Zaina's Zany Adventures - Egypt and Beyond * The End of my story leads to the Beginning of the Next

Egypt and Beyond
The End of the Story Leads to the Beginning of the Next!
Zaina's Zany Adventures

So my dance friends, here I am at the end of the Egypt and Beyond Series to offer final thoughts about the 2008 Trip, share with you some insight for travelers and tell you about my upcoming plans.

With a full heart I tell you Egypt was like no other travel experience I have ever had.  To stand where Kings and Queens – Pharaohs may have once stood, to see buildings, monuments, temples and tombs of ancient days, to float down the Nile in a felucca with the boats-man singing and playing an old, bent, frame drum to make the sweetest music, and to meet people from all over the world who were seeing these amazing sites right along with us - - truly the experience of a lifetime.  I hold the best parts of that first trip deep within my heart, and over the last two years have purged much of the frustration and disappointment we experienced through no fault of our own, nor the country’s.

The relationship with the country is so deep that it can’t be broken.  My desire to go back and experience the country “my way” and in my opinion “a better way” has been overwhelming.  And, it is my wish to share that better – different experience with friends, sister/fellow dancers and you.

Early this year, armed with the plethora of information I had been given over these last few years by friends living in and traveling to Egypt, I began the hunt for just the right tour organizer/company that I could partner with – of course, with me willing only to settle for the best (and who holds my same perfectionist and customer service ideals).  I wanted one price to pay – no additional costs every time I/we turned around, nor did I want to negotiate with other agents, guides, etc. along the way.  Everything up front!  And so my list was long, but I knew what I wanted. 

THE BEGINNING: 

I have been lucky (blessed really) to have “partnered” with a tour company licensed in Egypt, with offices in Las Vegas and New York who have been running tours for over 30 years.  They have in fact even taken some of those individuals now running their own tours on their first experience to Egypt.  This will be a “one stop” company who will handle every aspect of the trip.  We will not have to negotiate with anyone else.  Our agent/s will be with us, start to finish and will handle all aspects of the tour. 

EGYPT NATIONAL TOURS; Magdy and Leyla are gracious, kind, helpful and all things anyone would want represented by a tour agency.  Before leaving for the 2008 tour, I was searching the internet for travel tips (uncomfortable with some I had already been given) and up came Leyla Amir’s page and the Egypt National Tours page.  I contacted Leyla right away and she referred me to the list on her site.  Her complete list was a blessing because I did put those pants in my suitcase after all along with a few additional essentials I had been told not to take or wear. Her information was invaluable.

So it is no surprise that Egypt National Tours, LLC is the company I chose, Zaina Hart is the sponsor, YOU are the participants, WE ARE GOING TO HAVE AN AMAZINGLY GOOD TIME. Oh ladies and gents, pack your bags because I have things planned on this trip that will give you an experience like no other.  I AM EXCITED.  ARE YOU? 

Caveat:  I designed this tour “first” to see the sights and sounds of the country – many that I missed the first time out and several that were just too rushed.  Therefore the tour is set for anyone, not just “dancers”.  From the first moment I spoke with Magdy –sharing with him one of the most important things I wanted to experience in Egypt (ask me for the DETAILED itinerary) and his response being “no problem Miss Z, what else do you want to do?” - - well who else would I ever want to work with?  The Nile Festival is an add-on, but an add-on that any dancer would relish.  A smaller scale festival chalked full of great instructors, Gala Shows, and costumers, but with more personal attention and if you want to dance, the option is available.  I know I am not leaving Egypt this time unless I have offered a performance.  There is much to tell, much to do on the tour, and an experience that will last forever in your memories.  By the way, how do you feel about a Safari into the millions of years old White Desert for a night camped out among the stars while your dinner is being cooked and served – tent side?  Oh, and add a photo shoot the next morning!  I thought that would get your attention - - and that is only a small segment.

Please join me on this next in a lifetime tour, “Experience the Splendor of Egypt” on “Zaina’s Custom Tour, Designed from the Hart”!

COME WITH ME - ON THE TOUR OF A LIFETIME!

(I am accepting a limited number of reservations to allow for more personal attention which you will understand once you get the full itinerary.)  Our dates are fast approaching – e-mail me for your reservation form or download from either my ZainaHart or the following website.

