Alexandria Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

Google Maps:
For navigation and public transport routes. Download offline maps.
Uber & Careem:
Ride-sharing apps for convenient taxi services.
Google Translate:
Download Arabic offline pack for translation assistance.
WhatsApp:
Widely used for local communication.
NordVPN:
VPN service for secure browsing while traveling.

Useful Websites for Additional Planning

Visa2Egypt:
The official Egyptian e-Visa portal.
Egyptian National Railways:
For checking train schedules and booking tickets.
Go Bus:
Popular intercity bus company for schedules and bookings.
Reputable Travel Blogs:
Search for recent insights on Egypt and Alexandria.
Social Media Accounts:
Follow official Egyptian Ministry of Tourism pages.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

A good physical guidebook offers a comprehensive overview and detailed maps.

Physical Maps

A physical map of Alexandria helps getting your bearings in older districts.

Local Publications

Look for local English-language newspapers or cultural magazines upon arrival.

Books About the Destination

Fiction & Historical Context

"The Alexandria Quartet" by Lawrence Durrell: Captures mid-20th century atmosphere.
"Alexandria: A History and a Guide" by E.M. Forster: Rich historical and cultural context.
"Egypt: A Short History" by Robert L. Tignor: Concise overview of Egypt's history.
"Cairo Trilogy" by Naguib Mahfouz: Insights into Egyptian society.

Emergency & Embassy Information

Keep emergency numbers saved and written down.
Research hospital and clinic locations in advance.
Most foreign embassies are in Cairo; note contact details.
Be aware of seasonal hazards like dust storms.

Emergency & Medical Information

Essential Safety Contacts

Local Emergency Numbers

Police: 122
Ambulance: 123
Tourist Police: 126
Fire Department: 180

Hospital & Clinic Details

Alexandria Medical Center (Private)
Alexandria General Hospital (Public)
Note addresses of reliable pharmacies.
Higher standards of care at private options.

Embassy & Lost Documents

Most foreign embassies are in Cairo.
Note your country's embassy contact details.
Report lost documents to local police immediately.
Obtain a police report for replacement.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Seasonal Hazards

Be aware of dust/sandstorms (especially in spring).
Rare flash floods may occur in winter.
Follow local advice and news updates.

Hotel Guidance

Your hotel can provide guidance on local protocols.
Stay informed through reliable sources.
Local authorities are a source of instruction.

Cultural Immersion Through Literature

Literary Explorations

"The Alexandria Quartet" by Lawrence Durrell, a classic portrayal.
"Alexandria: A History and a Guide" by E.M. Forster, timeless insights.
"Egypt: A Short History" by Robert L. Tignor, concise and accessible.
"Cairo Trilogy" by Naguib Mahfouz, deep insights into Egyptian society.
Offers a profound sense of the city's past character.

Post-Trip Engagement

Discover local English-language newspapers or cultural magazines.
Search for documentaries on the history of ancient Alexandria.
Listen to Egyptian classical music or contemporary Arabic pop.
Explore Egyptian art history online to appreciate context.
Join online travel communities for continued engagement.

Registration & Awareness

Register Your Trip

Register with your embassy before leaving home.

Local Protocol

Your hotel can guide you on local safety protocols.

Stay Alert

Follow local advice and news updates for safety.

Important Advisory

For emergencies involving tourists, the Tourist Police (126) serves as a dedicated contact.

Cultural Insights & Learning

Dive into Egyptian Culture

Literary Journeys

"The Alexandria Quartet":
Lawrence Durrell's classic, capturing mid-20th century Alexandria.
"Alexandria: A History and a Guide":
E.M. Forster's timeless classic, rich in historical context.
"Egypt: A Short History":
Robert L. Tignor's concise and accessible overview.

Insights into Society

"Cairo Trilogy":
Naguib Mahfouz's Nobel Prize-winning work offers deep societal insights.
Egyptian Music & Art:
Immerse yourself in Egyptian classical music or contemporary pop.
Art History:
Explore Egyptian art history online for cultural context.

Online Engagement & Practical Learning

Online Communities

Join travel forums or Facebook groups dedicated to Egypt or Alexandria for questions and updates.

Language Learning

Explore online courses, apps, or local language schools for Arabic, fostering cultural connection.

Start learning Arabic

Skill Enhancement

Access online learning platforms for skills like photography to capture your journey.

Explore Skillshare courses

Essential Pre-Trip Checks

Passport & Visa Readiness

Passport valid for 6 months beyond departure.
Research specific visa requirements for your nationality.
Apply for e-Visa or traditional visa well in advance.
Gather all necessary travel documents.

Health & Insurance Planning

Consult a travel health professional for vaccinations.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads).
Ensure coverage for medical emergencies and evacuation.
Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates.

Booking & Logistics

Flights & Accommodation

Book international flights to HBE or CAI early.
Secure your accommodation in Alexandria.
Plan your detailed itinerary and book major tours.
Book inter-city transfers like train tickets to Cairo.

Packing & Final Checks

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and essentials.
Reconfirm all reservations (flights, hotels, tours).
Download offline maps and language packs.
Charge all electronics (phone, camera, power bank).

Preparation Summary

A comprehensive pre-trip checklist works for covering all important preparations for your Alexandria adventure.

Alexandria Travel Resources