Suzanne answers your Frequently Asked Questions
ABOUT OUR TOURS:
Q - What is a Spiritual Group Tour or Sacred Journey? Is it Religious? How is it different from other tours I see advertised?
If you are a seasoned traveler, you may already know something about differences in tours and tour pricing. For those of you who are new to the terminology or coming to Egypt for the first time, this may be useful information.
Most of my adult travels have been with spiritual group tours or journeys with an appreciation for the sacred – art, architecture, cultural beliefs and practices, with a focus on the metaphysical or beyond the physical - from a Source beyond normal human perceptual development. On these tours we were often given time to ponder, to sit and meditate, to combine voice and movement at sites during privately arranged visits, and to share our experiences. I often was guided to join a tour without knowing anyone – even without knowing anything about the tour or the people leading it. Every experience was extremely rich for me and trusting was always blessed with so much more than I would have known to ask about at the time.
I was amazed when I learned what “standard tour packages” offered, and was especially perplexed by what I learned about tour schedules for Egypt! I could not believe how “seeing a site” in the blink of an eye would fulfill anyone’s expectations. Apparently it does – and for those who are happy with that sort of travel – it must be wonderful to take in the variety that is offered in such a short time. Hopefully, it may also entice someone to revisit at a later time.
Blue Lotus Journeys, LLC, has enormous support, on all levels, including those working behind the scenes in Egypt preparing the way each day on our behalf so that our groups can flow through our journeys with ease. In Egypt it is the custom, prior to introduction, to be spoken of to others who may accept us into their family circle. We are always in the best of company when being introduced here and are pleased with the integrity of all who are a part of our services. They make it possible for us to serve your needs successfully.
For those who want to more fully experience while “visiting” Egypt, we offer our sacred journey, a style of touring with an evolving focus harmonizing with our natural cycles. Everyone coming to Egypt will be “changed” by just stepping foot upon this ancient land. Beyond that, there is a full array of possibilities that may occur when taking the time to be still and open to experience.
Egypt has a living field of energy that is like no other! There is a tangible pulse and whatever your state of mind and heart – all will most assuredly be amplified here. Our directors and leaders are well versed in assisting individuals to gain all they can from being present each day. Using intention, prayer and meditation, we utilize universal co-creative energies to guide us on our journeys and to maintain a state of awe-inspired gratitude .
Our expert Egyptologists are familiar with the need to provide valid information to enhance our experiential journeys. Through the use of sounds and instruments we open gateways of higher energies, creating a field most conducive to receiving information with insights, spiritual attunements, communication alignments, physical adjustments, and emotional healings that support and expand our light bodies in ascension.
We blend individual needs with group energies and focus, combining energies of the visible and beyond visible ranges, into a state of expanded self awareness, a blissful state - that may last for weeks, months, and on into eternity! Whatever the challenges that arise on such a journey, our field of light and unconditional love supports our progress through integration and completion.
The mysteries of this full experience continue to download and unfold over the months that follow, bringing a greater sense of peace, serenity, understanding, and joy into everyday life. Our tour members tell us they received much more than they ever imagined possible!
Many of our tour members feel called to visit Egypt now, or to come on a tour to meet or connect with someone or some place in particular. Others have always wanted to visit Egypt or to join a group tour of others of similar intent and felt this was the time. Others have never traveled without their “partner” or family members and have hesitated to join a group tour without knowing anyone. Whatever your situation, we invite you to join us and embrace the opportunities that we can facilitate for your next step!
We who present Blue Lotus Journeys are doing so because we feel called to do so! Through visions and a sense of timing, we each connected in magical ways and said Yes to collaborating openly through our strong spiritual bond. We live our lives in preparation for this time and are committed and so very pleased to offer our services through Blue Lotus Journeys, LLC, in Support of These Great Days We Are Here To Live - Now - Fully Alive!
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Q - What if I am not much of “Group Person”? Will I have to do everything with the group?
We know that there are times to be alone and times to join together. Hopefully you will gain much and value opportunities emerging from combined group intentions. We also know there are situations best served when apart from the group. Our leaders are adept at knowing when it is important for someone to have a special request filled and when it is best to guide them along through their next step.
Attendance in rarely mandatory, except when it comes to regulations imposed upon us by transportation, government, site, or culture. If you feel a need to be apart from scheduled group activities of the day, please speak with the group leader who will do all they can in support of your request. We schedule free time on all journeys and do adjust each schedule to the needs of our tour members. Please let us know your particular needs ahead of time so that we may advise.
