1 | P a g e

September 2018

Unique Tours of Egypt

Fully escorted tours of Egypt

We are pleased to provide the following

information on the wonderful places we will

visit, our accommodation, current prices,

optional excursions and other

useful information.

.

2 | P a g e

Proposed Itinerary

(Day 1 of tour) Thursday 13th September 2018 - Pick up from the airport & check into Ramses Hilton - Welcome dinner at El Ahzar Park, Cairo

(Day 2 of tour) Friday 14th September - Egyptian Museum - Afternoon walk through old Cairo to Khan El Khalil Bazaar (Day 3 of tour) Saturday 15th September - Cairo Nilometer - The Ben Ezra Synagogue - Saints Sergius & Bacchus Church - The Hanging Church

(Day 4 of tour) Sunday 16th September - The Saladin Citadel - Ar-Rifai Mosque - Madrassa of Sultan Hassan Mosque - Mosque of Ibn Tulun - Gayer Anderson Museum

(Day 5 of tour) Monday 17th September - Check out after breakfast for flight to Aswan - Drive to Seti Resort at Abu Simbel - Light & Sound Show at Abu Simbel Temples

(Day 6 of tour) Tuesday 18th September - Early morning visit to Abu Simbel Temples - Check out & drive back to Aswan to join 4 night Moon Goddess Nile cruise - Aswan Dam - Afternoon Felucca ride to Kitchener's Island

(Day 7 of tour) Wednesday 19th September - Temple of Isis, Philae - Granite Quarry - Kom Ombo Temple

(Day 8 of tour) Thursday 20th September - Temple of Horus at Edfu

(Day 9 of tour) Friday 21st September - Valley of the Kings - Colossi of Memnon - Hatshepsut Temple - Karnak Temples

(Day 10 of tour) Saturday 22nd September - Disembark cruise for early morning drive to Denderah to visit Hathor’s Temple - Check into The Pavilion, Luxor (Day 11 of tour) Sunday 23rd September - Deir el Medina - Habu - Luxor Temple (Day 12 of tour) Monday 24th September - Free day in Luxor (Day 13 of tour) Tuesday 25th September - Check out of The Pavilion for flight back to Cairo and check in Mena House (Day 14 of tour) Wednesday 26th September - Pyramids & Sphinx - Afternoon free (Day 15 of tour) Thursday 27th September - Dashur pyramids, Bent & Red Pyramids - Saqqara - Memphis (Day 16 of tour) Friday 28th September - Day free in Cairo - Farewell dinner at Mena House (Day 17 of tour) Saturday 29th September - Check out of Mena House and transfer to Cairo airport

Please note :

This itinerary is subject to change due to cruise departure

dates and internal flights but gives a good idea of proposed

tours . The final dates of our tour will be confirmed 6 months

prior to departure date.

3 | P a g e

Optional Excursions Full day tour to Alexandria

Pompeys Pillar

Citadel of Qaitbay

The Catacombs

Roman Amphitheatre Ruins

Light & Sound Shows

Pyramids & the Sphinx

Karnak & Luxor Temples

Philae Temple

Cheops Boat at Giza

Other options :

2 hour Nile Cruise in Cairo

Luxor Museum

Mummification Museum Luxor

Valley of the Queens

Seti 1 Temple at Abydos

Nubian Museum Aswan

Pharaonic Village Cairo

Nubian Village

Solar Boat Museum at Giza

Cairo Tower

Optional extra excursions prices

on application.

4 | P a g e

The Citadel, Ibn Tulun Mosque, Sultan Hassan Mosque,

Ar-Rifai Mosque, Gayer Andersen Museum

The Saladin Citadel is a medieval

Islamic fortification built between

1176 & 1183 AD as protection

from the Crusaders.

It is also known as the Mohamed Ali

Citadel because in contains the

mosque of Muhammad Ali which was

built between 1830 & 1848.

This Ottoman mosque was built in

memory of Tusun Pasha, Muhammad

Ali’s second son who died in 1816.

The Gayer

Anderson

museum is

known as one

of the best

preserved

examples of

16th century

homes

left in Cairo

5 | P a g e

View of Cairo from the minaret

Mosque-

Madrassa of

Sultan

Hassan was

built between

1356-1363,

650 years

ago

Islamic

Egypt

Ar-Rifai Mosque was built over 2

phases over a period between

1869 and 1912. A burial place

for many Egyptian royals

including King Farouk,

Egypt’s last King whose

body was

returned for

burial from

Rome in 1965.

