Egypt
The Arab Republic of Egypt is a transcontinental State in North Africa and the Middle East. On land, it covers about 1 million square kilometers. Egypt is divided into 27 provinces. They are called governorates. They are part of 6 regions, and each of them is interesting in its own way. The population is over 100 million people. Most of the people live along the banks of the Nile.
Egypt is called the country of seaside resorts and ancient sites. It is the cradle of cultures and religions. The bustling and diverse metropolis of Cairo, with a length of more than 1 million square kilometers and a population of about 95 million people, is recognized as the capital. The national language is Arabic.
Travelers come to Egypt to explore the land of the sands, which used to be ruled by pharaohs who triumphantly entered world history. Egypt is famous for its seaside resorts. Most tourists come to Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh. But there are other interesting places to visit.
Nile cruises, desert quad bike rides, Color Canyon walks, and mysterious murals in the Valley of the Kings are fascinating. The pyramids in Giza, the capital suburb of Egypt, are considered the most famous attraction. Epochs are mysteriously intertwined in this place. Many mysteries have remained a mystery. They are guarded by the majestic guardian Sphinx. The monuments of Giza have been evaluated by UNESCO, and the pyramids are officially included in the 7 Wonders of the World.
The underwater world of Egypt is of interest to beginners and professional divers. The reefs of the Red Sea are called the most beautiful on the whole planet. You can explore the water diversity near Dahab or in the Ras Mohammed Nature Reserve. It is necessary to beware of crocodiles. In their natural habitat, they can really be dangerous.
The best time to visit Egypt is the end of spring and all the autumn months. You can combine a vacation at sea with excursions and entertainment. Summer heat up to +40 ° C is difficult to tolerate even by Egyptians. People wear clothes made of natural fabrics and use sunscreens.
History
Egyptian history began long before the appearance of the pharaohs and pyramids. The researchers concluded that the first people appeared on the territory of the country tens of thousands of years ago. The Aterian, Ahmar, and Khalfi cultures are the forerunners of the civilizations of North Africa and the Middle East.
Tools of labor and everyday life, drawings on stones have been preserved from the first civilizations. During this period, the race of the Egyptians was born. Initially, the Sahara was not a desert, but a savannah, where there was a lot of vegetation. Farmers lived in this place. Historians say that 9 thousand years ago, the Egyptians began to actively engage in agriculture, mastered pottery, and processed metals.
Thousands of years ago, the ancient Egyptians managed to tame cats, then they became sacred animals. They are still revered by the locals. It was in Egypt that the 365-day calendar was introduced, and writing was created in the country. Egyptians are especially proud of these facts.
Before our era, the state was divided into Upper and Lower Egypt. And about 5 thousand years ago they were united into one kingdom. Cairo was not immediately declared the capital. At first, this status was carried by Tenis and Memphis. In the early kingdom, people actively developed agricultural and economic sectors. Then Egypt broke up into small warring states, which was typical for many countries. 2,000 years before our era, it regains unity. Then Thebes was the capital. Luxor was built on its basis. Temples, alleys of sphinxes and tombs of kings have been preserved in the city.
The Golden Age of Egypt is the period of the reign of the pharaohs. There are legends about their rule. Then the state achieves unprecedented prosperity. The modern republic was formed in 1953. In the 19th century, a new science, Egyptology, was created. It is studied at universities all over the world. It symbolizes the interest of researchers, scientists and archaeologists in Egypt, its history, formation and development, as well as language and culture. The state is considered the cradle of civilizations. The Cairo Egyptian Museum has a bust in honor of 23 Egyptologists of the world.
Climate
Egypt is characterized by the weather of a tropical desert climate. This is due to the fact that the state is based in subtropical and tropical climatic zones. Summer is very hot in the country. The maximum temperature in the shade can be +50 °C. It is cool at night due to the daily temperature fluctuations. Off-season fluctuations do not make a huge difference.
