Ahlan-Wa-Sahlan!
Upon arrival in Egypt , you will be warmly greeted with “Ahlan-Wa-Sahlan,” which means, “Welcome home” - and we really mean it!

Baksheesh (Tips)
Tips – the popular “baksheesh.” Remember that in Egypt , you pay “baksheesh” for rendered services, and the amount is up to your discretion. Your tour guide will be glad to help you determine appropriate tips when necessary.

Cartouche
A cartouche is an elongated piece of jewelry in the shape of an oval. Originally, it was drawn with the hieroglyphics of a king or queen's name. Today you can have a beautiful cartouche made in silver or gold with your own name on it!

Dynasty
A succession of kings who were usually related. Egyptologists divide ancient Egypt 's history into 31 dynasties up until the time of the arrival of Alexander the Great.

Electricity
In Egypt , the electrical current is 220 AC and 50 cycles and the wall plugs are the round, two-prong European type adapters. For your American-made appliances and electronics, you will need electrical transformers.

Food
We invite you to savor the delicious typical dishes of Egypt , such as: koshari (lentil and rice dish), maashi (stuffed vegetables) and ful medammes (broadbean stew). When it comes to fruit, Egypt is a paradise of fragrant and tasty fruits. Don't forget to taste the guavas, dates, figs, and large variety of juicy mangos!

Government Offices and other Services
Government offices, including post offices, are open from 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM , Saturday through Thursday, and are closed Fridays and on national holidays. Banks are from 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM , Sunday through Thursday, and are closed Fridays, Saturdays, and national holidays. Shops are open daily from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, and from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with some shops closed on Fridays and Sundays.

Health
Vaccinations are no longer necessary or required to enter Egypt . However, we advise you to avoid drinking tap water, other unbottled beverages, and drinks with ice. Please consult your physician for more advice.

Information
The Egyptian government has offices throughout the world that provide all necessary information for travelers to Egypt . Once you are in Egypt , our team is available to provide you with any additional information.

Jewelry and Souvenirs
Egypt is world famous for the incomparable beauty, quality, and affordability of its gold jewelry. Cotton from Egypt is the finest quality in the world.

Khan El Khalili
Cairo 's sprawling markets are a feast of sights, sounds, exotic smells and great shopping! Khan Al Khalili is one of the biggest bazaars in the Middle East , perhaps in the world. It is a whole town of markets and shops. Craftsmen, businessmen and wholesalers crowd together along its narrow alleys. There are wonderful brass ornaments and fixtures there, lovely mosaics, and perfume shops suffused with spice and floral scents. Be prepared to bargain for your new treasures!

Language, Demographics and Religion
Arabic is the official language of Egypt ; however, most people speak one or two other languages, usually English and/or French. Egypt is located in the northeastern corner of Africa and is populated by 65 million people. Approximately 85% of Egypt 's population is Moslem. About 9 million inhabitants are Christian Orthodox who belong to the Coptic Church. In most cities, mosques and churches can be found next to each other. There are also various synagogues.

Money
The unit of currency is the Egyptian Pound ( L.E. ). It is divided into 100 Piasters (silver coins). Banknotes (paper currency) are available in the following denominations: 0.25, 0.50, 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Pounds ( L.E. ). Coins are available in the following denominations: 5, 10, 20, and 25 Piasters. Exchange rate: 1 US Dollar = approximately 5.8 ( L.E. ), depending on the daily rate. Foreign currency can be exchanged at most banks and authorized exchange offices where the official rates of exchange are posted daily.

Nile Cruise
A cruise on the Nile is the most interesting and memorable river experience in the world! Since the beginning of time, Egypt and the Nile have unified to build and share one life. It was the Nile, which gave life to the land, Egypt . The Nile is the foundation that gave rise to one of the most impressive civilizations of the human race. Egypt is truly the gift of the Nile .

Optional Tours
In addition to the variety of organized tours offered in this brochure, we offer the best customized tour packages, at the best rates! Just ask us about areas of interest to you – we are here to make your dream vacation come true!

Photography Egypt is a fascinating and magnificent country to photograph. You are allowed to take pictures inside many tombs and temples. A photography fee must be paid at the ticket office, prior to entering the exhibit. These fees are not included in the tour package price.

Quality
It is our privilege at Egypt Travel to represent our country in the finest manner possible, and we take that responsibility very seriously. Our pride in our country, the deep love and loyalty we feel for Egypt , coupled with twenty-five years of combined experience among our extended team of partners in air, land, and Nile , assure you the most pleasant trip you will ever take! Whether you are visiting Egypt for pleasure or business, we offer the best selection and quality in flights, ground transportation, hotels, cruises, and tours.

Registration
All tourists must register with the proper authorities within seven days of their arrival in Egypt ; you can register right at your hotel. You will be asked to surrender your passport for 24 hours in order to complete these formalities.

Sports
There is a wealth of diverse sports that you can enjoy in settings unique to Egypt . How about a tennis match or a game of golf with a view of the majestic pyramids? Or windsurfing or scuba diving in the Red Sea ? Whatever suits your fancy, our programs are designed to meet your needs.

Time Zone and Temperature
The time in Egypt is Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) plus two hours, or 7 hours earlier than Eastern Standard Time. Daylight Savings time changes apply.

Underwater Exploring
Egypt offers incredible coral reefs and underwater seascapes for you to explore! Feeling adventurous but don't want to get wet? How would you like to explore the inner depths of the Red Sea in comfort and style? If so, our submarine tours are the ideal way to explore the many treasures of the Red Sea .

Visas and Passports
All visitors to Egypt must hold a current passport with at least 6 months validation. Visas for a stay of one month may be obtained from all Egyptian Consulates or upon entry to Egypt .

Welcome and Farewell Parties
On the first evening of your arrival, our Egypt Travel team will host a dinner party to welcome you to Egypt . On your last evening, we will say farewell and thanks to you with our special gifts and Egyptian delicacies.

Xanadu
Egypt is a true “xanadu” – an idyllic, exotic, luxurious paradise on earth. Its fascinating history, entertainment, comfortable business facilities, and pleasant weather certainly contribute to this, but it is Egypt 's ingratiating people that truly set her apart. Egyptians are outgoing, warm, and have a great sense of humor. We respect all visitors, and have a deep sense of tolerance for other races, religions, and nationalities. When you are in Egypt , you are part of our family!

Yachts and Boats
If you are interested in offshore sightseeing, choose from the finest selection of yachts and boats and visit the many beautiful islands in the Red Sea , We will be happy to arrange these excursions for you.

Zaman
Zaman is an Arabic word with different definitions. It can mean “the past” in general, or a specific period of time, which may be in the past, present, or future. Egypt is truly the Queen of all Time, and we are eager to share her with you!