Egypt
North Africa · Arabic · Egyptian Pound
Haggle hard but smile harder, keep small notes for baksheesh, and a firm la shukran while walking works wonders.
Today in Egypt
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5 phrases you need in Egypt
- HelloأهلاًAH-lan
- Goodbyeمع السلامةMAH-ah sah-LAH-mah
- Pleaseمن فضلكmin FAHD-lak
- Thank youشكراًSHOOK-rahn
- Excuse meلو سمحتlau sah-MAHT
The Trovlr app drills all 8 Egypt phrases with audio, Duolingo-style. Get the app →
Know before you go
scams
Anyone at Giza or Luxor telling you the entrance is closed or moved is steering you to a shop or a camel; walk on to the official ticket office.
money
Keep a fat stack of small Egyptian pound notes for baksheesh; bathroom attendants, tomb guardians, and helpful pointers all expect a few pounds.
transport
Uber in Cairo beats negotiating with taxis and the metro is fast for crossing town; women travelers can use the women-only metro carriages.
etiquette
Haggling in souks is expected sport, so start around half the asking price and keep it friendly; dress modestly away from Red Sea resorts.
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