Construction of the

Mosque of Ibn Tulun

began in 876 AD & was

completed in 879, over

1,000 years ago.

It is arguably the oldest

mosque in Cairo

surviving in its original form

& is also the largest mosque

in Cairo in terms of land

area, covering 2.5 hectares.

6 | P a g e

The Sphinx & the Pyramids of Giza

Cairo

Our wonderful guides Fatma (our sister on the other side of the world) &

Abdul.

Fatma studied archaeology at Cairo University and she

then studied an extra 2 years to qualify with the Ministry

Tourism as a legal tour guide which she has been

working as for over 15 years. She also studied at the

American University for English language and has

completed courses for accreditation with UNESCO.

Fatma has been appointed as curator of the

Tutankhamun collection at the new Grand Egyptian

museum due to open in 2018. Abdul has a BA in

English language & ancient Egyptian history. Abdul has

been a tour guide 20 years and has worked with many

travel agents such as Thomas Cook and Abercrombie

& Kent. Abdul is very knowledgeable, has a great sense

of humour &is a fabulous guide & more importantly,

a great friend.

Internal photo courtesy of google images

Map courtesy of google images

The Pyramids were built over a span of 85 years , over 4,500

years ago. The Pyramids at Giza are massive,

the largest is as high as the Australia

Square building and covers about 13 acres.

7 | P a g e

The Egyptian Museum has over

120,000 items on display including

an extensive exhibition of treasures

found in Tutankhamun’s Tomb

including the famous gold masks

and sarcophagus. Access to the

Royal Mummy Room is possible for

an additional fee and is where you

can see the mummies of

several great rulers

including Ramses II, the

builder of the

temples at

Abu Simbel.

The Khan el Khalili Bazaar was originally the site of a

mausoleum known as the Saffron Tomb. During the

late 1300’s the mausoleum was destroyed and the

bazaar was built. A great place for bargains as long as

you are willing to haggle.

Photo courtesy of google images

Egyptian Museum, walk through Old Cairo to

Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

The Egyptian Museum has over 120,000 items on display including an extensive

exhibition of treasures found in Tutankhamun’s Tomb including the famous gold masks

and sarcophagus. Access to the Royal Mummy Room is possible for an additional fee

and is where you can see the mummies of several great rulers including Ramses II, the

builder of the temples at Abu Simbel.

8 | P a g e

Saqqara, Memphis, Bent Pyramid & Red Pyramid

Sakkara is an ancient burial site which features

numerous pyramids including the famous step pyramid

of Djoser sometimes referred to as the Step Pyramid

which was built during the 3rd dynasty. Another 16

Egyptian Kings built pyramids at Sakkara. The area

remained an important complex for non-royal burials

and ceremonies for more than 3,000 years.

The Step pyramid of Djoser was the first pyramid was

built during the 27th century BC, over 4,600 years ago

for the burial of Pharaoh Djoser by Imhotep.

The Bent Pyramid of Snefru at Dahshur was built

in approx. 2600 BC, over 4,600 years ago and

shows the original polished limestone outer casing.

The Red Pyramid is known as the first true pyramid built in 2600BC, over 4,600 years

ago and is built of local limestone containing iron oxide, which gives it the reddish colour.

The burial chamber is reached via a short passage which opens high up in the wall of a

second antechamber. The burial chamber measures 4.18m X 8.55m. Its corbelled roof

goes up to a height of 14.67m. It is located well above ground level, in the core of the

pyramid.

Saqqara is an ancient burial site which features numerous pyramids including the famous

step pyramid of Djoser sometimes referred to as the Step Pyramid which was built during

the 3rd dynasty. Another 16 Egyptian Kings built pyramids at Sakkara.

The area remained an important complex for non-royal burials and ceremonies for more

than 3,500 years.

The Step pyramid of Djoser was the first pyramid was built during the 27th century BC,

over 4,600 years ago for the burial of Pharaoh Djoser by Imhotep.

Sakkara is an ancient burial site which features numerous pyramids including the famous

step pyramid of Djoser sometimes referred to as the Step Pyramid which was built during

the 3rd dynasty. Another 16 Egyptian Kings built pyramids at Sakkara. The area

remained an important complex for non-royal burials and ceremonies for more than 3,000

years.

