Do’s and Don’ts 289to drink alcohol, keep public consumption minimal. No
sense asking for contempt or trouble.
Don’t sit on, climb on or touch archaeological monuments.
There will likely be someone in a uniform, or a monument
guard that will tell you if you make this mistake! And, in
no uncertain terms!
Don’t be surprised to see Egyptian men holding hands.
Women, too, can hold hands or link arms. It doesn’t mean
they are gay.
Couples, don’t show too much affection in public.
Handholding is OK.
Don’t drive without an international driver’s licence. I still
don’t drive there, but definitely would not want to get into
an accident without a proper licence.
Don’t try to come close to diplomatic convoys. Just makes
sense—no sense tempting fate!
Don’t swim when and where a black flag is raised; it means
the surf is too rough.
Don’t sunbathe topless, though Western-style swimsuits
are acceptable on some beaches.
Don’t carry a lot of money, but do carry a lot of small
change for tips.
Don’t visit mosques during prayer time.
Women, don’t enter a mosque without covering your head.
Make sure your arms and legs are covered as well.
Don’t bring illegal drugs into Egypt and don’t attempt to
buy drugs there.
Don’t drink on the street—make sure you are at a
designated bar, disco or at a private residence—unless
you are in a tourist place where this is common.
Don’t smoke, eat or drink in public during the month
of Ramadan.