EGYPT
Egypt is probably the worlds oldest civilization having
emerged from the Nile Valley around 3,100 BC,
historically.Egypt is probably one of the oldest
vacation spots. Early Greeks, Romans and others went
there just for fun, and to see the wonders of some of
mankinds earliest triumphs.
But Egypt is much more than Pyramids and monuments. It is also Red Sea scuba diving,
hot night spots, luxury hotels and five star restaurants. It is romantic cruises
down the Nile on festive river boats, a night at the grand opera and it is a cultural
experience like none you have ever experienced. Egypt is a land bustling with life,
sound, visual beauty and excitement. More than anything else, we want you to think
of Egypt as fun. For thousands of years, it has been the playground of emperors
and kings, and we hope you will take the time to find out why.
GEOGRAPHY
Egypt, at the northeast corner of Africa on the Mediterranean Sea, is bordered on
the west by Libya, on the south by the Sudan, and on the east by the Red Sea and
Israel. It is nearly one and one-half times the size of Texas. Egypt is divided
into two unequal, extremely arid regions by the landscapes dominant feature, the
northward-flowing Nile River. The Nile starts 100 mi (161 km) south of the Mediterranean
and fans out to a sea front of 155 mi between the cities of Alexandria and Port
Said. Egypt is a country with an immense cultural mix,In every major
city in Egypt you will find traditions that remain from the time of the Pharaohs
, and in other parts you will find pure tribal customs that were brought in by many
invaders throughout the centuries. That contradiction and contrast between areas
of Egypt, when you compare it with other Middle Eastern countries, is what
makes Egypt seem advanced against some of the others. Yet here you will
find that the customs and mentality tends to be full of warmth towards visitors
and foreigners. I guess this could be the secret why Egypt is considered the most
attractive country in the region for of the local Egyptians when they are always
there when you need help, or when they invite you into their houses when they
hardly know you, or when they smile in your face, makes a visit to Egypt a
wonderful and unforgettable experience. Egypt’s population is about 67 million.
57 million of them are Sunni Muslims and about 10 Million are Coptic Christians
(Christian Egyptians), although public statistics indicate that they are not
more than 7 million. Whether Muslim or Copt, the Egyptians are moderately religious
and religious principles are quite noticeable in their daily lives. Here each
family member is responsible for the integrity of his or her family and for the
behaviour of other members, creating an environment that would be envied by many
people in the West. Here they are very close to each other, family ties are
far stronger than in the west, and that is why you will find any major city in Egypt
is a lot safer than any western metropolis.Yet when travellers come to Egypt they
are often apprehensive, their views of Egyptians and Arabs, fomented by unkind and
untrue media stories, often bear no relation to reality. Travellers, when
they meet Egyptians are often surprised by their friendly, hospitable reception
and take home with them good feelings about Egypt and its populationEgyptians form
a society of a mixture of Middle Eastern family standards, taken from the different
religious rules, whether in Islam or Christianity, it creates a sort of background
that can colour their decision-making in a way difficult for foreigners to understand,
yet it is precisely this training that makes Egyptians some of the most charming
and helpful of hosts. By understanding the culture and with consideration
for your hosts, you can be a welcome guest in Egypt. In general, Egyptians are most
accommodating and they will go out of their way to help you and respond to any questions
you have. Most Egyptians require little personal space and will stand within inches
of you to talk! You will find that whenever you start talking with an Egyptian,
you will inevitably draw a crowd, and often the Egyptians will start discussing,
among themselves, about the correct answer to a question.
ABOUT RAMADAN
Although most of the Muslims in Egypt do not drink alcohol they dont object to others
drinking, but doing it in reasonable amounts.In Egypt people dont eat pork,and rarely,
when you find a place that offers pork, is there much choice on the menu. People
here fast at the time of Ramadan , it is the time when they all come close to each
other and respect each other, it is the time when they go out till late at night
and fast by day. During this month, donations, almsgiving and charity would be at
its highest rates, it is the time for forgiveness and love. It is a wonderful month.In
Egypt there are hardly any restrictions on foreign women. Ticket lines, for example,
are occasionally segregated, women ;line up with other women (especially as the
lines are usually shorter). On the underground lines, the first car is usually reserved
for women, especially elderly ones. For men, speaking to an unknown Egyptian woman
is a breach of etiquette, so take care in any liaisons you form because some families
still follow ancient traditions. Crime in Egypt is nearly nonexistent, and violence
is usually limited to family feuds. However, in tourism areas some pickpockets and
petty thieves may exist, so be careful and remember that the ever-helpful tourism
police are usually nearby. Women must be cautious, especially in out-lying areas.
Stay completely away from drugs and leave yours at home.
WEATHER IN EGYPT
The Egyptian summer is hot and dry in most of the country, and humid in the Delta
and along the Mediterranean Coast. In recent years the humidity has spread to Cairo,
and the city swelters in August! Winter is mild with some rain, but usually it is
bright, sunny days with cold nights.During the summertime, sun protection is
the most important single consideration for an Egypt trip, especially for the fair-skinned.
Wearing a sunhat is essential. Cheap, and pure cotton, sunhats are made
locally and available everywhere. Travel clothing should be light and comfortable,
100 percent cotton clothing is the best and robust shoes are a must! The climate
of Egypt is characterized by a hot season from May to October and a cool season
from October to May. Extreme temperatures during both seasons are moderated by the
prevailing northern winds.
Sharm El Sheikh
Aswan
Hurghada Cairo
Luxor
Marsa Alam