Many travellers return year-on-year to enjoy Hurghada Holidays but like with any destination in the world, it’s important to prepare before you travel.

We’ve put this handy guide together which covers the basics so you can enjoy a hassle-free trip to Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera.

Time Difference

Hurghada is just 2 hours ahead of GMT. This changes to +3 hours between the end of April and the end of August.

Language

Arabic is the official language in Hurghada although as the town is primarily a tourist destination expect good levels of English, French, German and Russia to be widely understood and spoken.

Health

You will need to make sure you have got a Yellow Fever vaccination before arriving into Hurghada from an infected area.  Make sure you take suitable advice before you travel if you have any underlying health issues.

General Health Advice

You’re coming to Hurghada for the sun? Make sure you are sensible as the Egyptian sun is incredibly strong and powerful.  Make sure you bring a high factor sunblock, especially if you are fair skinned.

Stay out of the sun if possible between Midday and 4pm and make sure you drink plenty of bottled water (see below) to avoid dehydration.

Bottled Water

We advise that you do not consider drinking the water from the taps in Hurghada. It is not up to the standards that a western stomach is used to.  Take care if you eat outside of your hotel, particularly with ice creams or salads that can be washed in local water.

Travel Insurance

Important as with every trip to make sure that you have suitable travel insurance in place to protect you in case the unexpected actually happens.

Power Supply

European two-pin plugs are standard with 220 volts and can be found in hotels across the area.

Safety Advice

Hurghada is as safe as spending the day in London but that does not mean you should let your guard down.  Leave valuable jewellery in the hotel safe and don’t carry large amounts of money with you.

Tipping

Around 5/10% is considered normal for restaurant bills or taxi drivers.

Local Customs

Remember you are a guest in Egypt so it’s important that you respect local customs and traditions.  Women in particular should dress modestly and respect religious customs.  Homosexuality is frowned upon and homosexual acts are illegal.

Telephone Calls

The international dialling code for Egypt (Hurghada) is +20.