Egypt is mainly a country in North Africa with the Sinai Peninsula forming a land bridge in Western Asia. Egypt does not receive much rainfall except in the winter months. On the northern strip the rainfall is received between October and March. The best time to visit the majority of sights, including the pyramids and the Valley of the Kings, is from February to April and October to November, when it is hot enough to know it’s the ‘Land of the Sun’.
For centuries Egypt has attracted visitors and for good reason. The world-renowned treasures of this fabled country, from iconic pyramids to medieval bazaars, almost defy description. But take a look beyond the obvious archaeological treasures, and a country rich in natural beauty and vibrant in contemporary culture is easily revealed. Football is the national sport of Egypt. Squash and Tennis are other popular sports there.
TRANSPORTATION
Transport facilities in are centered in Cairo, the capital, and largely follow the pattern of settlement along the Nile. The main line of railway network runs from Alexandria and Aswan and is operated by Egyptian National Railways.
ATTRACTIONS
Egypt is home to the world’s longest rivers Nile. In Egypt’s local language the river will be pronounced as Bahr el-Nil. It is said that if you drink water from the Nile, you are sure to return to Egypt. Visitors taking a Nile cruise can watch the history of this ancient civilization drift past whilst enjoying the modern day comforts of a twenty-first century ship. There is also a Traditional Nile Boat for tourists. These are known as Feluccas.
Egypt is well known for its main attraction of Pyramids. They are the best-known ancient monuments and one of the seven wonders. The famous Sphinx stands in front of the Great Pyramid, with the body of a lion joined to the head of a man. There is a Sound and Light show every night at Giza which adds to the atmosphere surrounding these mysterious ancient sights.
THINGS TO DO
Feluccas are very basic but relaxing and enjoyable way to travel down the river. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are usually included on the Felucca and are cooked and served on board by the crew. The food is again basic but varied and filling and in the afternoon they will also serve Egyptian tea and Nubian cake.
ACCOMODATION
Since the country has hosted mass tourism, there are plenty of accommodation options in Egypt to suit all budget. The wide options include; Hotels, Camping, Resorts, Youth Hostels, Guest houses and so on.
Part of what makes Egypt one of the world’s great travel destinations is the pulsing and influential modern Arab state that throbs beneath the surface. Ultimately, the best of the country is understood not so much under the shadow of its great monuments, but in the call to prayer at sunset.
