Our team of experts at TomFlies.com does extensive research into each and every one of our destinations. That includes figuring out the things you definitely shouldn’t do. We’ve made all the travel faux pas so you don’t have to! Egypt is a beautiful country with friendly people, but you should probably avoid doing the following:

• DO NOT try to snowboard down the Great Pyramid. No sleds or inner tubes either. Not even a small toboggan. There’s no snow so we don’t even know why anyone tried to do this in the first place – but Egyptian authorities frown very strongly when tourists try to recreate that scene from Cool Runnings on one of their national monuments. The Great Pyramid is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one that is still intact, so significant measures have been taken to preserve this historically important site. What we do recommend you do is stay at one of the hotels located in the Giza Plateau, a mere stone’s throw away from the Pyramids. You’ll never find a more epic view to wake to.

• DO NOT have that one last drink. We know, we know – you’re not that drunk. But that’s the same thing Becky said right before she fell into the penguin exhibit at the zoo. Egypt is a majority Muslim country, and as such, alcohol is strictly forbidden for a large part of their population. However, Egyptians in general are very pragmatic and liberal when it comes to tourists drinking. There are many places in the country that serve alcohol – especially in the big cities where they cater to tourists. You’ll have no problem finding something to quench your thirst, but public intoxication is not appreciated by the local authorities. So maybe skip that 16% ABV craft beer and go for a standard lager instead.

• DO NOT take a swim in the Nile River. We don’t even know why you’d want to try this. Maybe you didn’t follow our advice from point two. Regardless, just popping in for a quick dip in the Nile is extremely ill-advised. Prolonged exposure to the river’s water can lead to ringworm infection, and although the local doctors are very efficient at treating this, we just think it’s better not to risk it. Please. We’ll get you a hotel with a pool. We promise that will be a much better aquatic experience. If you want to go on the Nile, what we do recommend is a luxury Nile River Cruise. You’ll be taken on a relaxing boat ride down the beautiful river including dinner and a show. Really much more enjoyable than schistosomiasis.

• DO NOT try to enter Egypt without a tourist visa. They won’t let you in. Believe us, we tried everything – even fake moustaches. Thankfully, they make it pretty easy for US citizens to acquire a tourist visa. Upon arrival to the airport, before you go to immigration, there will be a counter where you can purchase a visa for $25 USD. The cost must be paid in cash. We know what you’re thinking but don’t try using Monopoly money – the airport officials are very highly trained and will know.

• DO NOT forget to tip. You’re not Michael Jordan. Many of the people who work in industries which cater to tourists depend on tips for their livelihood. Tipping is encouraged and expected in Egypt for even small things like a concierge holding the door open for you. You won’t have to tip a large sum of money, however be prepared to tip often. We suggest carrying around change with you for this reason.

• DO contact the experts at Tomflies.com if you want more tips and advice about travelling to Egypt or want to book your trip! We custom-make individualized tour packages to Egypt and other destinations.