Travel to Egypt.. Find out more about places to visit, things to do and safety!
It was the cold beginning of 2013.. and and far from what I had imagined, Egypt was intriguing and welcoming…
It was bold decision to visit this country at that time, Egypt had just seen what seemed to be like a dramatic revolutionary movement back in December 2012, with the protesters voicing against the then President Mohammed Morsi and their Muslim brotherhood.
I usually like to begin a new year with some travelopisode and I remember saying, let’s go somewhere. Mr. Husband started off with the standard bucket list of Mauritius, Malaysia, Bali.. and the likes. Not that I am against visiting any of these places, but they just do not excite me. Ordinary is clichéd..
And thus, Egypt happened! This mysterious country has had fascinated me always. I remember reading about their ancient civilization, their mummification techniques and wondering if they were for real. So, the one chance that I got, I jumped onto grab it! Once in Egypt, we were fortunate to be assigned a fantastic tour guide — Mr. Mohamed EL Aswany. Click here to contact him if needed.
So let me answer some of your top queries about visiting Egypt. (I am writing this piece in a question and answer style. Let me know if this is what you all like to read. As usual, all your comments are welcome at sandyzsphere@gmail.com or in the comment box below)
1. What is the ideal time or season to visit Egypt?
When we went to Egypt in January of 2013, the temperature was between 12° to 16° during the day and at night it would drop to about 8°. So winters would be the best time to visit Egypt according to me, preferably Jan and Feb. Another good part of visiting Egypt around this time of the year is that you will get to breathe fresh air — off the usual touristy. If you ask me, I would urge to look for out of routine experiences (always), try sneaking into the world unknown.. this is what offers you a vague element of modesty and an acceptance in life.
2. Which are the places to visit while in Egypt?
If you planning to visit Egypt, then be prepared.. your vacation will be filled with moments that are exploratory, debatable and full of wonder. Once you have made up your mind to visit Egypt, go slow and get marvelled! I am listing down all the places one by one as your read -
Cairo:
It is said that a trip to Egypt is incomplete without a visit to this city. Cairo is easily one of the world’s popular cities. Amongst the other tourist attractions, the ones that tops the charts are the Egyptian Museum, Pyramids of Giza, Al-Azhar Mosque, The most visited Souk — Khan el-Khalili and downtown Cairo.
The Museum of Tutankhamun (Read here for all about him) is situated here and you if you are pressed for time on your visit to the Musuem, go straight to join the queue to visit this first. I am sure it will be an awe-inspiring experience!! This CANNOT be missed.
The famous Pyramids and the Sphinx that are slated to be around 1500–3000 BC is also near Cairo. I suggest you visit there by noon so by the time you finish you can view the spectacular sunset across the pyramids. You can also take a tour inside the pyramids for a minimal charge. The pathway inside is extremely narrow at some places with steep steps and small tunnels and can be claustrophobic, so be careful before entering. If you choose to go, be ready for a spooky and weird experience as you make your way inside the pyramid!
Luxor:
The eerie Valley of Kings and Queens, the Konark temple, the spectacular temple of Hatshepsut are all in Luxor. I loved visiting the Valley of dead as it was almost deserted with hardly any tourists. The once principle burial grounds of the Royals of Egyptian kingdom, it is believed that there are more than 63 tombs and chambers across these valleys. The tomb of Tutankhamon is also here, dont miss this one! The legacies of Pharoah Tuthmose and Queen Hatshepsut and the likes along with the ancient Egyptian Gods like Horus or Osiris are distinctly evident here.
Dahab:
If you are the sporting, adventurists kinds.. then this could be your favorite one. By the Red sea, Dahab offers you Scuba, Snorkeling, Safaris, Surfing, Hiking, etc. Dahab is famous for its corals by the Red sea, so don’t miss on the Scuba.
Aswan:
Here is where you can being your Nile cruise that takes you to thru the city of Edfu to the Kom Ombo, Abu Simbel and Philae temples. You will also see the Aswan High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk.
