Mohamed Ahmed

Recently I was asked if I would like to experience Egypt by a Luxor and Aswan Travel .  Of course I said yes!  Egypt has been one of the places on my bucket list after all.  When I was younger I always used to play the Luxor-themed computer games and I loved learning about the pyramids, so there was no way I was going to say no!  The country’s history fascinates me incredibly, and it’s funny because usually history bores the heck out of me but not Egyptian history.   Our 9-day tour starts in Cairo then proceeds by travelling to Luxor, and lastly to Aswan before departing back to Cairo.  This itinerary had nearly everything I wanted to see in Egypt: the Giza pyramids, a hot air balloon ride over Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, a ride on the Nile, and much more. As you know I love travelling solo and in fact most of the time I travel alone, but I do really love tours too.  Personally, I think Egypt is safe to travel around alone if you really want to and are confident enough.  But, the reason I really wanted to do a tour through Egypt is because of the guide.  I feel like there is so much to learn, especially in Egypt, so having a guide travelling with you was important to me.  This way I could ask questions, which helped me gain a lot more knowledge and hear fascinating stories that I wouldn’t have been able to enjoy unless there was a guide to assist me.   Speaking of the guide, we had an incredible guy Sameh, nickname Sam.  I think he deserves a special mention because honestly, he made the trip as fun as it was.  He is incredibly knowledgeable, helpful and an all-round good guy.  Also, he was always open to answering questions and help us with anything that we needed help with.  Spending 9 days Egypt tour with a bunch of strangers from around the world (especially New Zealand and Australia) requires a sense of humour and a bit of banter!  Luckily for Sameh, he totally got our crude jokes and sarcasm.   Here is a little more about the tour: Day 1 is when people from the tour start arriving.  Luxor and Aswan Travel will pick you up from the airport with a sign so there is no need to stress that no one will be there to meet you.  There is a welcome meeting at around 6pm but I missed it as my flight came in about 9pm.  It’s not essential you have to be there for the meeting though.   Day 2 is when you could say the tour officially starts!  It definitely started with a bang as it was the day we visited the Great Pyramids, one of the seven wonders of the world.  We also visited Sakkara beforehand, which is an ancient burial ground and the first capital of Egypt.  At Sakkara, we were also allowed to walk into a pyramid – it was extremely fascinating to be able to see what a Pyramid would have looked like in the interior.  It was great to be able to see the ancient carving up close and personal.  The great thing was that we visited early, getting the chance to enjoy the view as it should be. Afterwards when we arrived at the Great Pyramids we had time to look around and the option to purchase a ticket to go inside the Great Pyramid.  After our free time, we then hopped on the bus and headed to a fantastic view point of the pyramids to get those great Instagram shots.  You also had the option to go for a camel ride across the desert in front of the pyramids. Then we visited the famous Great Sphinx of Giza to get that all-time kissing photo before going to have lunch just down the road, which consisted of Falafel, chicken, salad, rice, hummus and pita of course!  One thing I must say is I could never get bored of the Egyptian food!  After lunch we then departed for Luxor, which is a long bus ride so be sure to stock up on snacks before leaving.  Unfortunately, our bus broke down.  After a couple of hours’ delay and many funny stories later, we were back on the road and to our hotel early in the morning.  Because of the delay out Sameh kindly changed out itinerary around so we wouldn’t have to get up so early the next day. Costs Sakkara = 80 Egyptian Pounds Giza Pyramids= 80 Egyptian Pounds If you would like to go inside it’s extra   On Day 3, we had a short stay at our hotel in Luxor.  We then visited the famous Luxor Temple to learn more about Egypt’s fascinating ancient history.  It’s so incredible that we can still walk around and be so close to ancient temples and buildings.  Often at times I felt like I needed to pinch myself to remind me that this was real life!  After the temple, we made our way to Aswan to a hotel that was getting ready for the president to come stay with them.  How amazing is that?! We had time to freshen up before we went on a boat ride for a Nubian Dinner (which is optional but just a cool experience that everyone opted in).  The Nubians are an ethnic tribe indigenous to Egypt and Sudan.  The dinner was held in one of their homes and cooked by them.  By the way, the food was absolutely delicious!  Sameh, our guide, talked more about the Nubians and we learnt a lot about their way of life, cultures and values.  It was a great experience and on the way back, we even had a little impromptu dance party!  Although it was an optional activity, if you go on this tour, I highly recommend you try this experience.   Costs Luxor temple = 60 Egyptian Pounds Nubian Dinner = 260 (Egyptian Pounds roughly)   Day 4 started with a very optional activity that I signed up for.  As it was three hours’ drive away we had to get up VERY early but it was totally worth it.  Abu Simbel is located less than 80km from the Sudanese border and is about 3-hour drive from Aswan.  The site holds two massive rock temples cut into the mountain.  It’s seriously impressive and worth the long drive!   On the way back to the hotel we stopped off at a temple called Philae Temple.  It is located on an island and has a pretty interesting and gruesome story that comes along with it.  