TRIPS TO EGYPT

Abu Simbel Sun Festival

2012-02-25T22:26:00.006+02:00

The Festival:

The Abu Simbel Sun Festival at Aswan is one of the most astounding festivals in the world. Egypt is observed twice every year on 22nd Of February and on 22nd of October, the dates that mark the emperor’s birthday and his ascension to the throne. On these days, shafts of sunlight enter into the temple and illuminate the statues of the great king Ramses II and the two sun gods Re-Horakhte and Amen-Re seated beside the Theban god Ptah, the god of darkness.

As the temple remains in absolute darkness through out the year and receives sunlight on these two very special days, the rare phenomenon is a scene that you just cannot afford to miss. Celebrated in a big way by the locals, undoubtedly the Sun Festival at Abu Simbel is one of the most uncommon and astounding festivals in the world.

To be a part of Egypt’s Abu Simbel Sun Festival, reach the temple way before dawn, as it is packed with crowd and watch the spectacular event occur before your eyes. You may also join in the celebrations of dance, music, food and fun later in the day to have a wholesome experience at the Abu Simbel Sun Festival in Egypt.

The Temple

Abu Simbel Temple is An architectural wonder, was built by the Egyptian emperor Ramses II back in 1250 BC along the banks of the mighty river, Nile in the southern part of Egypt. Known for his genius concepts in architecture and a passion for erecting monuments and structures commemorating his victories in the battles fought, the Pharaoh built the Abu Simbel temple near the Nubia borders in Upper Egypt, during his rule from 1270 to 1213.

As the temple was meant to be dedicated to the two Egyptian sun gods, Re-Horakhte and Amen-Re; the entire building was carved out of a single sandstone in a way that the sunrays could enter the inner-most sanctum of the temple and illuminate the seated statues of king Ramses II and the two sun gods, only on two significant days of the year.

Ramses, who ruled Egypt for 66 years from 1270 to 1213 BC (about 50 years after the death of Tutankhamen, better known as King Tut) made a name for himself by battling the Hittites and the Syrians, Egypt's enemies to the north.

To celebrate his victories, Ramses erected monuments up and down the Nile with records of his achievements. He completed the hypostyle hall at Karnak (Thebes), and completed the funerary temple of his father, Seti I, at Luxor on the West Bank of the Nile.

The spectacle—which has endured more than 3,200 years of Egyptian history—draws thousands of tourists to Abu Simbel to watch this ancient tribute to a pharaoh whose name is still known up and down the Nile Valley for his military exploits and monumental building projects.

The main temple at Abu Simbel, which Ramses ordered built near the border of Nubia and Upper Egypt, was dedicated to two sun gods, Amen-Re and Re-Horakhte. Standing 100 feet (33 meters) tall, the temple was carved into an already-standing sandstone mountain on the banks of the Nile.

Four colossal statues of Ramses, each 66 feet (22 meters) high, guard the entrance to the temple. Rising to the pharaoh's knees are smaller statues of family members: his mother; favorite wife, Nefertari; and son, Prince Amonherkhepshef.

Inside the temple, three connected halls extend 185 feet (56 meters) into the mountain. Images of the king's life and many achievements adorn the walls. A second temple at Abu Simbel is dedicated to Nefartari, who appears to have been Ramses' favorite wife.

Monumental Move

The Abu Simbel temples do not sit in their original location. Egypt's growing need for electricity prompted the controversial construction of the Aswan High Dam in the 1960s.The dam created Lake Nasser, and rising waters flooded a number of important archaeological sites along the banks of the Nile and displaced thousands of people who lived in the area.

The rising waters threatened the temples at Abu Simbel. Members of the United Nations Education, Science, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) orchestrated a massive construction project that moved the temple back 690 feet to its present site.

Piece by piece, craftsmen cut the temple, and the nearby temple of Nefertari into massive blocks of sandstone up to thirty tons. Both temples were carefully reassembled on a new steel and cement "mountain," safe from the water's edge.

The only result of the move is that the days of illumination have shifted by one—the illumination used to occur on February and October 21.

Sound and Light Show in Abu Simbel

The Sound and Light show at Abu Simbel will convey you to the time of the pharaohs. Enchanting you with melodious music, and bringing the ancient world to life around you, the show includes projections into the temples showing how they once looked. The program is presented in a number of languages with the provision of ear pieces. It is an experience not to be missed, one that will make your visit to Abu Simbel the memory of a lifetime.

Legend

Like other sites in Egypt, Abu Simbel survived in great condition until modern times. When Greeks visited the site in the 6th century BC, mounds of sand had grown so high that the knees of Ramses' statues were covered.

When Victorian traveler Amelia Edward visited Abu Simbel in 1873, the site was so captivating that it left her breathless: 'It was wonderful to wake every morning close under the steep bank, and, without lifting one's head from the pillow, o see that row of giant faces so close against the sky,' she said. 'They showed unearthly enough by moonlight; but no half so unearthly as in the grey of dawn. At that hour, the most solemn of the twenty-four, they wore a fixed and fatal look that was little less than appalling. As the sky warmed, this awful look was succeeded by a flush that mounted and deepened like the rising flush of life. For a moment they seemed to glow – to smile – to be transfigured. Then came a flash, as of thought itself. It was the first instantaneous flash of the risen sun. It lasted less than a second. It was gone almost before one could say that it was there. The next moment, mountain, river, and sky, were distinct in the steady light of day; and the colossi - mere colossi now - sat serene and stony in the open sunshine. Every morning I waked in time to witness that daily miracle.'

Timetable


Show	1^st	2^nd	3^rd
Day	The shows are presented in all languages (English-French-German-Italian-Spanish-Russian-Japanese-Arabic
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Show in winter From 1/10 To 30/4	7:00	8:00	9:00
Show in summer From 1/5 To 30/9	7:00	8:00	9:00

Ramadan in Egypt

2012-02-09T01:05:00.004+02:00

Ramadan in Cairo is an experience if you want to get closer to the local culture and see how the people live their lives. Changes that happen start with opening hours of sites and attractions that are shortened. You have to take into account the major traffic jam the cripples the city almost everyday between 2 and 5 pm as people are racing to catch breakfast at their homes.

Many restaurants serve food during the day, especially up-market and hotel ones. Some Fast food outlets work during the day. If you will eat out during breakfast time at sunset, try to make a reservation in advance even in places that don’t require reservations in regular times. Egyptians like to have Ramadan breakfasts out in groups, so places get crowded. You shouldn’t expect also the best of a restaurant during the breakfast hour. It is impossible for any restaurant to serve all its capacity that wants to start eating at the same moment of time with high quality and always arrive early, at least 45 minutes before you would expect to get the first of your orders delivered to your table because orders take longer time to be prepared (again due to the fact that all people come in the same time). So, be more tolerant with service at that time of the day. You will get the best of any restaurant though 2 hours after breakfast. If sunset is at 6, try go for dinner at 8 after all the crowds had left and the place is almost deserted and the whole staff would be doing nothing except serving you. Life comes back at 9 or 10 pm after everybody is done with the evening entertainment on TV and people start invading the streets and cafes and life will keep on going until the first hours of the morning. Cafes will be packed in midweek days until 3 am and yet people will still go to work the next day, don't ask me how.

One tradition that exists only in Egypt is the "Fanous Ramadan" (Ramadan Lantern). the lanterns are lit at sunset to indicate the end of fasting and should be turned off at sunrise, the start of fasting. Traditionaly they are made of thin metal and painted glass, but now there are also plastic lanterns that even play music, China invading the market again.

For tourists it is no problem to eat and drink during the day, everyone understands that you are not Moslem. However make sure that you have water with you, as less places (like street kiosks) are open during the day, and some take-aways etc only open in the evenings.

Click to read the whole article in TA

Religion in Egypt

2012-02-09T00:54:00.002+02:00

Religion in Egypt

Islam is the official religion for 90% of population and it is the most important influence on culture in Egypt. And this applies even for non-adherents like Coptic Christians (10%). Perhaps for this reason, crime is virtually nonexistent. The society is conservative, especially on issues related to women. Women are expected to be modest in dress and manner- no flimsy attire or loud talking and laughing, for example. The men are very happy with their position in this patriarchal society. The people are generally friendly, hospitable and very accommodating especially towards visitors. But visitors need to keep their religion to themselves- proselytizing is illegal here.Muslims pray 5 times daily:at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening. The exact time is listed in the local newspaper each day. Friday is the Muslim holy day. Everything is closed. Many companies also close on Thursday, making the weekend Thursday and Friday. During the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing.In general, things happen more slowly during Ramadan. Many businesses operate on a reduced schedule. Shops may be open and closed at unusual times

Click to read the whole article in TA

Special Offer during Dubai Shopping Festival 2012”

2012-01-08T00:15:00.001+02:00

Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) takes place every winter with its mammoth array of discounts, competitions, prizes, fireworks and entertainment. DSF offers amazing shopping discounts, attracting holiday makers from around the globe keen on grabbing a bargain. The festival began in 1996 as an initiative of the Dubai government to promote trade, and it gets bigger and better every year. DSF is not only a retail festival, but also a family festival with a large focus on mall-based entertainment and early evening shows.

Its continued success is proven by the large number of tourists from not only the GCC but also the rest of the world.

Traditionally, the festival runs from mid-January to the end of February and it kicks off with a huge opening night that features light shows and fireworks across the Dubai Creek, which are then continued throughout the entire festival.

Other events associated with DSF range from in-mall fashion shows, musicians, street performers, jugglers and other entertainers.

“Special Offer during Dubai Shopping Festival 2012”

from USD 449 for 6 days/5 nights

Inclusion:
* 5 night’s hotel accommodation on Bed & Breakfast basis.
* Arrival and departure transfers (Airport/Hotel/Airport).
* Inclusive of 10% Service Charge & 10% Municipality Fees.
* Inclusive of daily Buffet Breakfast.
* Half day Dubai city tour
Exclusions:
* Rates exclude entry visa .
* International flight to Dubai
* Any other item not mentioned above
General Notes:
* Package rate per person in USD$.
* Valid only From 10th to 20th of Jan. 2012 & From 30th Jan. to 04th Feb.2012
* Offer is valid till allocated rooms sold out.
* Other Tours & Sightseeing are available upon request.
* Alternative hotels and extra nights are available upon request.
* Arrival & departure dates falling before or after the above mentioned dates will be
subject to availability & charged at the daily available rate agreed upon.

Tips for choosing the best travel agent for your holiday

2011-07-16T02:32:00.002+02:00

1-You should evaluate a few travel agents before settling for one travel agent. Your choice should be based on quality of hotels and reviews and price.

2-Choose a travel agent who has good reputation and answer all your queries and concerns.

3-Check the internet and blog pages for good feedback. Choose a good tour operator to handle your safaris , all excursions and air /train tickets. In certain instances the travel agent does not function as tour operator.

4-Check the payment policies,payment methods and the policy for cancellations. A good company should not ask you for more than 40-50% of tour price in advance.

5-Check the travel agents service levels, if you run into problems you should be able to contact your travel agent easily.

6-A good travel agent will always warn you of the dangers, disadvantages and the advantage before hand.

7-A good travel agent will not try to simply sell a plane ticket but a memorable holiday experience to enjoy, stress free.

8-Check the travel agents reputation and feedback posted in Trip Advisors by other travelers.

Follow the link to read the whole article

Egypt Must See Sites

2011-07-07T23:29:00.003+02:00

The Pyramids of Giza represent one of the greatest architectural feats by man. The last surviving member of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the world's oldest tourist attractions and the reason most people visit Egypt today. There are in fact three main pyramids in Giza; the Great Pyramid of Khufu (or Cheops), The Pyramid of Kafhre and the smaller Pyramid of Menkaura. Each Pyramid is a tomb to a different King of Egypt. In front of the pyramids lies the Sphinx, or Abu al-Hol in Arabic, "Father of Terror". Carved out of a single block of stone, this enormous cat-like sculpture has mesmerized millions of visitors.

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is one of the first stops on most people's itineraries when traveling to Egypt. With over 120,000 artifacts, the museum houses an incredible display depicting ancient Egypt's glorious reign. You can enjoy mummies, sarcophagi, pottery, jewelry and of course King Tutankhamen's treasures. King Tut's goodies include his socks, underwear and the boy-king's death-mask made of solid gold, described as the most beautiful object ever made. The displays are not all labeled very well and it's a little haphazard but you'll enjoy it nevertheless.

The Valley of the Kings is situated on the ancient site of Thebes is where the pharaoh's were buried and hoped to meet their Gods in the afterlife. This is where you will find Tutankhamun's tomb which was discovered almost intact in the 1920's. You can go inside the tomb, but you'll have to visit the Egyptian Museum in Cairo to see the treasures he was buried with. Tutankhamun was actually quite a minor king in the scheme of things and there are many larger and more impressive tombs to discover in the Valley of the kings.

The spectacular Temples of Karnak are not to be missed when you travel to Egypt. As Michael Wood of the BBC History channel puts it: "Karnak is like a theme park of ancient Egyptian religion - in which every god and goddess of that civilization was represented over a period of about 2,000 years". It is no wonder then that Karnak was the most important place of worship in ancient Egypt. The site is huge, measuring 1500 x 800 meters, and is a spectacular complex of sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons and obelisks, all dedicated to the Theban gods. If you don't have the energy to cover all that ground then don't miss the Hypostile Hall in the Great Temple of Amun. There are several performances of the sound and light show a night with mixed reviews, but mostly good.

Luxor Temple: If you travel to Luxor (ancient Thebes) then it will be hard to miss the spectacular Luxor Temple situated in the center of Luxor city. The Temple of Luxor was built largely by Amenhotep III and Ramesses II around 1400BC. Its main purpose was to celebrate the festival of Opet. Many rulers built on to the temple yet it always remained a place of worship for Christians and later Muslims. A mosque built inside the temple still exists and is one of the highlights of the site. Luxor Temple is beautifully lit at night so it's worth visiting the site at sunset.

Abu Simbel Temples: Next to the Pyramids of Giza, Abu Simbel is perhaps the most recognized monument of ancient Egypt. The two temples built for the pharaoh Ramesses II have been attracting visitors since Victorian times. Almost as impressive as the monument itself is the story of its restoration in the 1960's. The temples had to be dismantled and physically moved 60 meters up a cliff where they were reassembled in the exact same relation to each other and the sun. A daily sound and light show is a highlight not to be missed. If you can make it you should also see the Abu Simbel Festival which takes place twice a year in February and October. Natural sunlight and architectural brilliance combine to make the inner sanctum of the temple light up. It's a breathtaking sight and makes the music, dance and food that accompanies the festival pale in comparison.

