Formal Name: Cairo

Country: Egypt

Language: Arabic

Area: 174.9 square miles

Population:  8,026,454 people

Population Density: 81.8 people per square mile

Time Zone: EET (UTC + 2) with Daylight Saving Time

Country Dialing Code: +20

Area Dialing Code: 2

Voltage: 220 V, 50 Hz

Outlets: Two Round Pins

Currency: Egyptian Pound

Visa: Most visitors can obtain a 30 day visa upon arrival in Egypt. You will need a valid passport good for at least 6 months. The cost is $15. However, residents of some countries will have to apply for a visa before traveling.

Banking: There are plenty of banks in Cairo that will exchange foreign currency. You can also change traveler's checks. ATMs are available, but will give you larger notes. It is advisable to then change your notes into smaller denominations at the bank. Most vendors in Cairo will tell you they do not have change for larger notes. You can use American Express, MasterCard, Visa and Diners Club at major hotels and restaurants, but don't expect to use them in smaller establishments.

Tipping: Another reason to carry smaller notes is for tipping. Generally a tip of EGP 5 is acceptable for good service. One thing to remember is that if you have luggage, someone will always be at hand to try to carry it for you. Either have plenty of EGP 1 notes at the ready to give them a few pounds, or don't allow them to take your bags.

Airports: Cairo International Airport services Cairo and the surrounding areas. The airport is extensive and offers many amenities and services. There are taxis, buses and even limos to take you to your destination upon arrival in Cairo.

Transportation: The most obvious mode of transportation in Cairo is the ever present taxi. Either check with locals about the correct price to your destination and haggle with the taxi driver, or insist that the meter be run (more often than not you will be told that it can't). Tip your driver, often they are very nice and will give you a mini-tour on the way. Buses are available, but not widely used by tourists. There is also a metro system if you are leery of the insanity of Egyptian driving.

Police: In case of emergency, dial 122 for the police. Tourist police can be reached at 126, and traffic police at 128.

Hospital: If you need an ambulance, dial 123.

Fire: For the fire company, dial 180.

Embassies: Most of the Foreign Embassies are located in Cairo.