After heading back to the hotel to quickly pack our things, we departed on our next form of transport for what would be the next two days, a felucca!  We set sail until sunset and then had a fab dinner on the water drinking beer and chilling out. Costs Trip to Abu Simbel = (1200 Egyptian Pounds roughly) Philae Temple = 72 Egyptian Pounds   Day 5 is all about relaxing in the sun and bonding while sailing down the Nile, the longest river in the world.  We played card games, some of us had a nap, some of us read our books or caught up in our travel diary.  This day was all about enjoying the scenery from the river.   Once we docked for the night, we sat by the campfire before heading to a local’s house to watch a football game.  While this is not usually included in the tour, the football game could not be missed as it was Egypt playing of course!  It was an experience to be invited into a local’s home and witness their passion for the sport.   Back at the camp we had a compulsory dance around the fire dance session.  I must say, Egyptians can dance!  I don’t think I have seen a men’s hips ever move as much as the Egyptians did! Costs Nothing! All meals are also included while in the Felucca.  Just bring any snacks you would like.   Day 6 unfortunately meant the felucca ride was over but our bus problems were not… so we were a couple of hours late from departing.  This was the day we drove North back to Luxor.  It was a long bus ride but on the way we stopped at Edfu Temple, which is located on the West Bank of the Nile.  I think personally driving back to Luxor was a great experience because we drove through the countryside and got to see the local way of life while waving to them out the bus window.   Once we finally arrived into Luxor we could chill for a bit before heading back to Luxor Temple to see it by night.  You may think, why do I need to go see it again if I have already seen it during the day.  Trust me it’s amazing!  It’s like a completely different place when seeing it at night time. Costs Edu Temple = 60 Egyptian Pounds Luxor Temple = 60 Egyptian Pounds   On Day 7  I opted for the early morning Balloon ride over Luxor.  This was my first time experiencing a balloon ride.  We got up early and head to the pier where we got a boat and helped ourselves to an early morning tea or coffee.  Once we reached the other side a van came and picked us up and took us to the site of the balloons.  We watched the sunset and waited for our balloon to inflate, then we quickly jumped into the basket.  As we lifted off we got the most amazing view of the sunrise and the farm plantation below.  Our driver told us a little about the region and what we were looking at.  We also flew over Karnack temple too, which was great to see from a height along with the caves and tombs built into the side of the mountain.  Overall it was a great experience and an optional extra I can highly recommend. Day 7 was definitely my favourite day from the whole tour.  After the balloon ride we visited the Valley of the Kings, which I was super excited to see.  The tombs were incredibly colourful and I have to say it was one of the most beautiful thing I have ever seen.  Although you are not allowed to take photos inside the tombs I found it was actually for the best as you were forced to put the phone down and take in what is sounding you.  When you purchase a ticket it gives you entry to three temples.  There are only three temples open at a time to give the others a break from tourists.  You can purchase an extra ticket to see the mummy and tomb of King Tutankhamun who reigned Egypt for 10 years from the age of 9.  Yes, 9 years old!  I purchased a ticket because I really wanted to see his mummy, which was tiny by the way.  Tutankhamun was the only King found with all his possessions, which is why he is such a popular king these days because you can view all his possessions in the museum.  I think the extra ticket was totally worth it! Afterwards we visited Hatshepsut temple which was also fascinating but the Valley of the Kings definitely took the win for me!  It was then time to hop on the bus again and make our way to Cairo for our last full day in this incredible country Costs Optional extra Balloon ride = 1500 Egyptian pounds, roughly The Valley of the Kings = 104 Egyptian Pounds Hatshepsut Temple = 52 Egyptian Pounds   Day 8 is Cairo exploring day!  First we went to the hanging church and the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As, which was the first mosque to ever been built in Egypt. After learning more about the different religions, we then visited the famous Egyptian Museum which is just incredible.  There are so many artefacts and interesting things to see that you couldn’t see everything – even in an entire day.  I highly recommend purchasing the extra ticket to see the mummies of all the kings.  There also all Tutankhamun’s possessions that were found in his tomb, which is so amazing to see!  After the museum we had the opportunity to walk through the manic Cairo markets to purchase any last-minute souvenirs.  I should warn you it’s chaos, but it’s totally worth it.  Just remember to haggle!  We also stopped off an Egyptian cotton shop, which was the perfect opportunity to buy some proper Egyptian sheets!  You can also opt for another optional extra, which is the sound and light show that is held at the pyramids in Giza.  Otherwise you head back to the hotel to eat, get some sleep and pack if you are leaving early in the morning. Costs Egyptian Museum = 85 Egyptian Pounds Sound and light show = 300 Egyptian Pounds   Day 9 is when I head off very early in the morning so there was no chill by the pool time for me.  Day 9 is when you say goodbye to your travelling friends.  Honestly, it felt like I had known these people for weeks after this tour.

