When traveling to Egypt for the first time, it’s important to prepare yourself for the unexpected. So, I’ve put together some Cairo Travel Tips For First Timers to help you have a stress-free trip to Egypt!
One of the most common surprises visitors encounter is tipping. It’s a big part of Egyptian culture and you’ll be expected to tip pretty much everyone who helps you from the bellman to the bathroom attendant!
1. Know Your Limits
When traveling to Cairo, there are a lot of things that can surprise you. But if you’re prepared for them, it will be much easier to have a great experience.
One thing that I always recommend for first timers is to know your limits! This can be especially helpful when you’re deciding on what to do during your trip.
For example, if you’re planning on doing a tour, be sure to clarify exactly what you want to do before you begin the trip. This will eliminate any uncomfortable situations that can happen as a result of being asked to do something that you didn’t want to do in the first place!
It’s also important to be aware of the different costs you may face throughout your trip. For example, if you’re going to be interacting with camels or other animals in a natural setting, it may cost more than you think.
If you’re planning on doing anything that requires money, be sure to bring plenty of cash with you so you can avoid any potential issues. You can exchange currency at airports and hotels.
You can also use ATMs in many locations to access your funds without having to leave the comfort of your hotel or your home. Just be aware that ATMs are often busy, so you may have to wait for a while before you can get your money back.
As a result, you should make sure that you have backup cash on hand in case you encounter any issues with the ATMs or run out of Egyptian money. This will also help to protect your personal safety.
It is impossible to get acquainted with the sights of Egypt in one day, as well as in a week, but you can see the maximum number of new places with the help of a rented car at one of the country's airports. For example, in Cairo airport you can rent a car from 15 euros per day, in Hurghada Airport - from 16 euros per day.
2. Be Prepared For Traffic
Whether you’re renting a car or driving yourself, being prepared for traffic is important. In Egypt, the roads are very busy and can be difficult to navigate. It’s essential to have a solid plan and prepare your itinerary well before you leave so that you can avoid the stress of dealing with traffic on your trip.
One of the most common mistakes that travelers make when traveling to Cairo is ignoring traffic rules. This can lead to an accident and can cost you time, money, and even your life.
If you are unfamiliar with the road rules in Egypt, it is recommended to ask for a driving guide or hire a driver to help you out. They will know the road and be able to give you advice on how to avoid problems while driving in Cairo.
You should also be aware that there are different driving laws in Egypt; these vary from city to city. It is also important to obey the law if you’re pulled over by police; they will have you stop and inspect your vehicle.
Another important thing to note is that you should always use a hands-free phone while driving. This is because there are many drivers who still use their horns while driving, which can be a dangerous thing to do.
In addition, you should also be aware of the traffic laws in Egypt; these will help you avoid getting a ticket and paying fines or being involved in a traffic accident. You should always follow the speed limit and pay attention to what’s going on around you as you drive.
It is also recommended to avoid using your phone while you’re driving in Egypt; this can be dangerous and may lead to an accident. It is advisable to carry an extra battery for your device and a GPS so that you can always have access to information in case you get lost.
3. Don’t Forget Your Camera
If you are visiting Cairo for the first time, it is important that you don’t forget to bring your camera. The city is full of incredible architectures and monuments that are bound to make your trip unforgettable.
You should also remember to pack a lot of water because the weather in Egypt can be very hot and dry. To keep hydrated, it is better to drink bottled water rather than the tap water.
The Egyptian water doesn’t taste very good and it isn’t safe for drinking if you have a sensitive stomach. Therefore, if you’re a traveler who likes to take photos, it is recommended that you have a large and waterproof camera with you.
It is not a good idea to take pictures of locals without their permission. This is a rule that applies to all of Egypt, so be sure to follow it!
If you are traveling by taxi, it is always a good idea to haggle for the best price before getting into the car. It is also a good idea to negotiate the prices of souvenir shops and bazaars.
Finally, you should keep in mind that tipping is a big part of Egyptian culture. It is expected for both locals and visitors to leave a tip for simple tasks such as holding a door or giving directions.
It is also common to tip if you use the bathroom at restaurants or hotels. They will often hand you toilet paper and tissues and ask for a tip.
4. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help
There are plenty of Egypt travel tips for first timers, but one of the most important ones is to not be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s crossing the road, getting a taxi or asking someone for directions, there are people who will be willing to help you out.
A lot of Egyptians will be happy to help you, even if it’s just for a few minutes of their time. They are incredibly friendly and always eager to make your visit to Egypt as enjoyable as possible.
When you’re traveling alone, it can be hard to know where to look for help. A good place to start is the locals in your hotel or at tourist attractions, but you should also ask a travel agent about what help is available.
Another tip for staying safe is to be aware of areas that are known for high crime rates. Egypt is no exception to this, and while it can be difficult to avoid bad neighborhoods, it’s a good idea to be smart about your choices.
If you’re traveling alone in Cairo, it’s a good idea to pick a hotel in a central location. This will ensure that you can easily get to all of the major sights.
Once you’re in the city, don’t be afraid to use public transportation like buses and trains for long distances. These are more affordable than taxis and can be more convenient.
It’s also important to keep a small amount of change on you while in Egypt, as it’s common to tip bathroom attendants for keeping the stalls clean and giving you a towel after using the toilet. It doesn’t have to be much, but 5 EGP is usually a fair amount.
5. Don’t Be Afraid To Say No
When you’re traveling to Egypt, it’s important not to be afraid to say no. This is especially true if you’re traveling with a group. It can be tough to say no without feeling awkward or hurting others, but if you learn how to do it with confidence, saying no can help you alleviate stress and prevent resentment.
One of the biggest reasons people find it hard to say no is because they’re afraid of displeasing someone. This is typically rooted in childhood beliefs that saying no means being rude, selfish, or unkind.
For example, if you’re invited to a bar and you have an allergy or are simply not comfortable in loud environments, don’t say yes. Instead, ask them if there’s another way you can get together or a time that works better for you.
If you do say yes, make sure to confirm the price before you pay. If you don’t, you could end up paying more than you need to!
It’s also a good idea to leave a small tip at the end of your trip. This can be as simple as 5 EGP, but it’s a nice gesture that helps the person you tipped feel appreciated.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to haggle. Even though it’s not always the most enjoyable experience, you can save money by negotiating with vendors.
If you want to practice saying no, try doing it by yourself or with a friend. You can even go as far as practicing with your partner or family member! Eventually, you’ll start to feel more confident in your ability to say no, and it’ll become second nature. This is an essential skill that can have a major impact on your mental health and overall well-being.