Zagazig: A Hidden Gem in Egypt

• Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [Wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [Na'am]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [Min fadlak/Ala al-rahb was-sa'ah]
• Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [Aa'dhiran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bekhayr. Wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatahadath al-ingliziyya?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [Ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [Aridu an ara al-qa'ima, min fadlak]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [Ana la aakul al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [Fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [Aridu an adfa', min fadlak]

• Help!النجدة!
  [Al-najda!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [Irhal!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Itsal bi al-shurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [Itsal bi tabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [Lakad dallat al-tariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [Awadu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [Ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [Kam si'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [Hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuka khafd al-si'ru?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam al-sa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [Al-sa'at al-wahida]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (10)
  [Al-nisf ba'd (10)]
• Morningالصباح
  [Al-sabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [Al-dhuhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [Al-masa']
• Yesterdayالأمس
  [Al-ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [Al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [Arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [Sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamaniya]
• 9تسعة
  [Tis'a]
• 10عشرة
  [Ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [Ayna huwa/hiya...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma huwa al-unwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuka an tarini (ala al-kharita)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة القادمة؟
  [Mata ya'ti al-hafilat al-qadima?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [Tadhkira (ila ....)]

Located near the site of the ancient city of Bubastis, Zagazig is steeped in millennia of history. Bubastis was a significant city during the Pharaonic era, renowned for its grand temple dedicated to the feline goddess Bastet. This temple attracted pilgrims from across Egypt for the annual festival in honor of Bastet, which included music, dance, and revelry. Archaeological remains near Zagazig provide insights into the grandeur of Bubastis, showcasing its historical importance.

Zagazig was officially founded in the 19th century during the Ottoman period, although the area had been inhabited long before. The city's establishment as a modern urban center is attributed to its strategic location on the Nile Delta, which facilitated trade and agriculture. It quickly grew into an important hub for the cotton and grain industries, becoming a focal point for commerce in the region.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Zagazig experienced significant growth due to the flourishing agricultural sector. The introduction of modern irrigation techniques and the expansion of the railway network boosted the city's economy. Zagazig became one of Egypt's leading centers for cotton production, contributing to the country's economic development during this period.

Zagazig is home to Zagazig University, one of Egypt's prominent educational institutions, established in 1974. The university has played a crucial role in the city's educational and cultural development, attracting students and scholars from across Egypt and the Middle East. The presence of the university has fostered a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous events, conferences, and exhibitions that highlight both local and international arts and sciences.

In recent decades, Zagazig has seen substantial urban development and expansion. The city has modernized its infrastructure, including transportation, healthcare, and residential areas, to accommodate its growing population. Efforts to preserve its historical sites while embracing modernity reflect Zagazig's dynamic evolution into a contemporary urban center that respects its rich heritage.

Zagazig is located in the Sharqia Governorate of Egypt. The nearest international airport is Cairo International Airport, approximately 85 kilometers away. From Cairo, you can take a taxi, a private car, or a train to Zagazig. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road or by train. There are regular train services from Cairo Ramses Station to Zagazig, which is a convenient and scenic route.

Zagazig is a moderately sized city, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips within the city, local taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Public buses operate within the city and connect to nearby towns. Renting a car can be a convenient option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas, but be aware of local driving conditions.

The official currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available throughout Zagazig, so you can withdraw cash as needed. It is wise to have some smaller bills and coins for convenience.

Zagazig is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Zagazig, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 122 for police assistance or 123 for medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Zagazig. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Use your right hand for handshakes and giving or receiving items. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Zagazig like a local, visit the bustling local markets, such as Souq El Goma'a, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Egyptian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Tell Basta archaeological site, which is rich with ancient Egyptian history. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the Ismailia Canal, which offers picturesque views and a glimpse into everyday life in Zagazig.