Frequently asked
Questions
A-Z
TOURS INTERNATIONAL
– Personal Travel Services
Camel Rides and Safari's:
Can we do a Camel Trek or Safari?
Yes, we can arrange a one-way trip from Giza to Sakkara . It takes approximately 3 - 4 hours. It is usually better to do this early morning, before the sun gets too hot. After sightseeing in Sakkara, the Van will take you back to Cairo . Other Treks can be done for 4 or 5 days in Sinai
Camera Fees:
What are 'Camera Fees' and how much are they?
There are no longer any fees for camera or video camera use. However, many sites will not allow you to take them in, and you may have to check them in at the entrance. If they do allow them they must be set to museum mode as they will not allow regular flash. This damages the artifacts. The rules do change regularly. If cameras are not allowed and you see others using theirs, please do not copy suit. This destroys the heritage of Egypt and many sites such as the tomb of Nefertari have already been closed to the public as a result.
Cameras and Videos can be used in the outdoors.
It is advisable to have your passport stamped on arrival if bringing in a Video Camera or expensive Camera as proof you brought it with you on departure. Otherwise you could be charged customs duties..
Costs to Enter places:
How much extra does the Mummies room cost?
The price is subject to change but at last check was $20 US per person no guiding or cameras are allowed.
.
Dates and Times:
When is the next Aida performance?
The show usually takes place at the Giza Pyramid, during October. Please check with us for dates. It has been cancelled since ‘911’.
What are the Dates for Ramadan and Feast of Ramadan?
In 2010, Ramadan will start August 10th, and each year following, will be eleven days earlier. The feast is 3 days after Ramadan. During Ramadan, all sites close two hours earlier than usual.
When does the lock at Esna close for maintenance?
The lock closes for maintenance twice a year, usually sometime in early June and late November or early December. The only difference is the Cruises dock in Esna and sightsee in Luxor by Vehicle.
Is the Tomb of Nefertari Open?
The tomb is closed indefinitely for restoration.
.
Daytrips:
When do our daytrips for sightseeing start , and end?
The usual time is around 9am to 4 or 5pm. You can arrange these times directly with your guide.
Can we do a daytrip from Sharm to Cairo, to see the Pyramids etc.?
Yes it can be done. As it is a 7 hour drive, to do it as a daytrip you will need to fly each way. We suggest you do it as an overnight, if possible, to get the most benefit from it.
Do Day trips have Single Supplements?
This depends. If there is a group of 3 or 5, an odd number, there are no supplements. If there is just 1 person traveling alone, yes we do charge an additional fee of $25 US, to cover the costs of the driver, transportation and guide.
Is there a charge for children age three?
We do not charge for Babies up to 2 years, when sharing the room with their parents. As there is no charge for them no services of any kind are provided for them. Any services required for your baby, such as a crib, milk, or, special meals, will need to be paid separately directly by you.
One exception to the baby rule is flights. There is a charge for Babies for any internal flights.
Children from 2-12 years enjoy a 40% discount as long as they share the same room with their parents. Children 12 years and over are considered adult..
Can you arrange Day Trips fro a Cruise Ship?
Yes we can. Because of restrictions on entry into the Dockyards we ask that on arrival you proceed to the Port Entry gate where our Rep will meet you with a sign.
.
Feluccas:
What are Feluccas?
Feluccas are small bare bones sailing boats, no bedrooms, no washrooms, nothing, except a few seats and a sail.
Where can you sail on a Felucca?
You can sail on a Felucca in Luxor , Aswan and in Cairo . This is best as they are short sails of 2-3 hours. If there is no wind, we substitute a motor boat.
Do we have a Felucca program?
We do not do overnight, or longer, Felucca programs, just the short day sails. These are bare bones, sleeping on the deck or on the side of the Nile . This is an adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. We do not book these trips.
.
Ferries:
When does the Ferry go between Sharm El Sheik and Hurghada?
These do not leave every day, and, they take approximately 2 hours. Check the current timetable with Egypt office. This ferry is often cancelled due to rough seas or lack of numbers.
When does the Ferry go between Egypt and Jordan ?
The Cat Ferry leaves Nweibah on a daily basis at 3:00 PM, and arrives in Aqaba at 4:00 PM. It leaves Aqaba on Daily Basis at 12:00 PM, and arrives in Nweibah at 1:00 PM
The ferry times do change so it is always best to check before departing. Reservations are required to guarantee a space.
