Our trip this summer took us to the ancient land of Egypt. We flew to Cairo Airport via Frankfurt on United Airlines, and on Lufthansa from Germany to Cairo. A word of warning though, if your connecting in Frankfurt, pack your hand luggage light as you will have to carry your hand luggage down a flight of stairs to board the plane to Egypt. Upon arrival a visitors Visa may be purchased at the currency exchange for arriving US citizens for 15 Le (Egyptian pounds) Check with your airline or travel agent, for entry requirements they vary by country and change periodically. Clearing customs is sometimes quite lengthy due to several International flights arriving into Cairo very close together.
Must do experiences:
A camel ride costs about 5 Le for about a 2 minute ride, feel free to negotiate the price.
A Felucca sailing ride along the Nile at most hotels will cost about 30-40 Le (fixed price per hour) best time to sail is at sunset it's very romantic, and your pictures will be unforgettable.
A horse and buggy ride through the city.
Advice/Warnings:
Due to the intensity of the sun, the following is recommended to bring along.
- Hat - with a large brim.
- small spray applicator - fill with water to help keep you cool.
- good walking shoes.
- SPF 45 sunscreen.
- loose fitting breathable clothes (due to local custom it is not recommended to wear tanktops, shorts or any attire that is revealing).
Suggestions:
- Bring pens to hand out- considered a gift from America.
- If you plan to photograph or video tape, expect to pay extra for the privilege.
- Be aware of "the Bedowins" at the tombs or temples, if they show you something to photograph or start explaining the site, they expect a tip.
- There is a daily limit of visitors to some tombs, (i.e. Step Pyramid of Giza, Queen Neffertari's tomb, and King Tut's tomb) so get there early in the morning if you want to go inside.
- If you want to be able to control how much time you spend at various sites, don't get on a tour bus, hire a private taxi for the day. Prices are very reasonable and your able to control where you go and how long you stay there. Drivers will take you to some of the factories (stores) tours normally go to as well.
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While in Cairo we stayed at the Cairo Nile Hilton. Be aware there are two Hiltons, the Ramseys and the Nile. If you are going to stay at either one we recommend the Nile Hilton over the Ramseys, the Egyptian Museum is conveniently located behind the Nile Hilton and most of the rooms overlook the Nile.
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