It is common for individuals to want to spend more time in places like the world renown Egyptian Museum in Cairo. On some of our tours you will find a free day with suggested options such as a re-visit to the museum and re-visit to the Giza Plateau. Also know that even if you spent only one minute in front of each piece in the Egyptian Museum, it would take more than a week to view everything - and much longer to experience all that is there! Our leaders and Egyptologists work together to suggest what areas to visit in connection with our tour focus and those in attendance.
If you have a strong affinity with museums, and Egyptian artifacts, historical references, or religious icons in particular, we suggest you contact us and let us arrange a private tour for you/your group that will more fully address your particular interests. There are several very fine museums in Egypt that rarely make it onto tour schedules simply because of timing and priorities.
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Q - Is it all about sites and quiet time? Will there be time for anything else?
Yes, of course, we do visit and lot of sites! We also offer other opportunities for you to meditate, relax, enjoy a massage or a swim. But that’s not all!
As part of the group experience, we often have fun evening activities such as the Gallabeya Parties onboard our cruise ship, Welcome and Farewell Gatherings, optional Sound & Light Shows, and music and dance when available locally. We arrange for horseback rides, camel treks, and sunrise-sunset tea in the desert, as well as your special requests.
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Q- What about the culture? Is it all about very Ancient? How do the people of today live?
Although many of our tours focus on the ancient sites and sounds, Our directors live in Egypt and have much to share with you about the people and the culture of today. Whenever possible, we also invite others to give a talk or present information suited to your interests.
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To experience these wonderful people and learn more about their native cultures:
We may learn about Papyrus, the plant, and about the process used to create this beautiful paper that lasts for thousands of years. You will see many beautiful designs that are copied from the walls of temples and tombs throughout Egypt, and be able to choose designs to celebrate special occasions and have your name inscribed in hieroglyphs on the design of your choice.
We may enjoy a visit to a Perfume Shop to sample the oils and learn the secrets of the Royal Blends! There are many representations of offerings and anointing with oils throughout the temples of Egypt. You may ask questions about the special attributes and uses and learn more ways to incorporate them into your daily life.
We may shop for a Gallabeya (so comfortable!) or Royal Costume (also fun to wear for a festive evening onboard ship or whenever you choose!).
If Belly Dance is your passion- you may be ready to have an appointment/ fitting with a top designer! Let us know you - and we will be happy to introduce you.
We may visit a local Jewelry Shop to see the gold & silver craftsmanship that has remained active through the ages. You may want to purchase a royal cartouche pendant with your name in hieroglyphs or select a charm or amulet.
We may visit a display of Stone Carving, Metal Working, or Carpet Weaving along the way, too.
You’ll be amazed at the beautiful selections of scarves and shawls sold throughout Egypt! Of course, there are the larger market places and bazaars filled with little shops and all sorts of wares! The local spice markets are a treat for the senses. The welcome drink (Hibiscus Tea- served hot or cold), known locally as karkaday, is a popular choice to carry home!
There are so many things to see and do… we will only have a sampling. If you have a preference, please let us know!
(Purchases are optional - We know you'll love at least some of what you see/sample - and supporting the local economy will be very much appreciated by the beautiful people of Egypt!)
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Q- What do I need to bring?
We suggest that you plan ahead & choose clothing that will match the time of year you will be coming to Egypt.
Even in the summer months, hotels and cruise ships use air-conditioning – and it may feel cold to some of you.
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 We want you to be comfortable in what you wear!
The following is a suggested list – by no means mandatory – though some items are highly suggested!
• Good walking shoes
• Comfortable shoes/sandals that are also good for walking
• Sweater (seasonal-fleece vest/jacket also good idea!)
• Light to medium-weight jacket (at night in the desert)
• Light weight pants – jeans
• Long skirts (*if you wear skirts-- below the knee or longer is best)
• Shirts/blouses (short sleeve & long sleeve -that may be layered over your sleeveless tops)
• Underwear
• Socks
• Sleepwear
Clothing that makes you feel really good- for evenings when you can change from your everyday touring clothing!
This may vary depending on the type of tour/class of hotels & cruise ships. Most of our 5 star ships and some hotels require appropriate dress at dinner meals (some at lunch as well). This will mean no shorts or bathing attire in the dining areas.
-If you really want a formal evening – there are opportunities to dress up as well! That is up to you.
Laundry facilities are usually available with next day delivery service.
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For your health and well-being:
-prescriptions & medications that you normally take
-over the counter “in case” medications – such as remedies for symptoms of diarrhea, cold, sinus, eye drops, etc.
-small hand cleaner gel/packets for a quick cleanse before snacking after touching tomb walls, etc.
-spare pair of prescription glasses
(optional: there are places to have repairs & adjustments – may not be easily accessible on the day you need them!)