The Step pyramid of Djoser was the first pyramid was built during the 27th century BC,

over 4,600 years ago for the burial of Pharaoh Djoser by Imhotep.

differently at the onset of their careers

Photo courtesy of Google images

Photo courtesy of

google images

Access inside the Red

Pyramid is possible via a

timber slat walkway which leads down to a large room

and then into a large vaulted

ceiling chamber.

9 | P a g e

The Nilometer was built 1,300 years ago to measure the Nile River’s water level during the

annual flood which was then used to determine the amount of tax paid.

Saints Sergius & Bacchus Church is one of the oldest churches in Egypt, with pillars

dating back to the 4th century. It is believed to be built on the site where Joseph, Mary and

Jesus rested at the end of their journey into Egypt.

The Ben Ezra Synagogue is situated in Old Cairo

and according to local folklore, it is located on the site

where baby Moses was found.

Saints Sergius & Bacchus Church, Ben Ezra

Synagogue & the Nileometer

The Bent Pyramid of Snefru at Dahshur was

built approx. 2600 BC, over 4,600 years ago

and shows the original polished limestone outer

casing.

The Nilometer was built 1,300 years ago to measure the

Nile River’s water level during the annual flood which was

then used to determine the amount of tax paid.

The Ben Ezra Synagogue is situated in Old

Cairo, and according to local folklore, it is located

on the site where baby Moses was found.

Saints Sergius & Bacchus Church, Ben Ezra

Synagogue & the Nilometer

The Bent Pyramid of Snefru at Dahshur was

built approx. 2600 BC, over 4,600 years ago

and shows the original polished limestone outer

casing.

Saints Sergius & Bacchus Church is one

of the oldest churches in Egypt, with

pillars dating back to the 4th century. It is

believed to be built on the site where

Joseph, Mary & Jesus rested at the end

of their journey into Egypt..

10 | P a g e

The island was originally given to Lord Kitchener for his services in the Sudan Campaign

(1869-98) & Kitchener transformed the small island into a paradise of exotic trees & plants.

Aswan The first town in Egypt, Aswan’s population is almost 1,400,000 and is around 850km

south of Cairo. It has a hot desert climate like the rest of Egypt and is one of the least

humid cities on the planet. Scenic Aswan is a great place for birdwatching.

‘

Aswan markets at night is a great place to haggle for souvenirs, take in the aroma of the many spices for sale or enjoy a

coffee and shisha.

Kitchener’s Island is

the site of the Aswan

Botanical Gardens

and is reached by a

felucca, a traditional

wooden sailing boat.

11 | P a g e

Abu Simbel

Internal photo courtesy of google images

Abu Simbel is one of the most

spectacular sites in Egypt & a must

see. There are two temples which

were originally carved out of the

mountainside during the reign of

Ramses II in the 13th century BC,

as a lasting monument to himself and

his queen, Nefertari. In 1968 the

complex was moved as the original

site was submerged during the

creation of Lake Nasser & the

Aswan High Dam. The Great

Temple at Abu Simbel was

dedicated to several gods as well as

Ramses himself. Inside the inner

chamber you will find four seated

figures, Ra-Horakhty, King Ramses

and the Gods Amun Ra and Ptah.

It is believed that the axis of the

temple was positioned by the ancient

Egyptian architects in such a way

that on October 21st and February 21st, the rays of the sun would

penetrate the inner sanctuary and

illuminate the sculptures on the back

wall, except for the statue of Ptah,

god of the underworld who always

remained in the dark. These dates

are allegedly the king’s birthday &

coronation day respectively.

12 | P a g e

The Temple of Isis is located on Philae Island and

was founded from 380-362 BC,

over 2,300 years ago

This complex was dismantled and moved to its

current position after being partly flooded for 50

years when the Old Aswan Dam was built.

The Temple of Edfu is

dedicated to the falcon god

Horus and was built between

237 and 57 BC. The

inscriptions on the walls

provided important information

on language, myth and religion

during this period.

This temple was well preserved

after centuries of being buried

beneath sand and silt.

The

unfinished

obelisk at

the

Granite

Quarry,

Aswan

Kom Ombo, is the only

dual temple and was built

over 2,000 years ago for the

Crocodile God Sobek &

Horus, the falcon God.

Granite Quarry, Kom Ombo &

the Temple of Isis, Philae

13 | P a g e

The Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple,

Karnak & Luxor Temples

On the way to the Valley of the Kings we

will also stop at the Colossi of Memnon.

2 massive stone statues built in 1350

BC, over 3,300 years ago from

sandstone transported 675km overland

to Thebes. Each statue weighs approx.

