Egypt is a country on the northeast corner of the African continent. It is bordered by Libya to the west, Sudan to the south, and Israel to the northeast. The country is also bounded by the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Red Sea to the East.
The River Nile flows through Egypt, creating a ribbon of habitable land in an otherwise barren desert landscape. Due to the monumental artifacts of its ancient civilisation, Egypt is today one of the biggest tourist destinations of the world. Less spectacular perhaps, but not less important, is Eqypt's medieval heritage represented by the many ancient churches, monasteries and mosques of Coptic Christianity and Islamic origin, that can be found and visited all thorough Egypt.
Fast Facts about Egypt
Official Name: Arab Republic of Egypt
Capital: Cairo (8,700,000)
Population of Egypt: 78,887,000
Languages: Arabic (official), English, French
Currency: Egyptian Pound
Religions: Islam (94%)
Size: 995,450 sq km (384,343 sq miles)
Region: Africa
When to visit Egypt
Definitely not during summer, June to August, when it is unbearably hot during the day. December to February is the best time to visit, when the temperature becomes more pleasant.
What to wear in Egypt
Lightweight cotton clothes, long sleeves, hat and scarf are all useful items to wear, along with a good pair of sunglasses. Apply sunblock to exposed skin. During evenings, a jacket will keep out the chill. Umbrellas are not necessary, but you can bring a parasol to keep out the sun.
Getting into Egypt
Cairo International Airport is the primary gateway for international visitors to Egypt.
Egypt Entry Requirements
The nationals of US (US$15), Australia (A$45), Canada (C$25), Britain (L15) and other EU countries (US$15) need a visa when entering Egypt. The amount is as shown in brackets.
Where to stay in Egypt
Click on the name of the towns listed below to view hostels and budget accommodation available for booking there.
To visit the many ancient monuments, it is best to book a tour. Perhaps the best option for internal travel is by domestic flights, all through the national carrier, EqyptAir. Be aware, though, that foreigners pay more for the same seats. Always book in advance, especially during peak periods. All trains are operated by the Egyptian National Railways. By all means, get first class seats for your train travels in Egypt, as all other classes may be way below the desired expectation, especially where the rest rooms are concerned. Ramses Station is the main railway station in Cairo, and has different booking windows for different classes - check with the locals for the correct window.
Money matters in Egypt
The local currency is the Egyptian pound. L1=100 piastres. Banknotes are available in denominations of 25 piastres, 50 piastres, £1, £5, £10, £20, £50 and £100, while coins are available in 5, 10, 20, 50 piastres and £1.
At time of writing (Oct 2007), US$1.00 = E£5.64, E£1.00=EGP8.00 For the latest exchange go to the Oanda Currency Converter.
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