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DO expect to haggle for the best price when shopping in Egypt. Bartering is an iancient tradition in Egyptian markets,
and the initial price offered to you is usually going to be more than twice the actual value of the item.
DO
be sure to pack light cotton clothing with long sleeves. During the hot daytime hours, this type of clothing will keep the
suns rays off your skin and help you to stay cool.
DO be aware that it is not necessary for women to cover their
hair in Egypt, except when entering a mosque.
DO know that tipping in Egypt is expected, and in the Egyptian
language it is known as “baksheesh.” Tips are an important source of income for many Egyptians, and hotel workers
will also expect a small tip for services rendered.
DO know that in Egyptian restaurants the tip is usually
12%, and it is added to the bill.
DO be aware that in Egypt the workweek starts on Sunday, rather than Monday.
Friday is considered a prayer day, and all banks and shops are closed. On Saturday, banks are also closed, but other establishments
are usually open. Sunday is just like any other workday, and most business establishments are open.
DO expect
that if you wish to use a public restroom, be sure to bring some change, as access usually requires a small fee.
DO
pack and carry a light sweater or jacket for your travels in Egypt. In the desert, and during the winter months, the temperature
can radically drop at nightfall, and it will become quite cool.
DO know that per the Muslim religion, Egyptians
do not drink alcohol, use drugs or eat pork
DON’T plan to wear short sleeves, walking shorts,
or short skirts in Egypt. This clothing is considered to be immodest by the Muslim faith, and it will be offensive to most
Egyptian people.
DON’T forget that any visitor who plans to stay longer than thirty days in Egypt needs
to submit evidence of an AIDS test. However, there is no restriction for entry into Egypt based HIV/AIDS status.
DON’T
insult Islam. The people of Egypt hold great respect for their Muslim religion, and disparaging remarks about their faith
is sure to anger an Egyptian person.
DON’T try to bring anything that could be considered pornographic
into Egypt. Pornography in any form is prohibited, and highly illegal.
DON’T travel to Egypt if you have
a severe cold, or are obviously in ill health. Since the H1N1 (swine flu) outbreak, all visitors arriving to Egypt at Cairo
International Airport are subjected to a mandatory health screening. Any person who exhibits flu-like symptoms will be taken
to a hospital for tests and observation for a period of 48 hours. If test results are positive, the person will be held at
the hospital until they no longer pose a health risk to others.
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