720 tons & are 60 feet in height

The Mortuary Temple of

Hatshepsut is dedicated to

the Sun God Amon Ra and

was built over 3,400 years

ago. Hatshepsut was the

chief wife of Thutmoses II and

is generally regarded as one

of the most successful

pharaohs, reigning longer than

any other indigenous

Egyptian woman.

The Valley of the Kings is a

valley that was used for

burials for nearly 500 years,

from the 16th to 11th century

BC. At this stage there are

over 60 tombs that have

been found and more are

being discovered each year.

The most famous is

Tutankhamen’s tomb which

is the only one, when

discovered, to still be intact.

His mummy has been

returned to his tomb and lies

in a gold sarcophagus.

It is certainly worth seeing

although you will have to pay

an extra fee to get inside

Tutankhamen’s tomb but it is

a once in a lifetime

opportunity.

Map & photos of Tutankhamen’s tomb

courtesy of google images

14 | P a g e

Luxor city is north of

Aswan and made up of less

than 500,000 people.

It is known as the world’s

greatest open museum.

Also known as the ancient

city of Thebes, one of the

great capitals

of ancient Egypt during the

New Kingdom and was

recognised as a

centre for wisdom, art,

religion & political

supremacy.

It’s a lively city that seems to

never sleeps and is a great

place to walk

around, enjoy a fresh sugar

cane juice, haggle for a

bargain in the

markets or relax

in one of the coffee shops.

Luxor city is north of Aswan and made up of less than 500,000 people.

It is known as the world’s greatest open museum.

Also known as the ancient city of Thebes, one of the great

capitals of ancient Egypt during the New Kingdom and was

recognised as a centre for wisdom, art, religion & political

supremacy. It’s a lively city that seems to never sleeps and is a

great place to walk around, enjoy a fresh sugar cane juice, haggle for a bargain in the

markets or relax in one of the coffee shops.

Karnak Temple is the second largest ancient religious site in the world and the site was

founded 2055 BC, over 4,000 years ago. The temples that are still standing are from

1391 BC, over 3,400 years ago.

Luxor Temple was founded 1400BC, over 3,400 years ago

and was originally connected to the Karnak Temple via a

2.7km avenue of 1,000 Sphinxes. Currently the Egyptian

government is spending $11 million on a project to restore

the entire avenue of sphinxes.

We can also visit this

temple at night which

gives the temple a

totally different

energy.

15 | P a g e

Deir el Medina and Medinat Habu

Medinat Habu is possibly

one of the under rated sites

on the west bank. This is one

of the first places closely

associated with the local god

Amun.

Deir el Medina is an ancient Egyptian mud brick and

sandstone village for the middleclass made up of artisans and

workers who built the tombs in the Valley of the Kings &

Queens. The village contained around 70 houses which

housed Egyptians, Nubians & Asiatics who were employed

as labourers, stone cutters, plasterers, water carriers, and

artists. This site has workers tombs which are open to the

public and are very interesting as well the rarely visited

Temple of Hathor to the rear of the village which has the

most fantastic painted walls.

At the back of the village ruins is a chapel dedicated to the

goddess Hathor which has some of the best preserved

artwork we have seen in Egypt.

16 | P a g e

The Egyptian

government has

spent millions

restoring the

artwork within the

temple and this

makes it one of the

most spectacular

temples to visit.

.

Hathor ‘s Temple

The Temple of Hathor at Dendera is a rarely visited site

and was built around 360BC, over 2,300 years ago. It is

considered one of the best preserved temples in Egypt.

The remaining structures are from 332BC.

The whole area covers some 40,000m² and is

surrounded by a large mud brick wall.

The Egyptian government has spent millions

restoring the artwork within the temple and this

makes it one of the most spectacular temples to visit.

.

A small crypt is accessible

through an opening in the

floor of the “Flame Room”

where you will find beautiful

carvings in the alabaster walls.

17 | P a g e

Accommodation Mena House, Giza

Set in 40 acres of

gardens & built in 1869.

This hotel was named

after the first king.

This 5 star hotel has

seen many famous

guests including

Churchill, Bill Clinton,

Frank Sinatra, Charlie

Chaplin, Richard Nixon

and more recently

Barak Obama.

We have stayed here

many times and love its

old world charm, the

ambience and décor.

18 | P a g e

Ramses Hilton, Cairo

We have stayed here before and

undoubtedly was the best breakfast

we’ve ever had in a hotel.