When it comes to travel to Egypt there is no one who is not thrilled to know this mystical and utterly charming universe. But if you are on a scheduled trip or plan to travel to the land of the pharaohs in the coming years and do not know what to do this article will solve your problems. Here we list the 7 main treasures of this amazing place that you can not even think of missing out on your next Cairo, Luxor & Hurghada Tour . So let's get down to business, tips on places to visit: 1- Pyramids of Giza Impossible to talk about Egypt and not talk about the most traditional place of postcards there, right? The oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one still standing, is a separate spectacle in both history and beauty. They are located in the Giza complex, very close to Cairo and there are 3 pyramids in total, the Cheops, Chefren and Miquerinos. 2- Saqqara This is undoubtedly another treasure of Egypt, the oldest pyramid in the whole world is the Saqqara pyramid. About 4,700 years old, it is located in the city of the same name, in the Memphis City necropolis and about 33 kilometers from Cairo, which is easily accessible and certainly worth a visit. 3- Library of Alexandria Sure you have met Alexandria through history books and lessons but seeing this place so closely will surprise you. The Alexandria Library was, in its original version, destroyed by several fires and what we have today is a reconstruction completed in the year 2002 in a place very close to where it was. The space is extremely large and has the largest collection of books in the entire African continent, as well as several exhibition spaces and even a museum. 4- Valley of the Kings For those who do not know this is one of the most accurate treasures of Egypt. The Valley is a complex of tombs built in the mountains for the pharaohs and nobles of the Egyptian Empire. It was there that Tutakhamon's tomb was discovered with all the treasures with which he had been buried and then fame spread all over the world. A truly indescribable beauty and immensity. 5- Karnak Temple This is one of those places you can't miss! The Temple is about 700 kilometers from Cairo, in the city of Luxor, and is one of the largest temple complexes in the world. To give you an idea, it took about 2000 years to build, that is a lot for you to visit and enjoy. The temple was built in honor of the god Amon-Ra and therefore has several inscriptions on the walls that intrigue scholars to this day. 6- Luxor Temple The Luxor Temple is the only monument in the world that contains documents from Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Coptic and Islamic times, it is really living history that you can access quite easily. Its construction was started by Pharaoh Amenhotep III and completed years later by Ramses II. So if you like the history of Egypt and the world at large, this should be your first stopping point on your trip to Egypt. 7- Hatshepsut Temple The Temple named after Queen Hatshepsut is a mortuary temple of ancient Egypt. It is located in the city of Luxor, was designed by royal architect Senenmut and built for the Eighteenth Dynasty Pharaoh - Queen Hatshepsut. And for those who are curious, this all-different name of the queen means nothing less than principal of noble women, or even first among noble women, rightly equal to the Queen. These were our tips on the main treasures of Egypt that you should know on your next trip. Of course, there are plenty of other amazing places to know on this land, but this list of 7 makes your life even easier when researching Egypt tours.

Bucket List: The word for all the things we wish we did before we kicked the bucket, well, you know. During our Readers, we have spoken to a lot of travelers, and one place inevitably appears on nearly every one of their pre-last waltz wish lists, Egypt, especially the Nile. We've found a way to make the dream a reality with Luxor and Aswan Travel. Their Nile River Cruise may be the best way to see both Ancient Egypt's spectacular ruins and modern life along the river banks. We may claim that because over the past couple of years we have traveled on numerous river cruises and they have become our favorite way of traveling by far. We love the comfort and convenience of not rushing to catch flights, trains and busses to get to any new destination, and particularly not having to pack and unpack whenever we travel. They are also persuaded that there is no better way for both towns and countryside to learn. Normally the rivers flow directly through the city's heart, allowing the ships to dock right in the center of everything. This makes them a perfect base for exploration at home. And the boat glides peacefully through picturesque beaches away from the cities, often far from the chaotic hustle and bustle of the highways. This means a smooth passage and great photo opportunities. Civilizations have developed along rivers all over the world, and there is no place that is more important than Egypt. The Nile is really the artery that for centuries has brought life to this land. This is more evident nowhere than Luxor, the site of Thebes ' ancient city. It is often called "the largest open-air museum in the world" because of the many temples on both sides of the river. The temple that gave the city its name was constructed about 1400BC, but the region was already well established long before that. Early building probably started some thousand years before on the nearby Karnak Temple. The Kings Valley and the Queens Valley are just outside the city, some of the most important burial sites in the ancient world. Scores of royalty tombs have been found, including pharos and queens from the 17th to the 20th dynasties of Egypt. Maybe the most famous of these was King Tutankhamun, better known as King Tut, but here were also interred Ramesses II and his wife Queen Nefertari. Ramesses II, also known as Ramesses the Great, is often depicted in the film The Ten Commandments as the pharaoh of the Exodus. Although there is no archeological evidence to determine which ruler actually opposed Moses, the belief remains. But since he was one of the longest reigning pharos of the Egyptian Empire and the timing is plausible, there is a reasonable chance that this is real, so we could hardly consider checking the box on our bucket list without seeing his temple as well. With its iconic sculptures of giant seated figures on the shrine's side, this is certainly one of the most famous landmarks in Egypt and luckily there is no problem getting there, the boat will float right on Lake Nasser. The lake stands out as a modern marvel among all these ancient wonders. It not only controlled flooding on the mighty river when the Aswan Dam was completed in 1970, this built one of the world's largest man-made lakes. The lake covers an area that once belonged to Ancient Nubia, a lesser known civilization that once rivaled Egypt as the region's supreme power, and some of its ruins are also visited by Luxor and Aswan Travel Nile River Cruise. It is findings like this that succeed in stopping us from ever completing our list. The more we explore and learn, the more it always develops. But we're still hoping to see it all until we grab our last bag, cash in our chips, sleep with the fish, bite the dust, shuffle off this deadly coil, buy the ranch, push up daisies, kick the bucket, you know.

