Visiting Egypt with your mother is like diving into a waking dream where the ancient wonders meet modern surprises. From discovering the pyramids of Giza to a peaceful cruise on the Nile, every shared moment strengthens precious family bonds, while revealing the joys and challenges of a journey through history. However, preparing for this mythical trip requires a few tips and precautions to navigate smoothly between ancient temples, bustling markets, and the relentless sun. Here are the essential lessons learned from this memorable adventure, ensuring you enjoy every second spent on the land of the pharaohs.
Preparing the Ground: The Art of Traveling in Egypt Without Surprises #
Before even taking off for the lands of the Nile, preparation proves crucial. Under the Egyptian sun, one quickly realizes that water alone is not enough against the oppressive heat: electrolyte packets have become our best allies, along with a multitude of external batteries to capture hieroglyphs and pyramids at every moment. A wise tip: pack an adapter plug, even two, as hotels don’t always lend them out. And if the word “Wi-Fi” sounds sweet to your ears, be prepared for frequent outages – the eSIM will be your savior, just like good pre-planning of your excursions.
Anticipating Health Issues
We sometimes laugh while slipping a box of antibiotics into our travel kit… until one of us falls ill on the fifth day! It’s better to be prepared, as catching traveler’s diarrhea is too easy with local water or questionable ice. The mantra of the stay: sealed water bottles and strictness against the temptation of dishes laden with ice cubes. Meanwhile, a good stash of toilet paper in your bag proves as lifesaving as a benevolent sphinx in the most remote restrooms.
Experiencing Egypt as a Family: Confidences and Laughter #
Exploring the temples of Luxor or the majesty of Abu Simbel hand in hand with your mother is to collect a mosaic of intense emotions. But Egypt also knows how to test your resources: early wake-ups, long walks on the sites, and photo marathons can wear out even the most daring. The secret? “Steal” a nap whenever possible on a temple bench or during a bus ride, and enjoy a hearty breakfast since meals remain unpredictable on the road. Ah, snacks in your pocket, that’s life!
Bargaining Fever and Games of Patience
It’s impossible to escape the markets and their joyful tumult. The sellers double their efficiency and persuasion! In these moments, mastering a firm but cordial la shukran (“no, thank you”) proves vital to keep your smile… and your wallet intact. Small one-dollar bills become your magic currency, whether for services rendered or access to restrooms at a remote site. And remember, never separate from your adventure buddy, it’s a matter of safety and quick escape if the atmosphere becomes too electric!
Equipping Yourself for the Egyptian Adventure #
In Egypt, your equipment makes the traveler. Forget trendy sandals by the pool: to face the kilometers from the hypostyle hall of the Karnak Temple to the Valley of the Kings, nothing beats a pair of well-worn hiking shoes and loose, breathable clothing covering arms and legs to avoid sunburn and intrusive looks. A wide-brimmed hat and good sunscreen complete the outfit of the perfect family Indiana Jones.
Understanding Local Realities: To Avoid Pitfalls
Wanting to drive yourself in Egypt borders on mission impossible: traffic ignores rules, every intersection turns into an action movie scene. It’s better to leave the wheel to professionals (or local guides) and enjoy the scenery! On the transaction side, prioritize using an international bank card (often accepted, even in taxis), and limit withdrawals to ATMs located in genuine banks to avoid any issues. Organized tours often prove the safest solution to maximize pleasure and minimize headaches.
À lire how travel can contribute to a longer and healthier life
Enjoying Each Historical Site Stress-Free #
If the alarm goes off before sunrise, it’s for a reason. Arriving early at iconic sites ensures privileged moments away from the crowd and under magical golden light. Finding yourself almost alone in front of Abu Simbel or descending at dawn into Tutankhamun’s tomb is priceless – and the crowds increase dramatically as late morning approaches! Each visit then comes with an impressive influx of tourists.
Harmonizing Dietary Needs and Culinary Discoveries
Taste buds are invited on a journey: Egyptian couscous, ful, koshari… However, specific diets (vegan, allergy-sensitive) would do well to prepare very clear explanations, ideally printed and translated, to avoid the pitfalls of the unknown buffet. And to remain ready with a smile, nothing beats a few protein bars tucked away in the backpack.
Prudence and Open-Mindedness: The Key to an Unforgettable Trip #
Egypt is a land of enchantment but also of surprises. Between eager scammers testing your composure, taxi “fixers,” or impromptu guides in the alleys, vigilance is essential. The best motto? Keep calm, refuse politely, and move on. This way, you enjoy a stay filled with laughter, wonder, and unique memories to share – because after all, Egypt is not just a destination, it’s a human and family experience woven with magical moments, anecdotes to tell, and discoveries to savor together.
To complete your globetrotter checklist, monitor in real-time the weather and tourist influx, and set out to conquer your next adventure: Egypt is anything but a simple trip – it’s the beginning of a passion to be shared endlessly!
À lire Is a specific Windows license required to work abroad?