There is another ferry that takes longer and is used more by the locals.
.
Flights:
When are the flights from Sharm El Sheik to Cairo ?
There are several flights a day, but as with all internal flights in Egypt , most flights are early morning, or late night.
Can you fly from Tel Aviv to Cairo ?
Yes you can. However, they do not fly daily, so check the schedules.
Can we fly from Luxor to Sharm El Sheik?
These flights do not go daily. It is more advisable to go back through Cairo , so as not to interrupt your schedule, or go by Ferry via Hurghada.
.
Guide vs. Independent Travel:
Can I travel independently without booking a tour package?
While it is possible to travel Egypt as an independent traveler, it is recommended that you book a package tour, or private tour. Here's why:
You will get much more out of your trip if you have a tour guide explaining things at the sites, and answering any questions on Egyptian culture and history.
Package tours, most times, work out cheaper than booking the individual hotels, boats, transportation and admissions, on your own. Transportation without a pre-booked tour is hard to arrange on your own.
Special permits, or, government escorts and convoys are required, to visit some areas. A tour operator can easily arrange this in advance. In addition, of course, language and cultural barriers can make getting around difficult, and more expensive.
The main reason is that if you travel on your own you will run into problems at all the sites where locals will try to sell you their services, and they are persistent and this can become a hassle. Also most cab drivers do not speak English and with traffic conditions and not knowing where you are going this can turn out to be very costly, and many of the cabs are pretty run down.
.
Guides:
Will we have one Guide throughout our tour?
Guides in Egypt are all licensed. Some are just licensed for their own city, some have licenses that permit them to guide in other cities. It will depend on the availability of guides at the time of your tour. Most guides are contracted by more than one company. We do have some guides that work permanently for us.
Can we hire Guide Services without booking hotels with you?
Yes you can. As day trips, or as a ‘complete package’ program.
.
Holiday Supplements:
What are Holiday Supplements?
Holiday supplements are the price increases implemented by the hotels, and other services, during their peak periods, Easter, Christmas, and New Years. We have no control over these supplements and do have to pass them onto the clients. Economy is usually around 15% more, Deluxe around 20%, and Luxury around 25%.
Egypt runs their hotel prices on supply and market demand and they change frequently.
.
Hot Air Balloon Rides:
Can we take a Hot Air Balloon Ride?
Hot air balloon rides are available only in Luxor usually in the early morning over the Valley of the Kings etc. There are some evening ones depending on the weather and time of year. A wonderful experience, but expensive. Prices fluctuate around $200 US per person. They must be booked as an option, as it will depend on weather conditions as to whether they will be available on any particular day.
.
Hotels:
What are your Hotel Categories?
Economy – basically tourist class – 3 & 4star
Deluxe – The major chain hotels – 4 & 5 star
Luxury – these are top of the line hotels such as the Mena House, Grand Hyatt etc. and,are priced as per each request.
Can we request a specific hotel or cruise?
If you request a specific hotel or cruise, we would have to request it and quote you. Prices fluctuate and we base our prices for the tours, on hotels’ where we have negotiated rates. We may not be able to get your special request at negotiated rates. The prices are likely to be higher for specifically requested Hotels and Cruises.
What does triple accommodation mean?
These could be three twin beds, a double and single, a pullout bed or a cot. There is no set rule; it varies from hotel to hotel.
What about hotels less than 3 stars, are they cheaper?
Hotels less than 3 stars are often run down and dirty. We do not use, or book these hotels, as they do not meet western standards.
Are there coffee and tea facilities in the hotel rooms?
The short answer is no. You will need to take a portable kettle if you wish to drink coffee or tea in your room.
What does half board mean?
Half board means, two meals per day, breakfast and then either lunch or dinner.
Are there gym facilities in the Hotels?
Many of the hotels now have gym facilities. The higher end hotels are more likely to have these services, along with spa treatments and pools.
.
Instruction:
Do you arrange Belly dancing lessons?
Sorry, no, we do not arrange lessons. There is belly dancing on the cruise and dinner cruise. Anything else, you will need to arrange directly, or sort out with the guide or hotel, on your arrival.
.
Internet:
Is the Internet available in Egypt ?
‘Dial up’ Internet access is available at most hotels. Most of the higher end hotels have cable access. If not, Internet cafes’ are everywhere. Your guide will assist in you finding them. Internet for dial up is free, but you pay for the phone calls.
