Both our hotels in Cairo and Dahab are 3 star, with air-conditioning and en-suite bathroom facilities. Rooms are shared, usually twin rooms. It must be remembered that the Hotels we use are an integral part of Egypt and can suffer from common problems such as, electrical failure, plumbing faults and other technical difficulties. Unless unusual circumstances occur, our hotel in Dahab has a swimming pool and sun-lounge area and is only a few minutes walk from the beach.

As a matter of courtesy ask people’s permission first, especially women, and in smaller poorer areas. Mornings and late afternoons are best for photos as the midday sunlight can be too bright and cause a washed out look. A polarising filter or lens hood will cut out some of the glare.  It is advisable to have a good all-round carry case to protect your camera from knocks and dust. Most type of film is available on route but only in cities and usually at a slightly higher price so bring enough with you.  An easy to use instamatic will get you good shots.  If you want something really memorable, then it may be worthwhile investing in an SLR camera.  A flash is useful inside some of the monuments and an 80 - 210 zoom and tripod will get you some good people shots.  We can recommend Clock Tower Cameras for second hand cameras and lenses. They have good quality equipment and give a guarantee with most purchases.  For advice and mail order call Paul or Eddy on 01273 706010 or visit their website: www.clocktowercameras.co.uk

Video Cameras - In the hotels we stay in, you can charge from the mains.  220 volts are the norm so bring normal mains charger and a European travel adapter plug.

It is forbidden to take photos of anything military.  Bridges, border posts, and airports are also sensitive, so be careful or be prepared to have your film or possibly camera confiscated.

What to wear - Keeping your arms, shoulders & legs covered will go a long way to prevent causing offence and hassle to you in Cairo. This is true for men as well as women. Avoid wearing tight or revealing clothing. Generally in Dahab you can wear what you like.

People in the regions we pass through are generally conservative, especially about matters concerning sex and women.  Muslim countries simply are not the place to make a feminist statement.  Attitudes range from fairly liberal on the Red Sea coast, to fairly conservative in Cairo.  If you are not prepared to fit in with the social code of the area you may be harassed. 

Vaccinations - There are no compulsory jabs needed although it is advisable to be immunised against; Tetanus; Polio; Typhoid, Meningitis and Hepatitis A.  Consult your doctor or a medical clinic. Good clinics for malaria info and vaccinations are:

Nomad Travellers Store and Medical Centre - Tel. 0208 889 7014 (Turnpike Lane Tube) 3-4 Wellington Terrace, Turnpike Lane, London. They also sell medical kits and give a 10% discount on equipment and jabs to Oasis clients as well as having stores in Bristol and Southampton.

Trailfinders Travel Clinic - Tel. 0207 938 3999 (High St Kensington Tube) 194 Kensington High St., London. Call for an appointment first.

In Scotland, Ailsa Travel Clinic, 42 Admiral St, Kinning Park, Glasgow, Ph. 0141 429 0913 has been recommended by past clients.

Clinics do not always give detailed medical advice over the phone. It is best to phone for their opening hours and arrange an appointment.

Personal Medicines - We advise you bring along your own small medical kit to include; antiseptic ointment; antihistamine cream; nurofen or equivalent pain-killer; eye drops/bath; anti diarrhea treatment; sun block; after sun/moisturiser; rehydration sachets; plasters; suitable antibiotics as recommended by your doctor for infected cuts and to treat severe dysentery. Most medications and toiletries can be purchased from pharmacies in both Cairo and Dahab but better to be prepared with the basics. We must be told if you have any pre-existing medical condition or are on any regular medication.

Malaria - The areas through which we travel are considered to be mostly malaria free but consult your doctor regarding the risks.

Time - Egypt is 2 hours ahead of UK. Time is something that Middle Eastern people seem to have plenty of. Things that should take 5 minutes can take an hour or more. Try not to speed things up as this just leads to greater frustration.

Language - Arabic is the official language in Egypt, however English is widely spoken, although learning some basic phrases will be rewarded when meeting local people.

Email – By far the best way to receive news from friends and family is by email, you will be able to check your emails most days.

The less you take, the less you have to pack, wash and lug home: You can always pick up extras along the way. Please note that during November to February, while it is likely to be pleasantly warm / hot during the day, early morning sightseeing and evenings on the coast can be chilly. Please bring a couple of sets of warm clothes for these times. Laundry is available in most places.

The easiest and best way to travel is as lightly as possible, taking just what is necessary.  Most people make the mistake of bringing too much luggage.

NOTE: The Red Sea remains at a constant warm temperature all year round making it the perfect choice for winter diving.

You will also need warm clothes, sleeping bag, plus a torch if you wish to do the Mount Sinai climb, as it is very cold at the top!