That’s right! Jeff recently checked off one of his lifelong Bucket List items. He saw the pyramids in Cairo, Egypt!
Lucky for us, he brought back lots of great travel advice. Let’s dive right in!
Book a tour
When you are planning to visit an international destination that you aren’t familiar with book a tour. Most tours offer lots of benefits such as being all-inclusive aside from a few meals and add-on excursions you may purchase.
Tours also offer a sense of security in an unfamiliar place. I don’t mean a physical security detail. Although, some offer that as well. (Check our our latest YouTube video to learn more. The link is here.I’m talking about knowing that there is a company that is responsible for all aspects of your trip. If problems arise they will be there to help you.
Bring small currency for tipping
This is important. It is basic etiquette when you are traveling to tip hotel staff, photographers, tour guides, etc. The people in Egypt happened to prefer U.S. dollars over their own local currency.
Beware of extra fees
While most items on a tour’s itinerary are included, there are a few things that may cost extra. For instance, seeing the Great Pyramids was included in Jeff’s tour. However, climbing inside the structure costs approximately $20 in U.S. currency. Be sure to read the fine print of your trip itinerary. Plan ahead if the extra activity is something you are interested in doing. It was definitely worth $20 for Jeff to say he climbed in one of the Great Pyramids!
Be prepared to barter
Bartering is a way of life in many countries. And, shopkeepers can be very…vigilant…in their efforts to win your business. Please keep in mind that the reason many of the shop owners are trying to sell items to you is because it is their sole livelihood. They aren’t trying to annoy you. They are simply trying to make a sale.
If you aren’t interested in any of the items that are for sale, simply keep eye contact minimal and keep walking.
If you do wish to make a purchase, get ready to barter! In many of the tourist areas items are marked considerably higher than the actual amount the shopkeeper is willing to take. Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Wiggle room is actually built into the price!
Consider your clothing
If you’re heading on an Egyptian adventure keep appropriate clothing in mind. And by appropriate, I mean remember it is the desert and there are sand storms! Dress in lightweight clothing that covers you with very little exposed skin and have something to shield your face and eyes.
Be sure to check out our latest YouTube video about Jeff’s adventure in Cairo. You can watch it HERE.
If you want to know more about saving money during your travels abroad, check out our post – We Tried These International Money-Saving Travel Hacks So You Don’t Have To.
Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel so you don’t miss any of our videos. And, follow us on social media for even more info!
And remember, break the monotony not the bank.
–Marnie and Jeff
