Page 42 - Egypt & the Eternal Nile by Private, Classic River-Yacht

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archeological sites like the Pyramids.

Israel: Generally ATMs are common in cities and towns throughout Israel. Only in rural
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Jordan: Generally ATMs are common in cities and towns throughout Jordan, but may be hard
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Credit & Debit Cards

Even if you don’t plan on using a credit card during your trip, we still suggest that you bring
one or two as a backup, especially if you are planning a large purchase (artwork, jewelry).
We also suggest that you bring more than one brand of card (i.e. Visa, MasterCard, American
Express) if possible, because not every shop will take every card. For example, although the
Discover card is accepted in some countries outside the U.S., it is not widely adopted, so other
brands will work at a much larger range of stores, restaurants, etc.

Egypt: Credit cards are widely accepted except at open-air stalls (like bazaars), cafes, or taxis—
expect these to be cash only.

Israel: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Israel, but you may still need cash for
small businesses or in rural areas of Israel.

Jordan: Though major American credit cards are widely accepted in Jordan, smaller businesses
or places in rural areas may not accept cards.

Notify Card Providers

Many credit card companies and banks have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card
if they see suspicious charges—such as charges or withdrawals from another country. To avoid
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you will be using your cards abroad. You can do this by calling their customer service number
a week or two before your departure. Some banks or credit card companies will also let you do
this online.

You should also double-check what phone number you could call if you have a problem with a
card while you are abroad. Don’t assume you can use the 1-800 number printed on the back of
your card—most 1 800 numbers don’t work outside of the U.S.!

Tipping Guidelines

Of course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion. Listed below are
our recommendations for the tips that are not included in your tour price:

O.A.T. Trip Leader: It is customary to express a personal “thank you” to your O.A.T. Trip
Leader at the end of your trip, especially if he or she has provided you with individual
service. As a guideline, many travelers give $7-$10 USD (or equivalent in local currency) per
person per day.

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