Egypt is an extremely diverse holiday destination, and there is a holiday opportunity for travellers of every taste, interest and budget. This country is unique as a holiday destination as it offers not just one, not just two, but three different types of holiday. Where else in the world can you choose from the exploration of a civilization that existed between 2,500 and 5,000 (at least) years ago, with the choice of a river cruise to help you relax; the chance to unwind and soak up the sun’s rays next to, in, or under the beautiful Red Sea; the enjoyment and pleasure of a hotel or resort on the Mediterranean coast. Egypt offers all three, as well as the possibility of “mix and match”, which allows you to tailor your holiday to include whatever you want.
Destinations:
If you like exploring ancient archaeological sites and/or gaining an insight into local culture, then the Nile Valley is for you; where you can enjoy a short break in the bustling atmosphere of Cairo, or relax by, or on, the majestic River Nile in Luxor or Aswan. This is your chance to visit the famous Giza Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and much, much, more. Almost three quarters of the world’s ancient sites can be seen here. Lake Nasser is also a quickly growing attraction for tourists, with cruises taken you to many ancient sites, including Abu Simbel.
If you’re after a relaxing beach holiday, the Red Sea is ideal, with near-perfect weather, sandy beaches, warm, crystal-clear waters and excellent hotels and resorts. Here is where you can enjoy sun bathing, swimming, diving, snorkelling, windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, 4X4 excursions, Bedouin barbeques and much more. And that is not just only Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada; destinations also include Dahab, Nuweiba, Taba, Ain Sukhna, Berenice, El Gouna, Makadi Bay, Marsa Alam, Port Ghalib, Quseir, Ras Gharib, Safaga, Soma Bay, and many more! Each resort is different in terms of facilities, atmosphere, activities and convenience of location, so you are definitely spoiled for choice.
For a beach holiday that combines sun and sand with a taste of authentic modern Egyptian culture, the Mediterranean coast is for you, with hotels and/or resorts available in Alexandria, Arish, Damietta, El Alamein, Marina, Marsa Matruh, Port Said, Rafah, Rosetta/Rashid, and many more smaller towns. Ancient Greco/Roman sites are also on view throughout the region, with Alexandria being the epicentre of these.
Culture:
Although Egypt is a Muslim country, figures estimate that 10 of the population is Christian, with the vast majority of these being Coptic Christians. This means that the Christian population is as big, or bigger, than the populations of countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Belgium, Norway, Greece, or Sweden. Because of this, Egypt’s culture is strongly influenced by Christianity and it is not unusual to see Christmas decorations throughout the major cities; Santa Claus figures in the various shopping areas and streets; Easter eggs; and other such seasonal adornments. Add to this the influx of multinational food and shopping outlets, and you almost forget where you are: even when the muezzin is heard calling the faithful to prayer five times a day, from loudspeakers on the minarets of the mosques.