The Nile: Known as the longest river in the world, the River Nile has been a lifeline for Egyptian Society since ancient times. The Nile possesses a rich history as well as fascinating flora and fauna. Take the opportunity to be entranced by the Nile's beauty and opt to go for one of the many Nile cruises. These cruises vary in routes and duration, so you can choose a cruise that best fits your schedule. Sit back, relax and enjoy the unique sights and sound of the Nile as you sail on routes taken by Pharaohs and other legendary figures.

Siwa Oasis is known for its dates and olives. It has also been acknowledged as one of the most beautiful spots in Egypt. The Siwa Oasis differs from most of the rest of Egypt as it has its own Siwan culture distinct from the mainstream Arabic culture. The area is also famous for its numerous hot springs, which are said to have healing properties.

Red Sea: Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are Egyptian cities on the Red Sea that is a tourist favourite.Both cities are known for their sea sports. There are a number of quality aquatic sports facilities. They also boast several magnificent underwater gardens offshore. Visitors who do not dive may opt to go for a ride on the glass bottom boat, which will allow them to enjoy the sight of the many fish and coral under the sea. Its nightlife, in particular, is a main attraction. Among many other clubs and bars. Besides its nightlife, There is also a large bazaar in downtown Hurghada.

Islamic Cairo: More than 16 million people call Cairo home and it's chaotic, exotic, dusty and also beautiful. Perhaps the most interesting section of Cairo is Medieval (Islamic) Cairo. Medieval Cairo is a warren of streets just bustling with life. There are mosques at every corner, Coptic churches, huge medieval gates and bazaars selling everything from motorbike parts to perfumes. Highlights include the Citadel and the Khan Al-Khalili bazaar (for all your tourist trinket. The major mosques worth visiting include: the Mosque of Mohammed Ali; the Ibn Tulun, one of the largest mosques in the world; and the Al-Azhar mosque which houses the oldest university in the world (from 970AD).

Read the Whole article

Grand Opening for the Avenue of Sphinxes in Luxor

2011-07-01T23:16:00.000+02:00

A grand opening is due to take place in October 2011 to celebrate the newly restored Avenue of Sphinxes.

The important event will be opened by the Prime Minister of Egypt, Essam Sharaf, and is to bring together various government ministries such as the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Culture.

Lined with sphinxes, the 2.7km route that connects the grand temples of Luxor and Karnak will be lit by the Sound and Light Company of Egypt. Company president, Essam Abd El Hady, made it clear that the sophisticated lighting design would be appropriate to the archaeological importance and beauty of the site. The company will use a new, advanced type of lighting to focus on the avenue and additional archaeological discoveries, such as workshops and wine factories dating to the Greco-Roman period.

For the last 5 years, the restoration project has focused on excavation, conservation, treatment of the water table, and the establishment of protective walls and entrances for tourist. The 120million LE project also involved relocating houses and removing roads, with full compensation paid to all those affected by the development.

The impressive avenue has long been a place of religious significance. In her red chapel in Karnak, Queen Hatshepsut (1502-1482 BC) recorded that she built six chapels dedicated to the god Amun-Re on the route. Successive construction and restoration work commenced during the reigns of Akhenaten (1353-1336 BC), Tutankhamun (1336-1327 BC) and Horemheb (1323-1295 BC).

King Nectanebo I (380-362 BC) of the 30th Dynasty constructed the Avenue of Sphinxes on the older path. It was used for religious ceremonies and processions, marking the annual journey of the sacred boat of Amun on the god’s visit to his wife, Mut, at Luxor temple. An inscription from this time reads “I have built a beautiful road for my father Amun-Re surrounded by walls and decorated with flowers for the journey to the temple of Luxor”. Another inscription bears a cartouche for Queen Cleopatra. It is most likely to be from her visit to the avenue during a Nile trip with Mark Anthony.

Cruising the Nile

2011-06-29T06:13:00.003+02:00

A cruise down the Nile River is extremely a great way to discover the jewels of Egypt. Once the playground of the ancient pharaohs, the River Nile flows north from Aswan, past Luxor's many temples and through the capital Cairo until it finally reaches the Mediterranean Sea near Alexandria. As you float along the river you can laze on the deck and take in views of the small villages and ancient monuments that are dotted along the riverbank in front of a dramatic desert backdrop. A Nile Cruise is really an experience of a lifetime.

Egypt has often been described as the gift of the Nile and a cruise along this magical waterway is for many, the experience of a lifetime. There can be no better way to discover the riches of Egypt than to take a Nile Cruise. Monuments and temples bearing witness to the glories of an ancient civilisation pass you by – the temples of Luxor and Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, the romantic temple of Isis at Philae and further south the majestic Abu Simbel monument. A Nile Cruise is a perfect introduction to the "Land of the Pharaohs".

Travel in style and comfort with your camera ready to capture the stunning landscapes and incredible sights. Highlights of a Nile Cruise include the Karnak Temple, one of the largest temples in the world, the extraordinary Luxor Temple, Thebes and the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Valley of the Queens, the well preserved Edfu Temple, Esna Temple and Kom Ombu Temple. The twin temples of Abu Simbel and the romantic island Temple of Isis at Philae are also highlights of a cruise along the Nile. These ancient wonders attracted the ancient Greeks and Romans and still mesmerise visitors today. It is a marvelous experience to sit on the shaded deck of your floating hotel, sipping an iced drink, watching the culture of 5,000 years of the ancient pyramids drift by.

Our carefully selected luxury Nile Cruises offer the comforts of modern facilities and operate on a full board basis with breakfast, lunch and dinner. All our Nile Cruises are accompanied by a qualified Egyptologist who will guide you through the excursion programme. Many major excursions are included in the price of your cruise with additional optional excursions available locally. A Nile Cruise offers the chance to see the wonders of ancient Egypt - one of the greatest civilisations the world has ever known.

For more information, please feel free to contact us

Health tips

2011-06-21T02:07:00.004+02:00

There are no compulsory vaccantions when entering Cairo, but there are reccomendations. Some people will already have some of these. They are Hep A and B, Tetanus, Typhoid Fever and some people even suggest Yellow Fever. If you will be in the El Fayoum area, Malaria is also suggested. However there is only limited risk in this area.

When consuming Egyptian food, please be aware that there are many spices and ingredients which may not agree with a "foreign" stomach. Be especially careful of salads from places that are not trusted or advised. The methods of cleaning and/or cutting vegetables and produce may be questionable.

Try to drink bottled water. Any type, or kind, will do. Just be sure to read the label on the bottle to see how much TDS (Total Dissolved Salt) is contained. If the level is more than 200, do not buy it. That level is too high. In Egypt there are so many types of mineral water. Some are good, but a few types may cause stomach problems, diarrhea, and other issues. To be safe, stick to water that has the least TDS as much as possible.

Regarding food, always eat in nice and clean places. You can try typical Egyptian food in so many reputable restaurants. Many web pages will provide you with this information, and you'll also find many recommendations in the forum.

If you do have an upset stomach use Antinal, an Egyptian medication for a sore tummy. You can pick them up from pharmacists over the counter, and they are pretty cheap. Bringing your own is not a good idea, the Egyptian meds, work better on the Egyptian bugs.

If you are on a Nile cruise, do not brush your teeth with tap water. It is not always healthy for consumption, although it is fine to use to wash your face or to take a shower. Clean your teeth with mineral and/or bottled water.

Medical Assistance

If you get sick, or need to consult a doctor, try the main hospitals like El Salam Hosptial, Dar El Fouad, New Kasr El Eini, and many others. They have 24-hour clinics for emergencies, and they have good professional doctors.

Read original article in TA?

Traffic jam and cabs in Egypt

2011-06-21T01:13:00.006+02:00

Traffic

Be aware of your surroundings if you have to cross the streets in Cairo. Traffic is not as it is in Europe or North America, as cars never stop for pedestrians. Try to be patient and wait until there are no cars before crossing. If this does not happen, do not run in front of the cars. But if you do decide to cross, try to walk at a faster pace than normal, and cars will do their best to avoid you. Don't be scared, or else try to cross where there is a traffic light. If worse comes to worse, try to stick by the locals, and cross the street alongside them. Crossing with locals can be scary, but they manage and have experience.

If you go to the Pyramids and wish to ride a camel, have a guide (or a local) negotiate for you. If you run into any problems at any archaeological sites, there are tourist police, personnel or even an office where you can file complaints. They should be able to refund your money in a matter of minutes.

There's Three kinds of cabs in Cairo:

The Black and Whites are usually Fiat Lada's, they have black doors and white Fenders. They don't have air conditioning, and they don't have meters. If you're not prepared to haggle out pricing, don't bother.

The White Cabs are usually newer model cars. They have white bodies with a black and white checkered stripe down the side. These have air conditioning and Meters. The Meter spares you the trouble of negotiating and arguing out ricing, and the meters are fair. They calculate based on both time and distance. You usually have to ask the driver to turn on the AC (Takeef), and if it is a short trip they might decline. But for a longer trip or in the heat of the day, they'll usually roll up the windows and be accomodating. You ARE paying after all.

Yellow Cabs are called cabs. You call for them to pick you up. They have AC and Meters and you call a phone number to have one dispatched to where you are. These tend to be more expensive, but in a situation like getting to Ramses Station or the Airport with your luggage, they're pretty handy.

There's a new thing called the London Taxi. They only operate on a call basis, will pick you up at your hotel and will only take you to the airport. These are more like limos, larger cars, with lots of options. The pricing is pre-set.

If your driver's done a good job? Say they got you where you were going quickly? Tipping is appropriate.

Trains in Egypt
Sleeping Trains is a comfortable and a secured way with excellent service to travel between Cairo and the cities in the Nile valley, Luxor and Aswan. There are day-time trains for country-side enjoyment and over-night trains to save the time by traveling at night.

All trains stop at El Giza station before arriving at Cairo Ramses station. It is better to plan your journey from Cairo Ramses station since it is the main hub of trains and maintains better communication and food services.

The sleeper trains run between Cairo and Aswan. Leaving from Rameses Station in Cairo, this train makes few stops: Giza Station, Assyuit, Luxor, Aswan. Cabins are either single or double. There is 2-berth compartments and heigher price single-berth compartments. The traveller can share 2-berth compartments with another passenger of the same sex.

The sleeper train has an added attraction, the club car, a comfortable dining/drink car with entertainment facilities. It is decorated with wood paneling and brass lights. The fare includes two meals available, dinner and breakfast.

EGYPT Sleeping Trains covers the most significant areas of interest to tourists in Egypt, including Luxor, Aswan and Marsa Matrouh as major destinations.

TRAIN TIME SCHEDULE

Train No. Route
84 Cairo - Luxor - Aswan
85 Aswan - Luxor - Cairo
86 Cairo - Luxor - Aswan
87 Aswan - Luxor - Cairo
82 Alexandria - Cairo - Luxor - Aswan
83 Aswan - Luxor - Cairo - Alexandria

Train No. Dep. Arr. Dep. Arr.

84 Station Cairo Cairo Luxor Luxor Aswan
Local Time 20:00 5:05 5:15 8:15

85 Station Aswan Aswan Luxor Luxor Cairo
Local Time 19:00 21:30 22:30 6:45

86 Station Cairo Cairo Luxor
Local Time 20:50 6:55

87 Station Aswan Aswan Luxor Luxor Cairo
Local Time 17:00 20.00 20:40 5:05

Train No. Dep. Arr. Dep. Arr. Dep. Arr.

82 Station Alexandria Cairo Cairo Luxor Luxor Aswan
Local Time 17:20 20:10 21:35 5:25 5:35 8:50

83 Station Aswan Luxor Luxor Cairo Cairo Alexandria
Local Time 16:00 19:30 19:40 5:35 6:10 9:10

Read original article in Trip Advisors

Egypt .. What to Wear ?

2011-06-21T00:19:00.013+02:00

Egypt .. being a predominantly Muslim country, is naturally conservative (not like the Gulf States or Saudi Arabia) but the average people are careful in what they wear, especially ladies -- the more conservative the clothing you wear, the better it is for you.

For men it is not really an issue -- normal trousers and shirt or T-shirt are fine -- but in Cairo it would not be acceptable to wear short shorts or a tank tops/sleeveless tops. In the resorts like Sharm El Sheik, Hurghada, Sinai, etc. -- shorts are fine and it is very open and flexible. This also applies to ladies for the beach areas, but going into the market area in Hurghada, for example you may be more comfortable in trousers. Generally for men in Cairo or any city that is not on the sea side, remain with trousers (at tourist sites long loose shorts) or jeans and T-shirt , as even in Cairo, local people do not feel comfortable seeing a man in shorts. In Sea Side areas it's ok to walk in shorts, but once you enter a local restuarant or market, it's better to be more covered.

So, the main subject here is what women should wear. The more conservative you are the less attention you will attract, which for most people is desirable. Basic clothes could be loose linen/cotton trousers or a longish skirt and long sleeved blouse or at least half sleeves. (If you're planning to ride a camel, a skirt is not a good idea.) Tight clothes and low necks are to be avoided. Also aviod transperant blouses or pants as they are also not welcomed and will draw attention and even comments, especially from young men.

Going out to dinner, especially in a good place, it is nice to dress up a bit, and having a nice shawl would be a good idea. You will see that the local population does like to dress up in the evening. On cruise boats also it is nice to have something smart to wear in the evening.

Comfortable strong shoes are a must (that could be sneakers/trainers or good leather shoes). Sandals can be worn, but you will suffer from dust /sand and the streets of Cairo are not clean; there are often muddy puddles, too, so in general having closed shoes is the better option. This is not the time to make a fashion statement. It will be difficult to see sights in heels of any sort, as the desert is sandy.

When entering a mosque as a tourist it is better to observe the conservative dress code as above, and in some of the major mosques (Al-Azhar for example) women will be required to cover up and this is provided by the mosque. Some mosques (i.e., Ibn Touloun) have canvas shoe covers (not easy to walk with), so it is possible to decline, but Ibn Touloun mosque is not in use for daily services, so it is not always very clean, and using the shoe covers can be good for the areas that have no carpets like the central court. For other mosques like Mohamed Ali or any other, just remove your shoes and walk in socks. Any Muslim entering a mosque for prayer will simply remove his/her shoes, so why should a tourist be different? The best option for most people when entering a mosque is to leave the shoes with the mosque guard, who usually has a desk at the entrance and a place to store shoes. He will keep an eye on them. When leaving you can give him 1 egyptian pound or even half a pound, or nothing. Usually locals give half a pound just because he is a poor man, but it is not obligatory. Some of these guards are greedy when they see a tourist, and they ask you for money but if you do not want to pay just leave, he can't force you to pay anything and he doesnt have right to not even to mention certain amount of money to be paid.

