Egypt

Today’s Egypt is a site to behold. It boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, endless jaw-dropping historical landmarks, and the attention to detail exhibited throughout the country is incredible. I recently returned from a multi-week journey through Egypt where I traveled through Cairo, Luxor, El Gouna, Aswan and my favorite of all — six days spent sailing the Nile River through rural Egypt! Here are some highlights from the trip of a lifetime.

I recently spent two weeks in Egypt, a country I had been dying to visit for many years! I started the trip in Cairo and slowly worked my way down the country, ending my trip on a high note with a weekend stay in the coastal city of El Gouna. My two-night stay at La Maison Bleue was nothing short of magic. This blue-washed luxury guesthouse was idyllic, tranquil and romantic — I cannot wait to return!

My twins have been studying Ancient Egypt in school and I decided to capitalize on their excitement and booked our spring break trip to Egypt. Egypt is consistently ranked on travel top 10 lists as an "up and coming" destination, and it did not disappoint! Luxor is known as the world's open air market, is rich with history that appeals to kids and adults alike, and is an essential stop on any Egyptian itinerary. Luxor is located just a short flight from Cairo in the north, Aswan in the south or there are direct flights from many European cities. Many Nile cruises start or end in Luxor.

I had the pleasure of staying at the Hilton Luxor with my family on our recent trip to Egypt over spring break in early April. We stayed here for 2 nights which was the perfect amount of time to explore the area and visit the major sites. The hotel is centrally located on the east bank and right on the Nile River.

Nestled on the West Bank of the Nile River, near the heart of Egypt’s ancient wonders, Al Moudira Hotel offers a boutique luxury experience like no other. With its stunning architecture, lush gardens and attention to detail, this gem of a hotel is more than just a place to stay. It’s an immersion into the country’s rich history and culture. I had the pleasure of spending three nights here on my recent trip to Egypt and it quickly became one of my favorite stays yet!

Egypt is the ultimate bucket-list destination. From the pyramids in Cairo, to the Pharaonic monuments and ruins along the Nile, it is steeped in history like few other places the world over. It is also a luxurious oasis filled with charm, hospitality and great cuisine. This itinerary provides a way to get the best of Egypt in under 10 days!

When visiting Egypt, taking a cruise on the Nile makes perfect sense. Historically, Egypt's civilization has been centered on the river, so by sailing the Nile you get to see the best the country has to offer. A typical Nile itinerary will have you stay in Cairo for a few days, then fly to Luxor to start the cruise. Sail south to Aswan and back to Luxor. Then, fly back to Cairo. By flying, you bypass a stretch of the river which would take days to sail and has fewer attractions than other parts of the river.

Which cruise you choose will depend on which operator you prefer, your chosen cruise length and whether the itinerary focuses on a relaxed journey or more extensive historical exploration. Also consider the excursions and the optional extensions before or after your cruise; a trip to Jerusalem or Dubai will add another fascinating dimension to your trip.

Egypt is a destination rooted deep in history and culture that dates back further than almost anywhere else in the world. Home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World (The Great Pyramid of Giza), the Nile River and the bustling city of Cairo, there are endless sites to see. Cruise from Luxor to Aswan on a Nile River Boat to see temples and tombs of pharaohs or enjoy sandy beaches and the most stunning colors of fish and coral in Sharm El Sheikh. Be one of the first to tour the highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo – expected to open in spring 2024 – and explore the Khan el-Khalili market at night for unique pottery, textiles and trinkets. Alexandria is a must-see city with a European feel from across the Mediterranean. Here are some Egypt travel tips to help make the most of your trip!