Hi, Im wondering whether people at the hotels in Egypt and middle east speak english? Its my first time travelling and im not sure whether i should start with an easier country like France/Italy or the places i have been fascinated by for years. Also im only 21 and a solo female traveller - are there normally other young solo females on tours?
thanks a lot
Egypt
Re: Egypt
Re: Egypt
Hi Trace,
I went to Egypt on a Beyond the Pyramids tour in 2000 and found it to be a great experience.
I am a 22 year old male, but there were several girls on our tour (including 2 who came by themselves and 2 sisters)and, as far as I am aware, they had no trouble there.
They didn't adhere strictly to the no-shoulders, no-shorts policy and this didn't really appear to be a problem. For most of the time in Egypt we were in places where tourists are commonplace so shorts and t-shirts appear to be OK.
It's probably best to take a range of clothes and follow your tour leaders advice.
As far as language goes, it seems to me that more people speak English fluently in Egypt than in France. With a bit of good humour getting by isn't a problem.
Last pieces of advice: The Egyptian 20 pound note (worth approx
Re: Egypt
Hello Trace,
Sorry for the delay in getting a reply to you. Many thanks to the others who popped in and advised you.
Yes the staff at our hotels throughout Egypt and the Middle East DO speak English. Usually receptionists. Waiters and housekeeping staff will speak a little less but will still be as helpful.
It is unusual nowadays to find a receptionist at our hotels who don't speak good English. As you go farther away from Cairo the English may not be as good, but you will be able to communicate.
You are also escorted by an Imaginative Traveller Tour Leader at all times while on our tours. In many cases this will be a Local who speaks the lanuguage and excellent English. If you did come across a situation where you needed assistance you could depend on your Tour Leader.
I join in with the others in encouraging you to 'start' in Egypt. It is a facinating, safe and welcoming country. As you will be travelling in a group you will be secure, so as a single female you should not have concerns. Meeting up with fellow travellers will encourage you to discover towns and sites outside of the itinerary on your free days with confidence. You will receive a Pre-departure booklet when you book with us. This guides you on what to do and not to do when visiting all the countries we operate in.
You can also view this information online at this address: http://www.imaginative-traveller.com/predeparture
If you need any help drop our Online Consultant Ru, a line at ru@imtrav.net
Regards
Marty
The Imaginative Traveller Online