Let’s get straight to the point. The #1 fear of every tourist coming to Egypt isn’t the sharks (they are friendly, mostly). It’s the dreaded stomach bug. We call it “The Pharaoh’s Revenge.”
I have seen strong men cry because of a salad. I have seen holidays ruined because someone brushed their teeth with tap water.
The water here is different. It has different bacteria than your stomach in Europe is used to. But don’t worry—I will tell you exactly how to survive, what to avoid, and the magic pill that cures everything.
💧 The Golden Rule: Can I Drink the Tap Water?
NO. NEVER. ABSOLUTELY NOT.
Not even a little sip. Not even to boil coffee (unless it boils for a long time, but why risk it?).
💊 The Magic Cure: Antinal
Forget the medicine you brought from home. Immodium stops the problem but keeps the bacteria inside. You don’t want that.
You need the Egyptian weapon clearly designed for Egyptian bacteria: Antinal.
Salem’s Advice: Buy a box on your first day. “Better to have it and look at it, than need it and look for it.”
🥗 What About… (The Common Traps)
🧊 Ice Cubes?
Safe in Hotels. 4/5 Star hotels make ice from purified water. In strict street cafes? Skip the ice to be safe.
🥗 Fresh Salad?
Risky. The problem isn’t the vegetable, it’s the water used to wash it. In 5-star resorts, it’s fine. Elsewhere, eat cooked veggies.
🪥 Brushing Teeth?
Use Bottled Water. I know expats who use tap water, but if your stomach is sensitive, don’t risk it.
🛡️ Prevention: How to Stay Safe
🏨 Need a Real Doctor?
If you have high fever or cannot stop vomiting, you might need a drip. It happens (Dehydration + Sun + Bacteria).
Make sure you have travel insurance. Some private hospitals here are amazing (like 5-star hotels) but they are expensive if you pay cash.
Feeling better? Good. Now go enjoy the food!