Egypt is synonymous with Pharaohs, the pyramids, temples and the antiquities from ancient civilisations.  And at the centre of these great civilisations lies the Nile River that has influenced their economic, social life, politics and religion.  It is the oldest travel destination on earth: Greek and Roman travellers came in 430 BC to wonder at some of the very sights that make it a modern destination today.

PASSPORT & VISA REQUIREMENTS
Australian passport holders must have a valid passport and a visa is required.  A 30 day visa can be obtained on arrival provided the purpose of travel is for tourism.

CURRENCY
The unit of currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), which is divided into 100 piastres.  Most credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants.  Visitors are advised to take travellers cheques in USD or Pounds to avoid additional exchange rate charges.  Banks are usually closed on Friday and Saturday.

LANGUAGES
Arabic is the official language although English and French are widely spoke, especially in the tourist areas.

VOLTAGE
Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz European two-pin plugs are standard.

TIME DIFFERENCE
Local time is GMT +2 (GMT +3 from the last Friday in April to the last Friday in September). 

HEALTH REGULATIONS
There are a number of health risks associated with travel to Egypt and travellers should check that their inoculations are up to date before leaving.  Come prepared to beat the heat with a high factor sunblock and drink plenty of water to combat dehydration.  Drinking water in the main cities is normally chlorinated but it is advisable to only drink bottled water.  The waters of the Nile are contaminated and should not be consumed or bathed in.

TIPPING
Tipping is known as 'baksheesh' and some small change is expected for most services, though small change can be hard to come by.  'Baksheesh' can be a useful practice in order to gain entry to seemingly inaccessible places, or for extra services - a small tip can open doors.  A service charge is added to most restaurant and hotel bills but a 5% tip is normally given directly to the waiter.  Taxi drivers are tipped about 10%.

CUSTOMS
Egypt is a conservative society and visitors should respect local customs and sensitivities and dress modestly.  Affection between opposite sexes is not shown in public, and homosexual acts in public are illegal.  For women especially, covering of upper arms and legs discourages physical and verbal attention.  Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture.