Egypt
Egypt Introduction
Egypt, situated in North Africa, is a large country with two coastlines. To the north is the Mediterranean Sea and to the east is the Red Sea. It is a land of contrasts from arid desert to fertile delta and from ancient pyramids and temples to modern cities and twenty first century holiday resorts sporting five star luxury hotels.
Why Go To Egypt?
Egypt, the land of the Pharaohs, is unique. No where else on earth can you find the wealth of antiquities, the pyramids and the vast temples and monuments. Added to this, the Red Sea Riviera provides miles of sandy beaches, clear blue water, beautiful coral reefs, wide ranging water sport facilities and hotels that pamper to the nth degree. With Nile cruises, camel rides, jeep safaris, hot air balloons and numerous other pursuits, Egypt draws many tourists to its shores. All of this and much more is just a five hour flight from the UK.
Who Is Egypt Popular With?
Egypt has very broad appeal. Families, sun seekers, golfers, surfers, divers and those with an interest in ancient history will find what they are looking for in Egypt. It provides year round heat, clear warm waters, marvellous coral reefs, temples and ancient tombs. Egypt really does have something for everyone.
When To Go To Egypt
The winter months are a good time to visit Egypt when the temperatures lie comfortably in the twenties. The summer months can reach up to forty degrees in the cities and although it is a little cooler at the coast it remains very hot.
Egypt - The Place
Egypt is a wonderful holiday destination offering such a variety of differing experiences to the traveller.
The evidence of ancient civilizations is everywhere, in the towns and cities, in the deserts and even at the coast. The sheer magnificence of the pyramids and temples is overwhelming.
The Red Sea coast resorts with their backdrop of cinnamon coloured mountains and their clear blue sea are a snorkeller’s paradise as the waters are filled with a huge variety of colourful fish and beautiful corals. Numerous water sporting opportunities are available.
Because there are so many things to see, many people choose to take a Nile cruise which gives them a taste of both the ancient and the modern.
Egypt Culture
Egyptians are deeply religious and this governs their daily lives. They are a hospitable and friendly people, welcoming visitors to their country and going out of their way to be helpful. Nothing ever seems to be too much trouble.
Egypt Nightlife
The nightlife in Egyptian cities differs from that in the coastal resorts where the entertainment is mainly hotel based often with live music and belly dancers. The cities, on the other hand, are much livelier places with bars, clubs and the occasional casinos.
There are many opportunities for shopping in Egypt, from the numerous retailers in the large cities where prices are fixed and where it would be a little indelicate to barter, to the plentiful supply of bazaars and street markets where haggling has almost become an art form. There is a wide range of gold and silver jewellery, leather goods, carpets, alabaster ornaments and papyrus pictures depicting ancient Egyptian art. All make very acceptable souvenir gifts. Don’t forget your stuffed camel!
Egypt Eating
Egyptian restaurants provide every kind of cuisine from locally produced food to international fare. The Egyptian dish falafel is deep fried balls of ground chickpeas with onions, peppers and spices served with pitta bread, a delicious treat that shouldn’t be missed. Drink only bottled water while in Egypt and check that the cap is sealed.
Local Egypt Customs
All people working in the tourist and leisure industries are heavily reliant on tips that are usually much deserved. The kindness and helpfulness of the people is well known. Children are always made especially welcome.