The land of the pharaohs needs little introduction. It’s one of the most exotic, in-your-face places in the Middle East that teems with history and touts. The Egyptian Civilization is well known for its temples, mummies and pyramids but there’s a plethora of activities from felucca rides down the Nile to diving in the Red Sea. While travel here is certainly not hassle free, it remains one of the world’s most popular destinations.
Egypt is mostly desert except for the fertile plains along the Nile River. November to March is the best time to travel. There are several international airports including Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor and Aswan. Other options for getting there include the ferries between Jordan and the Sinai and buses from Israel. Trains and buses are the best way of getting around the country and taxis are a cheap transport mode in the cities. One of the most amazing Egyptian festivals is at Abu Simbel on February 22 and October 22 when the inner sanctum lights up.
Cairo
The national capital is a vast city of 19 million. Major sights include the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum with a collection of ancient artefacts, the grand castle known as the Citadel and the Cairo Tower for 360 degree city views. You can also sail on a felucca down the Nile, smoke a shisha water pipe, people watch in the souq and have a coffee or two in a traditional café. You may love or hate the crowds, heat and noise, but Cairo is definitely unforgettable. Getting around is easy on crowded public buses, cabs or the metro.
Luxor
A trip isn’t complete without taking in the majestic tombs and temples of Luxor including old Tut’s resting place in the Valley of the Kings.
Alexandria
Egypt’s second largest city, the cosmopolitan Alexandria, has many sights including the 15th Century fort of Qait Bey, a stunning new Bibliotheca in memory of the former that was once the largest in the ancient world, Roman catacombs and theatres and a beautiful beach front.
Red Sea
A must see are the resorts on the Sinai peninsula, including Dahab, Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh. Diving is excellent and accommodation is plentiful.
