| |
|
Special Travel Needs
|
Travelers With Disabilities
Although Egypt is not the ideal place for travelers with disabilities, the country is beginning to respond to their needs. For most, the friendliness of residents and their willingness to help strangers compensate for the awkwardness of the facilities.
Travelers who depend on a guide dog should travel with a sighted companion at least until the dog becomes accustomed to the sounds, sights, and traffic of Egypt.
Travelers with disabilities should have no difficulties on a tour, but those who travel alone and/or on a budget will have to obtain advance information on availability of facilities. Do not depend on tourist authorities, as their information is often dated. Check with individual hotels, railway stations, airports, and other services about accommodating your specific needs before you leave.
Student Travelers
International Student Identity Cards (ISIC) entitle you to discounts of up to 50 percent on railways, airlines (including EgyptAir), ferries, and admisison to monuments. Student discounts are often not posted, so ask. For more information about the student card, visit the International Student Travel Confederation Web site.
You can obtain student identification cards at the University of Cairo's Faculty of Medicine building near Maniel Palace, or from the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE).
If you're not a student but are under 26 years old, consider a Federation of International Youth Travel Organization (FIYTO) card. Although not as widely accepted in Egypt as the ISIC, it will occasionally get you discounts. It's available from CIEE offices.
Older Travelers
Elderhostel offers short-term educational programs (programs in Egypt run from two to four weeks). You must be age 60 or older and companions must be over age 50. Programs cover a variety of subjects, but you need no formal education, and scholarships are available. The National Council On Senior Citizens offers travel information and discounts to its members as well as supplemental Medicare insurance to those over 65.
Women Traveling Alone
In Egypt, a woman traveling alone is generally safe, but she will be noticed—more in rural than urban areas—and will attract the attention of men. The presence of foreign women presents, to some Egyptian men, a chance to circumvent strict Islamic rules regarding sexual norms.
Egyptian men are prohibited by Islamic law from touching women (even foreign ones), although pinching and brushing against a woman are not uncommon. They are likely to tag along, trying to strike up a conversation. Ignore them, no matter how impolite it feels. Remember that in their own society, speaking to an unknown woman is a gross breach of etiquette.
Practice these precautions:
- Do not act in an overly friendly manner with men. What passes as humorous or casual behavior at home can lead to a difficult situation in Egypt.
- Avoid direct eye contact with unknown men. It's probably easier for Western women to wear sunglasses than to lower the eyes.
- Do not walk in deserted areas alone. Avoid being alone in an elevator or train compartment with an unknown man or in tombs or monuments with a guard.
- Wear conservative clothing. The weather is hot, but wearing shorts and a sleeveless top will attract unwanted attention. Loose-fitting slacks and long-sleeved shirts are discreet and protect the skin from sunburn. If you have long hair, it's a good idea to wear a scarf. Wear conservative swimsuits. Remember that in Egypt, women exposing flesh or their hair—or traveling alone—are considered prostitutes.
- On public transport, sit with another woman. For trips into rural areas, consider traveling with another woman.
- Wear a wedding ring. If you are traveling with a man, say you're married.
- If you need help, ask a woman first. Egyptian women are happy to help a foreign woman.
- Learn a few Arabic terms for "get lost."
- If rude or obnoxious comments are directed toward you, ignore them. Don't worsen the situation by confronting an ill-mannered Egyptian man. More Women Travel, edited by Natania Jansz and Miranda Davies, is a good resource for women travelers.
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
Quick Search |
Nile Cruise |
Hotel Vacations |
Recommended Packages |
Our Agreement
Info Center |
About US |
Site Map |
My Shopping Cart |
Contact Us |
| |
|
|
| |
|
Copyright ©
2001 www.christmasinegypt.com. All rights reserved. |
| |
|
Please Visit Our Nile Cruise Web Site
www.nile-cruise-egypt.com |
|