.
Locations:
Where is Upper Egypt ?
Egypt is a little unusual. The South part of Egypt is Upper Egypt and the North part, is Lower Egypt . This is because the Nile flows from the higher lands in the South to the lower delta in the North, and out to the Mediterranean Sea .
.
Luggage:
Do we have to carry our own luggage?
With one exception, we transport your luggage from the vehicles to your hotel, or cruise. Bellboys will move it from the lobby, to your room, for a small tip. You will need to carry your luggage onto the train if taking the overnight sleeper, but again, you can pay someone to carry it on and off for you. The cabin attendant will also assist in putting it up on the rack if you wish. We do suggest using a small overnight bag on the train, so you do not need to open your large suitcase.
Is there a place to leave excess luggage we do not need for our trip?
Yes, there is a ‘left’ luggage department at the airport and it costs about $10 US per day, per suitcase. You can also leave luggage with your first hotel concierge and reclaim at the end. Of course, expect to tip them.
What amount Luggage should we bring?
We highly suggest just bringing one suitcase and one carry on. Carting luggage around especially where you are moving around on a regular basis is a hassle, and the cabins on board Cruises are small. If there are two of you and 4 suitcases there will be little room left to move around. If you plan on buying souvenirs pack a fold up bag into your luggage for the extras to take home. Now the airlines are cutting back and many will only allow one suitcase without an additional charge for the second.
.
Marriage:
Can we get married in Egypt ?
Egypt is a Moslem country and there are no Ministers to marry you. In addition, many permits would be required, and it is expensive and time consuming to arrange. We suggest getting married at home, then having a reception or honeymoon in Egypt .
.
Money and Credit Cards:
What is the exchange rate and local currency?
The currency is LE pounds currently about 5 LE to $1 US. The rate changes daily against the US dollar.
Are there any legal restrictions or limits on how much money I can take into Egypt ?
There are no restrictions or limits on taking in money. There may be limits on what you can take out of your own country. Unless you are investing using cash, this should not be an issue.
How much money do you recommend we exchange into Egyptian Pounds?
$200 US per person is the usual. We can arrange this for you on arrival.
Do we need to have Egyptian Currency or should we take US dollars with us?
US dollars or Euros are great for buying souvenirs and such, but for the small items like snacks, bottled water, washroom service, you need to have some one pound Egyptian bills. However buy your Egyptian Currency in Egypt it can get costly to buy it elsewhere.
Besides hotel incidentals, can we use US dollars for shopping?
Yes, both the US dollar and the Euro are accepted everywhere.
Can I use MasterCard or Amex instead of Visa to pay for my tour?
All credit cards for the tours are processed in Canada and then wired to Egypt . We prefer Visa as we have a US Visa account. Mastercard and Amex are Canadian and your card company will charge you the exchange rate, plus a fee, in addition to the 4% admin fee we have to charge for processing.
.
Museums:
How long is the Egyptian Museum open?
The Museum is open until 8 pm.
.
New Years Eve:
Does Egypt celebrate New Years Eve?
Yes, in fact most hotels throughout Egypt have a compulsory dinner that evening, and on Christmas Eve. The higher end hotels will have parties and entertainment.
.
Nile Cruises:
When do Nile Cruises depart?
There are a few exceptions, but these are the main departures.
Departures from Aswan , on Mondays and Fridays
Departures from Luxor , on Saturdays and Mondays
Where do the Nile Cruises go from, and to?
Currently, they go between Luxor and Aswan , or reverse. The occasional cruise between Luxor and Cairo is done when repositioning after annual maintenance. This type of Cruise requires long term planning.
What size are the rooms on the Nile Cruise Ships?
Rooms are the same size as on most cruise ships, small and compact. With a private bath, all have outside cabins. Most ships cannot accommodate triples or quads, as these ships only carry 100-200 passengers.
When do we board the ship?
On arrival in Luxor or Aswan , you will drop off your luggage on the ship, and then proceed onto sightseeing. Previous guests need to depart before you can check into your rooms. Upon your return, around 1 -2pm, you will join the cruise for a late lunch, and, check into your room.
Do we have a ship guide or our own guide?
It could be either, but usually, our guides are land based and will meet you at each stop for the sightseeing. On rare occasions we use the ship guides.
Do we sleep on the ship?
Yes. It will be 3 or 4 nights on the ship, depending on cruise schedule.
