Sometimes we just get an urge for a MacDonald’s hamburger so the other night we strolled down to San Steffano Mall to the food court and order two meals. Pat got a regular cheeseburger, fries and soft drink while I ordered a quarter pound cheeseburger, fried and drink. The total cost was 39 LE. (approximately $7.00 including tax). As a franchise, these restaurants order all of their food supplies from the states, but they have to keep their prices a little lower because of the low per capita income of the Egyptian economy. We’ve been told that American franchises, while very popular, are not as profitable as many of the local Egyptian restaurants because of the cost of supplies. The labor cost is very low for both, as workers make a minimal wage, but since local food supplies are low there is a higher profit margin for local restaurants. By the way, I know it is said that a MacDonald’s quarter pounder is supposed to taste the same no matter where in the world you are, that is not the case. They are much tastier here than anywhere we have been!
Here is a rough currency breakdown based on the current rate of exchange for common denominations:
25 piasta – 4.5 cents (this will get you a tram ride anywhere in the city)
50 piasta – 9 cents (usually a small fee to use a restroom)
1 LE – 18 cents (this is the base unit of currency – also used for restroom use. We also pay 2 to 3 LE for someone who helps us park in a parking lot or carries luggage from the hotel to a taxi)
5 LE – 91 cents (a typical tip)
10 LE -- $1.83 (a very generous tip for someone who performs a service – such as a delivery person)
20 LE -- $3.66 (the cost of a taxi ride (one way) to most anywhere in Alex)
50 LE -- $9.16
100 LE -- $18.35
200 LE -- $36.70
Transportation costs are very inexpensive. We took a car and driver to and from the airport (Borg El Arab) which is located about an hour from the school and the total cost was 68 LE or $12.50 for 4 people. When we take the train to Cairo, it is usually around $8.35 one way per person. Pat got her hair cut and washed the other day for 40 LE with a 10 LE tip while I pay 20 LE with a 5 LE tip for my haircuts (granted there is not much there to cut). Egypt is primarily a cash society. There is very little credit card use and we have never seen a person pull out a check book to pay for anything.
Next week is the end of the first semester. The high school will have final exams. Students will test for 2 hours for each of their classes. Semester tests are comprehensive and can account for 20 % of their final semester grade so students usually take this very seriously. We are beginning a 10 week stretch with only school day off until spring break. It will be a very tough grind for both students and staff. Spring break begins April 3rd and we are already looking forward to a relaxing trip to the island of Crete!
