Could you tell me if UK nationals require a visa if restricting their visit to the Sinai Peninsula?
UK nationals need visas to enter Egyptian land, which the Sinai is.
We’re going to Egypt in the near future. Do we need a visa? How much do visas cost and where is the easiest place to get them?
Yes, you will need a visa. They cost $15 (US) per person. Please contact the Egyptian Embassy or Egyptian Consulate nearest you.
What type of clothes should I wear?
When sightseeing, wear light cotton clothing, a hat, sun cream and sunglasses to make the weather conditions bearable. When visiting religious buildings and when in town, dress correctly. Women must cover their heads, shoulders and legs. Take off shoes before going into mosques.
Where can you find real Egyptian cuisine?
In Alexandria: Mohammed Ahmed, Kadura, Zephyrion
In Cairo: Felfella, Andréa\'s, Alfi Bey, Samakmak.
In Luxor: Muhammad Cafeteria, Peace Abuzeid.
In Aswan: Al-Masry.
In Sharm El-Sheikh: Fish Restaurant.
What souvenirs should I bring back home?
Gold and silver jewelry and semi-precious stones, Bedouin embroidery from the Sinai, basketware, cotton linen, papyrus, rugs, blown glass, spices, etc.
Is it safe to swim in the Nile?
Swimming is not recommended
Where are the best places to shop?
For craft goods and clothes, go to the souks or to boutiques run by organizations that support traditional craftsmanship.
- In Cairo, go to the town center shopping centers, the Nomad and the Egypt Craft Center, to the fine boutiques and the \"Souvenirs\" souk in Khan al-Khalili Street.
- Luxor souk: spices, fabrics
- Aswan souk: Nubian baskets, shawls embroidered in Aswan.
- In El Arish: Bedouin crafts, jewelry, etc.
- In Alexandria, El-Attarine souk, which specializes in ancient objects and antiques. (Ancient Egyptian antiquities are not allowed to leave the country).
Which airlines fly to Egypt?
International airlines - Egypt Air and the main charter airlines fly to Egyptian airports: Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheik, Taba, Saint Catherine, Borg-el-Arab, Assiut, etc.
Can credit cards be used without any difficulty?
Credit cards and travelers checks are accepted in the main hotels and large boutiques. Most tourist stores also accept foreign currencies. Remember to keep a certain amount of small notes and change (25-piaster coins) handy for tips
what if I have a problem?
Complaints should be made to the Tourism Police.
What is appropriate to wear when in Egypt? As a female, do I have to cover my hair when walking in the streets?
When traveling in Egypt, it isn’t necessary to cover your hair except when entering into religious buildings out of respect.
We will be taking a cruise of the Mediterranean. As one of the port of calls, we are stopping for the day in Alexandria, Egypt. We know we need to have a visa for Egypt, even for the day. Can we get the visa when we arrive in Alexandria--at the pier--or do we have to get it ahead of time at an Egyptian consulate in the US before we depart on the cruise?
You may get the visa at the port.
What is the weather like in Egypt? When is the best time to visit?
Egypt has an overall mild climate, with the best time to visit being between October and May.
Are there restrictions about bringing alcohol into the country? What is the legal drinking age in Egypt?
Yes, individuals may bring in up to two liters. The legal drinking age in Egypt is 21 years old.
Is it possible to bring our pet with us on our vacation to Egypt?
Yes, pets may enter Egypt on the condition that you provide a certificate of origin and a health certificate. There are no forms for this, but a dated, signed letter is acceptable. The certificate of origin may be provided by the pet store where your pet was purchased or by a vet. The certificate of health must be provided by a vet.
Where can I get printed brochures, maps and other media about Egypt?
The two best places to get brochures and other media are either a travel agency, or your nearest Egyptian Tourist Authority (ETA) Office.
Is it safe to Travel in Egypt?
Many U.S. travelers think negatively when it comes to safety issues about traveling to Egypt due to concerns for traveling in other Middle Eastern Countries.
Air travel has probably never been safer than it is now. And the security precautions the Egyptian government has had in place to protect tourists for the last 5 years are impressive. There are metal detectors at the entries to all the sites, and at the hotel entryways, you see the military presence everywhere and over-the-road travel between certain cities tourists frequent has been by army escorted convoy. And there have been no problems. Tourism is one of the country\'s most important sources of hard currency, and besides not wanting any untoward incidents, Egypt is very pragmatic and wants in no way to jeopardize a vital economic benefit.
