Oases and Deserts of Egypt

A Nile cruise is a magical and unforgettable experience that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. It’s a journey that takes you back to the ancient world of Egypt, where you’ll see some of the world’s most iconic historical sites up close. From the Valley of the Kings to the Temple of Karnak, you’ll be transported to a world of mystery, intrigue, and wonder. And all while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a five-star hotel on water. Don’t miss out on this incredible adventure. Book your Nile cruise today and experience the magic for yourself.

Nile cruises typically depart from two main cities in Egypt: Luxor and Aswan. Luxor is located in southern Egypt and is home to some of the most impressive ancient Egyptian temples and tombs. Aswan, also located in southern Egypt, is known for its scenic beauty and is the gateway to the temples of Abu Simbel. Some Nile cruises also offer round-trip itineraries that depart from and return to Cairo, the capital of Egypt. However, most Nile cruises follow the traditional route between Luxor and Aswan.

The stops on a Nile cruise may vary depending on the length of the cruise and the specific itinerary. However, most Nile cruises follow a similar route, including stops at some of Egypt’s most iconic historical sites. Here are some of the typical stops on a Nile cruise:

• Luxor: The ancient city of Luxor is often the starting point for a Nile cruise. Here, you can explore the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Karnak, and the Temple of Luxor.
• Esna: This small town is known for its well-preserved Temple of Khnum, dedicated to the ram-headed god of the Nile.
• Edfu: Here, you can visit the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt.
• Kom Ombo: This temple is unique in that it is dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile-headed god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god.
• Aswan: The final stop on most Nile cruises, Aswan is home to the Temple of Philae, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the High Dam. It is also the gateway to the temples of Abu Simbel.

These are just some of the typical stops on a Nile cruise. Depending on the itinerary, you may visit other sites, such as the Nubian village or the Temple of Hatshepsut.

Egypt is generally considered a safe destination for tourists to visit. The country relies heavily on tourism, and the government has taken extensive measures to ensure the safety of tourists. There are police checkpoints throughout the country, particularly in tourist areas, and security measures are in place at airports, hotels, and major tourist sites.

As with any travel destination, it’s always wise to exercise caution and take commonsense safety precautions. It is advised to avoid large crowds, especially during demonstrations or protests, and always to remain alert and aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended that you follow the advice of your tour guide or travel operator and check with your embassy or consulate for any travel tips before your trip.

Overall, as long as you take the necessary precautions, Egypt is a safe and welcoming destination that offers a wealth of history, culture, and natural beauty for visitors to explore and enjoy.

The best time to visit Egypt is between October and April, during the country’s mild winter. The temperatures are pleasant during the day, ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (about 18-30 degrees Celsius), and more relaxed at night. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Visiting Egypt from May to September can be a good option if you prefer to avoid crowds and endure hotter temperatures. Temperatures during this time can reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher, but this is also the low season so you may find better deals on tours and accommodations.

It’s also important to note that Ramadan, the month-long Islamic holiday of fasting and prayer, can affect travel to Egypt. During Ramadan, many businesses and tourist sites have reduced hours or may be closed altogether. The dates of Ramadan change each year based on the Islamic calendar, so it’s essential to check the dates before planning your trip.

In summary, the best time to visit Egypt is during the winter season, between October and April, but if you don’t mind the heat and want to avoid the crowds, visiting during the summer months can also be a good option.

Tipping, or baksheesh, is a common practice in Egypt and is considered a way to show appreciation for good service. It’s important to note that while tipping is not mandatory, it is expected in many situations, and it’s a good idea to carry small bills and change for this purpose.

Here are some standard tipping practices in Egypt:

• Tour guides: Tipping your tour guide at the end of your tour is customary. The amount will depend on the length of the tour and the level of service provided, but a good rule of thumb is around 10-20% of the total cost of the tour.
• Hotel staff: Tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, is familiar. A small tip of 10-20 Egyptian pounds per day is appropriate.
• Drivers: If you hire a driver, it’s customary to tip them at the end of your trip. The amount will depend on the length of the journey and the level of service provided, but a good rule of thumb is around 50-100 Egyptian pounds per day.
• Restaurants: It’s common to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the total bill at restaurants. Some restaurants may include a service charge on the bill, so check before tipping.

In summary, tipping or baksheesh is a common practice in Egypt, and it’s important to have small bills and changes on hand. The amount to tip will depend on the service provided. Still, as a general rule, a tip of 10-20% of the total cost is appropriate for tours and restaurants, while smaller tips of 10-20 Egyptian pounds per day are appropriate for hotel staff and drivers.

Egypt is rich in history and culture, with many fascinating places to visit. Here are some of the top destinations that should be on your list when visiting Egypt:

1. The Pyramids of Giza: The iconic pyramids are one of the most famous landmarks in Egypt and are a must-visit destination. They are located just outside of Cairo and are the last surviving wonders of the ancient world.