In winter it can get cold at night in Egypt; often it is warmer in the street than it is inside buildings, so it is a good idea to bring a casual jacket or shawl. The buildings are designed to be cool and it is good to be aware of this. Here iit s very rare to have central heating or central air conditioning; this is only in big hotels and other high class places.

So to "fit in," the above is highly recommended - this applies to any of the major cities in Egypt, excluding the Red Sea resorts, which are much more easy going, but while traveling by road between destinations (police check points, petrol stations, etc.) covering up more would be wise. Also when being in Upper Egypt (i.e Luxor , Aswan and in between ) it is required to be more covered and for ladies also to not be wear extreme makeup, as this will only attract more unwanted attention.

All these tips and much more, you can simply find in Trip Advisors

Women traveling alone

2011-06-20T23:36:00.036+02:00

All visitors to Egypt, whether they are female or male, can receive a great deal of attention from Egyptians. Most of the time it is harmless and good-humoured. Most tourists still feel safer in Cairo than they do in their own cities. This applies whether you are a single female traveller or part of a group of women travelling without male companions. For the most part, Egypt is a safe destination. A lot of unpleasant scenarios can be avoided if the female traveller has the right appearance, attitude, and actions. Clothing should be sensible and modest, but there is no need to be completely covered. Some women have found that it doesn't matter what they wear - they still receive unwanted comments, stares, and attention. Egypt is a Muslim country and ladies are expected to dress accordingly. This doesn't mean you should be covered up from head-to-toe, but customs should be respected and the less skin you show, the better. Contrary to what many believe, there is no widespread belief in Egypt that female foreigners are cheap and up for grabs by anyone who wants them.

Ladies dress codes in general

When walking in the streets or out sight-seeing, it is best to wear loose fitting clothes in natural fabrics, especially in the summer months where the temperatures rise dramatically. As previously mentioned, ladies should cover up as much as possible with T-shirts or tunic tops (nothing strappy or revealing) and long skirts, long trousers or cropped trousers (no mini-skirts or short shorts). Do not show cleavage and upper arms and knees should be covered. Tight fitting body-hugging t-shirts or tops are not recommended, especially if you are a bit larger up top.

While at the pool either at the hotel or on board the boat, it is acceptable to wear normal pool attire, but topless sunbathing is prohibited and bathing suits/bikinis should not be too revealing.Remember to wear high factor sunscreen and to seek out the shade when it gets very hot. A hat is also recommended. A sarong or wrap is also very handy for covering up when going to the pool bar or as protection from the sun.

The dress codes within the hotels and on the boats are mostly casual but you can dress smartly if you wish. One hotel restaurant that does have a strict dress code is the 1886 in the Old Winter Palace where ladies are expected to dress smartly and, in the evenings, shorts are not allowed. If wearing trousers though, you should wear 'proper' sandals or shoes - no trainers. Dress codes in other restaurants, whether in the hotels or independent, are fairly relaxed and usually smart but casual. The La Fleur at the Jolie Ville also requires smart clothing (no jeans).

A pashmina or wrap can come in handy here too where some hotels and restaurants have their air conditioning up very high, so this can be used in this instance to keep warm!!

Ladies traveling in winter months
Although it will still be lovely and warm during the day, you will find it cooler in the early mornings and as the sun goes down in the evening. You will probably need to take a lightweight fleece or jacket or cardigan with you - wear this for travelling, so that it won't weigh your case down too much! It's during this time of the year when you will also see the local people wearing warmer clothing. Just as an aside - if the swimming pool at your hotel is not heated, you will find the water VERY cold indeed.

All these tips and much more, you can simply find in Trip Advisors

Egypt Weather And When To Go ?

2011-06-19T03:17:00.015+02:00

Egypt has only two seasons: a mild winter from November to April and a hot summer from May to October. The only differences between the seasons are variations in daytime temperatures and changes in prevailing winds. In the coastal regions, temperatures range between an average minimum of 14° C in winter and an average maximum of 30° C in summer.

Temperatures vary widely in the inland desert areas, especially in summer, when they may range from 7° C at night to 43° C during the day. During winter, temperatures in the desert fluctuate less dramatically, but they can be as low as 0° C at night and as high as 18° C during the day.

The average annual temperature increases moving southward from the Delta to the Sudanese border, where temperatures are similar to those of the open deserts to the east and west. In the north, the cooler temperatures of Alexandria during the summer have made the city a popular resort. Throughout the Delta and the northern Nile Valley, there are occasional winter cold spells accompanied by light frost and even snow. At Aswan, in the south, June temperatures can be as low as 10° C at night and as high as 41° C during the day when the sky is clear.

Egypt receives fewer than eighty millimeters of precipitation annually in most areas. Most rain falls along the coast, but even the wettest area, around Alexandria, receives only about 200 millimeters of precipitation per year. Alexandria has relatively high humidity, but sea breezes help keep the moisture down to a comfortable level. Moving southward, the amount of precipitation decreases suddenly. Cairo receives a little more than one centimeter of precipitation each year. The city, however, reports humidity as high as 77 percent during the summer. But during the rest of the year, humidity is low. The areas south of Cairo receive only traces of rainfall. Some areas will go years without rain and then experience sudden downpours that result in flash floods. Sinai receives somewhat more rainfall (about twelve centimeters annually in the north) than the other desert areas, and the region is dotted by numerous wells and oases, which support small population centers that formerly were focal points on trade routes. Water drainage toward the Mediterranean Sea from the main plateau supplies sufficient moisture to permit some agriculture in the coastal area, particularly near Al Arish.

A phenomenon of Egypt's climate is the hot spring wind that blows across the country. The winds, known to Europeans as the sirocco and to Egyptians as the khamsin, usually arrive in April but occasionally occur in March and May. The winds form in small but vigorous low-pressure areas in the Isthmus of Suez and sweep across the northern coast of Africa. Unobstructed by geographical features, the winds reach high velocities and carry great quantities of sand and dust from the deserts. These sandstorms, often accompanied by winds of up to 140 kilometers per hour, can cause temperatures to rise as much as 20° C in two hours. The winds blow intermittently and may continue for days, cause illness in people and animals, harm crops, and occasionally damage houses and infrastructure.

When To Go ?

Travelling to Egypt and deciding when is really a matter of activities. If you are into swimming and snorkelling in the ocean, clubbing with sand between your feet and getting a real nice tan, then there is no reason not to head to Sharm el-Sheikh or Hurghada during the very hot months of summer where 38 - 45 degrees celcius are not uncommon.

If you are more into sightseeing and cultural stuff, then the best time to go is during March, April, December and January. Some also say that October and November are also good months. No matter what the weather, the nights can get cold so always wear layers. During the hottest months of summer, the nights are warm and balmy, but it can be really windy on the coasts. The sun is extremely strong all year round so take a hat and have plenty of SPF or you will peel.