Winters are not cold, the average temperature ranges between +20 °C and +25 °C. As in other countries, this time of year begins in December. But even in winter, you can swim in the sea, although the Egyptians prefer not to do so. The cold temperature is +10°C. Sub-zero temperatures also happen. There may be frosts up to -5°C in deserts. Precipitation is rare, up to 25 millimeters per year. They are mainly characteristic of the northern part of Egypt.
Spring begins at the end of February. From this moment, the sea water begins to warm up to +25 °C. During this season, the weather can be deceptive due to the wind. They provoke sandstorms, which can complicate trips to the pyramids. Summer begins in May. Sandstorms have been stopping since this month. You can safely travel all over the country.
Nature and Wildlife
95% of Egypt is covered with deserts. The rest of the territory is located in the delta and the Nile Valley. Due to the peculiarities of climatic conditions, the flora is not diverse. There are more than 1000 species of plants. The Nile Valley is occupied by agricultural vegetation. You can find papyrus and date palms. Oleanders and fig trees also grow. The cultivated vegetation mainly consists of cotton, grain, sycamore and acacia trees. Banana trees and vines grow in the oases. The lotus is found in southern Egypt. There are mangrove forests on the territory of the Sinai Peninsula. These are the only trees that have been able to take root.
The animal world is not rich either. The fact is that the local climate and natural conditions are not suitable for everyone. But at the same time, there is a wide variety of birds in Egypt. Birds are represented in 430 species. The most popular are Sultan sparrows, nightjars, falcons, vultures, flamingos and pelicans. The falcon is depicted on the national flag. It is listed in the Red Book.
Foxes, jerboa, gazelles, hyenas, and mongooses can be found in Egypt. Hippos and crocodiles live in the waters. The crocodile population is decreasing every year. There are lizards and insects. In deserts, you can come across sand snakes, Egyptian cobras, horned vipers. In total, about 30 species are distributed in the country. Snakes are venomous, but the Egyptians noticed that by their nature they avoid residential areas. They attack to defend themselves. Most of the time, they just crawl away at the sight of a person. They prefer to hide in the morning and afternoon, and in the evening they hunt rodents.
Tiger fish, perch and catfish swim in the Nile. In total, more than 100 varieties of fish have been registered. Nubian ibex is protected in the Wadi Rishras Nature Reserve. In addition to cats, scarab beetles have the status of a sacred animal. It is a symbol of overcoming all life's obstacles.
Geography
Egypt's closest neighbors are Israel, Sudan, Palestine and Libya. A system of import and export of goods has been established with them and other countries. Egypt is washed by the waters of the Mediterranean and the Red Seas, which enhances its tourist attractiveness and strengthens trade ties. They connect through the artificially created Suez Canal. This opens the way to the Indian Ocean. The Nile, one of the largest rivers on the planet, flows from south to north. Its length is almost 7 thousand kilometers.
The geographical location causes a hot climate. It's never cold here all year round. In summer, however, it can be very hot, and the daily fluctuations are very large. If it's hot during the day, it will be cool at night.
Egypt is rich in minerals. Oil, natural gas, iron ore, limestone, zinc, lead and manganese are mined here. This ensures the status of the most economically developed country in Africa and the Middle East. Over time, the economic potential increases. Egypt has great prospects for further development.
Cuisine
They like to add aromatic spices in large quantities to national dishes to enhance the taste. The Egyptian cuisine is based on rice and beans. Locals often cook rice with pigeons, lamb stew and vegetables. Stuffed pigeon is called a delicacy. Birds are bred in special poultry farms.
Wheat groats are called couscous. In most cases, it is seasoned with olive oil. Freshly caught fish and seafood can be ordered in the restaurants. The portions at parties and restaurants are large and satisfying. The koshari dish is no less popular. It is made from rice, pasta, lentils and spices. Sometimes fried chickpeas or onions are added. Mutton, chicken or beef are used as meat. The minced meat must be filled with herbs and pepper, and then everything is grilled. In many hotels you can find European side dishes and salads.
