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Alexandria Travel Tips

Communication

Staying connected and overcoming language barriers contribute to a smooth trip.

Local Connectivity

  • Local SIM cards from Vodafone Egypt, Orange Egypt, Etisalat Misr provide good value for money.
  • Purchase SIM at Borg El Arab Airport (HBE) or official shops; passport needed for registration.
  • Hotels, major cafes, and restaurants provide free Wi-Fi; local 4G/LTE coverage is strong.
  • Explore global connectivity with an ESIM from Airalo or a mobile Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi.

Language & Translation

Arabic is the official language, with Egyptian Arabic dialect spoken. English is common in tourist areas.

Translation Aids

  • Google Translate with offline Arabic pack is very helpful.
  • A physical Arabic phrasebook shows cultural respect.
  • Consider language learning with Rosetta Stone.

Business Hours & Schedules

Operating hours vary over different businesses and are subject to change during holidays.

Typical Hours

  • Shops: Generally 10 AM - 10 PM, smaller ones may close 2 PM - 5 PM.
  • Restaurants: Lunch from 1 PM/2 PM, dinner after 7 PM into after midnight.
  • Banks: Weekdays, usually 8:30 AM - 3 PM.

Holidays & Impact

Religious and public holidays can significantly impact service availability.

Holiday Considerations

  • Muslim Holidays (Eid al-Fitr, Eid-Adha): Dates vary, expect closures/reduced hours.
  • Christian Holidays (Coptic Christmas/Easter): Observed.
  • Bank Holidays (Revolution Day, Labour Day): Check times for service disruptions.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Respectful Interactions

  • Handshakes common between men; women may shake if hand is extended.
  • Learning basic Arabic phrases earns appreciation.
  • Politeness and patience are prized in engagements.
  • Use your right hand when eating, especially finger foods.

Photography & Sensitive Topics

  • Always get consent before taking photos of people, particularly women and kids.
  • Do not photograph military installations, police, or government buildings.
  • Avoid public displays of affection; discuss politics or religion only with trusted locals.
  • Respect Ramadan fasting hours by avoiding eating/drinking/smoking in public during daylight.

Accessibility Notice

Alexandria's infrastructure has difficulties for travelers with mobility issues. Pavements are often uneven, plus ramps are hard to find. Public transportation is not wheelchair adapted. Private taxis or pre-arranged accessible vans are options. Modern buildings like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina are more accessible with ramps and elevators.

Cultural Practices & Norms

Gaining familiarity with local customs enriches your travel experience.

Religious Observance

Remove shoes and cover hair (women) before entering mosques; maintain quiet.

Gender Considerations

Conservative attire is recommended; public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.

Social Sensitivities

LGBTQ+ rights are not recognized; exercise extreme discretion.

Greeting Customs

Handshakes are common between men. For female travelers, a nod or simple 'Ahlan' (hello) is always suitable.

Common Greetings

  • Handshakes are common between men.
  • Women may shake hands with other women, or with men if extended.
  • A polite nod or "Ahlan" (hello) is always appropriate.

Tipping Practices

Tipping (baksheesh) is customary and respected for almost all services.

Tipping Guidelines

  • Tipping is customary and esteemed.
  • Carry small denominations for tips.
  • Service charge may be included, but a small extra tip is still common.

Appropriate Attire

General Settings

  • Modest dress is recommended, shoulders and knees covered.
  • Avoid overly revealing clothing.
  • When in doubt, dress more conservatively.

Religious Sites

  • Women cover hair with a scarf; long pants or skirts for both genders.
  • Shoes must be removed before entering a mosque.
  • Check for rules on photography inside museums/tombs.

Travelers' Safety & Tips

Navigating Alexandria with insights for a safe and informed journey.

Important Phrases

Learning basic Arabic phrases fosters warmer interactions.

Expressions

  • Hello: Ahlan (ah-lan)
  • Thank you: Shukran (shook-ran)
  • Yes: Na'am (na-am)

Asking Questions

Useful Questions

  • How much?: Bikam? (bee-kam)
  • Excuse me/Sorry: Assef (ass-ef)
  • No: La'a (la-ah)

Privacy Concerns

Be mindful of privacy and local customs when taking photos.

Photography Rules

  • Photography is generally allowed at tourist sites.
  • Some museums prohibit photography entirely.
  • Extra fees or flash prohibitions for cameras inside tombs/museums.

Airport Services

Access to the airport lounges and flight compensation services can make travel smoother.

Traveler Benefits

  • Access independent airport lounges globally with Priority Pass.
  • Receive compensation in case of flight disruptions using Compensair.
  • Services like these provide support for travelers.

Safety & Discretion

Local Sensitivities

  • Refrain from public displays of affection.
  • LGBTQ+ rights are not recognized; exercise extreme discretion.
  • Do not discuss politics or religion unless initiated by a trusted local.

Airport & Transport

  • Be cautious crossing streets; pedestrians may not have right of way.
  • Bargain with conventional taxis; use ride-sharing apps for transparency.
  • Do not drink tap water; stick to bottled water.

Traveler Best Practices

Communication Tips

  • "Inshallah" (God willing) and "Mashallah" (God has willed it) are usual sayings.
  • Tipping (baksheesh) is a part of the daily routine and expected.
  • Egyptian cities can be noisy; horns are used frequently.

Cultural Immersion

  • Hospitality is valued; accept offers of tea or small gestures.
  • Personal space is generally smaller than in The western part of cultures.
  • Explore local markets like El Mansheya for a sensory experience.

Traveler-Specific Advice

Tailoring your approach based on your travel companions and style.

Solo Traveler Advice

Alexandria is safe for solo travelers, but being aware is wise.

Tips for Solo Travelers

  • Alexandria is relatively safe for solo travelers; go with your gut.
  • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.
  • Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention.

Social Opportunities

Connecting with others can enrich your solo journey.

Meeting People

  • Stay in backpacker lodgings or inns with common areas.
  • Participate in local walking tours or cooking classes.
  • Engage with locals who are welcoming and hospitable.

Family Travel Adaptations

Kid-Friendly Planning

  • Plan visits during cooler parts of the day due to open-air sites.
  • Balance historical sites with captivating activities for children.
  • Pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection.

Kid-Friendly Attractions

Certain sites appeal more to younger visitors.

Fun for Families

  • Citadel of Qaitbay (a real fort!)
  • Children's Museum at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina
  • Irregular pavements make strollers difficult; a Baby carrier can be a better choice.

Group Travel Logistics

Advance Bookings

Book accommodation and tours well in advance for whether it's available and potential group discounts.

Private Transport

Consider hiring a private van with a driver for efficient and comfortable group travel between attractions.

Dining Reservations

Make dinner reservations for groups of people, especially in famous restaurants.