FAQs
Booking:
1. Why choose Travel Express?
Aside from being the most dynamic travel assistance service provider in the region, there are a lot of impelling reasons to book through Travel Express. Travel Express has been doing superior quality tours in Egypt for 12 years now, for that we take pride of ours 12-year experience to consistently delivering the best, highest quality of personalized tours. At first, we were just servicing all corners of Egypt but now we can proudly say that we can now bring the same superior quality of service to Oman, the UAE, Jordan and Israel. Click here to see why Travel Express is the Number 1 preferred option if you’re planning to visit the Middle East.
2. How do I contact Travel Express to book my dream tour?
Travel Express is open 24/7, meaning you can reach us any time of the week for inquiries and reservations. Below is a listing of our contact information, or you can also send us a request via our website by answering our online forms:
Emails Egypt web: info@travelexpressegypt.com
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/travelexpressegypt/
Telephone Egypt office: +20.2.2418.884
3. Will going solo affect the price of my tour?
The rates published for tour packages/transfers/excursions on the website shows a variety of packages. For those booking solo, he/she will have to shoulder fees for the guides, for transportation, and etc., leading to paying a higher amount than going with a group.
4. What do I have to do to book my tour and confirm my reservation?
The process of booking a tour is quite simple. First thing to do is contact any of our representatives through any methods as listed in Question 2 above. Once the inquiry has been sent, please expect to receive a prompt reply where all options available are outlined for you, and then from the options you can just build a tour that suits you best with regards to budget, number of days, interested places to go to with the help of our highly trained travel consultants. Once a tour plan has been finally decided upon, Travel Express will furnish you a detailed itinerary complete with all pertinent information about your trip. Once you receive the detailed itinerary, all that is needed is for you to confirm your reservation and payment for the amount due. Reservations without payment of the full deposit and has been received by Travel Express will not be confirmed.
5. Are there surcharges on completed transactions from using a debit or credit card?
For credit card transactions, Travel Express only accepts Visa and Mastercard. With regards to charges, Travel Express has an additional 3% charge if the transaction was by use of credit cards.
6. How much deposit do I need to pay?
Normally, the charge is 25% of the total price but during peak seasons like Christmas and New Years the deposit asked is 50%. For deposits, direct bank payments to Travel Express and credit card payments are also accepted. Installment plans are also available but it is imperative to contact our office in order to negotiate a mutually acceptable payment plan.
7. Will I get a refund if I am forced to cancel my trip with www.travelexpressegypt.com?
· Please check for the detailed policy regarding Galaxia Tour’s refund policy in our Terms and Conditions. Refunds depend on how far ahead we are notified of a cancellation.
· For refunds on hotel bookings, customer will be supplied with dates regarding deadlines for cancellations as early as the time of booking.
· If a Shore Excursion was booked from a cruise ship via Travel Express’ website, because of weather conditions or some other circumstances beyond anyone’s control that renders the ship unable to come to port, then the full amount paid in advance will be refunded in full.
FAQs Egypt
Visas:
1. How do I apply for a visa?
All non-Egyptian citizens wishing to enter Egypt is required to have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months upon arrival and will need a visa as well. For tourist visa applications, just go to any Egyptian consulate or embassy.
Passport holders from North America, Western Europe, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, Ukraine, Russia, Singapore or Malaysia can get a tourist visa upon arrival on Egyptian soil. Right at the airport, there is bank counter where you can pay for the visa just before entering customs, which should only take a few minutes.
2. I am leaving Egypt but plans to come back, will I need another visa when I enter again?
When you exit Egypt, the visa you had will be stamped, and so you will be needing a new one when you come back to enter Egypt again. If your country is not on the list given from Question 1 above, a pre-entry visa is required. Basically, 2 visas are needed to be applied by residents of countries not listed above.
3. Is it possible to extend my visa?
Yes, it is can be extended, you just have to apply for visa extension in the “Magammaa,” which is located in Tahrir Square. Just ask any Travel Express representative and he will assist you regarding what to do.
Safety and Security
1. Am I safe to travel to Egypt?
Tourist destinations in Egypt has always been safe. Just to note that since the Egyptian Revolution took place back in January 2011, there had been some episodes of political unrests in some areas in the capital of Cairo and in the Palestine-Israel border. But with regards to tourist destinations, there had been no attacks aimed at tourists. Egypt is viewed as a violent country and being compared to countries like Syria or Libya, but it is really not the case.
Like any other country at some point has to deal with political transitions and incidents cannot be helped. However, please note that no major incidents involving tourists, and the favorite tourist spots in Cairo, Aswan, Luxor or Hurghada have been spared from such “transition incidences.” Egypt rely largely on the income from tourists and so safety of the tourist is top priority. In fact, Egypt even have a separate police force dedicated only to tourist which they call Tourism Police, and the presence of the Army can always be seen in all major tourist spots.