When it comes to River Nile cruises, most people know about the large cruise boats and feluccas, some people know about yachts, but few people know anything about dahabiyas, which take their name from the Arabic word for gold: dahab (the earliest form of this boat was golden coloured). This is rather ironic as the dahabiya was the mode of transport, on the Nile, long before the modern day diesels, or the steamers made famous by Agatha Christie's "Death on the Nile". The dahabiya is a (usually) two-masted sailing boat that relies on wind power: it has no engines except for a generator that makes electricity. This gives it something that is in very short supply nowadays: silence! Sailing on a dahabiya allows the sound of the river splashing against the boat on of the only sounds you will hear, along with the singing of the birds (and the diesels in the distance). You can relax and imagine yourself as one of the aristocrats or elite travellers during the days of the monarchy, or even a member of the monarchy, as this is how they used to negotiate the river. Elegance and style, that is what they were built for; four to ten cabins, fully equipped bathrooms, elaborate furnishings, and servants to do everything. Nowadays it is very similar, though more modern and with the necessities of today, with electricity, Wi-Fi, showers, etc. The history of the dahabiya goes back to the Pharaonic times: there are inscriptions of very similar boats in the tombs of ancient Egyptian Kings and Nobles. Famous Egyptian leaders, such as King Farouk and President Sadat, had their own dahabiyas and the English novelist, journalist, traveller and Egyptologist, Emilia Edwards, even had a piano installed on hers. Aristocrats loved them, especially as the journey could take up to two or three months to complete, stopping at all the sights between Cairo and Abu Simbel (no Aswan High Dam in those days), with the whole trip being one of pure decadence and style. Sadly, the end of the monarchy also signalled the end of the dahabiya! Steam power was the rage, soon to be overtaken by gasoline and/or diesel engines. However, the dahabiya was not forgotten, and very soon, amongst all the large cruise boats sailing up and down the River Nile, the two masts of the dahabiya slowly started to re-emerge. Visitors were starting to realise that the peace and tranquillity that they sought, could be found. As well as that, the shallower draft meant that these boats could sail closer to the many islands dotted along the river, giving access to places like Gebel El Silsila; out of bounds for the heavier cruise boats. This also allows for experiences like dinner in front of the "Speos of Horemheb": an illuminated meal that you will never forget, and all thanks to the dahabiya's shallower draft and smaller passenger capacity. The other huge advantage with being able to snuggle up to these smaller islands is that the River Nile now becomes your swimming pool. You can dive and swim to your heart's content, or sit back and watch the frolicking of others from the sands of the island. During its journey the dahabiya will stop to collect supplies of food, either from riverside markets, or directly from local farmers and gardeners: everything is fresh and cooked as required. Frozen food? Forget it! Throughout the day mineral water and tea are available, as well as cups of strong Turkish coffee, karkade (hibiscus), or fresh fruit juice. You can even savour some local beer and wine. Imagine being lulled to sleep by the gentle lapping of the waves, only interrupted by the call of a bird. This is night time on a dahabiya! Serene nights; peaceful days; silent sailing; total relaxation; and all available today, as it was almost 100 years ago. Although we use the spelling "dahabiya", it can also be spelled as: dahabeeya, zahabiya, dahabeyya, dahabiah, dahabiyah, dhahabiyya, dahabiyeh, dahabieh, dahabeah, and dahabeya. Book Dahabiya Nile Cruise from here: Dahabiya Nile Cruise | Luxury Nile Cruises | Dahabiya

Egypt is one of the ancient countries in the world which covers a wide range of attractions that attract several tourists. It is an ideal destination for those who want to discover archaeological sites and other things in detail. Jordan is an Arab country located in West Asia which has many popular sightseeing places. On the other hand, anyone who wants to tour both Egypt and Jordan at a time should choose the right package which suits their budgets. This will help a lot to create the best memories on a trip to ensure more pleasure. Taking a breathtaking tour to Egypt and Jordan Both Egypt and Jordan cover important spots allowing visitors to know more about several things in detail. Some of the things covered in Egypt tour include Nile cruise, Pyramids, the treasures of the King Tut, Saqqara desert, etc. A trip to Jordan allows tourists to enjoy the Dead Sea, the ancient city of Petra, Jerash, and so on. Another thing is that they can view amazing monuments in both countries for experiencing more excitement. At the same time, it is necessary to select a package that fits the requirements of tourists. How to make a travel to Egypt and Jordan? There are several tour operators who offer Egypt and Jordan Tours at affordable prices which range from 7 days or more. Some of the important services covered in a package include airport transfers, domestic flights, sightseeing tours, English speaking guide, meals in restaurants, hotel accommodation, entrance fees, and water bottle. A tour operator will arrange everything starting from pickup to drop allowing tourists to plan their trip accordingly. However, it is advisable to make a complete study of tour operators from various sources for making a better decision. Planning a tour to Egypt and Petra Petra is a historical and archaeological city in southern Jordan which is well-known for its monuments and other sites. Cairo, the capital city of Egypt offers many things for visitors enabling them to witness complete entertainment. Egypt and Petra tours allow a person to plan a journey with options thereby showing ways to get complete satisfaction. Apart from that, they provide methods to make a trip with children and others for overcoming unwanted problems. It is very important to consider the costs because they may vary from one tour operator to another operator. Knowing more about Egypt and Jordan tours Those who want to travel to Egypt and Jordan at the same time should know more certain things for minimizing the risks. Some of them include visa requirements, local laws, tipping, and so on. It is advisable to carry a copy of passport, visa, and other important documents while traveling to important places. Tourists should work with a reputed travel operator before making a trip to both countries for handling complex issues. Moreover, it gives ways to organize a tour in advance for ensuring peace of mind. Most tour operators provide quotes for visitors to select a package depending on their needs.