Egypt National Tours, LLC known for its quality of personal service in tours of    Egypt and the Middle East.   Over 30 years ago, Egypt National Tours, with an office in the U.S. and Egypt, developed a unique approach to tours. We give our clients a comprehensive, historic, leisurely paced-yet exciting itinerary. They are designed with your enjoyment in mind.

Mr. Magdy Amer, founder and director of the company, an Egyptian himself, holds a graduate degree in Egyptology and has many years of experience in arranging personal, group, religious, specialty and study tours. Mr. Amer also does specialty tours to other Middle Eastern destinations.  He invites you to tour the website, to enjoy the pictures, videos, information and the music.   

Article Notes, Travel Tips and Then Some

As promised in the first section of the Egypt and Beyond Series here are the “Notes” with explanations.

Note 1:  Security and the Tour Bus Routes:  Tour buses are required to travel at specific times of day, and even on specific routes.  As well, there is almost always an armed security guard on the bus and with the group.  Unnerving at first, but it is better to know up front rather than wonder why there is a guy in the front of the bus with a gun hanging out of his jacket.  There are also Tourist Police everywhere, some in uniform and some plain clothes.  We were told no pictures of security/police, but when they are yelling and waiving from a bus, wanting you to take their photo - - well, how scared was I?  NOT!  The TP are there to assist and protect tourists - - don’t be afraid to speak to them or ask for help if you need it.

Note 2 (and 13):  How to Dress!  I can’t tell you how many people asked while we were in the country and since we have been home (Egyptians and other tourists of all ages) why all my pictures but a few show me in head covering and long dresses.  While it is important to understand the culture and customs of any country, city, village in which you are traveling, there is also a point in which some natives consider it to be “mocking”.  I agree it can be a fine line, but Leyla has said it very eloquently in her tip number 4 below.  Bottom line, you don’t need to over dress, and certainly do NOT under dress. 

Note 3:  Speaking to Locals.  Please do be kind and gracious.  Don’t make demands, but instead make requests.  You can be firm, but you do not have to be disrespectful.  Oberon and I had great fun with many of the locals we met and were invited to several homes.  We have a plethora of photos taken with people, (now friends) we met along the way.  Do not be afraid, but be cautious (friendly is okay, but heading into the desert alone in the middle of the night with new friends?? Probably not a good idea unless your agent has arranged it for you and will be with you - - just sayin’).

Note 4:  Baksheesh (Tipping) It gets to the point at some locations where you feel everyone has their hand out.  “La” spoken firmly doesn’t always work.  The camel rider with that darling camel he must feed; if you want your picture taken with him, it will cost you a few piastres or even a pound or two (depends on how cute that camel is).  The woman in the ladies room who hands you toilet tissue on your way in or paper towel on your way out, again an Egyptian pound or a few piastres will be expected.  It is a good idea always to have smaller denomination change and bills readily available in your pocket so that you don’t have to dig into your hand/travel bag for it.  And I suggest again, be respectful but firm.

Note 5:  Water  It seemed everywhere we went, I had a giant bottle of water with me.  You can purchase by the case (sensible thing to do) upon arrival and I can’t stress enough that you need to have it with you always.  When you start to dehydrate, you can get a headache, become moody, have body aches and even get a bit disoriented.  So DRINK WATER and a lot of it.  If you are feeling thirsty you are already well on your way to dehydration.  Try to stay away from buying your water at the local gift shop, restaurant, etc. (because of the expense) and always buy bottles with a sealed cap.

Note 6:  Tour Guides and Drivers  Make sure your agent knows exactly what you want to do.  And that your guides are equally informed.  If the guide tries to divert you to this or that shop or store, understand they are likely getting some sort of cut of the overall amount of money spent.  Hence, without a good agent or tour sponsor you will get stuck in the middle of a tug of war for your time.   So stick with the plan.  And see Leyla’s Tip on Transportation.

Note 7:  Toilets  Trust me on this: wet wipes and those small toilet tissue rolls are a must have in your travel bag.  Many of the facilities don’t have tissue and you simply don’t want to be stuck without it when it is so easy to carry with you. No need to explain further on this one.

Note 8:  Shipping items to US  Talk to your agent/tour sponsor to find out about arrangements on this one before you go.  It can be done, but it is a little tricky.  I would hate to see anyone miss out on bringing something home they desperately want because they can’t fit it in any of their half dozen suitcases that are already full.