-sunglasses (good for the sun and to protect eyes from blowing sands)
-sunscreen (considered a must by most)
-hat (for the sun)
-warm scarf or hat (winter) for night horseback/camel rides in the desert! (Beautiful scarves and shawls are readily available for purchase in Egypt)
-small packs of tissues (these can double for toilet tissue if needed)*
-film for your camera (available in Egypt – may not be available in all areas when you need it)
-spare batteries for camera, etc.
-charger for whatever you bring along
-110/120 – 220/230 Converter - Depending on your needs! Egypt is primarily wired in 220 current. Many of our hotels and cruise ships also provide shaver outlet and sometimes a hair dryer for your use!
-personal toiletries and supplies
-a journal (to record your daily photographs or contain your dreams, visions, meditations & reflections!)
-Special Needs to help you enjoy your own personal daily practice – or to join an exercise class on-board ship!
Fitness equipment is often available in our hotels and onboard some cruise ships as well.
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For your safety and security:
-extra copy of your passport papers with who to contact in case of an emergency! (pack separately from your passport)
-flashlight (can be small & lightweight)
-a Sense of Humor & Awareness of Cultural Ways!
These beautiful people will go way out of their way to help you have a great experience here. Understanding their cultural ways can help you to help them have a great experience with you, too! Read through the suggestions we provide on our web-site and ask us for more information and assistance when you need it!
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GROUP EXPERIENCES:
Each group is different!
Each group is composed of individuals!
When we all remember that – and allow each member to have personal experiences – all will be able to enjoy themselves in the midst of whatever is going on around them! Our tour directors and leaders are there to assist.
Our groups have a spiritual component that allows us to set intentions and share experiences, adjusting to individual requests in ways that can support the individual while also maintaining group synergy and focus.
Communication is the key element!
If you have a need – please find the appropriate time to speak with your group leader or tour directors.
First impressions can be deceiving – keep you extra senses open and see who has been called to journey with you!
Of course, there are wonderful things that can come from getting to know other group members!
Gifts and talents are often shared. Sometimes special connections are realized and healings may take place. Gifts of Spirit can appear in many photographs spontaneously captured by other tour members!
Please - Let us help you when a situation arises during your journey.
I remember having a group member who snored – a loud snore – all night long.
The Hotel was fully booked! The roommates (in a triple room) were having a very difficult time sleeping and really needed to have another room. The “snorer” felt very embarrassed that I would tell the other tour director about her problem.
I assured her it was the right thing to do – that this was the person we needed to tell - so that he could then get us what we needed.
We sat having a freshly squeezed lemonade while the tour director took his time and went from one person through another until reaching the back office where there was someone who could provide a solution for our weary tour members. A little while later the roommates were moved to a different kind of room and all had a full night’s sleep.
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CULTURAL WAYS:
*How to get the most out of your Public Toilet Experience!
Note: In Egypt it is customary to have an attendant at public toilets near archeological sites.
These are basic – sometimes more like temporary structures used for camping.
Tipping the attendant upon entrance will insure you get directed to the cleanest toilet and an ample supply of toilet paper.
Upon exit, you will then wash your hands and be given more paper for drying.
You may also carry your own paper if you like.
Tips are the attendant’s salary for cleaning and maintaining their facility.
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Shopping in Egypt: Timing is everything!?
Have you ever heard the phrase: Timing is Everything!? Egyptians may have invented it!
They live in Timelessness – and yet- they understand timing very well!
That does not mean that they will show up on time for everything (or anything) – they leave that to the Europeans.
It means that they are keen observers – well trained in reading the measure of your heart.
They want you to be happy and to get what you want!
They also know that you will probably buy something from someone – and they would like it to be from them!
With a good sense of humor you will find much of their approach quite funny at times – even charming!
Without that sense of humor – it helps to know a bit of the basic shopping etiquette.
Foreigners view shopping quite differently than Egyptians.
This can cause a lot of confusion and bad feelings for both foreigner and native sellers.
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#1 - Basic Cultural Differences!
There are a few basics that can get you off to a good start!
If you are just curious or window shopping – do not ask the price!
When you pick up an item and begin examining it – the seller is watching for his or her clues!
Egyptians know the meaning of “What do you Want”!
If you know what you want – and they have it (or can get it for you from next door) – then it becomes a matter of what price is right for both of you to feel good when the deal is done.
The order is this:
What do you want?
Are you showing strong interest in what you are looking at?
Is this the one you want or in another color or size?
THEN - and only then – After you have it in your hand – you may ask – “Be- kam”? How much?
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Foreigners often ask a price before deciding whether or not they are interested in having/purchasing an item.