Egyptians, in fact, have a reputation of being extremely friendly to people visiting Egypt, and they are actually more eager than at present to really showcase that friendly reputation as everyone wants to pitch in to help the tourism industry recover as it had been tough for a few years.
2. Any special advice for tourist that are women?
Usually tourist spots that doesn’t involved Mosques, strict dress code is not observed especially in coastal cities such as Sharm El Sheik or Hurghada. In tours where a Mosque or the tour site is related to religion is among the places to visit, it is advised to dress modestly. By modest means no revealing necklines and no revealing knees. Tight clothes like body hugging clothes are also to be avoided. It’s best not to offend local customs and traditions but also take in consideration the heat, so make sure also to wear something comfortable or light.
Languages:
1. What are the languages spoken in Egypt?
Arabic language is the official language but most people can understand and speak English as it is being taught throughout the country. French, German, Spanish, Russian and Italian are spoken but not as widely as English. However, professionals working under the tourism department are multilinguals so that they can communicate with a variety of international people coming to Egypt.
Travel Express personnel are able to speak perfectly in Spanish, English, Portuguese, Russian, and Chinese.
Here are some common phrases in Arabic that could be helpful for a tourist:
· Good morning: Sabah el kheir
· Good evening: Masaa el kheir
· Good night: Tesbah ala kheir
· Hello: Al Salam Alaikom / Ahlan Wasahla
· Bye: Maa El Salama / Salam
· Yes: Naam / Aiwa
· No: Laa
· Ok: Tamam / Ok
· Please: Men Fadlak
· Thank you: Shukran
· You’re welcome: Aafwaan
· Sorry: Maalesh / Sorry
Health Inquiries:
1. Should I be aware of any health issues in Egypt?
Nothing really. There had been occasional incidences of intestinal upsets to some tourists but these are people who had normally had weak stomachs, which are often brought about by drinking water right out of the tap or partaking street food from a place that was not in the recommendation list by the Galaxia representative or by the local tour guide.
Bear in mind, too, that in the summer, Egypt can really be scorching hot and so make sure to have sunscreen protection and stay hydrated at all times during your stay.
As for vaccine requirements for tourists, Egypt doesn’t demand tourists to have vaccine shots before they can set foot in the country.
Accomodation:
1. How does accommodations in Egypt fare against international standards?
All hotels in Egypt has a corresponding classification ranging from 1 to 5 star deluxe. Next to the hotels are pension inns and other unclassified hostels that target the backpackers and other budget conscious travelers.
Egypt’s deluxe hotels are at par with international standards, in fact some of the hotels operating in the country are operated by famous hotel chains like Marriott, Hilton or Sofitel, Four Season, to name a few. The deluxe hotels are luxurious and modern, complete with amenities and facilities as you’ll anywhere else in the world. 4 star rated hotels are classified as such because they just fell short below the international standards for a 5-star category. However, 4-star hotels are still very much able to offer services decently. This doesn’t imply though that you will not find the hotel that will meet or exceed your expectations.
Any rating below 4 stars will be quite a risk for your stay as 3-star hotels are already on the shabby end where AC, cleanliness and basic things are not that reliable. Don’t expect 3-stars to have WiFi too. If 3-star hotels are already experiencing those kinds of problems, what more for 2-star and 1-star hotels.
2. Do I have to stay in my Hotel once the day tour has been concluded?
No, you can go out to where you like as long as it safe. You are actually encouraged to go out and have a taste of the Egyptian nightlife, which is a treat on its own. Our tour packages are complete as some people complain of tiredness at the end of the day tours and would prefer to retire to their hotels, however, Cairo is one city that never sleeps, and so experiencing the nightlife is also part of the Egyptian experience. Our tour packages have options to include a guide or one of our company representatives to accompany you if you plan to go night traipsing. Of course, you can experience the city by your own, but the option of having a consultant/guide for tips and other information during the trip is available should you requite it.
Currency and Banking Services
1. What is official currency used in Egypt?
Egyptian Pound is the official currency in Egypt. 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 notes are currently circulated about. Coins in Egypt are called piaster which comes in 25 piaster and 50 piaster denominations, but you will also see a 1-pound coin denomination. It is advisable to exchange some big notes to change for tips.
2. Can I exchange my foreign currency to Egyptian currency?
Normally you can exchange your foreign currency at currency exchange offices or money changers all over Egypt. In popular tourist spots, establishments like bars and souvenir shops do accept dollars and euros. Our Galaxia Tour representative can direct you to the nearest money changers. Please note that the exchange rate is quite volatile and that there is a bit of difference in rates when exchanging in banks and exchange offices.
3. Are ATMs available?
Yes, Egypt is quite at par with modern banking trends and ATMs are very common and can be seen just about anywhere. You’ll find ATMs mostly on the banks itself, on malls and busy streets.