Also remember that places in the south like Aswan are hot during the summer. Egypt is close to deserts so there is always sand in the air so forget about wearing contact lenses. Make sure you take your sun glasses.

Be careful on hot days. If you want to see sites during hot days, either go early in the morning or late in the day. Do enjoy a stroll along the Nile in the evening as there will be a cool breeze and lots of people watching going on or try a felucca ride.

Either season, the winds can be strong and during the early months of spring, there is a risk of severe sandstorms in Egypt, the khamsin. When the khamsin is blowing, you can do nothing but stay inside and wait until it has passed. Sightseeing is not possible during a sandstorm. Windy summernights are nice, but be careful during the day, as the wind sometimes fool you so that you do not feel the heat and the rays from the sun and you will burn easily.

Follow the link for more information

Is Egypt Safe Now ?

2011-06-19T01:50:00.004+02:00

In general, Egypt is a safe country to travel. Egyptians are very friendly - if you are in need of assistance they will generally try to help you as much as they are able, more than any one imagine. For example, if you take a taxi from Cairo to Alexandria, you will be stopped at a checkpoint before leaving Cairo. They will ask where you are going, and communicate with the checkpoint at Alexandria to make sure you reach your destination within a certain time period. The same goes for most trips into the desert. During different branches of your drive, you may be escorted by local police. They will travel to your destination with you, wait around until you are finished, and usually stay behind at one of the next checkpoints.There are also several checkpoints from Cairo to Sharm el Shiekh when traveling by coach. Military officials get on the coach and check passports. The usual warnings for prudent behaviour apply, but are not the same as in New York or London. In the latter, the anxiety is highest with respect to bombs. As for casual crime (muggings and robberies), Egypt is quite safe. Facing danger in Egypt is much less violent attack than the less dangerous problem of cheating and scams. You will find security situation in Egypt (as in many countries) is frequently exaggerated by Western media outlets, creating a negative impressions that is somewhat amplified by the heavy-handed policies of Egyptian authorities in keeping tourists safe. The reality is that travelling in Egypt is probably no more hazardous, with regard to terrorism, than visiting most Western capitals (and probably a lot safer!) Egypt relies heavily on foreign tourism for its national income and both Egyptians and their government are extremely keen to prevent any occurrence that might create a bad impression and keep tourists away. Tourism is one of the country's most important sources of hard currency, and besides not wanting any untoward incidents, Egypt is very pragmatic and wants in no way to jeopardize a vital economic benefit. All visitors to Egypt, whether they are female or male, can receive a great deal of attention from Egyptians. Most of the time it is harmless and good-humoured, and only very rarely is it dangerous, but most tourists still feel safer in Cairo than they do in their own cities. This applies whether you are a single female traveller or part of a group of women travelling without male companions. For the most part, Egypt is a safe destination. A lot of unpleasant scenarios can be avoided if the female traveller has the right appearance, attitude, and actions. Clothing should be sensible and modest, but there is no need to be completely covered. Some women have found that it doesn't matter what they wear - they still receive unwanted comments, stares, and attention. Rape and assault are virtually non-existent.

As of April 28, the curfew hours were very limited just from 2:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m in Cairo. however people were found walking in the streets with their friends and companions because Cairo is the city that never sleeps. The curfew never enforced in Luxor , Aswan or Red Sea. As of June 14th, the curfew has been finally abolished and You may now move freely 24 hours a day. You will find also security police widely spreaded in all cities. Policemen are very friendly and extremely eager to help in case of any emergency even if it's just a broken tire or something. Tourism is one of the main industries in Egypt and so the nation is very keen on keeping it one of the thriving ones.

IS EGYPT SAFE NOW?

by Joyce Carta

As you can imagine, I have been getting this question frequently since the attacks of 11 September. I thought I'd share my answer with you all here. Travel always entails some uncertainties, but then, so does life. (That's why we named our travel business "New Adventures.") Is it safe now to travel to Egypt?...I invite you to read my very well considered response to the question.

Honestly, I can tell you that were it not for business keeping me here in the States I would go back to Egypt now, just so that I could personally relate how safe it is. I know when people think of the region they think of the Israeli/Palestinian problems, but that isn't effecting and hasn't been effecting Egypt. I had clients who arrived in Cairo on 10 Sep, toured the country into the Sinai and left 29 Sep to go on to Jordan (where they had an equally wonderful time). I was in e-mail contact directly with them and also, of course, daily with our staff in Egypt and Jordan...my clients experienced no problems whatsoever, had a wonderful time and fell in love with the Egyptian people (this is not surprising, everyone falls in love with the Egyptian people...they are, well, lovable). The Egyptian people, the vast majority who are thoughtful and moderate in their views, like Americans enormously...we're very similar when it comes to friendliness, warmth and we share the same, sometimes silly, sense of humor.

And, of course, the way our trips are organized, private and escorted, matters as well. You travel in a private car, with 2 Egyptians: your private Egyptologist and your driver. You are as inconspicuous as it's possible for a Westerner to be. Our State Department has issued no travel warnings, advisories or alerts for Egypt (or Jordan, for that matter). The most recent issuance from the State Department concerning Egypt was a general Consular Information Sheet with the general overview travelers to the country should be aware of, and this was issued on 9 February 2001. Under the current world conditions the State Department's recommendation, and the recommendation of our Embassy in Cairo is: maintain a discrete profile, avoid large crowds or demonstrations, be alert about your surroundings and generally exercise prudence...and this is excellent advice no matter where or when you travel.

Air travel has probably never been safer than it is now. And the security precautions the Egyptian government has had in place to protect tourists for the last 5 years are impressive. There are metal detectors at the entries to all the sites, and at the hotel entryways, you see the military presence everywhere and over-the-road travel between certain cities tourists frequent has been by army escorted convoy. And there have been no problems. Tourism is one of the country's most important sources of hard currency, and besides not wanting any untoward incidents, Egypt is very pragmatic and wants in no way to jeopardize a vital economic benefit.

And, quite frankly, I would never want to send guests over to my second favorite country in the world if I didn't have an excellent expectation that their time spent would be thoroughly and completely wonderful. Egypt is just too important to me, and too special a place, to sell short. So, I guess to answer the question...there's nothing going on in Egypt that would present a concern for the traveler. If seeing Egypt has always been your dream, this is a good time to turn the dream into reality.

Follow the link for more tips

Travel Tips & Tipping Guidelines

2011-05-07T00:44:00.002+02:00

1. In general, pack lightly. Weather is hot from May till September. So, choose clothes that could be suitable for summer. Jeans, Lightweight pants, Cotton made shirts are great for the Egyptian heat. sneakers or trainer type style shoes are highly recommended for most tours in Giza and Upper Egypt. It's also advisable to bring a white large hat, sunblock as well as your sunglasses which work as a sort of protection against dust while visiting the pyramids, Sakkara and Valley of the kings.Women can wear slacks, jeans, short sleeved blouses, knee skirts .. etc. In general, women can wear whatever they like just avoid the mini skirts, hot pants, tank tops, transparents', deep v necks and tight figure hugging outfits or anything show that much skin in Cairo and Upper Egypt. Laundry service at hotels is very quick and inexpensive, your clothing will be picked up and returned by the following day.

2. Clothes and belief: Women are expected to wear some sort of head covering. So, Dress relatively conservatively. In addition, scarves or other apparel should be taken along to cover shoulders and arms. Men are also advised to avoid shorts when visiting religious places. All visitors to mosques must however, remove their shoes.

