Egypt Travel Guide

Time tripping

While we wait for scientists to perfect time travel, Egypt comes incredibly close. Considered the "Mother of the World," Egyptian civilization dates back more than 6000 years. From the Pharaohs to the French, this northeastern country straddles Africa and Asia while sitting a stone's throw from Europe. It's because of this location that foreign influence has shaped the country into its robust, eclectic mix of cultures, arts, food and tradition.

Most tourists begin their Egyptian vacations in Cairo before continuing on to the Nile Valley and the Sinai Peninsula. But timing is everything. Egypt has two seasons: hot and hotter. Remember that Egypt follows strict Muslim festivals, so for Ramadan, a full month of daytime fasting, many tourist attractions close early, as do businesses and restaurants. Egyptians are forbidden from consuming alcohol in public during this holy holiday and finding a bar or hotel to serve you a drink could be challenging, but loads of fun. Always carry your passport with you to prove you're not Egyptian during this time if you care for a drink after a hot day touring the country's many wonders.

• The Pyramids - Possibly the most famous landmarks in the world. Nothing compares to the first time you arrive in Giza and view them up close. Built 5000 years ago, from stones weighing 2.5 tons each, these massive buildings remained the tallest manmade structures in the world until 1889 when the French erected the Eiffel Tower. As the only remaining item on the list of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the pyramids, including the Sphinx, are part of the necropolis of Memphis. You cannot visit Egypt without spending at least one whole day touring the area.
• Abu Simbel - Abu Simbel comes a close second to the pyramids as the most recognized monument in ancient Egypt. Since Victorian times, adventurers have traveled to Egypt to view these two massive temples built for Pharaoh Ramses II. Abu Simbel lies near the Egyptian-Sudanese border. The complex now stands on an artificial hill, relocated brick by brick in 1960 and rebuilt to exact dimensions, just above its original mountainside location.