Recommended Vaccinations
It is recommended that you are vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella and polio, as well as hepatitis B. It’s advisable to check with your GP/Nurse before going away, in case any of your routine vaccinations need boosting.
Mosquitoes
Take plenty of mosquito repellent for the evenings, as they love fresh blood. Most hotels provide a daily fumigation, but this seems to do little, so a high DEET based repellent is recommended.
Water
Drink plenty of water, as temperatures can rise to 40+ degrees at midday, especially in the larger cities, or away from the coast. Please note: The tap water in Egypt is undrinkable; however, hotels will have plenty of bottled water available.
Egyptian Stomach Bug
Anti-bacterial hand lotion and frequent hand washing is recommend before eating, to reduce the chances of an upset stomach. The majority of hotels take hygiene seriously, but unfortunately there is always a high chance of experiencing an upset stomach at some point on your holiday, due to extreme heat and different food. If you experience an upset stomach, you should take a trip to one of the many local pharmacies which offer effective relief tablets at a reasonable price. Imodium is not recommended.
Shopping
If you’re keen to grab some bargains on your holiday, then head to the Old Market in Sharm El Sheikh, which is far cheaper than the shops in Naama Bay, and is particularly good for jewellery, rugs, spices, shisha pipes and gold.
When shopping for bargains, keep your own currency and credit cards out of sight, and separate from your Egyptian pounds. It is easier to haggle over a price if you can show that you have only a few Egyptian pounds in your possession! Plus, some traders may try and insist that they meant $ or £, instead of LE, if they see that you are carrying them.
Taxis
Like anything in Egypt, you must barter on the price for taxis.
Example prices:
Naama Bay > Old Sharm Market = £25-30 EGP.
Ras Um Sid > Naama Bay = £25-30 EGP.
Electricity
The electricity current is 220 volts, 50 Hz, and uses round-pronged plugs. North American and other non 220-volt users are advised to bring a converter! If you are coming from the UK, you will need an adaptor for your plugs (these are available from most high street chemists – Boots, Superdrug etc.)
Culture
Egypt is a third world country, so prepare yourself for a culture shock, although you won’t experience the real Egypt unless you leave Sharm el Sheikh.
Egypt is a Muslim country, so please respect this. Kissing in public or wearing revealing clothes are frowned upon, so ensure you cover up, especially when visiting Mosques or places outside of Sharm.
Time difference from the UK + 2 hours