Note 9:  First – see Leyla’s Tip Number 6.  There is a very inexpensive local medication that treats the local bacterial issues.  I used this instead of the MEGA antibiotic my doctor sent with me and it worked wonderfully (would have worked better had I known sooner it was available).  Following the basic rules of what/when/where to eat and drink will be very helpful.  Fresh mango juice (made with local tap water), hibiscus tea (local tap water and not always heated enough), may have you doing the Tut Trot in no time.  The bottom line “pay attention” or you will “pay your dues”.  And don’t set your purse down on the ground, then pick it up and sling it over your shoulder with a helping hand to the bottom - - what was that you put your hand in?  (my rule even in the US).

Note 10:  Do Not Leave your guide.  No matter where you are, in any country, in any city, being alone in those unfamiliar areas is just not the smart thing to do.  See Leyla’s Tip Number 8.  And remember mine and Oberon’s 3 Hour Camel Tour when we startled the sleeping tourist police?  Our guide was too far away to help us when we needed him.  DON’T LEAVE YOUR GUIDE – DON’T GO ANYWHERE ALONE.

Note 11:  Bring Laundry Soap. You can get small packs of laundry soap to wash your “delicates” .   Bottom line here - - you can bring two outfits to wear every day, and then pay to get those back home with all your purchased items, or you can bring “enough” clothing that can be washed by hand, and worn again.  MORE ROOM FOR PURCHASES COMING HOME.  We all have choices and will pay the price for the luggage on the way home.

Zaina’s List of Essentials to carry in your DAILY travel bag:

• Passport – keep it with you always·       WATER with an extra bottle on the bus
• Keep your money inside your shirt in a travel wallet (don’t leave your money in the hotel room – true for anyplace you travel)
• Keep small denomination Egyptian pounds and piastres in your pocket
• Hand sanitizer (everyone always wanted mine on the tours, even though they teased my up front)
• A couple of energy bars (but not the kind with chocolate that will melt) or even powder protein you can mix with water
• Small roll of toilet paper (there will be none in most places you go)
• Wet wipes (for lots and lots of reasons)
• Silicone gel for heat rash resistance (or wear spanks / bicycle shorts under your skirt)
• A few band aids and antibiotic cream or a small emergency kit
• Sun Screen (and bug spray)
• Scarf (to cover hair at churches and mosques or areas that are more conservative)
• Chap stick (the kind with sunscreen is the best)
• Camera and lots of storage disks and batteries
• Your hotel’s phone number/address written in English and ARABIC script (ask the hotel for this)
• Travel Health Insurance information/card
• Pen and a small journal to make notes on – trust me on this
• Any medications you need throughout the day should be quickly accessible
• A card with hotel and agent information written in script and English
• A small note or card that reminds you NOT TO SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF!

From the Egypt National Tours Web Site
http://www.egyptnationaltours.biz/pag_cms_id_158_p_travel-tips.html

A few tips for your travel experience will help to keep your adventure a pleasurable one.

1. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months leeway before expiring. Plan well ahead to have your passport in hand, with a copy tucked away on your person while traveling for safe keeping.  Zaina adds here:  your green card if you are coming from and returning to US but are not a citizen - - THIS IS IMPORTANT.
2. Be sure to follow the new airline rules about carry on baggage to avoid delays when checking in at the airport, especially for your domestic flight to New York. If you are unsure call your local airport for current rules and regulations.
3. Always bring clothes that you can layer for cold or heat, to accommodate any fluctuating temperatures due to weather or indoor conditions.
4. Ladies...Please no short shorts, halter tops, or skimpy bikinis. Bring a scarf for your head when visiting any churches or mosques. These things are not mandatory, but a sign of respect for the culture & religion.
5. You will need a 220 volt converter for your hair appliances in your room.  Outlets are usually supplied for men's shavers.  (Zaina adds:  Remember to get a converter not an adapter like I did.  It is embarrassing when you take out the electric in half of a large hotel)
6. It is advisable to eat at the designated restaurants that you will be directed to for your meals.  Although it may be very tempting and tasty, do not eat any foods that are not cooked.  If you do experience any stomach problems, alert your tour escort and a medication that is very effective for the problem will be obtained for you. 
7. Always drink bottled water and beverages. Do not use ice cubes.
8. Always stay with your group and/or tour escort. Do not wander off by yourself.
9. Places to change money are readily available including ATM's. Try to get as much "little" money as possible to use for tips and change thru-out your tour.
10. Bring with you any necessary medications that you are required to take. Prescriptions are available, but it's wise to bring your supply.
11. Film and batteries are available for purchase, but it is wise to bring a supply of your own.
12. Please remember that you are visiting a foreign country and everything runs on a different track than what you may be used to. Please show patience and respect and you will receive the same in return. In the end ENJOY your adventure!

