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Hurghada Travel Tips

Hurghada Travel Tips

Hurghada Red Sea Coast, Egypt Travel Guide

Local SIM Cards & Mobile

Major providers offer good coverage in Hurghada and along the Red Sea coast.

Getting Connected

  • Purchase SIM cards at Hurghada International Airport or official stores.
  • Passport required for SIM card registration.
  • Data packages are inexpensive and offer good value.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is widespread in hotels and cafes, though speeds vary.

Staying Online

  • Wi-Fi is often free for guests in hotels and resorts.
  • Local SIM cards provide reliable 4G/5G coverage in Hurghada.
  • Postal services exist but are rarely used by visitors.

Operating Hours

Businesses in Hurghada keep varied hours, especially for shops and markets.

General Schedules

  • Banks are typically open Sunday to Thursday, 8:30 AM - 4 PM.
  • Shops open from 10/11 AM until late evening, 10/11 PM in tourist areas.
  • Restaurant hours vary; local eateries open early until late.

Holidays & Events

Both Islamic and national holidays are observed, potentially affecting services.

Seasonal Adjustments

  • Islamic holidays (Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha) affect business hours.
  • Coptic Christmas and Easter are also recognized holidays.
  • National holidays like Revolution Day bring closures or reduced hours.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Interactions & Dress

  • Handshakes common between men; women initiate handshakes with men.
  • Modest dress appreciated outside resorts, covering shoulders and knees.
  • Tipping is expected for most services (refer to dining section for details).
  • Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially women and children.

Social Considerations

  • Avoid sensitive discussions about Egyptian politics or religion.
  • Public displays of affection are generally not accepted.
  • Avoid public intoxication; alcohol is for tourist areas.

Communication Focus

Having a Translation app on your phone aids conversations outside tourist hubs. A local SIM card from Airalo or a portable device from Solis Wi-Fi ensures continuous connectivity. Learning a few words from Rosetta Stone enhances experiences.

Travel Essentials

services and local financial practices for a smooth journey.

Lounge Access

Priority Pass offers access to independent airport lounges globally, enhancing your travel comfort.

Flight Compensation

Compensair helps travelers receive compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

Baggage Services

Airport facilities assist with baggage handling, lost and found, and general information points.

Money & Banking

Financial Basics

  • Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency.
  • Exchange offices and banks available for currency exchange.
  • Major credit cards accepted in hotels and larger establishments.

ATM & Bank Locations

ATMs are widely distributed across Hurghada for cash access.

Accessing Funds

  • ATMs are conveniently located at airports, hotels, and malls.
  • Major banks like National Bank of Egypt and HSBC have branches.
  • ATMs generally operate 24/7 for convenience.

Local Shopping & Souks

Bargaining Culture

  • Bargaining is common and expected in local markets.
  • Approach bargaining good-naturedly, viewing it as a friendly exchange.
  • Agree on a price before committing to a purchase.

Market Experience

  • Souks are most in the evenings, offering a lively atmosphere.
  • Support local artisans by purchasing authentic crafts.
  • Enjoy people-watching and the unique ambiance of traditional markets.

Financial Insight

Carry small denominations of Egyptian Pounds for local purchases and tips. Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but cash helps for smaller transactions.

Social Norms

Gender Considerations

Egypt is a conservative society where modesty is valued in public.

Public Presence

  • Modest dress helps women reduce unwanted attention in public areas.
  • Solo female travelers find greater caution helpful, especially after dark.
  • Ignoring unwanted attention is often the most effective approach.

LGBTQ+ Information

Social acceptance of homosexuality is limited in Egypt, though not illegal.

Discretion is

  • Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are discouraged.
  • Discretion is advised in all public settings for LGBTQ+ travelers.
  • Focus on enjoying the destination while being mindful of local customs.

Cultural Taboos

Awareness of sensitive topics and behaviors prevents misunderstandings.

Topics to Avoid

  • Avoid discussions on Egyptian politics or religion.
  • Refrain from public intoxication.
  • Do not photograph military or government buildings.

Religious Site Visits

Respectful behavior is paramount when visiting sacred places.

Temple & Mosque Etiquette

  • Remove your shoes before entering mosques.
  • Women cover heads, shoulders, and knees in religious sites.
  • Maintain silence and avoid walking in front of people praying.

Important Travel Advice

Safety Precautions

  • Always stay informed about local conditions.
  • Avoid large gatherings that appear politically motivated.
  • Exercise caution when crossing streets due to traffic.

Health Reminders

  • Drink only bottled water to avoid stomach issues.
  • Use sunscreen and stay hydrated in the strong sun.
  • Wash hands frequently or use sanitizer.

Polite Interactions

Local Gestures

  • Pointing with your finger can be seen as rude; use an open hand.
  • Thumbs-up gesture might not have the same positive meaning everywhere.
  • A gentle shake of the head left-to-right indicates 'no'.

Dining Manners

  • Bread is often used to scoop food; eat with your right hand.
  • Refuse offers of tea or coffee politely but firmly if you do not want them.
  • Wait for the host to indicate when it is time to eat.

Cultural Awareness

Being informed about local customs and norms fosters positive interactions. Your thoughtful approach to cultural distinctions greatly enhances your journey.

Accessible Travel

Information for travelers with mobility needs, ensuring a more comfortable Hurghada experience.

Infrastructure & Challenges

Egypt's general infrastructure often has challenges for widespread accessibility.

Navigating Around

  • Sidewalks are often uneven, narrow, or may not exist in some areas.
  • Public transport, like microbuses, lacks accessibility features.
  • Personal assistance is often needed for navigation outside resorts.

Accessible Locations

Many newer resorts and facilities offer specific accessible features.

Enhanced Access

  • Newer resorts offer accessible rooms, ramps, and elevators.
  • Hurghada International Airport includes basic accessibility features.
  • Boat trips vary; inquire with operators about accessibility.

Accessibility Support & Services

Support for Needs

  • Visual Impairments: Limited dedicated services.
  • Hearing Impairments: Limited dedicated services.
  • Mobility Aids: Private transfers are the most practical option.

Resources & Planning

  • Specialized Tours: Contact tour operators for specific needs.
  • Hotel Confirmation: Directly confirm facilities with hotels.
  • Pre-Booking: Book accessible features in advance.