Explore
Egypt
Where ancient history blends with modern daily life.
Karnak Temple, Luxor
Souk market cafe, Cairo
Language
The official language is Arabic, but English and French are widely understood in tourist areas.
Here are some useful phrases:
Salam Alaikum – Peace be upon you (Hello)
Shukran – Thank you
Afwan – You’re welcome
Kam thaman? – How much is this?
La shukran – No, thank you
Currency
The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). 1 USD is 48 EGP. Cash is widely used, especially in markets.
Weather
Egypt has a desert climate. Summers (May to September) are hot, with temperatures above 35°C (95°F). Winters (November to February) are mild and comfortable, with temperatures between 15–25°C (59–77°F).
At a glance
My Experience in Egypt
As our plane descended over Cairo, the hazy outline of the Great Pyramids emerged from the morning mist, and I felt a thrill of anticipation. Egypt had always been on my bucket list—a land of pharaohs, golden treasures, and monumental architecture that had captivated my imagination.
As I would discover over two unforgettable weeks, Egypt is far more than its ancient relics; it’s a living, breathing tapestry of contrasting landscapes, aromatic cuisine, and some of the most warmly engaging people I’ve ever encountered.
Food in Egypt is part of daily life and culture. You can find street stalls serving falafel (ta’ameya), shawarma, and koshari, a local favorite made of rice, lentils, and pasta topped with spicy tomato sauce. Meals are affordable and filling.
Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor are busy cities with lots of energy. Taxis and Uber are available in Cairo, but traffic can be heavy.
