Egypt travel guide
History and modern Arab cities mix in Egypt. There are few people who are not aware of the Egyptian Pyramids or the River Nile. There are truly few places on this planet that can match the history of Egypt. The full name is the Arab Republic of Egypt and Arabic is the primary language. Cairo is the largest city in all of Africa and is home to a vibrant night life. The city's medieval center hasn't changed since the nascence of Islam, and is still a warren of alleys and markets where you can spend hours, if not days, getting lost among the chatter, foods, and handicrafts.
The many different cultures who ruled this area have all left their mark through architecture and landmarks. The great pyramids are only the tip of the archeological iceberg, and the Arab, Christian, Roman, Greek, and Pharaonic eras have all put their marks on the land and its people. Besides the pyramids you can visit the Great Sphinx, take a safari, visit Alexandria, or take a Nile cruise. Then there is the city of Luxor, which sited ancient Thebes, which has dozens of burial chambers and magnificent monuments to visit.
In the south, the city of Aswan is teeming with temples serving now-dead gods and the faded powers of the pharaos. Aswan is a wonderful starting point for a Nile cruise, especially by sailing a felucca downriver towards the mediterranean.
There are several international airports in Egypt and most major cities will have some familar fast food choices. The beaches along the Red and Mediterranian Seas are very popular with European vacationers and there are many all inclusive vacation resorts in these areas, such as Sharm el-Sheik.
The nearby desert of Sinai has its own charms, and here a tourist can climb Mount Sinai. After that exercise, spending some time at the relaxed backpacker coastal town of Dahab and its beaches is a sweet reward.
It would be wise to do some home work before making your trip to Egypt as there are too many places and sights to see in one trip so choose those important to you before you embark.
SAFETY: After the Arab Spring events of 2011, Egypt is a freer country. That doesn't mean it's necessarily safer. The main tourist areas are very safe, but it's best to take care and pay attention to developments as old schizms are still noticeable in Egyptian society, and they occasionally resolve violently.
For traveling to Egypt, the following companies can offer expert guidance and deals: From the UK, First Choice does a good selection of holidays to Egypt, as does Thomas Cook, Thomson, and Monarch. From U.S.A, try Carlson Wagonlit, On the Go Tours, or Travel Leaders.
Photo by Angelo Domini on flickr
