Egypt is sunny year-round. While it offers four seasons, spring and fall blink by so quickly to meld into summer and winter that many guides list only two.

Winter begins in November and starts to taper off by March with warmer days, but chilly nights. Temperatures rarely fall below 40F or exceed 75F. Rainfall occurs sporadically, usually at night. In March and April, winds deliver intermittent sandstorms called el Khamsiin. Most expats get by wearing layers of clothing, a coat or light jacket.

Since most flats have heating/air conditioning units, and housing is made from concrete blocks, you'll probably feel colder inside. Bring warm bedding for nighttime and sweaters to wear around the house during the day.

Summer begins in April and May with low humidity and temperatures in the 70s F. From June through September, one can expect upwards of 66% humidity and a temperature from the high 80s to low 100s F. Cotton and linen are much more comfortable than manmade fabrics. Since dry cleaning and laundry services are excellent and inexpensive, it makes the care of fabrics that need extra care a dream. Beautiful Egyptian shawls are available to take with you when you're going to a public place with subzero air conditioning.