The capital of Egypt and one of the most tourist-friendly places in the world, Cairo, is a popular destination for several reasons. Being a part of one of the oldest civilizations, Cairo has gradually evolved through time. After completing a trip to Jeddah, Cairo will feel like paradise for most foreign tourists. This is why many people take رحلات طيران من جدة الى القاهرة for a different travel experience.
It is important to remember that the most popular time and season to visit Cairo is from October to February, as Cairo has the best weather conditions during then. However, these seasons will also bring more tourists from all around the world.
The most important thing to remember is that the VISA must be made before traveling to Cairo because on-arrival VISAs are more difficult to acquire. They are available at the airport but can only be made through Egyptian pounds. Keeping some foreign currency in hand can be extremely helpful and save a lot of time. Other than this, foreign exchange bureaus are also available at the Cairo International Airport.
Essential Things to Know Before You Visit Cairo
There are certain essential things that everyone who travels to Cairo must know. These bits of advice are not usually provided by travel agencies as they are based upon the experiences and narrations from previous travelers.
Cairo is known as the city that never sleeps and boasts of an amazing nightlife. This is primarily because of the hot temperature that lasts during the daytime. Traffic, both during the night and day, in the city, is outrageous and can be extremely troublesome. In order to reach a place on time, it is always better to leave in advance, with time to spare.
One very crucial advice that tourists tend to ignore is to ‘beware of hagglers and scammers’ because they can easily ruin the mood for the entire trip. This is one piece of advice that must be kept in mind while traveling around the entire country. Avoid spending more time in shops shown to you by local tourist guides as they will only lead you to expensive spots and shops that will compel you to make expensive purchases.
What to Wear in Cairo?
Since Cairo is a part of the Islamic culture, there are certain dressing norms and standards that must be followed, especially by women. Foreign women are not expected to cover their heads but are expected to dress modestly. The rise of tourists in Egypt is gradually subduing this norm, but it is only respectful to obey the standards of the place that you are visiting. This should be done to avoid drawing any unnecessary frowns and attention from conservative people that you might encounter.
Things to Do in Cairo
There are several attractions and activities that you can engage in while visiting Cairo. Staying for at least two days in Cairo will help you enjoy several things. After taking an evening or night flights from Cairo, rest for the night and start exploring Cairo, the very next day.
Spend the first half of the day by exploring the Pyramids of Giza, which is on the other side of the Nile and only twenty kilometers from downtown Cairo. Another attraction that must be included in this day trip is the visit to Memphis and Sakkara Pyramids. The remaining afternoon can be enjoyed at the museum after having lunch at a nearby restaurant. One last thing that should be included is the Dinner on the Nile cruise that lasts for around three hours. Having a cruise dinner on the Nile is a once in a lifetime experience that must not be missed.
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The next day can be spent on leisure activities such as shopping or exploring the city and citadel. One of the most popular markets or the most popular souks in Cairo, Khan el Khalili is a highly recommended tourist shopping spot. The open-air market is large and has a variety of shops that sells perfumes, papyrus, artifacts, antiques, scarves, etc.
It is important to remember that only the Golden casket is available for display and not the mummy of Tutankhamun in the Cairo Museum. The real mummy is preserved in the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of Kings in Luxor. However, the museum does contain the mummies of other Egyptian pharaohs.
In order to enjoy Cairo and all these activities with ample time in hand, it is best to stay in a hotel that is located in Downtown Cairo. The posh locality with plenty of hotels is an extremely safe and secure spot for tourists. Remember to try different Egyptian cuisines that are available outside your hotel. Street foods are also available in abundance and truly appeal to taste buds. Staying hydrated with plenty of water due to the hot temperature in Egypt is extremely important to have a smooth trip.