In hot weather, a cup of karkade tea or a mug of assir asab cane juice is refreshing. No one drinks tap water, it's unhealthy. They buy it in the store. Halva is eaten as a dessert. Sesame seeds, pistachios and nuts are added to it.
Among the most visited restaurants: Noble House, where in addition to national dishes there is Chinese cuisine and food for vegetarians, Vivo Ristorante, where there is no paper menu, you can order by QR code, Sofra Oriental, where there are all national dishes.
Tips for Tourists
The monetary currency is the Egyptian pound. Currency can be exchanged at banks or special exchange offices. Many large hotels have bank branches. If there are no pounds, you can pay for the goods in American dollars. You can leave 1 dollar for the waiters for tea and for minor services.
It is better to buy food and water in stores with fixed prices. They may be spoiled on the market due to the hot weather, so sellers will sell them at discounts. Since the majority of the population professes Islam, women should not bare their shoulders and knees when going out on the street. This will help to avoid attracting unnecessary attention. The exceptions are beach areas. You can also sunbathe in outdoor swimsuits in hotels.
In Egypt, camel drivers can offer to ride animals for free. You really don't have to pay anything for the ride, but the catch is that you have to pay to get off the camel. It is always better to discuss all the details in advance. And in order not to wait for the bus, people at the bus stop jointly order a taxi. The trip will cost the same, but you can get there faster.
Housing Rental
Car rental is a common service. There are many carsharing companies that rent cars of different brands. There may also be used versions. Before getting into a rented car, you should carefully inspect it and make sure there are no dents, scratches or malfunctions. Otherwise, it will be difficult to prove later that they appeared through no fault of the driver.
You can rent a car from the age of 21, but in some companies the age limit is from 25 years. A prerequisite is the availability of an international driver's license. It is better to pay with a credit card, otherwise you will have to leave cash as collateral.
In Egypt, traffic is on the right, overtaking can be done on the left. The average speed limit is 100 km/h. It is important not to ignore the road signs. However, distance indicators are not very accurate. If you don't have a license, you can rent a car with a driver or rent a bicycle. This service is also in demand. But helmets and safety gear are not offered.
Visa
Before traveling, you need to declare expensive cameras and computers. But before leaving the country, customs control will check their availability to make sure that there is no sale of equipment in Egypt.
The import of narcotic drugs, firearms, ammunition, metal detectors, cotton, any items for espionage, porn products, and materials inciting religious and racial hatred are strictly prohibited. Also on this list are any seeds and plants, raw potatoes, poultry in any form, medicines in an open package and without a prescription from a doctor. This can be regarded as drug smuggling.
It is worth paying attention to the fact that corals and shells are considered the wealth of the Red Sea. This is a national treasure, and it is not allowed to take them with you as a souvenir. Violators will be charged and fined. You can only take cigarettes with you from the age of 20 and no more than 10 standard packs. It is allowed to import 1 liter of alcoholic beverages. Funds from 10 thousand dollars and above must be declared.
Holidays
There are 6 official holidays in Egypt. This list includes New Year's Eve, the first Monday after Easter, Liberation of Sinai, Labor Day, Revolution Day, Armed Forces Day. In addition, all Muslim holidays are celebrated in the country, because the majority of the population professes Islam. Other believers do not object to these traditions.
Before the New Year, the cities are decorated with festive illumination, Christmas trees are installed in the squares. The hotels have an entertainment program. New Year's Eve is the main night. People are having fun, preparing treats and gifts the day before. Muslims celebrate the Nativity of the Prophet Muhammad. Marches and folk festivals are held at the end of January.
The Festival of the Sun takes place on February 22. People come to the Ramses temple and watch as the rays of the sun pierce the walls of the sanctuary. At this moment, the figure of the Pharaoh is consecrated. The phenomenon lasts just over 10 minutes. They treat him like a miracle. Then there are dance, song events and fairs.
