do it).
Taxis - taxis are much cheaper than Europe and are available anywhere. Agree the fare before entering, as they don't use meters.
Sun - the sun is very strong in Egypt, always make sure you use sun protection and especially in the summer season choose shaded places during the midday hours.
Water - as your body is loosing a lot of fluid try to drink an average of 3 litres of water per day to avoid dehydration.
Tap Water - it is safe to shower and wash your teeth in the water from your hotel, for everything else use bottled water.
Pharmacies - medicine in Egypt is quite low in price and pharmacies are well equipped. Although local drugs are quite efficient, avoid taking them without medical consultancy.
Doctors - the bigger hotels have doctors on call. Otherwise please ask your guest relation or reception for assistance. there is an abundance of doctors - either in private clinics or in the hospitals themselves.
Hospitals - there are a number of well equipped hospitals with high standards and qualified doctors. Most of these hospitals will be accepted by your medical insurance company, please note that for your first examination you may have to pay upfront.
