Egypt

When planning your trip to Egypt, it’s crucial to assess your budget, as costs can add up quickly. Between the Pyramids of Giza, the Temple of Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings, there are plenty of options for sightseeing. Expect to pay around €10 for access to the main sites, while entry to more popular sites, such as Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens, can cost up to €60. For history buffs, a Cairo Pass may be worthwhile, as it gives access to all the places of interest in Cairo and Giza over a five-day period for around 70€.

Note that on most archaeological sites, the fee for taking photographs with a camera is generally between 20 and 40 Egyptian pounds (€1 to €2), while the cost of filming with a camera varies from 100 to 200 pounds (€5 to €10). On the other hand, the use of smartphones is generally accepted at no extra cost.

As far as meals are concerned, you’ll have a wide range of options, from local canteens to Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as cruises where half-board is often included, but drinks are at your own expense. Street food is also an excellent option, with dishes such as shakshouka-filled bread, shawarma and koshari, provided you pay attention to the cleanliness of the establishments.

Finally, tipping is an integral part of Egyptian culture. Although it’s up to each individual to decide, it’s a good idea to set a few benchmarks: for a porter, count between 4 and 10 pounds; for a maid, around 20 pounds a day; and for a guide, around 100 pounds a day per person. Always keep some change for small services, and don’t forget to leave around 10% of the bill in restaurants.