Safaga in egypt is a coastal town positioned in the crimson sea which covers numerous points of interest for visitors. It is a popular vacation spot for water sports activities activities together with windsurfing, sailing, scuba diving, kite browsing, and so on. The port is an excellent choice for those who need to spend their holidays with others accordingly. Site visitors may even attain other important destinations in egypt which includes cairo and luxor from safaga port. But, it's miles essential to restore an itinerary with a reputed tour operator for making the journey a successful one. Activities in cairo Cairo is the capital city of egypt that is well-known for its monuments and different things allowing traffic to revel in greater exhilaration. Some of them consist of giza pyramids, outstanding sphinx, egyptian museum, and so on. Safaga port is a gateway to enjoy a excursion in cairo permitting site visitors to witness more pleasure. On the other hand, it is necessary to plot a trip from safaga to cairo for making it a memorable one. Another element is that visitors have to cognizance extra on sure things before making plans a ride. How to plan a tour from safaga to cairo? There are numerous agencies which arrange cairo excursion from safaga with luxury automobiles after choosing up in safaga port. They offer distinctive varieties of excursion packages for traffic allowing them to select the proper one based totally on the selections. Whether it's far 1-day or 2-day tour to cairo, traffic need to pick a software that exactly suits their desires and budgets. Some of the things involved in the itinerary consist of lunch at a local restaurant, english speaking guide, entrance prices to important locations, ingesting water, and transfer to the port. Exploring interesting locations in luxor Luxor is an critical destination in egypt that covers essential points of interest including karnak temple, valley of the kings, big of memnon statues. A tour operator will paintings intently with traffic to repair an itinerary software with options. Similarly, it makes feasible ways to plan luxor excursion from safaga at less costly charges for ensuring peace of mind. Tourists can start their excursion inside the morning for touring important locations as according to the agenda. In maximum instances, an operator will charge amounts for one individual after choosing an itinerary software. It's far possible to explore various things on a experience after running with a excursion operator. Matters to keep in mind whilst deciding on a excursion operator It's miles an vital one to keep in mind positive crucial matters even as hiring a excursion operator. Some of them consist of reputation, fees, carrier expenses, taxes, and so on. Tours from safaga port are a suitable one for site visitors to get entry to important destinations in egypt easily even as planning a tour. On the equal time, one need to evaluate the services provided with the aid of excursion operators from specific sources including on-line that can assist to get extra ideas. Besides that, it will become a simple manner to agenda a journey with corporations and others with a reputed tour operator which in the long run gives approaches to get peace of mind.

From late 2017 to early 2018, Egypt welcomed a variety of exciting new developments and discoveries. The country’s tourism industry, which is central to Egypt’s economy, had seen a massive decline after years of political turmoil. However, these announcements are expected to increase visitor numbers and re-establish the Land of the Pharaohs as a popular holiday destination. Find out more about Egypt’s most recent tomb discoveries, a mummy and the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum: Hetpet’s Tomb Found The most recent of Egypt’s string of discoveries was a 4,400-year-old tomb just outside the capital of Cairo. Archaeologists believe the mud-brick tomb belonged to a woman known as Hetpet. A known figure in Egyptian antiquity, Hetpet is thought to have been close to the royals of the 5th dynasty. Although her mummy has not been found, fragments of her artefacts were discovered in the same area in 1909. Within the tomb, wall paintings were also found depicting Hetpet observing different fishing and hunting scenes. Interestingly, another wall painting depicts a monkey – a common domestic animal at that time – dancing in front of an orchestra. Archaeologists have been making discoveries near the site since the 19th century. Located within the wider area of Giza’s western necropolis, the zone is known to hold tombs from the Old Kingdom. The most recent excavation was led by Mustafa Waziri, who believes there is still more to be found. Waziri informed reporters that up to 300 cubic metres of earth were moved to uncover the tomb. Work is also already underway to find Hetpet’s second tomb. Mummy Discovered in Luxor Two previously unexplored tombs were finally brought into the light of day in late 2017. Although originally surveyed by a German Egyptologist in the 1990s, one was never opened and the other only excavated to its entrance. Alongside carved figurines, a spectacular mural and wooden masks, the biggest discovery was a 3,500-year-old mummy wrapped in linen – believed to be that of a senior official. The tombs lie in a cemetery on the west bank of the Nile, close to the Valley of the Kings. Dating to the 18th Dynasty, the official most likely served at the ancient capital of Thebes, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both tombs are large structures, with one featuring a courtyard and a six-metre burial shaft leading to four side chambers. In contrast, the other has five entrances, with a rectangular hall containing two burial shafts. King Tut’s Treasures go on Tour The boy pharaoh of the 18th Egyptian Dynasty, King Tutankhamun ruled for only ten years before his sudden death at the age of 19. But despite his short reign, Tutankhamun is one of the best-known ancient Egyptian kings due to the discovery of his tomb. Excavated in the Valley of the Kings in 1922, his remains and golden treasures have held millions in awe. Previously exhibited in Cairo, King Tut’s treasures were recently transported more than 7,500 miles to be displayed in Los Angeles. More than 150 original artefacts, many of which haven’t been seen outside Cairo, were packed into 20 crates and travelled with their own special security team. The world premiere of the ‘King Tut: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh’ exhibition will run from March 24th 2018 to January 6th 2019 before moving to Europe. The items will then go on permanent display back in Cairo. Tickets for the exhibition are already selling fast. If you’re planning a trip to Los Angeles we would recommended booking soon to avoid disappointment. Grand Egyptian Museum Opening Hailed as the most impressive structure built in Cairo since the Great Pyramids, the Grand Egyptian Museum is set to open in late August 2018. The building is the world’s largest archaeological museum and cost nearly $1 billion to build. The 650,000-square-foot building will hold thousands of ancient artefacts, many of which have never been seen by the public. The museum was in the works for nearly a decade and tens of thousands of visitors are expected per day. The blockbuster exhibition will reveal King Tutankhamun’s tomb and the museum’s latest technology includes virtual reality. Dublin-based company, Heneghan Peng, designed the building after winning one of the largest architectural competitions in history. Organizers received 1,557 entries from 82 countries before deciding on a winner. The building lies just two kilometres from the pyramids and is shaped like a chambered triangle, with a translucent stone wall constituting the front facade. The north and south walls align with the Great Pyramid of Khufu and the Pyramid of Menkaure. A large plaza sits in front of the building and is filled with date plants. Inside the entrance is a large atrium housing 43 statues, including a 3,000 year old statue of Ramses II – one of Egypt’s most famous pharaohs.