Getting Ready
It's an exciting time!  Whether you are a seasoned traveler or this is your umpteenth time to go to Egypt.  The following tips are helpful in making your adventure run smooth. Always make sure you have 6 months leeway on your passport and make a photo copy and stash it away in a safe place.

Going through Domestic Air check-in
With all the new security rules, if you are not sure, contact the airport and ask what is required at check-in.  As of now you will have to take off your shoes and jacket and check thru the x-ray machine along with your required size carry on bag.  Wear easy off and easy on shoes.  Put lipsticks and small bottles in a small baggie in your purse. 

Baggage
Most airlines will allow you to check your bags straight through to your final destination, with your International E-ticket shown at check-in.  This saves lugging it from one airline to the next. If you are unsure about your luggage making the connection, then check it in at each destination of your flight.  Some of the airlines are now charging extra for each bag.  It is important that you check the procedure of your domestic carrier.  Each one is different and the rules keep changing so make sure to inquire as to recent rules of travel before you depart.

International flights usually allow 2 bags at 70 lbs each but the domestic carriers are different.  In reality you will want space for all the goodies you will be returning with after shopping. So....pack as light as you possible can get away with. I like to pack for about 7-10 days, then I will usually wash things in my room to dry over night or you can get laundry service at the hotel.  The hotels usually  offer irons for use.

Excursions
If you are doing any type of extended excursion from Cairo, such as a Nile Cruise, trip to Alexandria, Oasis, etc. Then pack only what you will need for that trip, which may not be all you have in luggage.  Your carrier space is usually smaller for the in Egypt flights, trains and vehicles.  Remember to save space for the shopping!  Your extra luggage will be stored at your return hotel or with your tour operator.  Please do not leave valuables in the stored luggage and do lock.

Air Travel
For International flights arrive at least 3 hours before departure time. Air travel to anywhere can be hard on your body.  The flight to Cairo straight from NY takes about 11 ½ hrs.  Add this time to your already flight to get to NY and your body will fight back by swelling.  To keep the swelling to a minimum avoid: alcohol, soda pop, high carbs and large amounts of food.  Do try to drink a lot of water, and eat foods full of protein and fiber. I also take fiber pills to keep things moving since my body isn't.

I have found it helpful to wear control top panty hose with gentle support also in the legs and alternate shoes or slippers that are loose, once on the plane. Moving around the plane once in a while also helps... along with some stretches.  If you are shy ...do the stretches in the bathroom or back of the plane.
Carry a light jacket to help control your body temperature.

I personally do not take sleeping pills, but some people find it useful to help them sleep on the long flight. Natural sleep inducers are L-Tryptophan, Valerian, and Melatonin.  Any one or a combination , taken with milk works for me, when needed.

Cairo Arrival
As a foreigner you will be required to purchase a visa first ($15 to $25 exact change please).  You will then proceed to the passport check in.  After you get stamped... move on to retrieve your bags, pass through customs, and then it's out the door to begin your adventure!
If you are traveling with a group or company, you will have assistance through the airport procedure, with your vehicle waiting for you.  If you have traveled on your own...there are taxi's waiting to service you.

Currency
Egyptian currency is pounds LE or piaster PT (like dollars and cents).  The rate does change, but as of now it is about 5.50 LE equals 1 dollar.  The airport changes money as do the hotels. Keep in mind they don't like to change back when you leave.  Having small amounts for tipping and paying for bottled water or a snack from the street is always handy. Many places for shopping except dollars and euro as payment and some except credit card, but may require an extra service fee.  Contact your CC Company before departing to let them know that you will be using the card abroad.  In general many merchants don't like credit card use.  There are also available ATM machines everywhere, especially at the hotels.   

