The name Alexandria itself is sufficient to impress and attract travel buffs.
- A seat of learning from ancient times.
- A hub of cultural activities for millennia.
- A perfect representative of both ancient and modern Egypt.
- A blend of history, arts, music, exotic food, and bustling nightlife.
Alexandria is all this and much more. You will have many reasons to fondly remember the days spent in this “Pearl of the Mediterranean.”
To help ensure those memories are happy ones, it’s a good idea to prepare yourself. Learn some of the best places to visit in Alexandria, a few safety tips to keep in mind, and the importance of purchasing travel medical insurance.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers in Alexandria – FAQs
An enjoyable Alexandria vacation might turn sour owing to a sudden health condition. While quality medical facilities are available in Alexandria, they cost a lot of money. So, you better have travel medical insurance. It won’t prevent the mishap. But it will protect your money when you need medical treatment.
Do I Need Travel Medical Insurance to Travel to Alexandria?
From a legal perspective, you do not. However, from a practical one, it is essential. Your domestic health insurance is unlikely to be accepted in Alexandria. If you get sick or injured with no other insurance coverage, the cost of treatment would fall solely upon you. This could be financially backbreaking. Travel medical insurance is designed specifically to provide coverage for unexpected new medical conditions that occur while traveling abroad.
Why Buy Travel Medical Insurance Before Traveling to Alexandria?
Sudden medical emergencies pose a financial burden as you need to avail yourself of treatment. But if you buy travel medical insurance before your trip, then you can be protected financially. And you can enjoy your vacation with complete peace of mind.
Alexandria’s Most Popular Places for Travel
Alexander the Great founded this city more than 2,300 years ago. From the Lighthouse of Alexandria (a Wonder of the Ancient World) to the legendary Anthony Cleopatra romance, Alexandria has witnessed many historical milestones. Now it’s your turn to check out some of the unforgettable attractions of Alexandria.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Ancient Alexandria boasted of one of the largest libraries in the world. However, the Great Library of Alexandria was destroyed in 48 BC. Today, the Bibliotheca Alexandria, constructed in 2002, stands as a memorial to that ancient storehouse of knowledge. The library overlooks the waterfront, the Corniche. The huge building contains several museums and art galleries. Do visit the beautiful Manuscript Museum and the planetarium.
Fort Qaitbey
Since 1480, this fort has stood on a portion of the Corniche. And it stands at the point where the Pharos Lighthouse used to lord over the landscape. The fort is no match for the lighthouse in terms of scale, but it has fair historical importance. The Mamluke Sultan Qaitbey had commissioned this fort as a battle outpost to protect the city. Take a walk inside the fort to look at its rugged beauty. And walk up to the roof to admire the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea.
Alexandria National Museum
This museum is a storehouse of the rich and checkered history of Alexandria. On every floor, there are relics from the past. See exhibits from the days of the Pharaohs, Alexander the Great, and the Byzantine era. Underwater archeologists have retrieved many priceless artifacts belonging to the now-sunken township of Heracleion-Thonis. These are also on display here. A visit to this museum is a trip to ancient Alexandria, not in body, but soul.
Kom el-Shuqqafa
Carved into the rocky hillside in the Carmous district, the Kom el-Shuqqafa is a labyrinth of catacombs. These date back to the 2nd century AD. Take a walk down the stairs to the main rotunda. There are many admirable carvings on the stone walls, done tastefully in Greco-Roman and Egyptian styles. There is also a large burial chamber here with the capacity to accommodate several mummies.
Aboukir
Around 20 kilometers away from Alexandria lies Aboukir. It’s a fishing village by the Mediterranean. But this now-nondescript village has been witness to famous historical battles. Lord Horatio Nelson and Napoleon were among the key figures that have fought many wars here. So, history buffs will feel attracted to Aboukir, for sure. And this is also the place where you get to taste some of the best seafood in the country. So, end the day by gorging on a variety of fish and crabs. And don’t miss the beauty of the setting sun over the Mediterranean horizon.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Alexandria
Egypt is safer for international travelers than it was a few years back. And Alexandria has always been welcoming towards tourists. However, there are certain possible causes for concern here as well. So, it’s always better to stay vigilant.
Hassles in Taxis and Buses
Quite a few taxi drivers in Alexandria tend to indulge in haggling with non-local passengers over fares. And they might gang up against you, thus forcing you to pay a high amount. So, always negotiate and confirm the fare before you board the taxi. Better still, book a rented car from a travel agency through your hotel. And thefts do happen on and off in public buses. It’s better to use trains.
Beware of Scammers
This is a big problem in Alexandria. Scammers can pursue foreign tourists aggressively at tourist spots, ATMs, etc. Be firm with them and avail of the services of only authorized guides after verifying their identity. Don’t let random people assist you with your luggage. Scamsters use such opportunities to steal.
Risks from Health Issues
All over Egypt, dengue and malaria are prevalent, and coronavirus is still a concern. Always carry insect repellents with you. Wear clothes that cover your entire body to prevent mosquito bites. And stick to drinking bottled mineral water only. Drinking tap water might invite a serious case of diarrhea.
Choose Your Words Carefully
Criticizing the incumbent government or its policies won’t be tolerated. The same goes for the country’s defense forces, social customs, and religion. So be careful of what you say. Don’t even think of uttering anything against these in public or to a local person. Remember that you are a visitor, and you should be respectful of local customs and views.
Snatchers and Pickpockets
Like in many tourist destinations around the world, this menace is prevalent in Alexandria. Avoid using wallets. Keep your money and valuables in a money belt or a side bag. Keep the side bag on your side that’s away from the road. It’s better not to carry too many valuables with you. And avoid desolate locations after sunset.
Before You Travel to Alexandria – Do This
- Egypt is an Islamic country with a conservative outlook. So, modest dressing is a prerequisite for both men and women. Pack your clothes keeping this point in mind.
- Tipping is normal and often asked for in Egypt. So, carry enough small change with you. They come in handy for tipping purposes.
- Avoid the summer season for traveling to Alexandria. The temperatures are punishingly high. Most tourist spots don’t provide shade. The best time to travel is between September and April.
- Purchase travel medical insurance. Though it is impossible to avoid every mishap on a trip abroad, a small amount spent on insurance can save you far more.