Alexandria, Egypt-travel-tips

Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Alexandria, Egypt

Dress Modestly

  • Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect, especially when visiting mosques or churches.
  • Avoid tight or revealing clothing, especially for women.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking.

Respect Local Customs

  • Remove your shoes before entering mosques or homes.
  • Use your right hand when eating or giving/receiving items, as the left hand is considered unclean.
  • Avoid public displays of affection, as they are generally frowned upon.

Engage with Locals

  • Learn a few basic Arabic phrases, such as “hello” (مرحبا - marhaba), “thank you” (شكرا - shukraan), and “goodbye” (مع السلامة - ma’a al-salaama).
  • Be prepared to haggle when shopping at markets or bazaars.
  • Show interest in local culture and traditions, and ask questions politely.

Tipping Etiquette

  • Tip around 10-15% at restaurants and cafes.
  • Give small change (5-10 EGP) to porters, guides, and other service providers.
  • Avoid tipping with coins, as they may not be accepted.

Stay Safe and Healthy

  • Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
  • Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
  • Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Mosque Etiquette

  • Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.
  • Remove your shoes before entering the mosque.
  • Avoid taking photos inside the mosque, unless permitted by local authorities.

Table Manners

  • Eat with your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean.
  • Try a little of each dish offered, as it’s impolite to refuse food.
  • Finish your meal, as leaving food uneaten can be seen as wasteful.

Learn Some Basic Arabic

  • Greet locals with “as-salamu alaykum” (السلام عليكم - peace be upon you).
  • Respond with “wa alaykum as-salam” (وعليكم السلام - and upon you be peace).
  • Show appreciation for help or service with “shukraan” (شكرا - thank you).

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be able to navigate Alexandria like a pro and show respect for the local culture. Happy travels!