What to Pack
Summer in Egypt in one word is... hot! The heat usually starts in April and is full blast.. oven on.. by June, July and August.  There is also some humidity.  Weather starts cooling down in September and gets progressively coldest by Dec., Jan. & Feb.  The warming trend starts to begin in March.  When you are in Upper Egypt, Luxor and on, it is usually warmer than Cairo.  When you are in Lower Egypt, Alexandria, it is generally cooler than Cairo.  Don't let the desert day heat fool you in the winter.  The nights can get pretty cold.  Always bring jackets to layer for the cold of the day or night or a wrap for air-conditioning in the hotels.

For winter months
Light wools, pants, long sleeves, closed shoes, sweaters, and layers will work.  This will give you flexibility to adjust for the degree of cold.

For summer months
Light cottons, cotton/poly mix, pants, walking shorts , capries, loose clothing, skirts or dresses.  Out of respect for the culture I recommend that you do not wear tank tops (unless you wear a jacket over),  short shorts, low cut cleavage showing tops,  skimpy bathing suits, see through tops, skirts, pants or dresses.  Give them the sun test.  Things can, become quite reveling when the sun hits your back.  You will see such wear out of the foreign visitors, but following these guidelines will avoid potential overly friendly men whose attention you may not wish to encourage. Also I do not give direct eye contact so again as not to attract attention.

For Sight Seeing
It is important that you dress comfortably for your sightseeing.  Do not wear flip flops or sandals into the desert.  You will be doing, in some instances, climbing, animal ridding and walking in sand and need sure footing.  You also need foot protection against any bug-like critters, scorpions, or snakes that may be crawling on the ground.  ICK!!!! Tennies with socks always works for me, or hiking sandals.

I usually carry a small scarf to cover my head for when I go into a Mosque or Church as a sign of respect but it is not mandatory. Always wear a hat or sun visor, sunglasses and full spectrum sunscreen.  Nothing ruins a vacation like painful sunburn, plus it makes wrinkles!  When you are inside a tomb you can remove the hat to help cool you down.  I also use a good old fashion hand fan, manual or electric.  (Please don't touch the walls or paintings in the tombs). Another strategy is to hop from shade to shade and not stay in the direct sun if at all possible, for too long.

It is an absolute must to always carry bottled water with you and tissues.  Bottled water is easily obtainable at the hotel and for less expense you can stop at the little stands all over to buy at a better price.

For the Evening
You may at some point have an evening on the town for dinner and a show.  If you are in Cairo or Alexandria... dress is usually "nice to very nice" and not casual.  Remember your feet may be swollen from all your sight seeing, so wear shoes that allow for this.  Lots of times after I've been out all day, I will take a quick cool shower or soak my feet to keep the swelling down. If you are in Luxor or Aswan dress is a little more casual. If you are taking a Nile Cruise, they will have a last night hafla that everyone dresses native.  Ghalabayas (dress of Egypt) for men and women can be bought at the bazaar or bring your own if you have one.

For Dance Classes
If you are taking dance classes while in Egypt, be sure to bring a pair of dance shoes that are comfortable always. You can never know what the condition of a dance floor may be and you may need foot protection. I like to take several styles to rotate out.  Normal dance class clothes are sufficient. Please do not  walk thru the hotel in your dance clothes.........wear a cover-up.  If you are performing bring your costume and CD of music.

Voltage
Egypt is 220 V.  The hotel usually has hair dryers, ironing boards and irons for use.
There is a plug in provided for men's shavers. You will need a converter for your video or camera to recharge the batteries.  Bring extra "digital chips" film and batteries for your video or camera if necessary.  I also take a mini fan to keep the air circulating in the room and it provides "white noise" for me to sleep.

Jewelry
Please do not travel with your good jewelry or a lot.

Custom dance costume
Bring with you your desired bra and have the cups positioned and pinned in place with the distance between the cups where you want.  This eliminates guess work and gives you an important custom fit for your body.  Do all your measurements: straps, around bottom of bra, around neck, hips, length of skirt from hip to floor, etc. 

If you have a certain design...draw it out as best as you can.  There will be plenty of styles to choose from also, that you can buy off the rack and many will adjust the size to help fit you better. Arrange this at the beginning of your trip to allow for sufficient time to complete your costume.

