During your Visit

Any world traveler should familiarize themselves with what they should and should not do to ensure they are being sensitive to the norms of their destination while simultaneously acting in the safest way possible.

A major part of Egypt’s identity is the fact that it’s a tourist economy, a hub that attracts travelers from every corner of the globe. Accordingly, a major part of Egypt’s infrastructure caters to the well-being and enjoyment of its guests, but, there are of course those who want to take advantage of this. Thus, to ensure you get the most out your trip, ensure that you utilize the services of registered tour operators and agents to organize city tours and the like.

In addition, societal and cultural conventions should be followed to guarantee the best possible experience, such as taking note of acceptable dress codes and not drinking alcohol in the street. The hotel you’re staying at can provide you with everything you need to know about your current destination.

Finally, here are a few tips and tricks that will help you comfortably navigate the land of the Pharaohs:

• Don’t assume you can pay with your credit card as not everyone provides this option, so make sure you have enough cash on you to avoid any hiccups in your vacation.
• Leave tips, but don’t feel obligated to.
• Carry some kind of ID
• Bargain in shops and markets.
• Ask “white taxis” to turn their meter on as soon as you get in. Unless you’re in a hurry, you don’t need to negotiate.
• Ask permission before taking a photo (even of people). In some places it is forbidden to take photos.
• Ask the help of the touristic police if you feel you’re in a troublesome situation.
• Spend time talking to the people. Egyptians are interesting, kind and have a great sense of humor. You will learn from them as they will learn from you—it is always a rich exchange. Don’t miss out on that!
• Enjoy the country as much as you can. Egypt is not just any country—Egypt is “Om el Donia” (the Mother of the World)!

Egypt’s rich and extensive history has fused cultures from around the world to produce an incomparable gastronomic experience. Below is a mere sample of all of the tasty goodness Egypt has to offer.

Liver, Alexandria Style

Stir-fried liver with fresh chili peppers, lime wedges, and warm pitas, served on a plate or in a sandwich with a side of French fries and mixed pickles.

Molokheya

A rich green soup made from the finely chopped leaves of the Jute plant stirred with fried garlic for an extra kick, served with rice or bread.

Fatta

Slow-cooked lamb seared on a bed of spices is covered in pieces of crispy-fried bread, rice, and a mouth-watering tomato-based sauce.

Koshary

One of Egypt’s most famous dishes, this concoction of satisfaction is simple to make yet just as delicious.