This 5 start hotel is a great place to sit

and watch daily life in Cairo. It is very

central to downtown Cairo, the museum

and a local shopping mall is within easy

access across the road.

19 | P a g e

Seti Resort, Abu Simbel

This 4 star resort is

our base so we can visit

the temples at Abu

Simbel before the

crowds arrive, an

excellent opportunity

of an early morning visit

to the Abu Simbel

temples before

transferring back to

Aswan to join our

cruise. We will arrive in

time to relax before

attending the evening’s

light and sound show

at the Abu Simbel

Temples.

20 | P a g e

Pavilion Winter

Hotel, Luxor

Built in 1886 the palace was

once the winter retreat of the

Egyptian royal family .

We have stayed in the 5 star new

sections (Pavilion Winter Hotel)

as its much quieter and better

value. We really loved the Winter

Palace gardens and pool area.

High tea in the big house is

certainly worth it as is the

fantastic hour long massage on

offer for around A$50.

21 | P a g e

4 night Nile Cruise on board

the 5 star Moon Goddess

Sail the majestic Nile

River between Aswan

and Luxor in comfort and

modern luxury on a 5 star

cruise ship. Explore the

landmark temples, tombs

and ruins in the region

22 | P a g e

Weather conditions :

March, April & May, with the warmer weather comes the winds which can bring wind & sand

storms.

June, July, August are hot especially in Aswan & Luxor.

September is slightly cooler and with no humidity this makes it more manageable.

November becomes busier and there can be a slight chill in the air.

December, January & February are the busiest time with larger crowds and can be cool.

During September there are not a lot of tourists and as it is still considered the low or

shoulder season hotels, cruises etc. are less expensive compared to the peak season.

We suggest September to take advantage of lower prices and fewer other tourists.

It is Autumn and is still considerably warm with tops of mid to high 30’s. Keep in mind humidity

is low which makes sightseeing in the higher temperatures more bearable.

Sightseeing and tours from the cruise ship go early in the morning to take advantage of the

lower temperatures & that allows the afternoons to relax by the pool as you cruise down the

Nile so please be prepared for early starts and lots of walking.

Peak Shoulder Low season Shoulder Peak

Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Cairo - Average high °C 18.9 20.4 23.5 28.3 32 33.9 34.7 34.2 32.6 29.2 24.8 20.3

Cairo - Average low °C 9 9.7 11.6 14.6 17.7 20.1 22 22.1 20.5 17.4 14.1 10.4

Luxor - Average high °C 23 25.4 29 35 39.3 41 40.8 41 38.5 35.1 29.6 24.8

Luxor - Average low °C 5.4 6.8 10.7 15.7 20.7 22.6 23.6 23.5 21.5 17.8 12.3 9.9

23 | P a g e

Testimonials from our previous tours.

“Egypt is safe as there are tourist police everywhere. It was well

organised with great guides. Thanks Shelley & Alan for a

wonderful holiday. I must say I felt very safe, we had wonderful

guides and good drivers. It was a very well organised tour and I

would definitely recommend you to anyone thinking of touring

Egypt.”

“I had a fantastic time. Our hosts Alan & Shelley were friendly and welcoming and

always ready with a Dad joke. Our guides were great. Fatma and Hussan in Cairo were

friendly and knowledgeable and Abdul in Aswan and Luxor was also full of knowledge

and great fun. It truly was a unique tour of Egypt.”

“Had a wonderful experience and I learnt a lot from the guides who were just fantastic

with their knowledge and patience with questions. The tour was well paced, the river

cruise on the Nile was a great way to travel and relax. Thanks for organising the tour of

Egypt and all your help especially with the local customs. The new museum tour was

spectacular.”

Our 2017 group Our 2016 group

24 | P a g e

“Really enjoyed the trip as a whole. Guides were excellent. Hope to do the trip again

one day. Security is very tight in Egypt. I felt safe the entire time.”

“Had the most amazing time seeing sights I had only

dreamed of. Shelley and Alan covered every little detail

about our trip providing us with as much information as they

could. The guides where exceptional with their humour and

amazing knowledge and nothing was any trouble to them.

I always felt safe and would highly recommend this trip to

anyone. Well done Shelley and Alan on making a memorable

trip of a lifetime. Hope to do it again one day. I had an awesome holiday.”

Loved seeing the pyramids and temples. All had something different to see. Very excited

about climbing into the inside of the pyramids and exploring the Valley of the Kings.

