Frequently Asked Questions About Egypt
Mohamed has taken the time to answer some of the most frequently asked questions that he hears regarding travel to Egypt. If you have any questions not answered here please feel free to email Mohamed and he will respond to your question promptly.

Q: Why book a private tour over the big tour operators?
A: A custom private tour means that it is your tour... you see what you want to see... not a cookie cutter tour where you are herded through based on what the tour operator says you want to see.    Mohamed personally hires the drivers and vehicles and any local guides... so you know you are getting top quality from his years of experience. If you want Mohamed to handle every detail... he will... including a detailed itinerary, arranging all meals, providing for your every need. Mohamed will meet you at the airport and be by your side until he returns you to the airport. He will buy the tickets, guide you to the sites and handle all the tipping for you.

If you prefer more flexibility for example trying different restaurants and ordering from the menu or adjusting your itinerary as you tour to meet more specific interests Mohamed can do that (you would never get that flexibility with a big tour operator). Mohamed will adjust arrival and departure times at sites so that you miss the big crowds... big tour operators have schedules they must keep.


Q: Is it safe for US Citizens to Travel to Egypt?
A: YES, it is very safe to travel to Egypt. Unfortunately some Americans view the Middle East as one large country and that it is not safe and should be avoided. This simply is not true. The Middle East is about one and a half times the size of the United States and is made up of distinct countries that are spread far apart all with independent governments. Just because one country may be unsafe to travel to does not mean that the entire region is unsafe. For example, you should not be afraid to travel to Egypt because of the war in Iraq.

That would be like canceling you plans to travel to Chicago because there is an earthquake in Los Angeles or not going to St Louis because there was a hurricane in New Orleans. Americans are warmly welcomed by Egyptians, the Egyptian Government is proactive in protecting their tourists and combined with a country where the violent crime rate is very low you have an extraordinary tourist destination that is very safe to visit.


Q: Can women travel to Egypt without male companions.
A: Again, yes it is very safe for women to travel to Egypt alone. Many women travel there alone and it is not perceived in a negative way. Women in Egypt do not have to cover themselves in a veil and the majority does not. If you see a woman with a veil or head scarf it is a personal choice not one dictated by law. Women in Egypt can work, smoke, drive cars and wear blue jeans if they so desire. You would not stand out traveling alone.


Q: How should we dress while in Egypt?
A: Dress according to what you are doing. If you are at the beach or pool then by all means wear a bathing suit. That would be the appropriate thing to wear. However, if you are visiting a Mosque or a Church than dress in a more conservative fashion such as a long or short sleeved blouse or shirt and long pants. It can get very warm at many of the temples and pyramid sites so walking shorts and short sleeved shirts or blouses are appropriate choices. If you are going to a nice restaurant in the evening you may want to pack a jacket for the men and a dress or skirt for the women.

Common sense should prevail. Be sure to pack a sun hat, sun glasses and very comfortable walking shoes. It can be very sandy and dusty at many of the sites so closed toed walking shoes are recommended. If you prefer walking sandals you may be more comfortable only wearing them in the cities.


Q: Can I use my electronic devices in Egypt?
A: The voltage in Egypt is 220 and they use the two pin plug that is used throughout Europe. Since the voltage is different than used in the USA you must check your electronic device to see if it is marked dual voltage or world wide voltage. If not you will need to bring a converter that will convert the voltage from 220 to 110 and an adapter. If it is dual voltage you only need the plug adapter that will accept the plug configuration of USA electronic devices in one side and has the 2 pin plug on the other side allowing you to plug it into the wall.  


Q: What kind of currency do I bring?
A: Although Egypt's currency is the Egyptian Pound, US Dollars and European Euros are accepted just about every where. You can also use your credit cards to pay for hotels in the major cities and in many restaurants and shops. You should have cash with you for many of the kiosks and street vendors. It is not recommended to convert any money prior to entering Egypt as foreign currency is accepted and there are many ATM's and Currency Exchanges.


Q: What about passports and visas?
A: USA citizens are required to have both. Your passport must have at least 6 months validity remaining on it from your return date. For example, you are traveling to Egypt from September 1 to September 14, 2007 but your passport will expire on January 3, 2008. It does not have 6 months validity remaining so you must renew your passport prior to travel. USA citizens are also required to have a visa to enter Egypt. You can apply for your visa prior to travel at the Egyptian Consulate nearest you by submitting your passport, completed visa application, passport sized photo and check for the visa cost (currently $15.00) either in person or by mail or courier (we recommend you use a courier service with a tracking number like UPS or FedEx). You can also obtain your visa upon arrival at the Cairo airport.   


Q: What will the food be like?
A: Food in Egypt is excellent! You will find restaurants serving everything from pizza to elegant sea food dinners as well as traditional Egyptian food like tahini and baba ganush. The steaks are tender, the seafood is wonderful and the fruits and vegetables are fresh and delicious! Anyone with special dietary needs will easily be accommodated. When traveling to more remote areas Mohamed will be involved in planning meals.


Q: What about drinking the water?
A: It is not recommended to drink the tap water or use ice. You should only drink bottled water which is plentiful. Mohamed will be sure you are always well supplied with bottle water.