Egypt is a country of contrasts , old and new blending together , tall minarets & modern building are standing together with huge temples & great pyramids & this can be seen everywhere on a daily basis. Truly a country rich in History and Culture, the prices are reasonable, although they do tend to fluctuate with the seasons and supply and demand. The people are friendly and hospitable , and crime is rare. Once you are in Egypt . you will never feel as a stranger .

To help you better understand what to expect and to ensure you get the most out of your trip , we are providing some traveler's information that we hope ill assist you in your journey .

• Language:
Arabic is the official language in Egypt; however, English and French are widely spoken in all major tourists cities

• Home Time and Business Hours :
Cairo time = Greenwich Mean Time + 2 hours USA Eastern Standard Time + 7 hours. Daylight saving time = First of May and September. Official working hours in Egypt are 8:30 AM to 1 PM for banks and 9 AM to 3 PM and from 5 PM to 9:30 PM for shops.

Working days are Sunday to Thursday for banks and Monday to Saturday for shops.

• Electricity :
Electric current in Egypt is 220 volts, also the outlets require a two-pronged rounded plug, not flat. So please 110 Volts appliances do not forget your adapter.

• Transportation :
Taxis and Limousines are widely available in all major cities in Egypt; however, there are many less expensive alternatives in most cities e.g. Subway, metros, Trains, and Buses. It is not advisable to use taxis in traveling between cities, as Planes, Buses, and trains are accessible for a modest fee.

• Buses:
Street buses are a basic , but a cheap means of getting around. Buses between cities are of a higher standard , and have bathroom , videos, central air-condition and a waitress services onboard for longer trips.

• Trains:
On day trains it is well worth paying the extra for First Class, still very reasonably priced.
The seats are comfortable , reclining, almost like flaying first class on a plane. There is a trolley wait service for snacks, sandwiches and drinks.
The night sleeper trains are owned by Carlson Wagon lit and are quite comfortable. Beds are one up and one down bunk beds. Adjoining carriages are available for families. An adequate dinner and breakfast are served directly to the cabin as part of the price. Drinks with the meals are not include other than coffee with breakfast. There is a wash sink in each cabin , toilets at the end of carriage. Luggage is stored overhead in your cabin .

• Metro:
In Cairo: Efficient, well organized, and runs to a strict timetable , well worth using if the train goes to areas where you want to travel.

• Nile Water buses:
Fast and cheap for crossing the Nile or going to the areas covered by the bus.

• Clothing:
Dress modestly in Cairo and off beach cities, Bathing suits should only be worm on beaches. Women should be cover their arms and legs while visiting mosques. In summer, loose cotton clothing may be the most comfortable. Conservative clothing is the preferred wearing apparel

• Communication:
Egypt has modernized its telephone systems, all cities maybe accessed by direct dial. Phone booths are distributed all over the areas of most cities. Egypt country code is +20
Mobile Phones
Mobile phones with roaming possibilities "GSM" operate efficiently in most areas in Egypt. The networks have been expanded in most cities and beach resorts.
Internet Access
Access to the internet is readily available . The connection is possible by phones or you Can use ADSL or DSL for permanent constant fast Internet connection, which could be found in many area in Egypt.

• Electrical Current:
220 volts is the electrical current used within the country. The 220 volts is a two-pronged plug. Most 5 star hotels provide hair dryers and ironing service. However, if you need to bring an appliance, you may want to purchase an adapter before traveling.

• Shopping:
Shopping in bazaars is really fun. Traditional Egyptian accessories and gifts are easily available. Bargaining is common practice in all bazaars. Never offer a price that you are not willing to pay. Shopping hours are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., extended during the summer. Khan El Khalili, Cairo’s famous bazaar, and some others have more flexible hours, but are closed on Sundays. Best shopping times are late morning and early evening

• Tips:
The popular "baksheesh." Remember that in Egypt, you pay "baksheesh" for rendered services, and the amount is up to you. Your tour guide will be glad to help you determine appropriate tips when necessary.