Egypt

Welcome to civilization! It may not look like it as you walk through Khan el-Khalili, Egypt's most famous market, but Egypt has over five thousand years of recorded history, and the society created by the successive pharaohs has been a blueprint for many peoples since.

When the name Egypt is mentioned, many first thoughts flit to the iconic Pyramids of Giza. The pyramids more than live up to their four thousand years of hype upon viewing, and although the sole survivor of the Seven Wonders of the World is swarmed by visitors, their majesty hasn't been diminished.

Also worth a visit are the museums that showcase this rich history, especially the Royal Mummy Room in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. There's much more to do in Egypt however than just marvel at one of the cornerstone's of civilization. You can spend a day wandering round the colourful maze of markets, haggling with the local shop-keepers, try to find yourself a spot on the beaches of southern Sinai, or take a camel ride out into the desert areas.

One particularly special time to visit Egypt is during the Muslim religious observance of Ramadan. Many Muslim tourists from the region flock to Egypt to witness the spectacle of the fawanees, traditional lanterns, and sounds as this special time of prayer and fasting occurs within the Muslim community.

When to go

March to May and September to November lets you enjoy the warmth without the crush.

Even the most die-hard sun-seeker will have to admit that everywhere south of Cairo is just uncomfortable from June to September, with places such as Aswan and Luxor hitting around 40oc (104of). Cairo is pretty unbearable at this time too - the pollution, heat, dust, noise and hectic way of life all congregate to give an unpleasant set of conditions.

The stubborn sun-seeker will still make their way to the beaches of southern Sinai, the Alexandrian coast or red sea, but be prepared to fight for your right to...sunbathe.

When visiting during the winter months, Luxor is probably best. Cairo is often overcast and chilly at night, while the beaches of Sinai become a bit too chilly to sunbathe and the Alexandrian coast has frequent downpours.

Cash, cheque or card?

Egypt is great value - it's possible to spend as little as ten pounds a day. This is assuming you stay in hostels, eat snacks, limit your sites visited per day and travel on packed third-class trains. Alcohol is quite expensive, particularly spirits and imported wines.

Most cards are accepted, just check it out before you go on a splurge if you have no other way of paying for. Service charges and taxes can add more to what you think you're paying so be prepared for a surprise when the bill arrives.

Something to be experienced, is Egypt's love of bargaining. Don't lose your head in all the fun though! Don't bargain what you don't have and take your time in negotiations. You're not obliged to buy anything so walking away won't offend.

Language Barriers

International dialing code is +20

The official language is Arabic, but tourist areas will have no problems with French of English. Internet cafes can be found in the major cities.

Getting Around

Cairo has good links to most European destinations. Flights from other destinations can be expensive, so it's worth looking for cheaper connecting European flights.

Once in Egypt, transport is good. Buses run in pretty much every town and city, while the rail system will get you to pretty much any city or town. Both methods can be pretty crowded.

Taxis usually linger at the trains and bus stations. They usually don't budge until they fill, which is some people's idea of fun and other's idea of hell. If you want to put your life in your own hands car hire is available.

Safety

Terrorist attacks have recently become the chief concern of Egyptian holiday-makers. Vigilance is also needed for the pick-pockets that also target the tourist areas.

Instances of public unrest in the governorates of the Nile Valley, such as Assiut and Sohag, have led to Egyptian authorities restricting travel to these areas, so check for up to date information. Passports and visas are needed to gain entry to Egypt.

When in Egypt, protection from the sun and from dehydration is important. Drinking water in the cities is chlorinated, but bottled water is safest. The water from The Nile is contaminated, so don't be tempted to drink it or swim in it. Medical treatment is expensive and variable. Some medical care outside of Cairo is very basic, so insurance is important.

By John Johnston