With one of the longest histories of any country, Egypt will always remain fascinating for the traveller. Egypt is a heady combination of cultural experiences from the wonders of iconic landmarks in Cairo, to the temples and tombs that litter the banks of the Nile. Base yourself on a comfortable Dahabiya – a typical passenger boat with two sails – and pottle down the Nile - the only way to see the sights. The luxurious Orientalist hotels in Luxor and Aswan that so inspired Agatha Christies’ novels are not to be missed, as is sunrise at Abu Simbel. Head east to the Sinai desert, visit the exquisite Monastery of St Catherine’s and trek up Mt Sinai for sunset. Getting off the beaten track, the Sinai region has much to explore in its mountains, desert and Red Sea coastline and can easily be combined with the mainland.
“Egypt is not a country we live in but a country that lives within us”
STORIES FROM EGYPT
Stories
When to go
For winter sunseekers, Egypt is a fantastic destination with warm sunny temperatures still at 20 degrees in Aswan and Luxor. Avoid June, July and August which can get incredibly hot – if you do travel then sightseeing starts early in the morning.
Type of Journey
Couples, honeymooners, families, small groups, divers, walkers, history & archaeology buffs. Combines well with Jordan and Israel.
Hotels
Egypt has some excellent hotels - particularly the historic Orientalist hotels in Luxor and Aswan much beloved by Agatha Christie . There are also plenty of cool and comfortable kinds of boats to ‘do’ the Nile in style.
EGYPT EXPERIENCES
The tranquil oasis at the Winter Palace Hotel in Luxor is a haven of greenery and birdsong – and best enjoyed after a day exploring the tombs along the West Bank.
The Monastery of St Catherine’s is a must see, and the best time is to visit is after the tourists do when peace descends and all is quiet - much like a biblical place should be.
Nothing beats a cooling sunset cocktail on the terrace at the Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan - particularly after a long day sightseeing the temples.
