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Egypt, a land of ancient mysteries and timeless beauty, beckons travelers to explore beyond the iconic pyramids and temples and discover its hidden gems. Join us on a journey through the treasures of Egypt, from the majestic Nile River to the vibrant streets of Cairo and beyond.
Places to See:
- Luxor: Step into the heart of ancient Egypt with a visit to Luxor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “world’s greatest open-air museum.” Explore the Karnak Temple complex, the Valley of the Kings, and the Temple of Hatshepsut, and marvel at the colossal statues and intricately carved hieroglyphs.
- Aswan: Cruise down the Nile to Aswan, a picturesque city nestled on the banks of the river. Visit the majestic Philae Temple, the unfinished Obelisk, and the Nubian villages on Elephantine Island, and take a felucca sailboat ride to explore the islands and cataracts of the Nile.
- Siwa Oasis: Escape to the tranquil oasis of Siwa, located in the heart of the Western Desert. Discover ancient mud-brick villages, lush date palm groves, and the crystal-clear waters of Cleopatra’s Bath, and trek through the surrounding sand dunes to watch the sunset over the desert.
Places to Eat:
- Khan El Khalili, Cairo: Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Khan El Khalili, Cairo’s historic bazaar and culinary hotspot. Sample Egyptian street food such as koshary (a hearty mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas), falafel, and shawarma, and sip on refreshing mint tea at a traditional café.
- Felfela, Cairo: Indulge in authentic Egyptian cuisine at Felfela, a popular restaurant in downtown Cairo. Feast on classic dishes such as kofta (grilled meatballs), ful medames (slow-cooked fava beans), and stuffed vine leaves, and finish with sweet treats like baklava and basbousa (semolina cake).
- Abou El Sid, Cairo: Experience the flavors of traditional Egyptian home cooking at Abou El Sid, a renowned restaurant serving dishes inspired by Egyptian grandmothers’ recipes. Enjoy hearty stews, grilled meats, and mezzes (small dishes) such as baba ganoush and tahini salad, accompanied by freshly baked bread.
Places to Stay:
- Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan: Retreat to luxury at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, a historic hotel located on the banks of the Nile. Stay in elegant rooms and suites with views of the river and the Elephantine Island, dine on gourmet cuisine at the hotel’s restaurants, and relax in the infinity pool overlooking the Nile.
- Al Moudira Hotel, Luxor: Experience Arabian Nights-style luxury at Al Moudira Hotel, a boutique hotel nestled amidst lush gardens on the West Bank of Luxor. Stay in beautifully decorated rooms and suites with private terraces, dine on Egyptian and Mediterranean cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant, and unwind with spa treatments inspired by ancient Egyptian rituals.
- Siwa Villa, Siwa Oasis: Escape to tranquility at Siwa Villa, a boutique hotel located in the heart of Siwa Oasis. Stay in stylish rooms and suites with traditional décor, dine on organic cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients, and relax in the courtyard garden with views of the surrounding date palms and olive trees.
From the ancient wonders of Luxor to the tranquil oasis of Siwa, Egypt’s hidden gems offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights that will captivate and inspire travelers.