4. Can I swipe my credit/debit cards?
Credit cards as well as debit cards are commonly accepted all over the country particularly among merchant shops, bars, cafes and restaurants. Visa, Mastercard and American Express are the most commonly accepted cards. As a warning, it is better to carry cash when shopping in the markets instead of using your cards.
Alcohol and Cigarettes:
1. Am I permitted to bring alcohol and cigarettes with me?
It is recommended that you do so. All the international airports in Egypt have duty-free shops that sells alcohol and cigarettes among other things. You are allowed to purchase up to 4 liters of alcoholic beverages and up to 200 packs of cigarettes. Local alcohol shops don’t sell the international brands and can sell only local brands. In terms of beer, you might be surprised that the local brands are quite good especially the brands Stella and Sakkara. For the local hard liquors, it’s drinkable but not quite as good as the international brands.
2. Are bars allowed to operate in Egypt?
Yes, there are bars in Egypt. Unlike in other Arab nations which have a no alcohol policy, Egypt has none with regards to restricting alcohol. Restaurants and most hotels commonly serve alcoholic beverages. Bars are aplenty in most major cities of Egypt, just ask our Travel Express representative and he’ll gladly point you to the best ones in town.
Most recommended sights in Egypt:
1. What are the must-see places in Egypt?
Since most tourists doesn’t have the luxury of time to go through every tourist destination, here is a short list of places to have that Egyptian experience:
· The Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx
· The Egyptian Museum of Antiquities
· The Citadel of Salah El Din and Mohamed Ali Mosque
· Khan El Khalili bazar
· The temples of Abu Simbel
· Taking a Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan and visiting all the temples along the way (Luxor Temple, Filae Temple, Temple of Hatchepsut, Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Kom Ombo, Edfu Temple, unfinished Obelisk)
· Diving or snorkeling in the Red Sea
· The White Desert
· Mount Sinai and the Monastery of Saint Catherine
· The Siwa oasis
· The Bahariya oasis
· Bar hopping in downtown Cairo
· Tasting the local cuisine like Fuul, Taamiya, Koshari, Fatta
· Exploring Islamic Cairo district on foot
· The island of Zamalek by the Nile
Transportation in Egypt:
1. Is it difficult to find transportation from Cairo Airport to the city?
The minute you set foot outside the airport, tons of offers of transport will be coming your way. Here are the best options you can choose:
· Taxi: Be warned not to ride the old black and white taxis. These kinds of taxis are usually not road worthy and plus they don’t use the taximeter giving the driver an opportunity to rip you off. The best bet would be the white taxis, which have meters and are usually kept clean. From Cairo Airport to downtown Cairo should cost about 100 LE.
· Limousine Service: A bit more expensive than taxis but definitely better than taxis.
· Airport transfer: Book an airport transfer with us as we have vehicles that can accommodate up to 50 persons. Our cars are maintained to be at their best condition and booking with us in advance saves you a lot of time finding a ride after landing in the airport as you probably are raring to go to your hotel and rest right away.
2. Are there trains that travel from Cairo to other major cities? Is it recommended to travel by train?
The Egyptian railway system is pretty decent. The train services the Nile Valley-Delta-Suez Canal route. The trains however do not service the Red Sea and Sinai cities.
The trains are classified to two categories, luxury airconditioned (AC) trains and the local train. The AC trains is obviously more comfortable but has two tiers of classes. There is the First Class, which are more private and more spacious and not that expensive. The local train can be really crowded and plain uncomfortable so we don’t really recommend it. In our view as a whole, we would really recommend to tourists to travel by air as the price of tickets for first class train and airfare is not far off. But if budget is a big consideration and would like to experience and traverse the Nile Valley by train, it is best to opt for the luxury AC train so it is safer and more comfortable. The trains plying the Luxor and Aswan routes are quite long and will be an overnight trip, so getting a first-class ticket gives you a room and a hot meal. With regards to taking the train to Alexandria, it is just a three-hour ride.
3. How do I go from Sharm El-Sheikh to Hurghada?
There are no trains servicing Sharm El Sheikh to Hurghada so the only options really are by plane or bus or car. The buses can be quite cheap and comfortable but the total travel time takes about 7 hours, more or less. Another option too is to rent a car that comes with a driver can be reasonable if you have other people with you to split the costs. Traveling by air is the fastest method, and airfare can be cheaper sometimes depending on the season.
4. Is UBER available in Egypt?
Yes, they are. One way to travel around the city of Cairo is through Uber as they are well-maintained cars and the drivers are always very respectful. The only drawback to using Uber is that they are pricier than taxis, but compared to other western countries Uber cars in Egypt are relatively cheaper. We can also recommend a similar service as Uber, it’s called CAREEM. The only difference with Uber is that Careem lets you pay in cash.
5. Should I use the metro service in Cairo?
Cairo is quite a densely populated city with over 25 million people as population, which means that traffic is terrible most of the times. Utilizing the metro service will definitely be a fast and cheap way to mill about the city. The only drawback is that the metro service is jampacked