Thank you so much Alan & Shelley for a wonderful experience. I will highly recommend you.

Mind blowing culture, we were given the unique opportunity to re-arrange the itinerary if we all

agreed. Some great extras/surprises. Would recommend this trip to anyone.

I loved both light and sound shows at the pyramids and Karnak.

25 | P a g e

Dept. of Foreign Affairs Warnings

For reasons of political unrest, acts of war or

terrorism or natural disasters in certain parts of the

world, the Australian Government in

conjunction with various other worldwide bodies

may decide to issue a Government Advisory

warning to Australian Passport holders not to

travel to a particular country. To check travel

advice for countries around the world please see

http://www.dfat.gov.au

You should also register on

http://www.orao.dfat.gov.au to advise dfat where

and when you will be travelling.

Practicalities

Smoking is common in Egypt, including in

restaurants and bars. Alcohol is available and

typically served only at higher end restaurants and

on all cruises.

Drinking on the street is forbidden as is public

drunkenness.

Please be aware internet access is not always

reliable and although we will do our best it is not

always accessible in all hotels.

Travellers Health Advice

This tour involves early starts to avoid the heat, a lot of

walking and sometimes on uneven ground so a degree of

fitness is required. Having said that and to ensure equity

for all our tours will always run at the pace of our slowest

traveller. Assistance is possible such as wheel chairs, golf

carts etc. so please talk to us if you have any concerns or

special requirements.

Egypt has special vaccination and health

requirements and we recommend you contact your

nearest Medical Centre or your local doctor. If you are

unable to undertake travel because you do not meet the

health requirements, we will not be liable for any extra

costs that may be incurred. We recommend you get a flu

shot at least 1 month prior to taking your trip. It is

suggested you take along a small first aid kit and include

plenty of Imodium.

Safety

Unfortunately in the current world climate no one can

guarantee your safety anywhere in the world however we

have always felt completely safe in Egypt. The locals are

extremely friendly and fully aware their livelihood depends

on tourists so they are reluctant to jeopardise this.

In spite of all the media reports, crime in Egypt is

significantly less prevalent than many western countries

and theft is low .

Crossing the road in Cairo is particularly

dangerous and it’s best done with a local or guide as a lot

of trust is necessary. The Lonely Planet suggests you

position yourself so that 1 or more locals form a buffer

between you and oncoming traffic and to cross when they

do. Never hesitate or turn back once you have stepped

off the kerb. Cross as if you own the road, but do it fast.

26 | P a g e

What to bring :

Choose to pack any article of clothing that

could be easily washed by hand in a sink.

Spending five minutes rinsing out clothes at the

end of the day and letting them dry overnight is

such a space saver .

Skirts are a cool and comfortable choice but not

a requirement by any means. Also keep solar-

safety in mind. It’s not such a bad idea (and

surprisingly cooler) to keep as much skin as

possible covered with cloth.

There is no need to bring headscarves to Egypt.

There are no requirements for women to cover

hair in all holy places but there are certain

mosques where covering your hair will be required

so you may want to purchase an Egyptian scarf,

they are beautiful and inexpensive souvenirs that

are very easy to find. Please pack some modest

clothing that can be worn when visiting churches

and mosques. Long skirts, trousers or pants and

covered shoulders will be necessary when visiting

religious sites.

Having said that wearing a head scarf whilst

visiting any mosque is considered by locals as an

acknowledgment of respect.

Bring along the usuals, hat, sunblock, sunglasses,

fan, first aid kit and a torch. An umbrella is also

useful for cover from the sun.

You might also find an umbrella for shade useful.

The most important thing you will need is

patience. The Egyptian people work on a

different time schedule.

Egypt can be dirty, noisy, confusing, and at times

confronting but always exciting.

Along with everything else you might come across

in Egypt, the delays, the diarrhoea, some things

are certain, you will be hassled, people will pester

you and you will be conned to pay someone

E£10 to “see something you’ve never seen

before”. This is Egypt, they have been doing it

for centuries, just smile, wave and walk away.

Remember for some people this is their only form

of income and a means to support their family and

put into perspective, E£10 is really less than

A$2.

The Egyptian people are always ready and

willing to help and you must always be willing and

ready to tip for their help

27 | P a g e

Money :

Bring a major credit or debit card with you to

Egypt since many establishments accept

payments with plastic and an increasing

number of ATM machines can be found in

major cities and tourist sites.

