Egypt
Egypt, a land steeped in over 5,000 years of history, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations. Nestled along the majestic Nile River, this country has been the stage for remarkable dynasties and iconic rulers who shaped the course of human history. From the towering pyramids of Giza built during the Old Kingdom to the golden age of the New Kingdom, where pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Ramses II ruled over an empire that stretched from the Mediterranean to Nubia, Egypt's past is etched in grandeur and mystique. The era of Cleopatra, under Ptolemaic and Roman rule, further enriched Egypt's cultural tapestry with contributions to art, literature, and architecture that influenced the ancient world.
Today, Egypt seamlessly blends its rich heritage with a modern identity, inviting visitors to explore its captivating landscapes and vibrant cities. Cairo, the bustling capital, pulses with life amidst centuries-old mosques, vibrant bazaars, and the iconic Egyptian Museum showcasing treasures from the Pharaonic era. A journey along the Nile offers a tranquil glimpse into daily life, dotted with temples and villages that echo the country's storied past. Luxor, with its Valley of the Kings and Temple of Karnak, evokes a sense of wonder and awe as you walk in the footsteps of ancient pharaohs.
While Egypt's ancient wonders are a draw for travelers worldwide, its cultural vibrancy extends beyond its historical sites. From the aromatic flavors of traditional cuisine to the warm hospitality of its people, Egypt captivates the senses and leaves an indelible impression on all who visit. However, amid the allure of its ancient wonders and bustling cities, it's important to be mindful of local customs and safety considerations, particularly in areas affected by political instability or unrest.
Egypt's journey through time continues to inspire and fascinate, offering a glimpse into humanity's earliest achievements and the resilience of a nation proud of its past and optimistic about its future. Whether you're exploring the pyramids at sunset or cruising the Nile under a starlit sky, Egypt promises a journey through history and culture that is both enriching and unforgettable.
How to Egypt: Egypt was an equally memorable and beautiful trip because I had the opportunity to go with my mom. We booked the trip almost 6 months in advanced though a company called tour radar. I would not have done this trip without a tour company by any means because we were able to learn so much about Egypt's history and ask as many questions as our heart desired. Plus, by having a tour company we did not have to worry about coordinating itineraries what time we had to wake up/ leave etc: It was all done for us! On top of that we were able to meet an incredible group of people we became lucky enough to call our friends.
Here is what our itinerary looked like day by day: you can book this exact tour through the link I've provided!
Day 1
My mom and I arrived at the Cairo airport a day early where we were met by one of Tour Radars representative who assisted us through customs. We paid $25 USD each for a visa and walked right on through. We then took about a 45 minute transfer shuttle to The Oasis Hotel. We absolutely loved the hotel. It was clean, spacious and met all of our needs.
The next morning we had a slow start -- our hotel had a breakfast buffet and we relaxed before adventuring to downtown Cairo for a visit at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. We took and Uber which we felt is a very safe, reliable and cost effective to get around. We paid about $3 for the 30 minute drive and tipped generously. For reference, our hotel offered $150 USD for a driver and car. Ultimately, select whatever makes you most comfortable and is within budget.
My mom and I were beyond thrilled with the museum -- it was about 500 EGP for adults and 250 EGP for students, or about 10US and 5 USD. Looking back, I would have loved to do this museum in a tour-style.
We loved that the museum is chronological -- from prehistoric times to the present day, which walked us through the daily life, religion, art, and architecture of the Egyptians. In my opinion the highlight of the museum is the Royal Mummies Hall, where well-preserved mummies of ancient Egyptian kings and queens are on display which provided us a glimpse into ancient burial practices and royal life. Additionally, there was Nubian and Islamic art which we learned about more heading to Abu Simble in nubian territory.
Afterwords we had a coffee and pastry in the Garden of Civilizations.