Money
Modern Egyptian currency (specifically paper money) ranges from the 25 Piastres (quarter pound note) up to a 1,000 pound note. Unlike, for example, American bills, Egyptian currency is not the same size. The smaller the note denomination, the smaller its physical size.
Egyptian coins duplicate the value of some of the Egyptian bills. There are 25 Piastres and 50 Piastres coins, but because of this duplication, many establishments in Egypt rarely have coins. In fact, the value of 25 Piastres is so small that they are often difficult to find in either coin or bill, and businesses often round up the price of merchandise to the nearest pound.
Egyptian money is both colorful, and attractively designed. Here, we present scans of bills between 25 Piastres and 100 pounds (L.E.)
What to Wear
 Egypt is a conservative country and visitors should respect this attitude. No topless or nude bathing is permitted.
On the practical side, leave your synthetics at home as they will prove to be too hot in summer and not warm enough in winter - bring materials that breathe. It is advisable to wear cotton in summer as the heat can be like a furnace. In winter wear layers that can be taken off during the heat of the day and put back on for cool evenings.
Wear loose and flowing garments, which are not only modest, but practical in a hot climate. Have you ever wondered why the Bedouin wear layers of flowing robes? Why they cover their heads and the back of their necks? Centuries of living in desert climates have taught them that loose garments keep one cooler and layered garments allow wind to enter and circulate, creating a natural ventilation system. Protecting the head and neck from loss of moisture prevents heat stroke.
Bring comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking and temple floors are far from even. In summer, wear a hat to protect yourself from the heat of the Egyptian sun.
What to Bring
Above all travel light. Get wheels for your luggage and leave heavy items at home. If you don’t bring a camera you will be sorry. Sunglasses are a must as the sun is very strong in Egypt.
Health
Evidence of Yellow Fever and Cholera immunizations is required from persons who have been in an infected area within six days prior to arrival. These immunizations must be recorded in the International Certificate of Vaccination, the WHO card, issued by the World Health Organization. This document is obtained from authorized doctors in most countries. Persons without the proper immunizations are subject to a 36-hour quarantine at Cairo Airport.
 Cairo Airport
Cairo airport is located 22Km to the south east of the centre of Cairo. The trip to, or from, the airport should take around 30 - 45 Minutes. So dear traveller, make sure to leave your hotel at least three hours before your departure time!
Customs at Cairo Airport:
You are allowed to bring 250 grams of tobacco, two cartons of cigarettes, one litre of alcohol and personal stuff. If you are planning to bring your own pet, make sure you have a veterinary health certificate, which should include a valid rabies certificate.
Do's & Don'ts
Do...
- stock up on sun cream to avoid sunburn, especially between 11am and 2pm.
- wear sunglasses and a hat to protect your eyes and head.
- make sure you have a rough idea of where you're going and always have a map or guide book close at hand.
- Learn a few common phrases so that you can ask for help when needed. People will appreciate you making the effort.
- respect customs. There are dress rules when visiting mosques, holy places, and some other public places too, so be aware.
- keep a currency converter close at hand. Remember that haggling is to be expected.
- keep your valuables and all your important documents in a safe place.
- take your camera with you. That way you won't be disappointed.
Don't ...
- forget to take enough money with you on your daily outings. Never carry all your money and credit cards around with you.
- take anything from the natural habitats that you visit and don't feed the animals.
- get into a taxi without negotiating the price with the driver beforehand.
- go on holiday without telling your friends or family how to reach you.
- leave your hotel or any other accommodation without some form of identification.
- forget to bring your own lifejackets if you plan on taking children on a felucca or any other boat. And don't forget to bring a suitable hat if you want to go horse-riding.
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