During Easter, Egyptians rejoice at the arrival of spring. People are having picnics and walking in the fresh air. This is a great opportunity to chat with friends and make new acquaintances. In August, the Nile floods. The holiday lasts for 2 weeks. Tribute is paid to the memory of the ancestors, people thank the Nile, as they remember that the survival of the people depended on the flood. Sports competitions, performances on the water and exhibitions are organized.
Shopping
There is a special shopping atmosphere in Egypt. Incense and aromatic oils, statuettes depicting Egyptian gods, pharaohs and cats are often bought in this country. You can also pay attention to gold and silver jewelry, national clothes, and leather goods. It is important to understand that gold contains many impurities. If you need jewelry made of pure gold, you need to go to jewelry boutiques. As a souvenir of the trip, you can take papyrus, hookahs, tea or coffee from local production.
High-quality cosmetics are produced in Egypt. It is resistant and does not irritate the skin with prolonged use. The fragrance of oil perfumes smells good and lasts a long time. It can stay on the body for several days, so they are exported to different countries. But you need to beware of fakes, which are most often found in supermarkets. You can buy socks, slippers, carpets made of camel's hair. They will not be demolished, as they are of high quality. Fur products are cheaper than in other countries.
You don't have to be shy and try to bargain. In Egypt, they say, "If a person doesn't bargain, they just don't need a discount." Sellers themselves rarely offer a discount. You can go around the entire bazaar and analyze the prices. It's hard to call the country rich, so everyone is trying to earn as much as possible. It is possible to bring down the initially announced cost of the product by 1.5 and sometimes even by 2 times. Large bazaars are open until 20:00, and most shops close an hour earlier. During Ramadan, trading begins after 12.00 and ends at sunset.
Entertainment
Egyptians recommend visiting the pyramids of Giza at least once in your life. There is a version supported by historians that they were built as luxurious tombs for the pharaohs of Cheops, Chephren and Mykerinus about 4,500 years ago. There are many unofficial versions, but in any case, many people are attracted to these giant buildings. The complex of 3 pyramids is considered the only monument of antiquity, which was included in the list of 7 wonders of the Ancient world.
For those who are interested in the history of Egypt, it will be interesting to visit the Valley of the Kings. It is called the most mystical necropolis on the planet. Thutmose I, who was the first Egyptian pharaoh, was buried in this place. The burials of the rulers were conducted for 500 years. Archaeologists have found more than 50 tombs.
There are many museums in Egypt. They are mostly open from 8.00 to 17.00. The Nubian Museum in Aswan contains a complete collection of artifacts of the ancient civilization. Its area covers 5,000 square meters. There are many exhibits made of gold and jewelry.
Ras Mohammed Nature Reserve will show the beauty of the underwater world of the Red Sea. Here, coral gardens are surrounded by colorful fish and marine life. Mangrove trees stretch along the coast. You can see different birds, lizards, foxes and gazelles. You can get to the reserve by bus or by yacht.
Hotels
There is a large selection of hotels in Egypt. The closer to the sea and the iconic attractions they are located, the more expensive the accommodation will cost. The most comfortable stay will be in luxury five-star hotels with all-inclusive meals. They have pools and stunning views from the rooms. You can take food with you to your room or for walks before going home. Portions are not limited.
There are no Bed & Breakfast hotels. To save money, you can stay in a three-star hotel or rent a room in a guest house without meals. It will be cheaper to book a room in advance. In addition, during the tourist seasons, all rooms in the selected hotel may be occupied, and you will have to look for accommodation in another hotel. There are many youth hotels in Alexandria and Cairo. They are called budget hostels. There are club hotels in big cities where incendiary parties with DJs take place every evening. Camping sites and chalets on the coast are open. Thanks to the variety of options, you can choose accommodation for every taste and budget.