Egypt is one of the most fascinating countries in the world when it comes to archaeology and history. The country has so much to offer from the pyramids of Giza to the temples of Abu Simbel, the Valley of the Kings and more. Egypt’s treasures, both those discovered and those that still remain hidden, have intrigued tourists for decades. Yet since these sites and attractions are located country-wide, it can sometimes be tricky figuring out how to see them all without wasting all your precious travel time on transportation. For this reason, you may want to consider a luxury Nile cruise to explore some of the highlights of ancient Egypt. What Do You See on a Nile Cruise? Nile river cruises run between the Egyptian cities of Aswan and Luxor and stop at some of the sites and attractions between both. The sites and attractions you see along the way will depend on the length of your Nile river cruise. The short cruises (usually four days and three nights) will include The Valley of the Kings and West Bank, Kom Ombo Temple, Edfu Temple, and Philae Temple. A more popular choice is to do a five day, four-night cruise which also adds on Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple. Additional stops may be included in the price of the cruise, or available for an extra fee. This is something you needed to consider when you choosing your Nile river cruise. Why go on a Nile River Cruise? There are a number of benefits for choosing to take a Nile river cruise. The main reason, and most obvious, is that a Nile cruise offers a unique way to explore more of Egypt. The Nile river has played a hugely important role in Egyptian history and, for this reason, is a tourist attraction in itself. Not only is it a relaxing and easy way to travel between the historical sites of the country, but it is also an adventure in its own right. The scenic sailing on a Nile river cruise is absolutely stunning. You’ll see local farmers, fishermen, small villages and beautiful vistas of the desert and hills. If you’re lucky, you’ll also have clear skies for a spectacular sunset. How Much does a Luxury Nile Cruise Cost? While the term “luxury Nile cruise” may ring some alarm bells, you’ll actually be surprised at how inexpensive this form of travel is. After years of decline in tourism, prices for travel in Egypt are rock bottom in the hopes of enticing more travelers. Nile cruises, especially more luxury Nile cruises, are the biggest proof of this. There are varying levels of Nile cruises ranging from cheap Felucca-type cruises which require camping on the deck to five-star, all-inclusive luxury from world-renown cruise ship operators. However, for those with slimmer wallets, you can still get a luxury Nile cruise for a great bargain. An important thing to keep in mind when looking at the pricing for a Nile river cruise is the inclusions. Many Nile cruises include not only accommodation, transportation, and meals but also guided tours and entry passes to all the attractions on the itinerary. When you take this into consideration, $500-$700 per person for a four night, five-day luxury Nile cruise is a pretty decent deal, and probably cheaper than you would get if traveling by land and relying on drivers, hotels, and hired tour guides. Take the time to shop around and compare, and keep in mind that traveling during off-season or shoulder season is the best time to get a really good deal on luxury Nile cruises.   How to Choose the Best Nile River Cruise Deciding that you want to take a Nile Cruise is the easy part, but after that decision, you have a bit of work to do including which direction, what style of cruise (something more formal? Or casual?) and if you want to include any add-ons. There are two main routes you can go: either Aswan to Luxor or Luxor to Aswan. If you are interested in doing a hot air balloon ride in Luxor, I recommend starting there. The balloon ride is early enough that you can enjoy that experience, then start your cruise. Versus, if you start in Aswan then you will need to spend an additional night in Luxor to be able to do the balloon ride in the morning. If you have a relaxed schedule, that’s no big deal. But if you are short on time and hoping to see and do as much as possible, then starting in Luxor after your hot air balloon ride is the best option. The cruise options also vary in terms of the atmosphere. While you can get a great luxury Nile cruise, some will be a bit fancier than others. This is something you can usually gauge after reading the itinerary and reviews. Choose whatever best suits your travel style. Finally, while Nile cruises include many entrance tickets and sites as part of the package, there are a few additional attractions you may want to add. Abu Simbel Temples are not normally included in the price; however, it is one of the must-see sights in Egypt. If you would like to add it to your itinerary, make sure to discuss if that is a possibility and clarify the cost before booking your Nile cruise. Final Considerations for Choosing a Nile Cruise While all Nile cruises are pretty similar in terms of schedule, there tend to be a few smaller details and aspects that you really want to pay attention to in order to make sure that you truly get the luxury Nile cruise experience that you want. One of the things you want to watch out for is the tours; does your Nile cruise package include a space on a group tour? Or, do you have a private guide for you and your travel companion? A private guide makes all the difference in the world and is absolutely worth spending a little bit of extra money on. Another consideration is meals; are all meals included? Are drinks included in the meals? How about water? Some Nile cruises include all of your food but no drinks. While the prices of water aren’t expensive in Egypt, it’s a lot easier to have everything included in your package without having to worry about additional fees. Finally, please keep in mind that Egypt does have a very strong tipping culture. This is practiced on the cruise as well. At the end of the cruise, travelers will be provided with an envelope to tip cruise ship staff. You are also expected to tip your guide(s) and driver(s) for the duration of your cruise. For a full day tour, it is recommended to tip your guides 100 LE and your drivers 50 LE. In terms of the cruise, the norm is about $10 USD/day per couple. Please note that tips should be provided in the local currency which is the Egyptian pound. A Nile cruise really is the best way to explore ancient Egypt. Not only is it a comfortable and convenient way to get around to the different sites and cities, but it also provides a relaxing and scenic way to explore the country. Plus, with such affordable rates right now it’s easy to find an affordable luxury Nile cruise for your Egypt vacation.

