American University of Cairo (AUC)

Latex and Bling Bling are the two big clubs in Egypt, if you like sleazy night clubs- nothing can top these too. Girls- Remember that this isn't the states and guys here have other expectations of you. The best place to get a beer after class is at Cafe Hurrayah. In Zamelek, Sheesha is fun at Versailles, Goal is great for late night sheesha and is cheaper than at Versailles. Of course you have to go to Khan and go to Fishaways. TRAVEL TRAVEL TRAVEL!!!!! Dahab is AMAZING Foodwise- Go use otlob.com! Its the best for ordering out. Ask kids who have been there for awhile which resturants are the best, I loved Didos and Cafe Tobasco, Euro Deli, and a whole bunch of other places. Everyone delivers late- so enjoy!

It depends on what you like... if you don't mind dorm style bathrooms and roommates who stay up all night, then its great. You get to know other kids really well, but there is a lack of privacy. If you don't like cats, you might not like the dorm because there are lots of "adopted" dorm cats that live in the lobby. The guards can be strict with females sometimes, but its Egypt!

ENJOY!!!! CAIRO IS SO AMAZING! YOU WILL HAVE AN AMAZING TIME IF YOU KEEP AN OPEN MIND AND ARE OPEN TO DIFFERENT EXPERIENCES AND PEOPLE! KEEP YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR EVEN WHEN YOU WANT TO BE BACK HOME SO MUCH IT HURTS... IF YOU GET SO HOMESICK YOU CANT MOVE- BOOK A HOTEL ROOM AT THE HILTON OR MARRIOT! ITS A GREAT WAY TO RELAX AND "GET OUT" OF EGYPT WITHOUT LEAVING. Besides- talking to all the tourists who wouldn't dream of leaving the hotel not in a charter bus will be so amazed with your bravery! Its a great way to put things in perspective.

Lots of people speak some level of English, but learning Arabic is much more fun. Take your time and enjoy and use it to the best of your advantage. I MUST warn you- there will be times when you will need an Arabic speaker. If you need to talk to the cops, the hospital, or a bawab. Make FRIENDS with Egyptian students and have them help you. They are all really nice and willing to help!

Cut back on the drinking... seriously it will save you money! Youre in a culture that doesn't emphasize drinking so going out every night with the American kids will not make it better. Enjoy a different style of nightlife. People will try to rip you off ALL the time- so find out how much things cost (like taxis, souveniers). Again, make friends with Egyptian kids. Everything is really cheap- but if you just spend all the time, you WILL spend a lot more than you planned!