If you are a history lover and fascinated by Egyptian culture then you will love Egypt because one could visit Egypt for weeks if not months visiting historical sites as there seems to be a never-ending number of Tombs and Temples. So following my visit to Egypt my response when asked about visiting Egypt is if you are into Pyramids, Temples, and Tombs, by all means, visit Egypt. However, if those things are not high on your list, Egypt is not a holiday destination for you. Things to be aware of when you decide to visit Egypt are the following: 1. Do not check luggage. Take carry-on luggage only. A large percentage of luggage does not reach the arrivals hall when landing at Egypt International. On departure, I went in search of my lost luggage which I found 16 days after arrival at arrivals. The airport is overflowing with luggage that seems as if it is there for months if not years which includes baby strollers and car seats of individuals that I am sure are at college or university already. It never reaches tourists/visitors that arrived in the country either during their stay in the country or after leaving the country. The country is definitely generating an income from large numbers of tourists that are forced to purchase clothing, luggage, and essentials whilst in the country. Absolutely restrict what you pack for Egypt to clothes and toiletries and a simple camera, because you might find that any advanced photography equipment or certain electronic toys are not allowed into the country and will be kept for safe keeping until you leave the country. However, the release fee/cost will be subject to what the officer on duty at the time deems to be appropriate. 2. Tipping culture Egypt has what they call a tipping culture. What I experienced of what is deemed to be tipping, was giving someone money for doing their job that they were employed for. The reason for tipping is completely exploited in Egypt. There is an expectation to be tipped every time something is done. So include in your budget an amount equal to what you are planning to spend on drinks/water per day for the duration of your stay just for tips. 3. Language barrier Sadly for a country that is dependent on tourism, English which is the international language across the world is poorly spoken or not spoken at all. Simple things such as ice or an icy drink or directions were a big ask at hotels or from shop employees, informal markets, or shops because of their limited ability to speak English. Try loading a translation app on your phone before arriving in Egypt. 4. Temperatures Carefully consider the time of year to visit Egypt, because the heat combined with the humidity is only good for getting washing dry very fast. Most of Egypt is in siesta from about 13h00 to 18h00 resulting in very limited activity and things to do which results in more extended stays to see most highlights in the country. One feels that you have all this wasted time because most things shut down for the siesta and you are held up in a hotel room or indoor where there is air-conditioning. The heat also results in early morning excursions to avoid the midday heat, so you need to be prepared for very early start to days (if rising early is not what you have in mind, then Egypt should not be on your holiday bucket list) 5. Food If a balanced meal is important to you at every meal, then you will struggle in Egypt as every meal is loaded with carbs! Breakfast will include a variety of breads and cakes, an egg and Bulgarian yogurt, and not much else. During lunch and dinners, a protein (chicken or seafood) will be accompanied by rice, bread, and potatoes with some form of vegetables either cooked in a tomato base or pickled. Salad and raw/plain vegetables are not something I have seen much of during my visit. Bucket List ticked.