Currency , Exchange Rates , Travelers Checks and Credit Cards

The Egyptian monetary unit is the Egyptian Pound ( L.E.) , which is divided into 100 piasters ( Pt) .

The rate of exchange is according to the free Money Market , published on daily basis by the Central Bank of Egypt.

The rates of exchange are similar at all authorized banks.

Major Credit Cards are accepted in the majority of hotels , restaurants and touristic shops Bazaars . Banks are open day (except Friday and Sarurdays ) from 8.30 a.m. to 2.00 pm Banks at deluxe hotels are open 24 hours.

Language :

Arabic  is the official language . However , most the Egyptian in these cities understand and speaker some English.

Clothing :

During autumn and winter (Sep. March ) , you might need-especially in the evenings-sweaters or jackets . During spring and summer ( Apr.-Aug.) it is mostly hot , hence light cotton clothes are recommended . Sneakers are highly advisable . Also don’t forget sunglasses and a sun hat .

Visas :

Visa of the Arab Republic of Egypt can be granted upon arrival at the airport or at our consulates in your country .

Taxes :

Airport taxes is required upon departure is L.E 50 .

Postal stamps :

Stamps are sold at the front desk of all hotels.

Woodwork:

Carved wood items such as boxes , chess sets , backgammon boards , Islamic-designed tables and chairs and others .

Papyrus paintings :

Pharaonic paintings and drawings from Egypt’s tombs are hand painted on sheets made out of papyrus plant

Tapestries:

World famous tapestries are woven by young boys and girls showing simple scenes of country life and landscape .

Electric current :

220AC / 50 Cycles . Wall plugs are the round , two –prong European type . American appliances will need adapter plugs & transformers .

health Regulations :

No  vaccination is required for entry into Egypt .

Health precautions :

Because of the different climate & different water , you may experience stomch upsets , and it is recommended you consult a doctor or a pharmacist . Drink bottled water only.

Photography :

In historical  sites and mosques , you can take photos . However there are certain fees for photographing in tombs and museums .

Tipping :

Tipping is customary in Egypt . Of course it is not compulsory in any way , but it is a tokrn of appreciation for good services rendered to you . The word you will become familiar with is BAKSHEEH!

Time  :

Greenwich Mean time plus two hours or seven hours earlier than Eastern Standard Time .

Shopping :

Whether you go into small  shops in Cairo’s Khan El Khalili Bazaar or in fashionable department stores in the city center , you will find Egyptian shopping an enjoyable and rewarding experience . Egypt offers a wide selection of handicrafts , jewelry , fabrics and precious stones at very moderate prices . Major shopping items that Egypt offers.

Jewelry and Precious Stones:

Gold and silver are excellent buys . The array of choice is enormous : broaches , necklaces , earrings , pendants and cartouches ( insignia bearing your name in hieroglyphics ) , men’s cuff links and rings . Semi-precious stones can include Topaze , Aquamarine , Turquoise , Lapis Lazuli , Onix , Malachite.

Brass and Copper:

All kinds of trays , plates and lamps with intricate arabesque designs .

Leather:

Egypt is famous for its leather goods . Women’s shoes , handbags , jackets , belts , wallets . Men’s wallets , brief cases and jackets.

Textiles:

The fame of Egypt’s cotton needs no reminder ! Shirts , night gowns , bed sheets , pillow cases , and a wide selection fashionable clothes .