How much baksheesh (tip) should you give at hotel check-in in Egypt to get a good room?

One traveler gave a receptionist 20 euros right after landing at 7am and was promised a room by 10am. By the appointed time a different staff member was on shift and claimed to know nothing about the deal. She had to demand the money back before the original staff member returned and handed over the key.

Lesson learned: don't walk away from the staff member you paid until you actually get the room key in hand — otherwise a shift change or excuses can leave you without a room.

Another traveler asked in advance how much is typically given to staff for a room, noting that many hotels have a reputation for local employees pressuring guests for tips at check-in.

Example of a real trip combining two hotels: staying at Arabia Hotel from the 14th to the 19th, then moving to Savoy Hotel from the 19th to the 27th — an option for travelers who want to combine two different hotels in one trip.