With its mysterious pyramids, intriguing culture and gorgeous beach resorts, Egypt offers unforgettable experiences. The curious have traveled there for centuries to see the ancient pyramids, which offer a tantalizing glimpse into one of the world’s earliest civilizations. The Egypt of the 21st century offers many more reasons to visit, including sophisticated seaside resorts teeming with activities.
The Sphinx, the pyramids at Giza, Luxor and the Valley of the Kings are all top sights to see during an Egypt vacation. Many book a Nile cruise during their Egypt travels, traversing the famous river to see the iconic temples and tombs built on its shores. The capital of Cairo, home to 17 million people, offers its own fascinating experiences, including bargaining for treasures in one of its many souks (markets). The country’s Red Sea resorts are another top draw during a vacation in Egypt, particularly in Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada. The area has become renowned for its superb diving and snorkeling, and the resort towns offer many hotels, restaurants, nightclubs and activities.
U.S. visitors traveling to Egypt require a passport, which must be valid for six months after your departure date, and a visa. A renewable 30-day tourist visa can be purchased for $15, payable in U.S. dollars, upon arrival at an Egyptian airport. Visitors arriving overland and/or those previously experiencing difficulty with their visa status in Egypt should obtain a visa prior to arrival. Many international flights fly into Cairo International Airport. Car rentals are available, although it can be difficult to maneuver the country’s congested streets. One option is to hire a car with a driver. Flights are also available between Cairo and such popular destinations as Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel and Hurghada. The climate varies in Egypt depending on the region. In general, temperatures range from about 77°F to 95°F from the end of September to the end of November; and 77°F to 104°F from June to September. From mid-December to mid–March, it’s cold in the north and pleasant on the Red Sea. The official language is Arabic, although English and French are fairly widespread. Be sure to carry small amounts of money for baksheesh, or tips, which are expected for all services, even at restaurants where a service charge is included in the bill. Currency is the Egyptian pound. For more information on travel to Egypt, log on to www.egypt.travel, the Egyptian Tourist Authority’s website.