02/27/2025
Farewell to Egypt: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Tourism Renewal
As our incredible 12-day journey through Egypt comes to an end, we reflect on the wonders we’ve experienced and the resurgence of tourism in this remarkable country. Since 2011, Egypt’s tourism industry has faced challenges, first with political instability and then with the global halt caused by COVID-19. In recent years, travel has primarily been limited to small groups and families, but with the success of recent tours, Egypt is now seeing a revival, welcoming more travelers eager to experience its ancient wonders.
Tourism is the lifeblood of Egypt’s economy, and its recovery is evident—from bustling souks and vibrant Nile cruises to restored temples and modernized attractions. The return of travelers is bringing renewed energy to the country, ensuring that these historic treasures continue to be preserved and appreciated.
Now, we prepare for our next adventure—Petra, Jordan, the second wonder of the world on our journey. But before we go, here’s a look back at some of the most awe-inspiring experiences from our time in Egypt.
Cairo: Where Ancient Wonders Meet Modern Life
Our Egyptian adventure began in Cairo, a city that seamlessly blends the past with the present. Walking through its streets, we encountered a mix of vibrant chaos and deep historical significance.
🏨 Hotel: Our first night in Egypt was spent at Le Méridien Cairo Airport, offering a seamless transition into the country after our long journey. From there, we moved to the Fairmont Nile City, a luxurious retreat with breathtaking views of the river.
• Pyramids of Giza & The Sphinx – Seeing these ancient marvels up close is an experience unlike any other. The sheer scale and craftsmanship of the pyramids leave you speechless.
• Egyptian Museum – Home to the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the golden treasures of King Tutankhamun.
• Khan El Khalili Bazaar – A sensory overload of colors, scents, and sounds, where we sipped mint tea and admired the craftsmanship of local artisans.
Aswan: The Gateway to Nubian Culture
Aswan felt like a world of its own, with stunning river landscapes, colorful Nubian culture, and awe-inspiring temples.
🏨 Hotel: Our time in Aswan was made even more special by our stay at the Mövenpick Resort Aswan, a peaceful oasis on an island in the middle of the Nile, accessible only by boat.
• Abu Simbel Temples – These colossal temples of Ramses II, carved into a mountainside, were worth the early morning journey. The way they were moved stone by stone to escape the rising Nile is a marvel in itself.
• Philae Temple – Dedicated to the goddess Isis, this temple, sitting on an island, is one of the most serene spots we visited.
• Nubian Village – A kaleidoscope of colors and warm hospitality, where we learned about Nubian traditions and even held a baby crocodile!
Sailing North Down the Nile
One of the most surreal experiences was sailing down the Nile, which, unlike most rivers, actually flows north toward the Mediterranean. Drifting along its waters, we saw life unfold on the riverbanks—fishermen casting their nets, children playing along the shore, and farmers tending to their fields as they have for centuries.
🏨 Cruise: Our time on the Nile was spent aboard the Sonesta St. George, a luxurious floating hotel that took us through the heart of ancient Egypt while offering world-class comfort.
Each stop along the way brought us closer to Egypt’s past and present, making the journey as important as the destinations themselves.
Luxor: The World’s Greatest Open-Air Museum
After disembarking from the Sonesta St. George, we were based at the Hilton Luxor, which offered stunning Nile views and a relaxing retreat after days of intense exploration.
The grandeur of Luxor is simply unmatched. Every corner of this city tells a story thousands of years old.
🏨 Hotel: Hilton Luxor, our base for exploring this ancient city.
• Valley of the Kings – Walking through the tombs of pharaohs, with their vivid hieroglyphs still intact, felt like stepping back in time.
• Karnak Temple – The towering columns of the Hypostyle Hall left us in complete awe—no photo can truly capture their scale.
• Luxor Temple – Particularly magical at night, with its grand statues and illuminated carvings.
Final Days in Cairo & Alexandria
For our last two days in Egypt, we made the Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis our base. This luxurious retreat was the perfect place to relax and reflect on our journey while still allowing us to explore the historic sights nearby.
From here, we visited Old Cairo, where history and faith intertwine. The Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and Mosque of Amr ibn al-As—each with centuries of history—offered a glimpse into Egypt’s diverse religious heritage. Walking through the narrow alleys of Coptic Cairo, we felt the layers of history surrounding us.
A day trip took us back to Alexandria, where the Mediterranean breeze and Greek influence made for a perfect conclusion to our journey.
🏨 Hotel: We returned to the Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis for our final night in Egypt, enjoying world-class hospitality before departing.
• Bibliotheca Alexandrina – A modern tribute to the legendary Library of Alexandria, symbolizing knowledge and innovation.
• Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa – A fascinating underground tomb blending Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences.
• Anwar Sadat Exhibit – One of the highlights of Alexandria was visiting the exhibit dedicated to former Egyptian President Anwar Sadat. Learning about his life and legacy through our guide’s insights was truly eye-opening, shedding light on his role in modern Egyptian history.
• Citadel of Qaitbay – Standing on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, this fortress provided stunning views of the sea.
A Memorable Farewell at White and Blue
Our late afternoon lunch/ dinner in Egypt was spent at White and Blue, a charming seaside restaurant in Alexandria. Over a delicious meal, we reminisced about our journey—12 days filled with wonder, learning, and unforgettable moments.
Egypt’s Tourism Revival
It was incredible to witness firsthand the renewal of Egypt’s tourism industry. After years of uncertainty, the country is experiencing a resurgence in travelers, and the impact is clear. Hotels, cruise ships, and historical sites are bustling again, and there’s a newfound optimism among locals who depend on tourism.
The government has also invested in restoration projects and infrastructure, ensuring that Egypt remains a premier global destination. With the opening of the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum on the horizon, even more travelers will be drawn to rediscover Egypt’s ancient wonders.
Next Stop: Petra, Jordan
As we leave Egypt behind, we set our sights on the rose-red city of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. A new chapter of adventure awaits, but Egypt will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Here’s to the next wonder of the world!
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