Egyptian pounds may be ordered from the

Commonwealth Bank prior to your departure

or you can bring cash to exchange for

Egyptian pounds. Remember to hoard your

smaller bills and coins for tipping the many

Egyptian merchants in dire need of small

change. Aust $ and US$ can be easily

changed at most hotel banks.

Conversion rates

The following is an indication and to be used

as a rough guide only when buying or

converting Australian $ to Egyptian Pounds.

These conversion rates are from September

2017 & are to be used as an approximate

only.

A$1 = E£13.57 E£10 = A$0.74

A$10 = E£135 E£25 = A$1.85

A$20 = E£280 E£50 = A$3.69

A$50 = E£271 E£75 = A$5.53

A$100 = E£1356 E£100 = A$7.37

A$150 = E£2034 E£150 = A$11.06

Women travellers :

You may find, you will be cat-called,

whistled at, proposed to and, maybe

occasionally pinched. This is particularly

true in big cities, in crowded areas and

usually happens to younger females.

Our first visit to Egypt was in the mid 80’s

and this was certainly an issue however

returning in 2008 and subsequent visits

this has not been the case, a benefit of

growing older perhaps? Should it happen

the best policy for dealing with it is simply

to ignore it.

In nearly all cases, it presents no physical

threat. It helps to dress conservatively, if

you are actually touched, immediately turn

around and shout at the offender, in the

local language if you know any -- it helps to

learn a few good insults.

28 | P a g e

Spending Money

Trying to estimate how much spending money you will

need depends on you and your personal spending habits.

The cost of a meal in a local restaurant is around

E£100 (approx. A$7) and slightly higher in hotel

restaurants. Soft drinks cost around E£20 (A$1.50)

and bottled water around E£5 (A35c) depending on

where you shop.

Local beer and wines are significantly cheaper than imported at around E£40 (A$3)

per glass. Imported spirits are more expensive at around E£60 a nip (A$4 up to A$10)

plus mixers.

Buying souvenirs will depend on what you purchase.

Egypt is well known for its papyrus, scented oils and alabaster. All make wonderful

souvenirs and gifts.

Papyrus vary in price from E£150 upwards, the price of scented oils depends on the

quantity (ml) and the number of bottles you purchase. Egyptian cotton galabeyas can

be purchased for around E£100 and t shirts can be as low as E£50 depending on the

quality.

We have found we always spend more than we anticipated as it it’s hard to pass such

reasonably priced and beautiful mementos of your trip. Keep in mind you are also

contributing to the Egyptian economy and often helping feed a local family.

29 | P a g e

Tour Costs :

17 days at a cost of A$5,700 ex Cairo. This price includes 4 to 5 star accommodation, full board on the 4 night cruise, some meals, all tours

mentioned, guides, transport & internal flights (Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo).

Costs are based on group rates and are subject to a minimum of at least 6 travellers. We reserve the right

to cancel or re-cost the tour should the minimum numbers not be met.

Payments & Terms

The land only cost of the Egyptian tour is Australian $5,700 and does not include international airfares.

These prices include twin share accommodation with full breakfast, transport, guides, entrance fees, some

meals, internal flights (Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo via Egypt Air) and full board on the 4 night

Nile cruise. It should be noted that we reserve the right to adjust the cost of the tour if a substantial fall in

the Australian Dollar exchange rate occurs. Prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and

may fluctuate due to changes in charges, hotel cancellation policies, taxes and currency. Prices are not

guaranteed until the full payment has been made. Deposits hold the reservation but do not guarantee the

price however we will do our best to stay within the quoted price.

Single supplement

Prices quoted in this brochure are on a twin share basis. If you do not wish to share accommodation and

would like your own room, a single supplement is available for A$7, 000.

If your booking is not a twin share booking we require payments as per the single supplement payment

schedule following, $700 deposit, $2,500 March 1st, $2,500 May 1st & $1,300 July 1st.

If you are willing to share a room with another single traveller of the same gender, you can pay the twin

share rate however if we are unable to match you with another traveller prior to the final payment date of

July 1st you will need to pay the single supplement rate. We accept no responsibility for the suitability of

the allocated rooming partner.

If at any time during the tour, you consider your rooming partner unsuitable, you must notify us and we will

use reasonable endeavours to arrange single accommodation for you for the remainder of the tour,

subject to availability, and at your own cost, paid directly to the hotel.

If there is no availability of single accommodation for the remainder of the tour, you will be required to

continue to share with your nominated rooming partner for the remainder of the tour.