Where do the 7 night Cruises go?
3 and 4 night cruises, from Aswan to Luxor have actual sailing time of 1 night and 1day.
3 and 4 night cruises, from Luxor to Aswan have actual sailing time of 1night and 1day.
The rest of the time the cruise ship is a floating hotel dockside, and, a base for sightseeing in Luxor and Aswan . This means, if you choose seven days, you are simply reversing the same journey, duplicating the same stops and sightseeing.
Can we get a room on the ship with a balcony?
There are only one or two ships with balconies. Some other ships that have large windows that open, like French windows, but these are not balconies.
How long does the ship sail?
The ship only sails for one day and one night, the rest of the time they are dockside in Luxor and Aswan , docked alongside other ships. Sometimes as many as 6 deep. You will do your sightseeing while docked.
What are Lake Nasser cruises?
Lake Nasser is south of the High Dam in Aswan . There are several high end luxury cruises that operate on Lake Nasser . Sightseeing includes, Abu Simbul temples, and many other temples rescued from the water when building the High Dam.
.
Length of time to get there and how long there:
How long does it take to get to Dandara & Abydos?
This is a day trip, out of Luxor , and takes approx 4 hours each way, by convoy. The convoy controls the length of time at each site, but usually, there is plenty of time to see the temples.
How long does a trip take to Bhahariya Oasis, and, how much time do we need to spend there?
The Bhahariya Oasis can be either, 2 days and 1 night, or, 3 days and 2 nights.
The drive is about 5 hours from Cairo . This is where they have recently found the Valley of the Golden Mummies.
How long does it take between Dahab and Sharm El Sheik?
Dahab to Sharm is a 3 hour drive, each way.
How long does it take between Taba and Sharm El Sheik?
Taba to Sharm is approx 2-3 hour drive each way.
How long is the sound and light show, and when does it start?
The Sound and Light Show at Giza lasts approximately 45 minutes. Start times vary, as the show is presented in various languages. They rotate the shows on different nights. For instance, the English version usually starts at 6.30 pm.
How long do we spend at the Bazaar and is the guide with us?
We normally allocate 1 - 2 hours, depending on how much time we have free. The guide is with you, but it is impossible to keep everyone together due to the narrow crowded streets. The guide will normally allocate a set place for everyone to meet at a certain time.
.
Pyramids - Giza & Sakkara:
Can I meditate or stay overnight in the Great Pyramid?
This is not possible unless you have managed to negotiate a special permit with the department of Antiquities. These are not regularly given and you must have a special reason for doing so. We cannot assist with these.
In Sakkara do the "surrounding complex of tombs" include the Tombs of Mereruka & Kagemni?
They can be included but you will need extra time, and it does incur additional entry fees.
.
Red Sea:
What is the water temperature of the Red Sea during winter?
It is warm, between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius during the winter time, which is December to February. It is much hotter during the rest of the year.
How long do I have to wait to fly after diving?
You should wait 24 hours to fly after diving.
Does Sharm El Sheik have nightclubs?
Yes Sharm is very westernized and has many night clubs and discos.
.
Safety in Egypt :
How safe is travel in Egypt ?
Security is especially tight, and, all hotels have metal detectors, and Police, at the entrance. People are only allowed to come and go through one or two entrances. Egypt is safer than most cities in the USA .
Tour Operators are required to give your itinerary to the authorities. In addition they have to provide a list of names, passport numbers and nationalities for all individuals and groups. This allows the police to secure the areas they visit, beforehand and to know approx. where you are at all times.
.
Visas:
Can we get a Visa on arrival?
All Western countries can obtain a Visa on arrival. Other countries need to check with us or their local Egyptian Embassy.
Do I need a Visa if arriving by cruise ship for a short visit?
Foreigners arriving in Egypt on board a cruise ship are granted permission to visit for 24 hours. They must return to their ship at the same port.
Check with the Purser onboard your Cruise for other options.
Is a Visa required if I enter the country via Sharm El Sheik or Dahab?
If you arrive, and depart, from Sharm El Sheik or Dahab, a 14 day Visa is issued, without charge, to visit Sharm El Sheik, Dahab, Taba, Nweibah, and St.Catherine’s. If you wish to visit Cairo , you must obtain a full paid Visa.
.
Airport:
Are their Lounges at the Cairo Airport ?
There are several lounges at the Cairo airport including one that will accept the Priority Lounge Pass.
|
Home