Food
Any one who has ever eaten Middle Eastern food knows how yummy it can be.  When you are traveling in Egypt, I recommend that you take some precaution in where you eat and what you eat.  As a general rule summer will cause you more problems because of the heat which makes for a higher bacteria count in the food.  I have had dysentery twice and believe me it is no fun.
I recommend that you do not eat salads of any kind, not even from the hotels.  Your trip is short and you don't want down time because of any tummy troubles.

Any food that has been cooked is generally safe... eggs, beef, chicken, lamb or vegetables dishes, tea or coffee, cereal.   Other selections to be careful of are fruits and fruit juices.  If you can peel the fruit it is ok, try to wash the outside first. Juices are made with the tap water and can cause problems. 

Don't use ice. Use bottled water to brush your teeth. Packaged food is ok, such as yogurt.  Packaged snacks are ok but they usually taste different and have high sodium.  Bread is ok. Most of the dips and pickled foods are non problematic.

If you are in a 1st class hotel you can feel comfortable with most of your food choices or if your tour operator suggest an out side native restaurant it should be ok also. I always travel with raw almonds in case I need a quick healthy snack,  if no food is available that I feel comfortable with.

Always but always drink only bottled water.

Tummy woes
If you do get a troubled tummy use Imodium for the relief.  If it has progressed into something other that minor (usually from bacteria), there are products in Egypt especially designed to clear up the problem.

Do not hesitate or wait to ask for help in buying the medication as it will stop the problem almost overnight before it progresses worse.

Transportation
If you are on an organized tour your transportation in weather controlled vehicles will be arrange for you for your itinerary.  If you desire optional excursions, your tour operator can provide this and the cost will usually include all fees and guides that go with the tour or excursion.  Cairo can be overwhelming and I personally advise going with a group or have a company service. I do not advise that you make deals with private car owners who may solicit you for transportation opportunities.
 
Taxi cabs
If you want to hoof it alone there are the black and white cabs that may not have air-conditioning and you are charged by the deal you make. You can usually find one around the hotel, or stand by the street and yell your destination as he drives by.  Cairo now, also, has yellow cabs and the cost is determined by a running meter. The yellow cab usually has more limitations as to where they will take you.  There is also now the white cab, which must be called for pick-up.  I do not know how long it would take to get your pick up as I have never used one. Either way, always have written and with you your hotel phone and your destination phone. Please be aware that taxi drivers are forbidden to take tourist to tourist destinations and are subject to arrest if they do so.

Bus, tram or sub
I do not recommend the bus...when you see you will know why. I have never had the occasion to ride the tram, so I can't comment. It looks ok. Many of the tram systems are being torn up and replaced by underground tunnels for auto or subway travel.  As far as the subway...I've heard positive things, but again I have not had the occasion to use.

Car rental
Now here is a real adventure!  Yes... I have driven... and talk about crazy!!!!!!  I would not recommend you rent a car unless you can get an experienced driver to go with it!

Shopping
Shopping in Egypt, especially Cairo can have a life of its own. One of the most well known for tourist is Khan el Khalili Bazaar.  One of the oldest bazaars in the world it is a maze of little shops that offers you everything a tourist could want and then some. 

Dancers will go crazy at the glut of scarves, costumes and supplies that are available.  Along with the jewelry, perfume oil, gold, plus much, much more...it is a shoppers heaven!  Many of the shops close on Sundays. Downtown Cairo or Heliopolis shopping is also inspiring especially if you are a shoe lover like me!  Ooooh the sandals!

Tips
Tips in Egypt are an every day part of life and for many the only way to make a descent living, as wages are so low.  At the end of the tour, the group usually chips in to tip the driver and the guide who has been with them thru out the tour.
Baggage handlers, waiters, taxis, restroom attendants, etc. are a few to mention.  Tipping and money giving is always at your discretion.

In conclusion
Egypt is a fascinating country! A contrast of ancient, middle ages and new, all living next to each other, each offering a different era of life that makes your trip a living history lesson. In spite of the political situations in the Middle East, the people are always a gracious host to the oceans of people who travel to visit and live in their home land. A show of respect in someone else's home always brings respect back to you. I hope these tips help make your stay the adventure of your life.