The List
This is a helpful list of objects and actions that Siouxsie and other travellers on her tours to Egypt have found useful when preparing, travelling and returning from these fabulous experiences of a lifetime.
Preparation:
Wet wipes are invaluable. Bring a small pack and a large pack, which you can use to refill the handbag sized small pack.
Basic first aid items like plasters, eye wash, antiseptic, tweezers.
A little pen knife.
Leave copies of insurance, passport and travel documents with a close friend or family in the UK.
A good night's sleep before you travel.
20 GB pound's worth of Egyptian currency.
Debit card and credit card cash dispensers accept most cards, and Egyptian currency fluctuates so it is best value to withdraw as we go along.
Shoes need to be comfortable and ventilated. Bring two pairs like trainers and sandals.
Bring a simple purse in which you can safely carry your money in small amounts.
Bring a wallet to place all documents and extra money clearly labelled for the hotel safe.
Bring some biscuits and tea bags and a kettle and cups (for tea time recuperation).
Shower gel, useful for personal washing, smalls washing and general cleaning purposes.
Whilst travelling
Pace yourself.
Keep a journal.
Keep a wad of one Egyptian pounds and 50 piaster notes nearby for general tipping.
Decide on the price you want to pay before you bargain and try to stick to it.
Weigh your baggage as you shop (there is a limit on most airlines).
Buy two 1 litre bottles of water.
Eat natural yogurt regularly to acclimatise to the local bacteria.
On your return:
Go to bed early.
Drink more water than you usually do for the first 2 days (2 litres/ 8 pints).