If seeing Egypt has always been your dream, this is a good time to turn the dream into reality.
Can you assist me with my return travel plans or extensions?
Of course, we can provide you with travel assistance to/from and within Egypt. We will take care of you and all the details regarding your reservation, confirmations and changes or additions to your itinerary if applicable.
We are four good friends traveling to Egypt during the millennium, and are wondering what the restrictions for bringing in alcohol to the country are. I mean, it is the New Year and we would like to bring some. Especially champagne. Can we?
Yes. Individuals may bring in up to two liters.
I wish to drive my car into Egypt. What is required to do this?
Unfortunately this cannot be done. Some cars may be ferried in, but in general, you should not plan on bringing your car into Egypt. Once there, you may rent a car, but in many instances I cannot even advise you to do that. Particularly in Cairo, it is much safer to take a cab, due to the driving habits of most people in Cairo.
What are the age restrictions on your tours?
To travel independently you must be at least 18 years of age. There are no upper age limits on our tours however travelers aged 70 years or older are required to complete a medical questionnaire. Our packages are open to families with children aged between 0 and 17 years of age. Our standard (non-family) tours are open to children aged 12 years or older when accompanied by a parents or teachers
Are your tourist guides licensed?
Our tourist guides are of the highest level of their Profession and are certified in Egyptology, they have many years of experience providing interesting and informative assistance to all of our clients on our tours whether they are accompanying a complete group or an individual traveler
Do you have family trips?
Yes, We have a tailored made tours specially made for family’s family needs.
How many people can join a tour?
Basically these are a private tour and we can match it with your arrival dates, and we can do to the basic tour any changes you want, but in case you will join other people that are traveling with the same tour dates. The majority of our tours have a maximum of 12 participants although some may take as many as 16 or 22 passengers
I’m a single traveler, will I be charged a single supplement?
Most of our trips do not have a single traveler supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if you are travelling on your own, toy should contact us first to check availability and the supplement.
Can I book extra nights of hotel accommodation before or after my tour?
Yes, in most cases we can arrange additional accommodation at our starting or ending hotels. Please contact us for price information. If we are unable to provide you with the extra nights we will give you the name of a hotel you can contact directly
Can you provide me with a list of the hotels we will be staying at?
Starting and ending hotels are listed on your travel voucher. We use a variety of hotels en-route and so a complete list of hotels won\'t be provided until 1 – 3 weeks before your tour, depends on the booked date.
Can I join a tour late or leave it early?
It’s extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary please consult one of our travel consultants before you book your tour.
Are airport transfers included? 24 hours
Most of our tours include 24 hours airport transfers and you should give us your arrival and departure flight details
What type of ground transportation is used on your tours?
Trip specific information on transportation can be found on the price included list however in most cases we use private cars, public transportation, sitting trains, sleeping trains, domestic flights.
What is the most appropriate type of luggage to bring?
We strongly recommend bringing a backpack or duffel bag, as suitcases can be cumbersome and difficult to store in buses, under seats, etc.. Keep in mind that you will normally have to carry your own luggage on and off buses and trains and up and down hotel staircases. Suitcases with wheels may not work well on dirt or cobblestone roads.
What clothing should I pack for one of your adventures?
We always recommend packing as light as possible however the specific requirements for your tour will vary widely depending on where and when you are traveling. Each tour includes a suggested packing list.
Can you help arrange my travel visas?
Requirements for travel visas vary widely depending on your nationality and your destination. Although we can send you a guarantee letter. [Especially for Indians, South African]. To help you to get your visa, but this after booking the tour, not before. Most of the Europeans, Canadians, and Americans can get the visa on arrival
What vaccinations are recommended for my tours?
It’s important that you receive the most accurate and up-to-date travel health information for the region you will be visiting. The only one qualified to provide you with this advice is your family physician or a specialist from a Travel Health clinic. Our page does provide links to a number of websites that contain excellent background information related to travel health issues. Nevertheless these websites are no substitute for a personal consultation with a qualified medical professional
Is tipping included and if not, how much should I budget?
Tips are not included in the tour price and tipping is entirely at your discretion. Our Tour Dossiers include suggested tipping amounts
Can I use my mobile phone in Egypt?
Probably check with your service provider before you depart for your holiday
Do I really need to drink lots of water even though there’s a cool breeze?