How to Travel to Egypt Ancient Pyramids, the Nile River, The Library of Alexandria... If you are planning to travel to Egypt, you may be completely lost on what to do once you get there. It can be tricky creating an itinerary for a place you have never been to and only learned about in history books. But if Egypt has been on your bucket list, don't pass up an opportunity to go out of intimidation! We will walk through some of the must-see historical attractions in Egypt. You will also learn about their brief histories in this article. Keep reading below! You will be an expert in great Egyptian marvels by the end. 1. The Great Pyramid of Giza The Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest and biggest of all the Giza Pyramid Complex. It is also one of the most important and notable places to visit in Egypt. This is understandable since it is one of the seven wonders of the world. A must see historical attraction and must do when planning any trip to Egypt. There is a rich history here as well as so much to explore. There are vendors here selling all types of things (watch out for high prices). But one of the best parts of these vendors' possessions are the animals they have around the pyramid. So many tours can be taken here. Some include a camel ride, some including lunch, and some will take you to see the Sound and Light Show at The Pyramids of Giza. But what they all have in common is the history the tour guides will relay to you about this mystical and incredible place. You even have the option of going into the pyramids to explore deeper. But this experience is not for the faint of heart, or claustrophobic. From a historical standpoint, these are incredible to take in. Many questions will go through your mind like "how in the world did they have the technology to build these?". Or "how much did they dedicate and sacrifice, and how much passion did they have to contain?". Or "how did they create structures that are still standing today?". The pyramids truly show the best of humanity when we collectively put our minds together. Be sure to read up on your history before visiting. This will cause you to have the best experience possible when you travel to Egypt. 2. Mount Sinai Sinai means Mountain of God. So you can imagine the implications this location has for those who believe in or study the Old Testament. Mount Sinai is an important area for Jewish and Christian history. The Monastery of St. Catherine was constructed on the foot on this mountain over what is believed to be the location of the burning bush God spoke to Moses out of. It is still inhabited by monks today. Biblical characters such as Elijah, Moses, and much of the history of Judaism took place in this spot. This is an important mountain for many Jewish and Christian pilgrims to trek to. For many tourists exploring Mount Sinai, Sunrise hikes are often taken. On this trek, you will climb the Steps of Repentance, which there are tales a monk created (all 3750 of them). The rest of the trek you can take by walking or by riding on a camel. You will pass Elisha's cave and the Chapel of the Holy Trinity. This is talked about as the place where the tablets of stone were written on. When you reach the top, the views are incomparable and the journey will be proven well worth it. Make sure to do this when you travel to Egypt! 3. Abu Simbel Temples Called the temples that moved, the Abu Simbel Temples relocated by the UNESCO in 1968 for fear of destruction by the flooding of Lake Nassar. When this took place, it became clear that the worth of history was of high importance and needed to be preserved. You can read all about how this was done in the visitor center. This was the temple of Ramses II, who you may have heard about in history books. Many visitors claim to call this a personal favorite in Egypt. Located on the banks of Lake Nasser, this temple was originally named the temple of Ramesses Meryamun. It was constructed in 13th century BC by the Pharao it was named after. These temples are guarded by ginormous statues when you are entering, and there are plenty of hieroglyphics that reveal the story to go along with it. The temple is explained on the outside through pictures. Though it is a dive and requires an early wake-up call, once you visit you will see it was all worth it and worth the preservation that took place a few years ago. This temple complex is yet another historical attraction that will shock you. It will make you ask so many questions about the mystery of how it was built. Another great part of this temple is the smaller temple of Ramssess II queen, Queen Nefertari. This is a must-do for when you travel to Egypt. 4. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a research institute in the beloved Alexandria, Egypt. It is inspired by the Library of Alexandria, the most famous classic library. There is so much more to explore here than just a library. There is a focus on four things: Learning and understanding for the world. An untraditional institution in the age of technology. Egypt's window into the world and vise-versa. There are 11 stories to explore here and over 8 million books. It has museums and reading rooms and lots of books and history.  It is not a bad idea to take a free guided tour through here. This will help you get the best understand of all this place offers. For all book lovers, history lovers, learners, and beauty seekers, this is a must see place. The architecture is stunning from the outside in. In order to see all of it, it may take a full two days. This only makes sense considering it is the second largest library in the world! Because of the significance of The Great Library of Alexandria, the artifacts and manuscripts here are a thing you cannot leave Egypt without exploring. Since this library was recently constructed, this is a modern and updated institution. This is a reimagination of the ancient library that was burnt down in the third century. This library held the largest manuscript collection found anywhere in the world. You cannot miss this historical attraction as you travel to Europe. This is a bucket list experience, so be sure to take it in when you travel to Egypt. 5. The Nile River The Nile River is the longest river in the world, and it is an absolute must see when you travel to Egypt. This river was important for the ancient Egyptians. Many of the must-see attractions on this list can be found near this river, so that is your proof of how centralized a location it was. For the ancient Egyptians, the overflow and flooding of the Nile created a mud that was the perfect soil for planting seeds and growing crops. The ancient Egyptians would fish and catch birds near the water as well, so the river was a great life source for food. Another purpose of the river was to give them a trade route in order to transport and buy goods.  