Travelling to a foreign country may be a distant dream right now as you practice social distancing, but that doesn’t mean we can’t plan your post-COVID-19 travel bucket list.
Let’s talk about Egypt—the land of pharaohs and ancient monuments stretching along the Nile River.
Egypt has been a beloved tourist destination for many years because of its rich culture and long history, including the magnificent Giza Pyramids, mysterious Great Sphinx, and numerous pharaohs’ temples covered with ancient inscriptions.
But first things first. If you are a Canadian citizen, you should apply for a visa in advance of your trip in order to enter the country. This link can help you understand the whole visa application process and what documents you need to submit.
In 2015, Egypt’s travel authorities launched online visa applications (e-Visas) to simplify the application process. So, Canadian passport holders no longer have to queue at the embassy in Canada or the port of entry in Egypt to get their visa.
Once you have that visa, there are just a few more things to be aware of as you start planning your tour:
Vaccinations
Prior to your trip, ensure you’re up to date with your polio and tetanus shots. It is also advised to get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies, which is a common problem across the country. Visitors should avoid interactions with stray animals such as dogs, cats, bats and monkeys.
For more information, consult with your general practitioner before travelling.
Food and water safety
Upon your arrival, you will notice that tap water in Egypt is densely chlorinated and has an unpleasant taste. While you can use it to brush your teeth, it’s not safe for drinking. Purchase bottled water instead; it’s very affordable in Egypt.
In regard to food safety, avoid raw vegetables, salads and unpeeled fruit. If you eat meat, make sure it’s thoroughly cooked. Never purchase food from street vendors where there is no running water.
Heat
Since Egypt lies in a desert, the temperatures can quickly get very hot. Pack loose-fitting clothes made of organic fiber and increase your daily water intake to avoid sunburn, dehydration and heat exhaustion.
You can also include salt in your food to recover electrolytes, in case you lose them through sweat. If you require medical help, go to any Egyptian pharmacy and seek medical advice. Pharmacists can also help you find a doctor if necessary. English is generally used in Egypt, so you shouldn’t have any communication issues.