Yes, when the weather is hot, you should drink a minimum 3-5 litre of water per day. Bottled mineral water is recommended, not tap water
Can I take food from the dining room at breakfast or dinner to make myself a snack later?
No. It is not acceptable and not appreciated. When on buffet style meals, you can take as much as you want during your meal at that sitting. The hotel is entitled to charge you if you take food out of the restaurant as it is not paid for
During the holy festival of Ramadan, will alcohol still be served in the hotels and will services be affected?
Alcohol will be served. Some services, excursions and entertainment may be limited. Please show consideration and respect at all times it is a holy month.
Can I use the local cash machines?
Cash machines (ATMs) are available throughout Turkey, accepting major European credit and bank cards and instructions are often available in English. It is advisable to inform your bank in advance that you are travelling to Turkey as some will automatically put a stop on cards after the first use in an attempt to combat fraud.
Can I use my credit card?
International credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants throughout Turkey. However it is advisable also to carry cash for the smaller shops and cafes, particularly in more rural areas
What is the local currency?
The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TL) available in the following denominations: banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50 &100 TL; coins: 10, 25 & 50 kuruş and 1 TL. Cash can usually be exchanged without commission at bureau de changes (döviz), banks and hotels. Exchange rates are published daily in Turkish newspapers
What should visitors dress in Turkey?
There are no hard and fast rules but it is best to use common sense when deciding what to wear. If staying on a beach resort it is fine to dress as you feel comfortable. For city breaks relaxed clothing is the most suitable with comfortable shoes and casual trousers and/or a dress if you intend to do lots of walking. When visiting mosques you should take off your shoes at the entrance and ladies should cover their hair; often scarves are provided on the way in. Both sexes should dress modestly with no shorts and arms and shoulders covered during visits to mosques
Can I drive in Turkey?
Driving in Turkey is on the right-hand side as in continental Europe and visitors may drive with an international driving license. You should have your driving license, your passport and insurance documents of the vehicle with you. All of the major international car rental companies, as well as a number of local ones, have offices at airports and all major centers.
What is the mains supply voltage, will I need an adaptor?
The mains voltage for electricity is 220V and 50Hz. Central European type wall socket (two-pin plugs) is standard in Turkey.
Do I need to know Turkish in order to communicate?
English is Turkey\'s second widest spoken language and you will easily find English speakers in the major cities and holiday resorts. Restaurant menus and other information for foreigners are often printed in English.
Will I be able to use my mobile phone in Turkey?
The major GSM operators in Turkey are Turkcell, Vodafone and Avea. You can use your mobile phone in Turkey if your provider has enabled international roaming. However if you intend to stay for a long time in the country or make several calls, it may be preferable to buy a local prepaid SIM card. Take your mobile phone and passport to a Turkish mobile phone shop where your new SIM will be registered along with your handset\'s IMEI number and your personal information. (Unregistered phones will be blocked and unable to receive or make calls.) Turkey has very wide mobile coverage networks so you shouldn’t have any problems in the main cities and tourist resorts.
What are the opening times for shops and other services?
Museums: 9 AM to 17 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. Pharmacies: 9 AM to 19 PM, Monday to Saturday. 24-Hour duty pharmacies are available on a rota basis that the names and addresses can be found on any pharmacy.) Banks: 9 AM to 17 PM, Monday to Friday. (Some closes for lunch break.) Post Offices: 9 AM to 17 PM, Monday to Friday. (Extended hours applied on peak periods at major Holiday destinations). Shopping Centers are open seven days a week and stay open until late.
What is the time difference?
Turkey is GMT+2, that is to say two hours ahead of the UK and one hours of the Central Europe.
Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?
While planning your trip to Turkey do not forget to check your passport if it is valid for at least 90 days. Depending on your nationality, most probably your stay as a tourist is limited up to 3 months (for one entrance).For tourist visas for many countries, there is no need to apply in advance or to fill in any forms. However, for updated information and information on which passport holders may require a visa before leaving their country. You may also check with the Turkish Embassy in your country for the latest visa updates. The visa for UK passport holders currently costs £10 and must be paid for with a Sterling note. The visa fee for USA and Australian passport holders is $20/€15. Canadian passport holders need to pay $60/€45. The visa fee for New Zealand passport holders is gratis. The visa for some EU state-passport holders currently costs € 10 and must be paid for with a Euro note. Visas are multiple entries and are valid for three months. Each passport-holder, including infants, must purchase a visa. With tourist visas, you will not have the right to take up paid or unpaid employment or to reside, or to study (including student exchange program) or to establish yourself a business in Turkey.