There are many cruise companies which ply to and from Aswan to Cairo. These cruises take you across Aswan, Edfu, Luxor, Giza and finally to Cairo. The Nile cruise was my favorite experience of Egypt. There are more than 300 cruises that operate on Nile, with about 120–150 rooms and a plentiful on-board experiences. What I liked the most was when the ship cuts through the river with quiet sand banks and the chilled wind hitting your face as your soar ahead. Nile personified the zeal of Egyptians — continue to thrive through the hard knocks and yet go on!
Alexandria:
Alexandria — know as ‘the Pearl of Mediterranean sea’ is home to the Great Norwegian designed library. Built in 2002, this magnificent model of construction accommodates 2500 readers and is a must visit. Alexandria is also famous for the National Museum, Fort Qaitbey, downtown Alexandria’s Corniche (this is very much like Mumbai’s Queen’s necklace), Pompey’s Pillar and Cleopatra’s palace.
3. Is Egypt safe?
I very clearly remember the reaction I had from friends and family when we told them about our plans to visit Egypt! They were all worried and apprehensive.. Many of us are scared to travel to Egypt due to their impending uncertainties. Political insecurities, terrorist activities, etc. force you to dispel this destination from your travelogue. But let’s face it — barring from actually visiting when there is an ongoing unrest, this country is as safe as any other nation fighting for their futuristic maturation. Having said that, I am somewhat unruly. There is hardly any point in obeying ALL the rules.
But, there are certain measures of safety one has to observe betting on the place you are visiting and also as a sign of respect to their culture and lifestyle. Talking about culture, Egypt is an Islamic country… in general people there are not used to the unconventional lifestyles of modern world and this is what causes the friction. So unless you want to be an object of wide stares or been looked at as an alien, just stick to the regular norms of dressing up and conducting yourself in public. Also, if you are a solo traveller or an only women gang, follow the basic principles of safety. In my trip, I came across almost everyone who were hospitable and very warm, however the internet is full with horrifying stories. Not denying to their unfortunate experiences, but I believe if you follow general to-do’s of being in a foreign place, you should be just fine.
4. What to eat in Egypt? What to shop in Egypt?
If you are shopaholic then, it is the Khan El Khalili market in the Hussein District in Cairo, that you must not miss! Known as ‘the Souk’ or the Local market, this is amongst the most remarkable attractions of Egypt. This 500 years old maze of streets, narrow lanes and stores of the bazaar are filled with small workshops producing wonderful jewellery, glass and copper ware, brass ware, spices, mosaic lamps, mirrors, cotton shirts and leather wear.
Koshary (a mixture of lentils, rice, pasta and other ingredients), Ful wa Ta’meya (Fava Beans and Falafel) and Shawerma’s are the must-try for all Foodies. Shawerma’s are readily available in small joints across the main junctions and city halls.
5. Finally, how was my overall holiday experience in Egypt. Should one travel to Egypt?
As for the overall experience in Egypt.. the people there are sweet, humble and courteous. I read that the tourism industry has had a terrible loss due to their political scene and Egyptians are slowly getting life back to normal. I found them exceedingly friendly at all times when I had been there. More so once they get to know that we belong to India! Indians excite the local Egyptians to a different level altogether.. more due to the ‘Amitabh Bachchan’ connection! Egyptians are die-hard fans of Big B and Shahrukh Khan! I loved the intonation of their voice when they would look at us and call out loudly with hand gestures “you know Amitaaaabh Bachchaaaan?” Some of them even called out Hema Malini and Sholay! It was absolute fun!
The unusual experiences and places is what gives you the most memorable moments… which is why I would urge you to think away from the routine and explore off beat.
Hope this motivates you enough to make a trip to Eygpt sometime in life.
I would love to hear from you, feel free to leave your comments below and share the post.
I got many requests for people to put a note on the costs of my trips. So here it is — Trip cost: In Jan 2013 (excluding the air fare), we spent a total of INR 80,000 for a trip of 8D/7N for everything — Accommodation, 3N Nile Cruise, Food, Guide expenses, Shopping, Sight-seeing, etc.
Till next time.. just travel!
Cheers!
Sandy