3. Health : You might not need any medication during your stay in Egypt, however if you have sensitive stomach then it would be advisable to bring any prescriptions you might need for Diarrhea and stomach upset. Bring anti-bacterial wipes and hand sanitizer, use them before you eat. Unless you prefer a specific brand, just about anything you need can be found in Egypt. Toiletries are available in pharmacies and "supermarkets". Drink the filtered bottle water, which is available everywhere.

4. Egypt uses 220 voltage so be sure to bring a power adapter and a power converter if your appliances don't work on this. The power adapter allows the item to be plugged into the wall and the power converter allows the voltage to be changed from 220 to 110 (which is what is used in the USA). If your item doesn't have an internal converter built in, then you will need a both. The plugs in Egypt are usually 2 rounded prongs.

5.Visa can be obtained at Cairo Airport for 15$ per person.In the arrival hall, head to any bank (you will find at least 3) and buy a visa from the bank clerk. Take your visa from the bank clerk and stick it on the first empty page in your passport. Now, fill your arrival card. You should have received this from a flight attendant prior to landing. If you did not get one, don’t worry, you can find one in any kiosk in the arrival hall. You must ensure that you complete all fields on the arrival card IN CAPITAL LETTERS. Now you can join the queue for passport control. It is a good idea for one person to buy the visas for everyone, while the others hold his/her place in the passport control queue

6.Banking Services : Egypt is a cash community. ATM machines, cashing money on credit card, are accessible at major hotels as well as banks in the streets. The US Dollar is well received almost everywhere. Carry enough cash or be prepared to pay 2% - 3% for a credit card advance from a bank. Merchants won’t take traveler’s checks; you’ll have to cash them at a bank for a 2% - 5% fee. Merchants will add 3% to 6% to the bill if you pay with a credit card..

7. The entry tickets to all the sights are cool, coordinated and make good souvenirs. If you bend the tear-off portion back and forth a few times while walking toward the ticket-taker, it will tear off cleanly leaving you with a nice piece. It’s not perforated. Most of the photo equipment are available in Egypt.It would be very cheap if you want to develope your film in Egypt. Many photo shops develope your film in less than an hour. Also, you can transfer photos onto a CD. Taking photos inside of any of the tombs or pyramids (also tombs) is prohibited. It is done frequently but technically illegal. Bring a big capacity of memory card, you are going to take thousands of great pictures here.

8. Egypt is perfectly safe. Some tourists are understandably concerned that the Gaza/ Israeli conflict might escalate. All I can say is that while in Egypt, tourists are usually unaffected by what's happening in surrounding countries. You will not feel unsafe or even aware of it.

9.The Blackberry worked the entire length of the upper Nile from Luxor to Aswan. Also it is almost always a fast 3G connection. But if you don’t need email it’s a lot cheaper to get your phone company to give you an unlock code for your phone and buy a local country SIM card.

10.Tipping is a way of life in

Egypt

, if someone does something you would consider as good service or an extra effort, he expects to be tipped. You should only tip if you feel you want to, you are under no pressure to do so, but it would leave a good impression, and many Egyptian people survive on very little. Also, a thank you and a smile will get you a lot.Tip appropriately with a smile. Get a supply of 1 EGP coins (currently worth 18 cents) to pay the public bathroom attendants. Most bathrooms in public places have an attendant who holds the toilet paper hostage, doles out paper towels, and cleans up the bathroom. For women, it's usually a young girl and there is a plate or basket on the counter to leave a tip. You don't have to -- but a one pound note or coin is a piddling amount when you realize that this makes up the income for this person. If there is no basket or bowl, hand it to them directly if they have provided a service.So, tip the bathroom attendants when you can, tip the caretakers at tombs (about one pound) if your guide doesn't do it, tip 10% or 10 pounds at restaurants, the normal amount at hotels for porters and housekeeping and don't worry, that won't ruin your trip.Please, don't give small notes or coins as a tip to people who helped you all the way throughout your trip, such as drivers, tour leaders, and tour escorts, it would be an insult to them, Also, do not offer tips to professionals, businessmen, or others who would consider themselves your equals, as you may seriously offend them by your act. Don't tip someone if helps you with directions, even if they insist on changing directions and walking you halfway to your destination. It is considered rude. Don't give money to beggars or people who simply asked for money. The request for baksheesh "tip" should be given only for people who do something for you or showing you something particularly interesting. If it's any consolation, Egyptians give each other baksheesh as well and nearly same amounts exactly like tourists.

Egyptian pounds are best but dollars are fine. Just don't use coins because they can't be exchanged at banks, they will have to save up enough and ask a tourist to change them for a note.If you are going to tip using dollar bills, obtain a supply of pristine, single dollar, notes as banks may not be willing to change crumpled, torn or dirty bills when presented for exchange by the recipient.it is very hard to get small LE denominations. Even the banks have few bills under LE20. Small change can be easily found at a gas station. Just ask your local Cairo guide or tour rep.

Here's a tips' menu :

Driver taking you to hotel from airport upon arrival: 10 - 20 LE

Luggage man at hotel: 3-5 LE pr. bag both in and out

Housekeeping: 5-10 LE pr. night

Waiter/waitress at breakfast restaurant at hotel: 5-10 LE pr. meal

Driver taking you sightseeing full day: 50 LE

Guide taking you sightseeing full day: 80-100 LE (Full days are only in Cairo)

Tour Representative min. EGP 30 per day.

Waiter at lunch restaurant in connection to sightseeing: 5-10 LE

Feluccaman taking you sailing for one hour: 10 LE

Guards around the sites: 1-2 LE

"Groundskeeper" in mosques (the man handing you shoe-covers, showing you special things etc): 1-5 LE

Boat staff on Nile cruise incl. reception: 10 LE pr. person pr. night, leave in envelope in reception by the end. Write your cabin number on the envelope. Will be divided between all staff. If you feel like rewarding a member of staff with a little extra, do it very discreet, or he will be forced to share with the others.

Horsemen in Edfu: MAX. 10 LE for roundtrip to temple and back

Men or women at restrooms handing out toiletpaper: 50 PT - 1 LE. And if restroom is unacceptably nasty, don't tip!

Kids or young adults helping with camels, horses or donkeys, provided they are "employees" at the stables: 5-10 LE after trip

11. Shopping in the land of Pyramids can be a wonderful experience. You may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt and try to pay with credit cards, which are generally accepted in most shopping stores. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
We recommend and guarantee some particular shops or merchants, where you will be provided with a guaranteed certification. This recommendation will be advised by local tour guide.

Read more tips in TA

Off the beaten Track (12 days/11 nights)

2011-04-09T18:57:00.002+02:00

Explore more and more magnificent historical sites when you join this remarkable tour which takes you farther and deeper to enjoy the glory of Egypt.

Wonders of Egypt 10 Days/ 09 Nights

2011-04-09T18:40:00.001+02:00

If you're after a trip to all wonders of Egypt from awe-inspiring monuments , local culture, bustling atmosphere of Cairo, and relax by the majestic Nile aboard a stylish cruise boat in the company of an experienced Egyptologist then this is the trip you are dreaming of.

