The new rules for hot air balloons in Luxor

The people at Hod Hod Soliman have very kindly explained the new rules for balloons in Luxor as applied by themselves. I suggest if you are flying with another company you find out how they are applying the rules.

Well there is basically no great change, except that there is now a safety briefing approved by the Egyptian Civil Aviation Authority in use which passengers are required to sign to show that they have understood the need for the briefing and the steps that they can take to help to ensure a comfortable and safe flight for themselves and other passengers.

It is quite possible that some companies may require a waiver - Hod-Hod Soliman does not.

The insurance situation remains unchanged from the position before the tragic accident in the case of Hod-Hod Soliman Balloons

Ramadan in Luxor

Ramadan in Luxor is due July 9th - August 7th  it is such a special time to visit Egypt. Try if you can to get invited by a family to break the fast at sunset. They do not mind at all that you are not fasting and love to share this special time with you.I love being in a country so united in a religious festival, the nearest thing I have experienced before is Easter in Cyprus.

How does it affect the tourist, well hardly at all. Hotels etc try and use Christian staff where ever possible to serve alcohol but don't be surprised in small hotels to find no alcohol or the staff asking you to help yourself. They prefer not to even touch it during Ramadan. It is not a good idea to be on the road around sunset as road regulations tend to be tossed aside in the rush to get home for Iftar. Certain government and official places like passport offices and banks close early and some of the sites have special Ramadan openings.but that affects the afternoon only.

If you are on a full day trip be considerate to your driver or guide and insist that they stop and break their fast. They do not mind you eating or drinking in front of them but I prefer to be discreet but woe betide you if you light a cigarette.

This is not the time of year to disagree with an Egyptian man during the day!!! Wait until he has broken his fast before nagging him about chores not done.

At Eid  everyone gets new clothes and the children get money. Egyptians try and pay all their debts and make sure everything is up to date money wise so that everyone can have a good Eid. If you give someone a good tip so they can enjoy a good Eid your kind gesture will be much appreciated.Since the revolution Eid celebrations have been very muted as there is less money around.

EGYPTAIR - Plan Travel - Special Offers 20% off

EgyptAir are offering 20% discount on all tickets purchased 8th April - 30th April for travel until 21 June (the return can be any date)

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