TIP: Despite what you have heard, try to avoid long distance train journeys. The trains (even first class) are simply not as clean as in developed countries.

 TIP: There are numerous possibilities of flight delays, so keep adequate cushion in your itinerary to accommodate late arrivals.

 TIP: Travelling from Aswan (upper Egypt) to Cairo (lower Egypt) seems to be a better idea, because one goes from the "new" (i.e.2000 years ago) to the old (more than 4000 years ago), and the sights get even more awesome. Also, you get a good perspective of Egyptian history when you visit the sites in Luxor, which helps you better appreciate the value and wealth of history in the Cairo Museum displays.

 TIP: It may be worth your while to hire a guide in advance. That way, there are lower chances you will get rooked. What's more, the well informed guides are able to bring the monuments back to life, and history becomes much more enjoyable, especially because the guides are well informed.

 TIP: If taking public transport anywhere in Egypt, especially Cairo, fix the price in advance to avoid arguments later.

 TIP: When in Egypt, do as the Egyptians do, and take time out during the afternoons for a refreshing siesta. Its no use doing any sightseeing or shopping then, since the whole city comes to a grinding halt as it sleeps its way through the heat. We did exactly that, and had a more relaxing holiday as a result.

 TIP: Almost all temples and museums in Egypt allow photography inside temple walls, but... no flash please. That makes it very difficult to get good pictures in the dimly lit, crowded spaces inside, but using high speed 200 or 400ASA film may make some difference. Most of our photos have come out shaken (but not stirred, so that's good!) but the memories that they jog will stay fresh in our minds forever....

 TIP: Most guide books specify conservative dressing, but we saw that most tourists were dressed in shorts, and sleeveless tops. Dressing for the boat is very informal, but you may like to carry a throw over if you plan to step ashore. This becomes useful in the evenings as well, when the Nile breeze makes the weather much cooler than the daytime.

 TIP: Make sure you have a lot of small change like LE 1 or 2 with you to tip anyone who provides you a service. We heard that these tips make a big difference to their lives, so I guess it makes them happy. However, if you are uncomfortable with the tipping aspect, instruct your travel agent in advance to do all the tipping required, so that you don't have to bother with this formality.

 TIP: Sitting on the left side of the plane on the flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel gives a birds eye view of the temples. Its normally free seating, so be among the first to board the plane and take seats that are not obstructed by the wings!

 TIP: It may be worthwhile to ask for the exact schedule and itinerary of the cruise you plan to take, including the sailing time and stopped time, so that you avoid disappointment.

 TIP: the time that some guided tours devote to the museum could leave you feeling a bit shortchanged, so ensure that you have at least two hours to go over all the treasures. We liked the museum so much we went back next day to see it at leisure!

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