Egypt is predominately a Muslim country so in Cairo and Luxor modest clothing is required and respectful. In the tourist areas of Sharm el Sheikh it is fine to wear shorts and t-shirts especially during the hot summer months. It is generally advisable to wear a t-shirt while snorkelling to reflect the sun’s rays. Topless bathing is not allowed and we ask our guests to respect the local culture and not do this. During the winter months you will need warm clothing especially in the evenings and for wearing between dives when out on the boats.
Although devout Muslims do not drink alcohol it is freely available in bars and most restaurants. Imported alcohol is expensive due to the high taxes but local beer and wine are reasonably priced. Alcohol can be purchased at many bottle shops in Naama Bay and Sharm el Sheikh and also at the Duty Free Shop in Naama Bay within 48 hours of arrival (passports required).
The main religious festival for Muslims is the holy month of Ramadan which falls on a different date each year due to the Muslim calendar being based on lunar phases. This is a special time for Muslims as it is a month of purification. Those observing Ramadan must not eat, drink or smoke from dawn to dusk. As the sun goes down friends and family join together for “Iftar” (breakfast). During this month some shops and restaurants are closed during the day and nearly everything will be closed for about an hour around the time of Iftar.
Friday is the equivalent of the European Sunday with most banks and government offices being closed for the day. In tourist areas shops and restaurants are normally open 7 days a week generally until late at night.
In Egypt there are few restrictions for foreign women and travelling alone is generally safe although you will receive some unwanted attention. It is generally better to ignore this and often saying you are married helps, even if you are not.