General Information About Egypt

General Information About Egypt



Language :
The official language is Arabic, however, English and French are widely spoken .

Shopping :
Shops are generally open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., however, they have extended hours during the summer.
Khan El Khalili, cairo's famous bazaar, and similar shopping places have more flexible hours. Best shopping times are late morning and early evening. Bargaining is a common practice in all bazaars and can be fun. You may be offered tea or a soft drink, and when the deal is set, everyone will be smiling and happy.

Dress :
Conservative dress women with at least half sleeve is more appropriate in town, especially when visting mosques and churches. In summer, loose cotton clothing may be the most comfortable. Bare shoulders, extremely casual clothing, and comfortable walking shoes are essential for sightseeing.

Local Transportation :
Taxis and limousines are available at all hotels. Taxis are available at major hotels and usually have fixed rates for certain destinations. The bellman or the hotel information desk may be able to give you a reasonable estimate of the fares. Taxis are generally less expensive, but it is common for them to take in other passengers going the same direction. For the most part, however, they are perfectly reliable and a good bargain. When you hire them, it is best to negotiate the fare in advance.
Local buses are available to all places from the buses stations distributed all over Cairo and other big cities.

Photography:
Egypt is the perfect place for enthusiastic photographers. However, photography is strictly prohibited at military installations public works and government buildings. Some museums and historical sites may not allow photography while others may require a fee .

Passport-Visa :
All visitors must have valid passports. Visas can also be authorized at airports of entry. Visitors must register with tourist police within 7 days of arrival hotels take care of this service upon check-in. In any case, contact the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate in your home country before making your travel plans.

Health regulations :
Vaccinations may be required against yellow fever if arriving within 6 days after leaving or transiting infected areas. Children under one year old are exempt. Persons without a valid yellow fever certificated - if required as above are subject to quarantine. Other vaccinations may also be required or recommmneded. Please check with the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate in your home country before making your travel plans.

Currency and exchange :
The Egyptian pound (L.E.) are equal to 100 piastres. Currency notes are in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 L.E. Coins are available in 5, 10, 20, 25, and 50 Piasters. There is no mandatory exchange upon entry, however, all Egyptian currency must be accompanied by an official exchange receipt when paying hotel bills. Bank branches are conveniently located at ports of entry, and in all major hotels. .

Climate :
Egyptian climate is basically dry and mild. Summers are hot at mid-day, but cool off at night with a constant desert breeze. Winters are mild during the day, but can be quite cold at night. Check out the average season temperature . Rain is rare and is mainly in the winter. In the spring, there can be an occasional sand storm,