Can I use traveler’s cheques?
Traveler’s cheques can be exchanged at banks, some large hotels and bureau de changes (döviz).
Is any vaccination required for tourists entering Turkey?
There are no compulsory vaccinations for visitors entering Turkey though it is a good idea to be up-to-date with polio, tetanus, typhoid and if you are travelling to the east of the country.
Is the Turkish Food safe to eat for tourist?
Yes, it is and highly recommended as the Turkish Cuisine is one of the world three main cuisines along with French and Chinese. Most of the restaurants and hotels, particularly in tourist areas are controlled by the local authorities.
What\'s the best time for a visit to Turkey?
July / August are the main tourist season. It depends if you like to swimming and sunbathing. But April, May, June and September, October, early November would be better for discovery tours or relaxing.
Do women have to cover their hair with a scarf in Turkey?
No, they do not have to. In Turkey, especially in holiday resorts it is nearly impossible to see women with scarves.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Turkey?
Turkey practices safe sanitation standards, and tap water is suitable for bathing and regular tasks such as brushing teeth. However, as is customary in most Mediterranean countries, the majority of locals and visitors drink bottled water. We recommend that visitors follow local custom and drink bottled water, which is routinely served with any meal.
Is it safe to travel in Turkey?
Turkey is one of the safest countries in the world in which to travel, and its crime rate is low in comparison to many Western European countries. Interpol ranked Turkey as the safest holiday destination in Europe for travelers. Naturally, we recommend that travelers to Turkey exercise the same precautions they would elsewhere, and be aware of security concerns that affect all international travelers. The Turkish Government takes air safety very seriously, and maintains strict oversight, particularly on international flights.
What is a Turkish bath (Hamam)?
Communal baths were used in Roman and Byzantine times, but as the name \"Turkish Bath\" suggests, they played a significant role in Ottoman culture. At a time when the concept of cleanliness was not yet accepted in Europe, the Turks were very fastidious due to Islam\\\'s emphasis on cleanliness. Countless baths were built in the typical Ottoman architectural style throughout the empire. Unfortunately, few have survived to the present. Cagaloglu Hamami and Cemberlitas Hamami, both in Istanbul, are very popular with tourists.
A classic bath usually has three sections: changing rooms, a hot room and a cold room. After entering the hamam and exchanging one clothes for a \"pestamal\" or towel, you then proceed to the \"gobek tasi\", a large heated stone where you perspire and are rubbed down by a bath attendant. If the heat proves too much, you can retire to a cooler room. This method of bathing is the most refreshing.
Do I need a visa to travel to Jordan?
All visitors to Jordan must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date they enter the country.
Citizens of the following countries will be issued tourist visas for US$ 30 paid in cash upon arrival to every port or entrance terminal to Jordan:
Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bella rouse, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom &North Ireland, Vatican city, Yugoslavia (Serbia &Montenegro).
2-Asia & Oceania:
Bahrain, Bhutan, Brunei, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Indian, Indonesia, Iraq, Israel, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, North Korea, Oman, Palestine/PNA Passport Holder, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Syria, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Tuzpakistan, United Arab Emirates, Yemen, Australia, Federal States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, New Zealand, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Solomon Islands, Tonga.
Algeria, Cape Verde, Comoros, Egypt, Lesotho, Libya, Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Rwanda, Seychelles, South Africa, Swaziland, Tunisia, Zimbabwe.
Canada, United States of America, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Bolivua, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominica Republic, Ecuador, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Salvador, Surinam, Trinidad and Tobago, Urughuay.
Groups of five persons or more arriving through a designated Jordanian tour operator are exempted from all visa charges.
How can I obtain my visa to visit Dubai?
-Citizens from the following countries do not need a visa to travel to Dubai or any of the Emirates: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
-Citizens of countries on the following list can obtain a free, 30 day visit visa at immigration upon arrival with no prior arrangements: Australia, Andorra, Austria, Brunei, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States of America, The Vatican. That visa can be extended for an additional 30 days for a fee.
-Travelers from other countries must arrange for a visa before they travel and will be required to have a sponsor for their visa application.
-Visitors to Dubai and the United Arab Emirates are required to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from their arrival date. Other visa requirements may change and vary from country to country.