Rate starts from 1215 $ in twin bed/ double room

Desert Safari trips starting from $ 350

2011-03-16T23:14:00.003+02:00

Get rid of all the hassle of your everyday life; the stress has been left behind and here you start to feel like a human being again. Watch the sunset in the desert; ride on camels, the most preferred vehicle in the Sahara and return to The Forest, where you chill out in the warm springs after having taken dinner round the barbeque. Mountains with black icing sugar sprinkled over their mighty peaks, black flowers made from nature with stone, will catch your eyes. The blue sky above you and the sea of sand around you.... Discover the majestic beauty offered by the untouched vastness offers a lifetime experience that is difficult to surpass.

Egypt Budget Tour ( 8 Days/ 7 Nights)

2011-02-27T01:48:00.008+02:00

This splendid tour designed especially for people who are looking to explore both the historic sites of Egypt and the natural beauty of the Red Sea but on limited budget. Now you can visit the major highlights in Cairo and Luxor then have a special time on the fabulous Red Sea beach.

Rate starts from $ 745 in double/ twin bed room.

FAMILY TOUR (11 Days/10 Nights)

2011-02-26T01:51:00.014+02:00

CAIRO AND THE NILE VALLEY (8 DAYS/ 7 NIGHTS)

2011-02-26T01:20:00.006+02:00

Egypt Highlights in 5 days starts from $ 345

2011-02-25T18:59:00.014+02:00

If you are short on time, this tour gives you a great introduction to the best that Egypt has to offer. From the towering Pyramids at Gisa and the breathtaking temples of Luxor and Karnak to the colourful bazaars and interesting museums of Cairo. This tour gives you the chance to enjoy Egypt at its best.

Cairo short break starts from $ 275

2011-02-25T18:44:00.010+02:00

This whistle stop tour of Cairo includes visits to the Great Pyramids of Gisa and Sphinx, Zoser’s step pyramid at Saqqara, along with a city tour of Cairo which visits the Citadel, Egyptian museum and Khan Al Khalili bazaar. All this coupled with options for sound and Light show and evening entertainment, makes the perfect short break.

8 days Nile cruise with visits of the Pyramids and Abu Simbel

2011-02-24T04:01:00.004+02:00

Spend eight days on a voyage down the beautiful and romantic Nile River on a cruise from Luxor to Aswan and back exploring the historic temples, tombs and relics of the the Upper Nile, described as the greatest outdoor museum in the world!

Scheduled guided tours on the cruise include the Valley of the Kings, the Karnak and Luxor Temples, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo, the beautiful Philae Temple in Aswan, with opportunity for visiting the pyramids and Cairo Museum as well as Abu Simbel temples.

Our fabulous clients' messages

2010-05-07T01:09:00.044+03:00

Christine, Shelly, Karen and Diane

Dear Randa,

Words cannot express the absolute joy I feel about my trip to Egypt. I really appreciate the care and thought you put in to organizing this for us! It was an amazing trip and dream come true! Our guides were great! Waleed took very good care of four women on our first big trip! He was so funny and very knowledgeable! Abdul was great for going to the tombs and temples. He had a vast knowledge of the history and mythology. We were practically junior Egyptologists by the time he was finished with us! Said was great in Sharm ElSheikh! I had never been snorkling before and he was so patient to teach me. Seeing the brightly colored fish and corals was an amazing experience. I will never forget climbing Moses Mountain or the great birthday celebration that evening. I cannot remember the sweet sister who took us on our Islamic tour the last day in Cairo but she was fantastic and really enhanced our visit with her knowledge and experience. Thank you thank you thank you for such a fantastic trip!! It is a memory I will treasure the rest of my life! OH! and Thank you for my camels! Diane took her collection home with her and I was a little sad not to have camels in the flat. Now I have a little herd!

Please send me your contact information again. I have told everyone what a great job you did and really truly recommend they visit Egypt...and let you arrange it for them!

Love and Blessings!

Christine Young - USA

Dear Randa,
I want to thank you for organizing a truly wonderful trip for us. You were a delight to work with. We appreciated how conscientious you are and how you carried though with all our requests. I'm only sorry we didn't get to meet while we were in Egypt, but I appreciated your phone calls inquiring if everything was going well. We appreciated the upgrades in the hotels. Eman was an absolutely wonderful tour guide in Cairo. We enjoyed her knowledge and expertise as a guide and her caring and sweet personality. We learned so much from her.

I would be pleased if you want to use me for a recommendation for your services to future travelers to Egypt. Let me know if I can help you in that way.

Best wishes to you.
Susan Rappaport, Yosemite, USA

Hi Randa,

Thanks for your email. Even now, many weeks after getting back from Egypt/Jordan we both agree it was the best experience we've had. The plans we made with you went according to schedule and everything ran as smoothly as you said it would. Many of our friends have asked us what 'we liked best' but I can honestly say that each day was a completely different experience that it is hard to quantify Egypt in just a couple of highlights.

The itinerary that you put together was really very,very good in that it meant that we were able to experience various sides to the history and culture without getting tired of seeing the 'same thing' each day so i think the day trip to Alexandria and the additional days visiting the museum and markets was well planned and gave us a break from just sight seeing. So thank you for all the hard work you put in before the trip which ensured we had an experience to last us a life time.

- Iman is the BEST guide.......she was very warm and welcoming without being overbearing and she is clearly very, very well-read. She has a passion for the Egypt and its people, its history and its culture and she was able to pass that onto us in a friendly, comfortable manner. Of all the guides we came across on our travels , she was a cut above the rest. All in all, we had a fantastic time and it all very well organised and it fitted in smoothly and according to plan - even the weather fitted in for us to have great days out and pleasant walks in the evening. we met some lovely, lovely people.

Thank you for the work you did for us prior to our visit to make sure it went as smoothly and efficiently as it did. You live in a remarkable part of the world. please provide my email address to anyone wishing to get any further details or to use as a reference point.

My very best wishes to you and your family for a wonderful 2010.
Gina Pearce - USA

Hi Randa

We had an excellent trip. We especially enjoyed our time with Waleed in Cairo - he had lots of interesting things to say and showed us great hospitality. It was such a relief to be transported everywhere in Cairo by private car because it was a stressful the few times we walked around by ourselves! We also very much enjoyed talking to Mohammed in Cairo, he has a good sense of humour. Hotel Juliana was a really good place to stay - small quiet and large rooms. Jordan was absolutely excellent. We saw so many amazing things.We had a great guide at Petra, and also on our Wadi Rum jeep tour. Talat at the desert camp was lovely, and we would have liked to talk more to him but we were exhausted after the Petra/Wadi Rum day. We had a fantastic Jordanian meal at the camp. Dahab was a great way to start our trip, and we enjoyed just lying by the pool. Walid was helpful and polite is all our dealings with him, and reccommended a snorkelling trip to the blue hole which we enjoyed

Here are some photos so you can see how much fun we had. It was the best trip we've ever been on, thank you so much
Amy and Matt
England

Hi Randa,

I am so sorry that this has taken me so long to write.. I just wanted to say a huge 'thankyou' for the amazing holiday you put together for myself and Ellie. We had such a brilliant time and everything was made so easy for us.

Ayman and Ahmed were both fantastic guides that were extremely professional, knowledgeable and made the trip very enjoyable for us both.

I would not hesitate in recommending all of you to any of my friends heading over to your part of the world.

Thankyou all again for such a brilliant time that we will remember for always.

Regards,

Julie and Ellie
Australia