Egypt

Travel tips for Egypt: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Carry some cash. Although major tourist sites like the Pyramids now mandate card payments, recent travelers advise carrying small EGP notes for taxis, markets, and the ubiquitous tipping (baksheesh) expected everywhere.

Try the food

Koshary (كشري): A hearty, carb-heavy mix of rice, macaroni, and lentils topped with spiced tomato sauce, garlic vinegar, and crispy fried onions.
Ful Medames (فول مدمس): Slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with olive oil, cumin, and lemon juice, typically scooped up with warm flatbread for breakfast.
Ta'meya (طعمية): Deep-fried, vibrantly green patties made from ground fava beans and fresh herbs, serving as the Egyptian version of falafel.

Say it in Arabic

Hello: أهلا (Ahlan)
Thank you: شكرا (Shukran)
Please: لو سمحت (Law samaht)
Excuse me: عن إذنك (An iznak)
How much is this?: بكام ده؟ (Bikam da?)
The bill please: الحساب لو سمحت (El hesab law samaht)
Yes / No: أيوة / لأ (Aywa / La')
Goodbye: مع السلامة (Ma'a as-salama)

Essentials

Voltage: 220V, 50Hz
Driving: Right side
SIM tip: Purchase a local SIM card from official Vodafone, Orange, or Etisalat kiosks at the airport before exiting the arrivals hall for the most reliable tourist data packages.

Etiquette

Tipping, known locally as baksheesh, is expected for almost all services, so always carry small denomination notes to reward helpful locals, bathroom attendants, and drivers.