Tipping in Egypt
updated 31 Aug 2025. Tipping in Egypt isn’t just about money — it’s a cultural art. Get the essential guide to tipping, baksheesh, and avoiding mistakes that could offend or confuse locals.
Thinking of Visiting Luxor’s West Bank? Not that easy.
Returning to Luxor after years away, I encountered unexpected challenges crossing to the West Bank. Learn how to avoid taxi pitfalls, safely navigate local transport, and explore with guided tours for a smooth, stress-free experience.
Communication Problems in Egypt
Speaking the same language doesn’t guarantee understanding. Here’s how cultural differences in Egypt can derail conversations—and how to avoid the most common pitfalls.
Luxor Hassle Capital of the World?
Secret to dealing with street hassle in Luxor! Learn how to navigate the persistent calls of “Fellucca! Tax! Calesh!” and more.
Lost My Head in the Bank!
“Do you speak Arabic?” I am often asked…….from now on my answer will be “just enough to cause a riot if I want!” One thing that sends my blood pressure up is when someone jumps a queue I am standing in. Now, if the person is in a terrible hurry (even if I am also)…
Niqab or Hijab – a sometimes controversial topic
Niqab – Hijab. To wear or not to wear. There is a brilliant personal piece of writing by Nadia here where she tells her story of going from not wearing to wearing and back to not wearing the niqab (face veil etc. worn by some muslim ladies). The 70+ comments at the end of her…
Difference between Western & Egyptian Societies
Many times guests have asked me the differences between Western and Egyptian ways of life, thinking etc. and it is a subject one could talk about and analyse for hours. But today I found this on the net and I think it answers part of the question—differences between the societies brilliantly and concisely in the…