1.
Posted by
chutneychonk
(First Time Poster 1 posts)
1y
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I'm travelling to Egypt early Nov, and doing my research I'm getting a bit confused about the requirements for entry. I've got as far as knowing I need a visa! Some sites say I also need to fill out some of online health form and upload proof of a covid vaccine, but gov.co.uk doesn't mention this? Can anyone who has recently travelled there confirm either way? Are there are any covid requirements for entry?
Also, does anyone recommend any vaccines? I am only going for a week, with a tour company, just going to the main tourist hotspots so about as safely as I can do it.
Any general tips for Egypt would be appreciated as well 
E.g. cash culture? Tipping? Any covid restrictions still in force I should be aware of?
Appreciate any advice- there's a lot of contradictory stuff out there!
2.
Posted by
leics2
(Travel Guru 6705 posts)
1y
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>Some sites say I also need to fill out some of online health form and upload proof of a covid vaccine, but gov.co.uk doesn't mention this?
You should ignore 'some sites' (which are often out of date) and follow the official FCO advice about Egypt entry requirements. It is regularly updated:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt/entry-requirements
If you're still worried contact your tour company directly. Any reputable UK tour company will be able to advise on entry requirements.
>Also, does anyone recommend any vaccines?
Again, look at the regularly updated UK gov official advice for Egypt:
https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/71/egypt
As a minimum, if you haven't already had the Hep A vaccine I'd strongly advise you to get it. Just visiting the main tourist hotspots won't prevent you from getting Hep A (unpleasant disease) if there's a carrier about....anywhere.
Make sure your tetanus is up-to-date too.
>cash culture?
Yes....and a haggling culture too (though obv not in restaurants, bars & attractions). Try to keep a good amount of small notes on you for tipping.
If you do pay by card always pay in Egyptian pounds. If you allow the seller to convert to GBP during the transaction you'll pay more.
>Tipping?
Yes, Expect tips to be expected for even the smallest service e.g. being given toilet paper when you enter the loo. Don't begrudge it: you're visiting a developing country where many, many people struggle to get by.
General advice:
Respect the laws (Egyptian police don't mess about) and the cultural norms. Read through this page:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt/safety-and-security
Always remember that what may be tolerated with your hotel/resort will not automatically be tolerated outside it.
Stomach upsets
Take some Immodium or similar with you.
Water: Only drink bottled water which has an intact seal. Always clean your teeth with bottled water, not tap water. Don't have ice in drinks.
Eat fruit you've peeled yourself and avoid leafy salads. It's safer to eat hot dishes though be wary of those which have been hanging around under warming lights for several hours. 'Freshly-cooked' options (e.g. steak, pancakes) are a good idea when available.
Personal safety:
Watch out for scammers and petty criminals (pickpockets etc) who are just as attracted to the main tourist hotspots in Egypt just as they are everywhere else. Only take the cards and cash you need for the day (leave the rest in the hotel safe) and keep most of it (and your passport) safely underneath your clothing.
Egypt is a fascinating country. Enjoy your trip!