Egypt - Egypt is two hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) during winter, and three hours ahead during summer, from May 1 st till October 1 st .
- Language:
The national language in Egypt is Arabic. However, tourists will rarely find a problem communicating as English is widely spoken in hotels and shops, with French a close second, and many staff in tourist areas also speaking German or Italian.
- Visas: All nationalities require tourist visas for Egypt . Europeans, Americans and Australians can purchase these on arrival at the airport; other nationalities should check with their local Embassies for latest regulations.
- Currency:The local currency is the Egyptian pound, or ‘L.E.', which is divided into 100 piastres.
- Tipping: Tipping is common practice in Egypt for all services rendered, but is always left up to the discretion of the visitor. You may wish to consider tipping your driver, hotel staff, and waiters in restaurants.
- Photography:If you are taking photographs of local people, always ask their permission beforehand. Your guide can assist you in this. Do not take photographs of military installations or airports. Film is readily available in all tourist areas. It is advisable to carry your camera in a dust-proof bag. Photography or camera fees are applicable at most sights and museums; your guide can give you details of the latest charges.
- Electricity: Egypt electrical current is 200V, and sockets take the standard continental European dual round-pronged plug.
- Health: No vaccinations are currently needed for visitors to Egypt . During your stay, it is preferable to drink only bottled water and to avoid eating from street stalls. Take care from the sun, which can often feel cooler than it really is due to the cool coastal breezes and lack of humidity. Drink plenty of water when staying outside during the day.
- Dress Code: Allow for a more conservative dress code in Cairo and other cities, and especially in rural areas, or when visiting mosques or other religious sites. Casual, comfortable clothing covering knees and elbows is best. Low necklines, sleeveless shirts, or shorts can be comfortably worn at the pool or on the beach in Red Sea resorts, and ladies can dress as they would at home.
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