Hi all. We are booked on the November 4th departure from Canada. Too late it sunk in that our "free" day in Cairo will actually start after we arrive at the airport at 7pm. I am wondering if anyone can advise how long it takes to get through all the formalities and finally arrive at the Marriott. Also what sort of timing is the next morning's big start? I am concerned that we are going to start the trip exhausted, not having the foresight to arrive the day before and also how we can manage to fit in the market place.
Thanks for any advice.
Patti

Dear Patti

First of all you are going to have the most wonderful time. Egypt is one of the most fascinating countries.

In answer to your questions - formalities at Cairo airport shouldn't take long. You will have the Insight rep to help you through immigration and customs. Purchasing your visa is a very quick process. You are then treated to the experience of driving in Cairo traffic - 3 marked lanes with 5 lanes of cars!!! All being well with your flight on time etc you should arrive at the Marriott before 10pm.

The first day of your tour the pre-tour briefing should start about 9 to 9.30am. I suggest if you want to go to the market ask your courier at the start of the tour and they should be able to advise and help you to organise a visit.

I'm sure you will have wonderful trip - Egypt is one of my favourite places.

Happy travelling.

Patti,

Just got back from Wonders of Egypt. I too was due in the evening before at 10:30. However, the plane at Heathrow was delayed an extra 7 hours (they refueled the plane and put it in the wrong tank! Had to wait for another plane.) Anyway, arrived in Cairo at 6 in the morning, got to the Marriot at 6:50, had the pre briefing meeting at 7:30 and left for the pyrimids by 9:00.

After making it through the first day, the rest was easy. I'm sure you will love Egypt, I did. If there's any other questions I can answer, just let me know.