General Information
ALEXANDRIA:
Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt after Cairo. It was founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great. Alexandria grew rapidly and became a major center of Hellenic civilization, eventually replacing Memphis, in present-day Greater Cairo, as Egypt’s capital. Called the “Bride of the Mediterranean” Alexandria is a popular tourist destination and an important industrial center due to its natural gas and oil pipelines from Suez. It is a “smiling” city both in summer and winter.
WEATHER:
October is the best time to visit Alexandria. The average temperature in a typical day ranges from a high of 28°C to a low of 21°C. Some would describe it as very warm with a gentle breeze. It is almost certain that there will be no rain and there is a plenty of sunshine. We use the umbrella for the sun, not for the rain.
Sea water during this month is dip-friendly and ranges between 23 to 27 C. “Clever” people can very comfortably take a dip in the sea or the swimming pool. If you are intending to swim, please wear an old fashion swimming suite before they shrank into threads.
DRESS:
There is no dress code in Egypt. However moderation is key; the general rule is to avoid wearing short, tight, or revealing clothing. This goes for both men and women. You will be more comfortable with non-synthetic cloth materials.
Suits and dresses are preferred for the opening ceremony on September 30th, otherwise casual decent clothes are acceptable during the scientific sessions.
VISA:
Visiting Egypt is usually an easy matter. Many nationalities do not need a visa and can enter the borders with their valid passports.
Some other nationalities can get a visa on arrival that costs $25 in cash.
Others may need to apply for an eVisa. If you have to do this please make sure to apply at least one month before arrival and get a TOURIST visa rather than a conference one.
As regulations frequently change, please make sure to consult the Egyptian consulate in your country early on.
CURRENCY:
The Egyptian Pound is the official Egyptian currency. Currently the official rate for $1 is EGP 31. Transactions should be conducted in Egyptian Pounds only, but you will find many people who would be eager to get dollars and can offer double the official price. You can change currency at banks, currency exchange shops or more expensively in hotels.
ELECTRICITY:
The voltage in Egypt is 220V and type C plug is usually used.
Language:
The scientific sessions will be in English