Review rated by 17 Ciao members on average: very helpful
Egypt, the land of camels and pyramids. Think on, there is so much more to this amazing country and this makes Egypt the potential holiday of a lifetime. I visited Egypt nearly 6 years ago and I can still remember it like it was yesterday because it made such an impression on me.
My family flew to Egypt then joined a Nile cruise ship before setting off on a voyage along the River. We had a set week long schedule which would take us to 5 stops along the Nile where we would take in the sights of the Country.
Being the kind of person that burns as soon as I hit sunlight I found the heat unbearable but valuing my skin enough I was marinaded in factor 32. Our first day in the town of Edfu was like walking into the flames of hell- we thought we would die we were so hot. It's therefor extremely important to carry around massive bottles of water and protect yourself from the sun. Dont follow our example and go at the hottest time of year! Also you must dress sensibly because Egypt is a Muslim country.
During our stay we visited many ancient temples and the famous 'valley of the kings' and 'valley of the queens'. You really need to see them to appreciate how amzing they are, the sheer size and craftmanship that has gone into them. The hieroglyphs were magical and the massive statues breath-taking.
I have to admit that it was a bit scary walking around the towns without a tour guide to show you around- the people were friendly enough but we felt like aliens. It was fascinating to see how people from other cultures live, it was also very romantic to watch the hubub of everyday life from our ship and hear the haunting call to prayers from the Minarets and the bright colours of the markets.
The cruise ship was nice although I didnt eat very much, I survived a week on rice and noodles. We did get the chance to try traditional Egyptian foods and this was a fantastic experience. My Dad had great fun buying souvenirs from the markets and haggaling to reach the lowest price possible!
Egypt is a very unique country and unfortunately it has received bad press following the masacre at the Valley of the Queens a matter of weeks after we returned. Egypt is definitely the place to visit if you want a bit of adventure and to experience something new. I became extremely interested in Egyptology after returning because it was so amazing and I needed to know more. Where else can you see an Egyptian skirt twirler...
Its a shame about what keeps happening in Egypt.Ive always wanted to go...but my girlfriend is always dead agains it, see says its not worth the risk.what a shame.Bazza
19.07.2004 11:57
I'm going in a couple of months. Can't wait!
24.07.2002 21:31
Lots of helpful info for first time visitors. Your comments are really well written and put across in quite a non biased way.
10.02.2001 22:35
Its a shame about what keeps happening in Egypt.Ive always wanted to go...but my girlfriend is always dead agains it, see says its not worth the risk.what a shame.Bazza