Unfortunately, as stated, if we are unable to match you prior to the final payment date of July 1st, we will

request full payment as per the single supplement rate.

30 | P a g e

Once you have confirmed your intent to travel with us we ask for the following :

A non-refundable deposit of $700 per person

A competed booking form per person

A photocopy of your passport which must have at least 6 months before expiring.

Payments are as follows :

$700 non-refundable deposit on booking

$2,000 March 1st 2018

$2,000 May 1st 2018

$1,000 July 1st 2018 final payment

It is recommended that, at the time of your initial booking, you take out appropriate travel insurance in the

event you need to cancel your tour. You must be covered by insurance to travel on this tour and a copy of

your insurance as well as a copy of your passport and flight details need to be provided by August 1st.

Passports are required and must have a minimum of 6 months validity from the date of the scheduled

return to Australia. Travel documents and airline tickets must match the name and spelling as it appears

in your passport. For passport holders other than Australian, a valid re-entry permit for Australia is

required. Please be aware if you have a previous criminal record you could be denied entry into your

country of destination. Whilst we offer full assistance it is the responsibility of each traveller to ensure

they have full and correct documentation to undertake this journey. If you have any special requirements

i.e. smoking or non-smoking room, special dietary requests or airport assistance, every attempt will be

made by us to accommodate your request but as we are not the ultimate service provider we cannot

guarantee the request.

Visa are required for entry into Egypt and should be purchased prior to your departure.

See our website to download a visa application form.

Cancellations

For any cancellation made 60 days or more before the start of the tour all amounts already paid shall be

reimbursed less the initial $700 deposit paid on booking. For later cancellations less than 60 days but

more than 30 days prior to departure we will refund 50% of all payments less the initial $700 deposit.

Unfortunately no refunds can be made for any cancellation made 30 days or less before departure date.

Special needs

We welcome you if you have a disability or other special need, provided you are accompanied by a

companion capable of providing all the assistance you require. Assistance such as help with a

wheelchair can be arranged for an extra fee. Please note that although we will use reasonable endeavours

to provide you with all the activities on your itinerary depending on your disability you may not be able

to participate in every activity. You must advise us of any disability, medical condition or dietary

requirement at the time of booking.

31 | P a g e

Registration and Booking Form

Shelley & Alan’s Egyptian Tour 2018

Please print details clearly in block letters and also attach a photocopy of your passport to this booking form.

Tour start date is: Thursday 17th September 2018 ex Cairo.

Passenger name (as written in your passport) :____________________________________________________________________

Address : ________________________________________________________________________________________________

Home Telephone Number : __________________________________________________________________________________

Mobile number : __________________________________________________________________________________________

Email address : ___________________________________________________________________________________________

Occupation : _______________________________ Age : ________________ Date of Birth : _________________ (D/M/Y)

Nationality : ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Passport number & Expiry date : _____________________________________________________________________________

(Must have 6 months from the date of the tour completion)

Any special dietary needs : __________________________________________________________________________________

Flight requirements : (if required) _____________________________________________________________________________

Flight seat request : ________________________________________________________________________________________

(We are happy to make requests however the airline does not guarantee meeting these requests)

Accommodation : Single/Twin/Double Room : __________________________________________________________________

Other requirements : _______________________________________________________________________________________

Do you have any existing medical conditions? Yes or No _________________________________________________________

If yes, please give details : __________________________________________________________________________________

In case of emergency, who do we notify:

Name : _____________________________________________Address : _____________________________________________

Phone : ____________________________________________ Email : _______________________________________________

Please return this form with your non-refundable deposit of $700 per person

I enclose a cheque for $700

Please debit my credit card $700 Card # : ______________________________ Expiry date : __________________

Direct Deposit – please email/fax through notification if you use this facility.

Bank : NAB Ballina

BSB : 082 522

Account Number : 479 466 477 Ref : OliverEgypt(and your initials)

Please complete the registration form and return it along with your payment. By completing this registration form you acknowledge

you have read and accept the Terms and Conditions following.

Return to :

Windrose Travel Ballina

2/140 River St, Ballina NSW 2478 Fax (02) 6621 8003 Email : admin@windrosetravel.com.au

32 | P a g e

33 | P a g e

Unique Egyptian Tours with

Shelley & Alan Oliver

02 4782 5620

uniquetoursofegypt@gmail.com

https://uniquetoursofegypt.wordpress.com/