Question 1

What should I pack for my trip to Egypt?

Accepted Answer

If there’s a common theme amongst our guests when packing for their trip to Egypt it’s that they overpack. For the most part, you will not need a lot of clothes and accessories in order to be comfortable in Egypt and packing lightly always makes your life easier.

In general, you should be sure to pack the following: sunglasses, hat, swimsuit, shorts/light dress, scarf/shall (for women), t-shirts/tank-tops, comfortable walking shoes, adaptor plug, camera and a good book!

In the winter you will want a jacket or sweatshirt for evenings, if it is cool. 
Beyond this, you won’t need much.

Question 2

What are the best months (weather) to travel to Egypt?

Accepted Answer

Egypt has great weather year-round, however the Summer months can be very hot. For this reason, we recommend traveling between early September to late June.

We always recommend that our guests view the average temperatures for each month and make a decision on when to travel based on their desired weather: Annual Weather Averages in Luxor, Egypt.(http://www.holiday-weather.com/luxor/averages/)

Question 3

Do I need a Visa for entry into Egypt?

Accepted Answer

For visitors from the U.S.A, U.K. and Europe:  For visits of up to 30 days, you can get a visa on arrival by payment in Sterling, US Dollars or Euros; the visa fee is roughly US$20 at approved bank kiosks within airport arrival halls, before reaching immigration counters. We highly recommend that you do not purchase your visa from an agent or consulate before traveling to Egypt, as the prices for doing so are often times 2x-5x or more the actual cost of simply buying it upon arrival.

For Visitors from the Middle East (Arab Countries): You are advised to contact the Consulate General before applying for the visa in order to confirm the required documentation.

For Visitors from Other Countries: Please check with the Egyptian Consulate for visa requirements for your specific country.

Question 4

Is it safe to travel to Egypt?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is safe to travel to Egypt according to many Foreign Consulate Offices, including that of the United Kingdom and United States. In the words of the U.K. FCO: “The area to which the FCO advise against all but essential travel does not include the tourist areas along the Nile river (e.g. Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings) or the Red Sea Resorts of Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada.” The U.K. FCO also includes a map of the “green zone” (safe for tourists) that incorporates expansive areas in and around everywhere Nour El Nil travels. You can download this map here: Download Map.(https://assets.digital.cabinet-office.gov.uk/media/54760ac440f0b61312000051/191114_-_FCO_329_-_Egypt_Travel_Advice_Ed16.pdf) It’s also worth pointing out that Egypt as a country, according to the crime index has a lower crime rate than USA, France, Italy, Greece, and many other countries!

We also encourage you to read this article in The Guardian by Anthony Sattin, writer of Lonely Planet Egypt, on why now is the time to travel to Egypt: Egypt, Why To Go Now.(http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/mar/14/egypt-why-to-go-on-holiday-now) While the article was writtten in March 2014, it still applies today, as tourists at that time had many of the same concerns as they do today.

Question 5

What is considered appropriate attire for women traveling in Egypt?

Accepted Answer

The following advice applies to women when visiting historical sites: Short skirts/shorts, revealing tank-tops or other types of potentially “provocative” clothing are not recommended. Our staff is completely respectful and most of all, we want you to be comfortable. After all, Egypt can be quite hot at times!

Question 6

Are any vaccinations required for travel in Egypt?

Accepted Answer

It is recommended that you have all routine vaccines. While many of our guests choose not to get any additional (travel-related) vaccines and remain healthy, some Health Departments (http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/egypt)recommend the Typhoid and Hepatitis A vaccinations for added precaution. We always recommend you consult your physician directly for any medical advice. However, it is worth pointing out that we have never had a single case of anyone getting sick as a result of not having received these specific vaccinations.

Question 7

What voltage is used in Egypt?

Accepted Answer

Standard voltage is 220 volts. Primary sockets require the European, 2 pronged variety. We recommend that you pack a universal travel adaptor. You will need a voltage converter, and plug adaptor in order to use U.S. appliances.

Question 8

Can you purchase alcohol in Egypt?

Accepted Answer

Yes, alcohol is available in Egypt, either in the hotels, higher class restaurants and cafes, pubs, and beer gardens. You will also find off licenses as well. Please note though, it is illegal to drink alcohol in the streets in Egypt.

Question 9

Is it common practice to give tips in Egypt?

Accepted Answer

Due to the low salaries of many professionals in Egypt, many people depend on tips, or baksheesh as it is called in Egypt, as a major part of their income. Therefore, tipping is considered customary in Egypt.

Question 10

Will I be able to easily exchange Dollars, Euros, British Pounds or other currencies in Egypt?

Accepted Answer

There are a large number of banks and exchange offices that can change cash and travelers’ checks in Egypt. Moreover, many touristic shops, restaurants, and bars will actually accept dollars or Euros at rates that are relatively close to the official ones. Makes sure you know the current exchange rate of dollars or Euros to Egyptian pounds. You can check current exchange rates here.(http://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/)

We are often able to exchange smaller sums of money directly at Beit Sabee Guesthouse or on the cruise

Question 11

Is it safe to drink the water in Egypt? What about the ice?

Accepted Answer

We generally advise guests not to drinkthe tap water in Egypt. We provide our guests with as much bottled water as needed on both the cruise and at the guesthouse. It should be noted that we have an advanced filtration system on our dahabiyas and it is this filtered water that is used to make the ice that we provide you. However, we still encourage guests to use the bottled water for drinking purposes. Of course, it is safe to brush your teeth, rinse your mouth, shower with, etc. the water both on the dahabiya and at the guesthouse.