2. Luxor: Known as the world’s most excellent open-air museum, Luxor is home to some of the most impressive ancient Egyptian monuments, including the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple.

3. Cairo: Egypt’s bustling capital city is a vibrant and chaotic metropolis full of life and energy. Highlights include the Egyptian Museum, the Al-Azhar Mosque, and the Khan El Khalili bazaar.

4. Abu Simbel: This ancient temple complex, located near the Sudanese border, is one of the most impressive sites in Egypt. The temples were built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II and are known for their enormous statues and intricate carvings.

5. Aswan: This laid-back city in southern Egypt is known for its stunning natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Highlights include the Philae Temple, the Aswan Dam, and the Nubian Museum.

6. Alexandria: Located on the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria is a historic city once home to one of the ancient world’s most famous libraries. Highlights include the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, the Citadel of Qaitbay, and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

7. Sinai Peninsula: This rugged and mountainous region is home to some of Egypt’s most beautiful natural scenery, including Mount Sinai and the Red Sea coast.

In summary, Egypt has many incredible destinations to explore, from the ancient monuments of Luxor and the Pyramids of Giza to the bustling streets of Cairo and the natural beauty of the Sinai Peninsula.

When planning a trip to Egypt, it’s important to pack the right items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some things to consider bringing with you:

1. Sunscreen: Egypt is a desert country, and the sun can be intense, so it’s important to pack sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin.

2. Comfortable walking shoes: Many of Egypt’s top attractions involve a lot of walking, so make sure you bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.

3. Lightweight clothing: Egypt can be hot, so pack light clothing from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Packing clothes that cover your shoulders and knees is also a good idea, particularly if you plan to visit religious sites.

4. Scarf or shawl: Women visiting Egypt may want to bring a scarf or shawl to cover their heads when entering mosques or other religious sites.

5. Water bottle: Staying hydrated is important in Egypt’s hot climate, so bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day.

6. Insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be a problem in some regions of Egypt, particularly during the summer, so pack insect repellent to keep them at bay.

7. Camera: Egypt is a country full of fantastic photo opportunities, so bring a camera to capture all the incredible sights.

8. Power adapter: Egypt uses European-style power sockets, so if you’re coming from outside Europe, you’ll need to bring a power adapter to charge your electronic devices.

Packaging these essential items will prepare you for a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Egypt.

Traveling as a woman in Egypt can be a rewarding and exciting experience, but it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and comfort. Here are some tips for women traveling to Egypt:

1. Dress conservatively: Egypt is a Muslim country, and it’s important to respect local customs and dress conservatively. It’s a good idea to cover your shoulders and knees when in public places, especially when visiting mosques or other religious sites.

2. Avoid walking alone at night: It’s best to avoid walking alone at night, especially in quiet or poorly-lit areas. Instead, take a taxi or use a ride-hailing app to get around.

3. Use a guide or tour group: Using a guide or tour group can be a good idea, especially if you’re traveling alone. This can help you navigate local customs and culture, and can provide an extra layer of safety.

4. Be cautious with alcohol: Drinking alcohol in public is prohibited in Egypt, and it’s important to be cautious with alcohol consumption. Stick to drinking in licensed bars and restaurants, and avoid getting drunk in public.

5. Be aware of your surroundings: It’s always important to be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling in a new place. Be cautious of pickpockets, scams, and other potential dangers, and trust your instincts if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

6. Research local customs and culture: Researching local customs and culture can help you better understand the country and avoid inadvertently offending locals. For example, it’s important to remove your shoes when entering a mosque, and to avoid physical contact with people of the opposite sex in public.

By following these tips and being aware of local customs and culture, women can have a safe and enjoyable experience traveling in Egypt.

Learning a few Arabic words and phrases can enhance your experience when visiting Egypt, as it shows respect for the local culture and can help you communicate with locals. Here are some Arabic words and phrases to know:

• Salaam Alaikum: This is a common Arabic greeting that means “peace be upon you.” Locals will appreciate it if you greet them with this phrase.
• Shukran: This means “thank you.” It’s always polite to show gratitude when someone helps you or does something for you.
• Sabah Al-Khair: This means “good morning.” It’s a polite way to greet someone in the morning.
• Masaa Al-Khair: This means “good evening.” It’s a polite way to greet someone in the evening.
• Laa Shukran: This means “no, thank you.” You can use this phrase when declining an offer or a service.
• Min Fadlak: This means “please.” You can use this word when making a request.
• Afwan: This means “you’re welcome.” You can use this word to respond to someone who has thanked you.
• Aiwa: This means “yes.” It’s a simple way to answer a question in the affirmative.
• Laa: This means “no.” It’s a simple way to answer a question in the negative.
• Ma’a Salama: This means “goodbye” or “go with peace.” It’s a polite way to bid farewell.

By learning these basic Arabic words and phrases, you can show respect for the local culture and communicate more effectively with locals during your visit to Egypt.