Foreigners may say to themselves – If the price is right, I might buy more than one.
Egyptians may think – If you want one – this is the price. If you want more than one I might have a better price.
How many would you want so that I can figure out a good price? Again - What do you want?
Do you see the difference? What do you want? And they will tell you what they want in return.
#2 – You’re ready to make a purchase.
You may now enter into more formal bargaining – unless you are in a store with a fixed price (such as shops in hotels and on-board cruise ships). You can respond in a way that indicates the stated price is a lot of money. The seller then may point out the quality or the detail in which case you may show respect and be pleased. You may show again that it is a lot of money - and look at something similar of less quality or a shorter length, etc.
When you seem less interested in the one of less quality, you may be offered a better price on the first one!
You might offer less money(not less than half!) or show that you only have so much to spend – and even turn and walk away disappointed - and see what is offered in return.
You may even be very firm in your offer as all that you have or will pay and walk away.
The time of day and how successful the shop keeper has been may also be factors!
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Like any good salesperson knows, having half a loaf of bread is better than no bread at all!
Everyone has a family to feed – including children and elderly relatives!
Please do not take advantage of these people only to make yourself feel good.
A fair price means everyone can feel good at the end of the day!
When you have successfully completed you bargaining – and purchased that item to treasure - hold that experience dear to your heart!
Remember the value of the experience and share about how you “made a good deal-walking away with both parties happy” rather than going straight to the price as the big deal! Let everyone have their own experience to be grateful for and your own memories will remain sweeter and dear to your heart for years to come!
#3 – Important!!!
When you make an offer (or enter into the bargaining process by showing interest and then asking the price) – please be prepared to accept a good offer and purchase the item! Randomly asking prices and walking away without respecting the ways of proper bargaining is considered an insult and others who observe you in the act will most likely not want to sell to you either.
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The Art and Practice of Good Bargaining:
The Experience has Value Equal to the Selling Price!
What do you want?
Do you want the full cultural experience of Egypt!?
Would you like to support the local economy and take home something you like- that you purchased for a fair price and carry with you the memory of this remarkable person you got to know through the bargaining process?
If so – proceed with the experience!
If not – consider only buying in the fixed price stores or ask someone else to make purchases for you or bring you things to purchase for a set price.
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Be prepared to fully experience how they market their goods…
in the time honored ways passed down through the ages!
Yes, it does take some time – and what a wonderful experience it can be with the right attitude on your part.
Choose the right time for you – and then enter into the experience fully!
Say “Yes !” to their offer of a beverage, and you have begun.
Have a cup of tea, sit a while and get to know each other, while you relax into the atmosphere of this seller’s shop.
Then, begin to take a look around to see the quality and craftsmanship of this seller’s wares.
Now, surely there may be something you would like to take home with you?
Look, see what catches your eye. Let the shop assistants show you their products in the best light. Have fun with the experience!
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It is not about what price you pay! Did you hear that?
It is not about the price you pay!
It is about the experience and how you each walk away from that experience!
Let them guide you – Observe how it is going- Remember that you are giving clues by your every move.
What are you telling the seller – in the seller’s ways?
There is honor is good bargaining!
When sellers have enjoyed good bargaining with you – you have their respect! They may even present you with a gift - something they noticed that you liked - as a way of saying “thank you” - leaving a favorable impression in your mind – while completing the deal.
I have seen foreigners go into a shop and demand their gift! What will you give me with this when I buy it at that price? Wrong!
Downright Rude! This does not leave a good impression on anyone. It shows how unaware you are of the practice they are so willing to share with you.
Remember that every thought and feeling you have here will be amplified.
If you think that everyone is after your money – you will see people coming up to you everywhere asking for your money!
If you walk with a different attitude, you will find a different experience.
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It is true that with 20 million people in just Cairo area – there are a lot of mouths to feed! One third of the population are children and one third are elderly. The sellers are highly motivated! And – they do have some very fine wares to show and sell to you. The memories come along with those wares – so why not have a great experience and be grateful for each and every person you meet – no matter what the first impression – you have the same choice about what kind of impression you leave.
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Communication Connections in Egypt:
Internet access is available in a variety of forms.
Many of our hotels offer wireless service.
Many cruise ships are in the process of acquiring access.
Internet cafes are often available near the docking areas.
Mobile phones are available for rent during your stay in Egypt.
Please let us know if this is important to you.
Phone cards are readily available.
Charges can be made on your hotel room phone at a higher price.
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Egypt Time Zone: Universal Time (GMT) + 2
That is 7 hours ahead of Eastern Time Zone (New York, etc.,)
That is 10 hours ahead of Pacific Time Zone (California, etc.)
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