Language: Arabic (official), English and French widely understood by educated classes.

Population: 81.7 million

Government: Semi Presidential Republic - President is the sole power broker

Money: Egyptian pound (E£); US$1 = E£5.55

Weather: Egypt has two seasons: November thru March which is the cooler season, and April thru October which is its hot season. However, October is a good month to visit off-season. Late March to Early April bring sandstorms which reduce visibility.

Visa: A visa is required for Australian and New Zealand passport holders.  They can be obtained on at Cairo airport, taking about 20 minutes and costs around US$25 and no photo is required.

Health: It is recommended you keep all standard vaccinations up to date and seek your own medical advice as soon as you know you are travelling in order to allow enough time for any necessary vaccinations.

Voltage: 220V AC, 50Hz, two-pin round plugs are standard
Ethnic groups: Egyptian 98%, Berber, Nubian, Bedouin, and Beja 1%, Greek, Armenian, other European (primarily Italian and French) 1%

Religions: Muslim (mostly Sunni) 90%, Coptic 9%, other Christian 1%

Literacy: definition: age 15 and over can read and write total population: 71.4% male: 83% female: 59.4% (2005 est.)

Ramadan: is the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar.  It is the Islamic month of fasting in which participating Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and indulging in anything that is in excess or ill-natured; from dawn until sunset.

Dates for 2010: commencing 11th August for 1 calendar month
Dates for 2011: commencing 1st August for 1 calendar month