Five thousand plus years of history give Egypt the bragging rights as the world’s oldest tourist attraction. Well, at least the coutry should be tied with Mesopotamia, and way. Who on Earth does not recognized mankind’s most formidable and lasting achievements, the pyramids of Cheops, Khafre and Menkaure – last of the seven wonders. Almost everywhere in Cairo is some kind of photo op or other, with these and other symbols as the backdrop.
Situated on, and drawing its life from the legendary Nile, Egypt is still largely a mystery. The thousands of Muslim minarets pointing like exclamation points to the heavens, the place is nothing less than astonishing for its beauty, and its impact, even today.
Ancient Gems
Cairo is but one facet of a fabulous gem though. Egypt is far more than three iconic structures, built to last however long. Down the Nile, on the Mediterranean, Alexandria holds its own set of seaside and historic wonders. Then there’s Luxor, a veritable museum of a city, not to mention the charming Sharm el-Sheikh, and the others destinations here.
The places of far off antiquity; Memphis, Thebes, Kranak, the Valley of the Kings, these and more still exist, all be it in preserved ruin now. If Egypt is anything, it is an archaeologists everlasting dream. No story book, or library of books can prepare the visitor for this amazing place. To even mention culture here, is to bring forth the origins of mankind’s epic journey through civilized thought.
Modern Egypt
Saying Egypt is modern is almost a tongue twister. But today, the country is as cosmopolitan in places as any leading nation. High rise financial centers, the slickest technological advances, chic bars and boutiques, you won’t feel you’re in the 3rd world in any of the country’s larger cities.
Shopping here is a mix of old charm and new found trendiness. At one instant, the visitor can be in the most archaic bazaar, feeling for the world as if caught in a time warp. Then in the next minute, Chanel, Gucci, Ferarri, whatever it is you seek, Cairo and the other major places have a bit of it. But, it’s the classic fabric market, the street vendors that fascinate and enthrall.
Egypt is not one of those places you rent a car and drive about pointing at sites. It’s not Rome, or Paris, but in many ways, this fascinating place is so much more. Eons of time have passed since the Pharaohs, but somehow the magic of golden kings still lives in the countryside, landmarks, and people of Egypt. You’ll never forget this place.
Budget for one week: Around €800
Language spoken and/or official language: Arabic
Taxes and tips: Tipping is a common practice.
Local currency: Egyptian Pound
Capital: Cairo
Area: 997,738 km2
Major cities: Cairo, Alexandria, Aswan, and Sharm el-Sheikh.
Visas: For travelers from the European Union, Canada and Switzerland, the visa can be issued at border crossings or at a consulate: a stamp in the passport for between €10 and €25 and 2 photos.
Health and safety: Tap water in Egypt is potable; however, a filtering system for the tap is a good idea. Recommended vaccines: at least, for hepatitis A.
Main images courtesy: © jolie75 - Fotolia.com; Oberazzi; Héctor de Pereda
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