This river was such a life source and blessing to the ancient Egyptians that they believed it had it's own god. These are some of the ways you can see the Nile- both of which are on our list, so keep an eye out below! Through the City of Aswan, you can see the Nile River since this city is on the Eastern bank of the Nile. Our second place to see the Nile River is by visiting The Valley of the Kings which is located on the Western bank of the Nile and contains underground tombs, the largest complex of them to be exact. There is so much to see and do along the Nile, so make sure not to pass up the River that gave so much life and hope to the ancient Egyptians. 6. Red Sea Riviera While we are talking about famous bodies of water in Egypt, let's talk about the Red Sea Riviera. Here, right along the coastline of the famous Red Sea, there are plenty of places for a tourist to stay and explore. The beach resorts are one of a kind, and the shopping is more amazing than you can dream of at places like the Senzo Mall. There are so many uniquely Egyptians things to enjoy when shopping, like picking up exotic spices to take home with you or getting hieroglyphics written on papyrus to remind you of your trip to Egypt. One of the things you will be close to if you stay at the Red Sea Riviera is the Luxor and The Valley if the Kings and Queens, which contain archeological gems to explore. It is amazing how many tourists come here on holidays to stay at a resort and enjoy this exotic and ancient place in a modern way. There are so many other great things to see and do when you are here. One of them is visiting the Monastery of St Anthony, which you can explore on a tour. There is also the Marsa Alam which is an incredible place to enjoy water activities or the quiet town. Another amazing excursion is taking a horse or camel ride in Makadi Bay through sand dunes.  If you are traveling with kids, take a day and experience ​​Makadi Water World, which is the biggest water park in Egypt. There an equal amount of water slides for both the kids and the adults to enjoy! If you are looking to have a touristy trip and enjoy the sea activities and resorts, this is the place for you to go when you travel to Egypt. 7. Aswan, Egypt While we are talking about tourist places, let's cover Aswan. There is so much to do in the ancient and historic town of Aswan. You can take nile cruise from here to Luxor, tour the Abu Simbel from Aswan. You can also visit monasteries, museums, and temples. There are so many ​​places to stay​ in Aswan like the Baba Dool Bed and Breakfast, or the Mövenpick Resort Aswan. There are incredible restaurants here like the Panorama Restaurant & Bar which is situated in a tower with a full view of Aswan. Another great one is the Nubian café-restaurant which lives in a garden on a bank of the Nile river. Can you imagine a more beautiful place to eat a simple meal? Aswan is one of the must-see tourist places in Egypt.  It may be the smallest tourist city along the Nile, but it is still a marvel to take in and a fun place to take a family vacation. Some other great places are the Nubian Museum, the Ferial garden where you can relax and unwind. Saint Michael Cathedral which is a free and breathtaking attraction, and the Aswan Botanical Gardens, which has all the birds and plants you can ever dream of. On the West Bank, you can check out the Tombs of the Nobles and a large list of other tombs. Aswan is amazing for the history/adventure seekers and vacation lovers alike who travel to Egypt. 8. Valley of the Kings Valley of the Kings, also known as Valley of the Tombs of the Kings, is a tale 4,000 years old. Many visitors would call this the best attraction in Luxor. You will find the tales laid out for you of the lives of those Egyptian pharaohs whose tombs are here through hieroglyphics. There are so many tombs that have been uncovered over time, but these are not your average tomb. There are so many things to see in each and every tomb. You will learn the history of mummification that keeps these ancient bodies preserved so well. You will learn all about the beliefs of the afterlife and the burial process as well. The beauty and detail will stun you when it comes to the entire process after death. You will be able to take a tour to find out all about the iconic King Tutankhamen, The Boy King. There are more than 60 tombs you can explore, but there are only a few open at a time. If you are interested in history, ancient civilization, or the Egypt of old, this is a must see. It is truly a bucket list item. Pro tip: You will have to pay for a ticket in order to take your camera and take photos, but remember that the camera ticket policy is monitored and if you abuse it by not purchasing a ticket, they will confiscate your camera. If you are able, pay the extra fee, though. This is once in a lifetime experience to take when you travel to Egypt! 9. Karnak Temple, Egypt In Luxo, the Karnak Temple is "the largest religious building ever constructed". During the time period, it was built it (over about 1,000 years during the reign of many pharaohs), it was one of the wonders of the world. This was the center of Egypt in this day as far as faith as concerned, and their faith was central to their lives. Be sure to set aside a good amount of time to explore this huge area that has been preserved so well to this day. You will not want to miss the Karnak Temple Sound and Light Show on your travel to Egypt. It gives a long background history of what was going on in this time period and how the Karnak Temple fit into it. Going to this show is good prep to take in all the temple has to offer, or a great clarifier to explain all you are taking in. You will not want to miss this attraction and we can guarantee you will not leave disappointed or expecting more! Your Guide as You Travel to Egypt We have walked through some of the most incredible historical attractions that you must visit as you travel to Egypt. We have covered the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Biblical location of Mount Sinai, the touristy Red Sea Riviera, The Valley of the Kings, and so much more.  How can you actually use this? As a guide while you travel to Egypt, of course! There are so many incredible ancient places to visit here that will blow you away. With architecture so amazing it has been credited to aliens, and seas so beautiful poetry has been written about them. Don't pass up a trip to Egypt, this is an incredible​ travel destination!