Essential Information for Egyptian Visitors
Everything you need to know before and during your Seattle visit - from FAQs to practical tips about life in America.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a visa to visit Seattle for the World Cup?
Yes, Egyptian citizens need a B1/B2 tourist visa to visit the United States. Apply early at the US Embassy in Cairo as wait times can be long. Make sure to have proof of accommodation, return ticket, and sufficient funds. Some visitors may be eligible for ESTA if they have certain dual citizenships.
Is tap water safe to drink in Seattle?
Yes! Seattle has some of the cleanest tap water in the United States. It comes from protected mountain watersheds and is completely safe to drink. You can save money by refilling a water bottle instead of buying bottled water.
How much should I tip at restaurants?
Tipping is expected in the US and not included in the bill. Standard tips: Restaurants 15-20%, Coffee shops $1-2, Taxi/Uber 15-20%, Hotel bellhop $1-2 per bag. Tipping is considered mandatory for table service - servers rely on tips as part of their income.
Can I use my Egyptian phone in Seattle?
Your Egyptian phone will work if it's unlocked and supports US bands. Options: 1) International roaming (expensive), 2) Buy a US SIM card (recommended - see mobile carriers below), 3) Use WiFi calling with apps like WhatsApp. Most hotels, cafes, and public places have free WiFi.
What's the best way to carry money?
Credit/debit cards are accepted almost everywhere in Seattle. Bring a card with no foreign transaction fees if possible. Keep some cash for small purchases ($100-200). ATMs are widely available. Apple Pay and Google Pay work at most stores. The stadium is CASHLESS - cards only!
Is Seattle safe for tourists?
Seattle is generally safe for tourists, especially in major areas like Downtown, Capitol Hill, and near the stadium. Like any major city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid leaving valuables visible in cars. The area around Pioneer Square can be rough late at night.
What's the weather like during World Cup (June-July)?
Seattle summers are generally pleasant: 60-75°F (15-24°C) during the day. It rarely rains in summer, but mornings can be cool and foggy. Bring layers, sunglasses, and a light jacket. Despite its rainy reputation, Seattle gets less rain than Cairo in summer!
Where can I find Egyptian/Arabic products?
International District and Central District have Middle Eastern grocery stores. Halal meat is available at many stores listed in our halal food guide. For specific Egyptian products, try Mediterranean/Middle Eastern markets. Amazon can deliver most items to your hotel.
Do I need travel insurance?
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Healthcare in the US is extremely expensive without insurance. A simple hospital visit can cost thousands of dollars. Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage before you travel.
What about electricity/power outlets?
The US uses Type A/B outlets (two flat pins) at 120V/60Hz. Egyptian plugs won't fit - bring a universal adapter. Most phone chargers work on both 110V and 220V (check the label), but hair dryers and other appliances may need a voltage converter.
Budget-Friendly Mobile Carriers
Stay connected without breaking the bank. These prepaid options are perfect for visitors:
Mint Mobile (Recommended)
Starting at $15/month
- Best value for short visits
- 5GB-Unlimited data options
- Uses T-Mobile's network (good Seattle coverage)
- Buy online and pick up SIM at Target or Best Buy
- 3-month minimum plan
T-Mobile Prepaid
$40-65/month
- Excellent coverage in Seattle area
- 10GB to Unlimited data
- Buy SIM at T-Mobile stores or airport
- No contract required
- International calling to Egypt available
Ultra Mobile
Starting at $19/month
- Includes international calls to Egypt
- 3GB-Unlimited data plans
- Uses T-Mobile network
- Available at Walmart, Target
- Good option for staying in touch with family
Airalo eSIM (Digital Option)
Starting at $9 for 1GB
- No physical SIM needed - download before you arrive
- Works if your phone supports eSIM
- Data only (use WhatsApp for calls)
- Pay only for what you need
- Activate instantly via app
Pro Tip
Buy your SIM card at the airport (T-Mobile kiosk at Sea-Tac) or order online before arrival. Most carriers require an unlocked phone - check with your Egyptian carrier before traveling.
