Currency
The local currency is the Egyptian pound (LE), banks have outlets at major hotels working around the clock. Credit cards are widely used in hotels and restaurants. Charges are made in pounds. Current rate changes from time to time, thus it is important to check exchange rates before starting off your vacation.

Climate
Egypt is known for its beautiful weather all over the year, where one can enjoy the sizzling sun from mid April to October. As from November till March you can also enjoy the winter breeze and cool weather.

In Cairo, the temperature is comfortable in the day time and cool at night in the months of October through May. The weather in Upper Egypt, Luxor and Aswan is comfortably warm. Egypt is also known of the beautiful summer breeze were one can enjoying visiting Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh.

What to Wear
If you are visiting Egypt in the winter, make sure to bring sweaters, a light coat and/or jacket for cool Cairo evenings. Women should bring slacks and an evening dress for night club visits.

During sight seeing, it is always a great idea to put on some comfortable shoes for long walks and tours. While visiting Mosques, women should cover their hair and arms with a light scarf. Also hats and scarves are recommended as a protection against strong sun.
Make sure to pack a bathing suit when visiting Luxor and Aswan, if you are taking a night cruise in summer months. On a Nile cruise the dress code is strictly informal, jackets and ties will make you feel out of place. The Nile cruise hosts different events, and one of the most exciting is the Farewell Party which is an exotic costume party where everybody has to dress "the Egyptian way" and is invited to participate in games and competitions with prizes to the best costume.

Enjoy wearing casual and light summer clothes when visiting Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh. Also open sandals are recommended and a diving suit is a must, if you are looking for a magnificent view of the coral reefs and colorful fish.  

Electricity
The main current used is 220 volts. 50 cycle AC in Cairo. Wall plugs are the round two pronged European type. You can always find places to buy adapters or transformers in Cairo, but it would be better to pack these things up with you if you are visiting Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh.

   
Telecommunication
You can call the state directly from your room. MCI, AT&T and sprint calling cards are widely used for local numbers to be dialed from Cairo.
MCI: 348-4806#7524
AT&T: 356-0200
Sprint: 356-4777 
 
Shopping
Cairo is a shopping adventure where you can find everything you need. It is known of reproductions of ancient jewelry found in Khan El Khalili and also of its beautiful gold and silver Jewelry found in popular stores at large mega malls.