5 Mistakes to Avoid When Travelling to Egypt
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Neglecting to Familiarize Yourself with the Culture and Country Prior to Your Journey
Egypt offers a truly distinctive cultural encounter. With its prevailing Islamic culture, it showcases a distinctively conservative aspect in comparison to other destinations around the globe.
Depending on the place you’re coming from, it can be quite a culture shock. Moreover, the temperature is higher compared to other destinations, and it can be aptly described as a delightful mess, characterized by loud clamor, frenzied traffic, and a seemingly omnipresent crowd.
From my perspective, this aspect added to the allure of Egypt and contributed to my enjoyment. However, if you are not fond of incessant yelling or struggling in noisy settings, this particular ambiance may not be suitable for you.
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Packing Non-Culturally Appropriate Clothing
When exploring Egypt, it is essential to be mindful of the local culture and traditions in order to display respectful behavior. The country experiences high temperatures throughout the year, which may tempt visitors to dress in revealing attire to combat the heat. However, it is important to note that such clothing is considered disrespectful and may attract unwelcome attention, as it goes against the prevailing Islamic dress norms.
Instead, it is advisable for visitors to wear lightweight and loose attire that appropriately covers their shoulders, knees, and chest, as a sign of respect for the local culture. Despite the hot weather, adhering to this dress code is essential to prevent any potential complications when visiting the exquisite temples of Egypt.
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Failing to Give Priority to Your Nile Cruise
When preparing for your visit to Egypt, it is crucial to prioritize the planning of your MS Alexander the Great Nile cruise. It is important to note that cruises operate on specific days, so it is advisable to verify the schedules and costs before proceeding with additional trip arrangements.
Please keep in mind that these cruises are exclusively offered from Luxor and Aswan, not Cairo. Depending on the duration of your trip, you can choose between a 3-night/4-day or a 6-night/7-day option, departing from Mondays to Fridays. By taking these preparatory measures, you can guarantee an exceptional experience while immersing yourself in the magnificent attractions along the Nile.
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Ignoring the Use of a Tourist Guide for Specific Tourist Destinations
Hiring a knowledgeable guide during your visit to attractions like the pyramids offers more than just extensive information; it enhances the overall quality of your experience. During my solo trip, booking a guide ensured a smooth and hassle-free visit, making me feel safe and protected.
Numerous tourists experienced constant annoyance from individuals attempting to sell them goods or offer their guiding services, but I was fortunate enough to avoid such encounters during my trip. The advantage of having a guide by your side is that you gain a wealth of knowledge that surpasses what you could acquire by exploring on your own.
Paying at the kiosks and visiting the temples independently is a simple task, but it is crucial not to overlook the opportunity for a remarkable cultural exchange. Being accompanied by a local who showcases their part of the world added an indelible first impression to my journey. If you are not planning to have a tour guide throughout your entire stay in Egypt, I suggest waiting until you arrive in the country before booking one. Online guide services often come with inflated prices that are twice or thrice the amount charged when booked in person.
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Exploring New Destinations without Downloading a Currency Conversion Application
Egypt is a captivating destination that offers breathtaking sights and experiences. However, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the current exchange rate before embarking on your journey. Personally, I consider having a currency conversion application as a vital inclusion in my travel checklist.