Understanding US Units
The US uses different measurement units than Egypt. Here's a quick reference:
Temperature (Fahrenheit vs Celsius)
| Fahrenheit (°F) | Celsius (°C) | What it Feels Like |
|---|---|---|
| 32°F | 0°C | Freezing point of water |
| 50°F | 10°C | Cool, need a jacket |
| 60°F | 15°C | Mild, Seattle morning |
| 70°F | 21°C | Comfortable, nice day |
| 80°F | 27°C | Warm summer day |
| 90°F | 32°C | Hot (rare in Seattle) |
Quick formula: (°F - 32) × 5/9 = °C
Distance (Miles vs Kilometers)
| Miles | Kilometers | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1 mile | 1.6 km | Short walk (20 min) |
| 5 miles | 8 km | Downtown to University District |
| 15 miles | 24 km | Sea-Tac Airport to Downtown |
| 30 miles | 48 km | Seattle to Tacoma |
Quick math: Miles × 1.6 = Kilometers
Weight (Pounds vs Kilograms)
| Pounds (lbs) | Kilograms (kg) | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1 lb | 0.45 kg | Small bag of chips |
| 2.2 lbs | 1 kg | Bag of rice |
| 50 lbs | 23 kg | Checked luggage limit |
Quick math: Pounds ÷ 2.2 = Kilograms
Volume (Gallons vs Liters)
| US Gallons | Liters | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 3.8 L | Large milk jug |
| 1 quart | 0.95 L | About 1 liter |
| 1 pint | 0.47 L | Medium drink |
Clothing Sizes
US clothing sizes are different from European/Egyptian sizes. Generally subtract 10 from US women's sizes (US 8 = EU 38). For men's shirts, US uses S/M/L/XL. Shoes: US men's = EU size - 33, US women's = EU size - 31.
Driving in Seattle
Important
You can drive in the US with your Egyptian license for up to 90 days as a tourist. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not legally required in Washington State.
Key Differences from Egypt
Right-Side Driving
- Americans drive on the RIGHT side of the road (same as Egypt)
- Steering wheel is on the LEFT side of the car
- Pass slower vehicles on the LEFT
Speed Limits (Strictly Enforced!)
- City streets: 25-35 mph (40-55 km/h)
- Highways: 60-70 mph (95-110 km/h)
- School zones: 20 mph (32 km/h) - VERY strictly enforced
- Speed cameras and police actively monitor speeds
- Fines can be $200+ for speeding
Traffic Rules (Different from Egypt)
- Right turn on red: You CAN turn right at a red light after stopping (unless sign says otherwise)
- 4-way stops: First to arrive goes first. If simultaneous, right-of-way to the right
- Pedestrians ALWAYS have right of way - you MUST stop for them
- School buses: When red lights flash, ALL traffic must stop (both directions)
- No honking: Honking is rarely used and considered rude except for safety
Parking
- Read parking signs carefully - rules vary by time/day
- Pay at meters or use ParkMobile app
- Downtown parking: $4-8/hour, garages $20-40/day
- Free street parking in residential areas (check signs)
- Never park in handicapped spots without permit - $450 fine!
Gas/Petrol Stations
- Self-service - you pump your own gas
- Pay at pump with credit card or inside first
- Gas is sold by the gallon (not liter)
- Current prices: ~$4-5/gallon ($1.05-1.30/liter)
- "Regular" (87 octane) is fine for rental cars
Seattle Driving Challenges
- Many steep hills - use lower gear going down
- Heavy traffic during rush hours (7-9am, 4-7pm)
- Toll roads require Good To Go pass or bill-by-mail
- Limited parking downtown - consider public transit
- Rain makes roads slippery - drive carefully
Recommendation
For visiting Seattle, we recommend NOT renting a car. Public transit, Uber/Lyft, and walking are easier and cheaper than dealing with parking. Only rent a car if you plan to explore outside Seattle (like Mount Rainier or Olympic National Park).
Emergency Numbers
Emergency Services
911
Police, Fire, Ambulance - For all emergencies
Important Contacts
- Non-emergency Police: (206) 625-5011
- Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
- Egyptian Embassy (Washington DC): (202) 895-5400
- Egyptian Consulate (Los Angeles): (310) 820-1532
- Seattle Visitor Info: (206) 461-5840
- Sea-Tac Airport Info: (206) 787-5388
Hospitals Near Downtown
- Harborview Medical Center: 325 9th Ave - (206) 744-3000
- Virginia Mason Medical: 1100 9th Ave - (206) 223-6600
- Swedish Medical First Hill: 747 Broadway - (206) 386-6000
Useful Phrases for Emergencies
- "I need help" - Ana mehtag mosa'ada
- "Call 911" - Etasal be 911
- "Where is the hospital?" - Fein el mostashfa?
- "I don't speak English well" - Ana mabatkalamsh inglizi kwayyes
- "I need an Arabic translator" - Ana mehtag motargem 'araby