Egypt: How to get around.

You've safely arrived in Cairo…

… Now what??

As Egypt’s capital and also the largest city in Africa, Cairo has a lot to offer. There is never a dull moment when you have such a variety of places to visit. There is Old Cairo with the famous Hanging Church or also the Ben Ezra Synagogue, Islamic Cairo with its bazaars and ancient mosques. Just outside the city you find the Sphinx and the Great Pyramid of Giza. But how do you get to those places? Here are some helpful tips that will make the “getting around” part of your trip a little easier.

You have several options when traveling within the city of Cairo. One would be simply to walk, another is taking a taxi, or even the Metro is an alternative.

Getting to the attractions within the heart of the city is your best bet. Make sure you have a map with you and if you are female, be aware of the extra attention you may get.

Hailing a cab is possible from about every street corner in Cairo. It is a very cheap and easy method to get around within the city.

Here are some helpful tips:

• The meters don’t work, so agree on the price before you get in the cab
• Single men sit in the front, single women sit in the back
• Quite frequently the cab driver will pick up other passengers on the way, so don’t be alerted
• Keep small notes on you so you can pay the exact amount when you get out of the cab
• Hold on and thank the stars that you don’t have to drive!!!

Please see this video and be thankful for cabs…

Another option that you have is to ride the Metro. Cairo has the only metro system in Africa. It’s reliable, cheap and convenient.

Good Luck!

Egypt: Hotels and Hostels

Although you will be busy checking out all the attractions of Egypt during the day, finding a home away from home to rest your feet after a long day of sight-seeing is important too.

Knowing what you are looking for in a hotel and researching various hotels in Egypt can actually enhance your trip and save you money as some hotels offer complimentary breakfasts, swimming pools, restaurants, bars, transportation and staff who will schedule tours for you!

All these extra amenities that save time and money will be useful when you are planning your budget, especially a meal budget. It also makes the trip more enjoyable when you stay somewhere that has a friendly/helpful staff, clean living quarters and a great location! Reading the travelers reviews are often one of the best ways to get an honest opinion.

The two most popular cities in Egypt for tourists are by far Cairo and Luxor. Below are some hotels and hostels in each city that range from different prices and star quality to meet the needs of every traveler. It is important to do your research before you go because you may find a great deal!

CAIRO:

Giza:

• Pyramid Suites Hotel and Casino- 3 star hotel that overlooks the Nile and is within walking distance of the sights.
• Sofitel Le Sphinx- 5 star hotel located at the foot of the pyramids. Can get pricey between October-May. Best bang for your buck in the off season!
• Siag Pyramids Hotel- An inexpensive hotel that is great for hosting young travelers.
• Wake Up!- Named one of the best hostels in Cairo and is recommended in many guide books. An excellent stay for backpackers and young travelers alike!

El Gezira:

• Sofitel el Gezirah- 4 star hotel that has been recently refurbished and in great location to the sites and Nile River.

Zamalek:

• Marriott Cairo Hotel and Casino- 5 star hotel that is the best in the area. A little pricey, but a good deal considering all the hotel has to offer its clients.

LUXOR:

• Sonesta St. George Hotel- 4 star hotel at a price that won’t break your budget. The hotel is situated at the banks of the Nile.
• Mercure Luxor Hotel- 4 star hotel with great views of the Nile and Gardens, free breakfast and will leave extra money for souvenirs.
• Nubian Oasis Hostel- A hostel that comes highly recommended by travelers and guide books alike. A place for travelers with a tighter budget but finer tastes.

Be sure to stay somewhere close to the attractions you want to see as there are great hotels at accommodating price ranges in all the major cities.

Save the surprises of the trip for the attractions, research the hotels!


Here is a helpful site that offers an overview of the company, photos, maps and nightly rates.
http://www.hotelstravel.com/egypt-cairo.html