Egypt: Adventure Begins

Looking back, this trip was the one that started it all for me. Growing up, we traveled as a family down the East Coast and to Canada. By 2009, we had both taken Caribbean cruises, but this was my first big international adventure. We went on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to visit where my mother was born and raised. With the help of my mom’s cousin, we planned an incredible 17-day trip at an unbelievable price. Our journey began in Cairo, the heart of Egypt.

Overview

Egyptian Cuisine

Tantalize your taste buds with delicious Egyptian cuisine. Savor dishes like kushari (a lentil and pasta dish), ful medames (fava beans), and molokhia (a stew made with jute leaves and chicken or beef). We grew up eating this cuisine but there is nothing like getting the ingredients fresh.

Dress Code

While there’s no strict dress code, it’s recommended to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Opt for loose-fitting, long clothing to cover your shoulders and knees.

Bargaining

Haggling is expected in souks and bazaars. Be polite and respectful while negotiating prices. Even if they come across a bit agressive.

Cairo

Our favorite part was seeing where my mother grew up including her childhood home and visiting with family but ya’ll probably won’t have that option. (Any chance to hang with locals take it!)

So first, let’s talk about the Giza pyramid complex; home to the Great Pyramids, the pyramid of Khafre & Menkaure, and the Great Sphinx. It’s a sight to behold, with its towering structures and rich history. We also took this opportunity to ride camels. ⚠️Fair warning; camels aren’t very nice. I still remember watching one hiss at me as I walked by thinking I was lucky not to be getting on that one; only to look back later and see my sister, hopping up onto it. Don’t worry no one was bit.
The Egyptian Museum is a great place to escape the heat. We were all excited to see the famous King Tutankhamun exhibit. We found ourselves overwhelmed by the sheer number of artifacts on display.
You could get lost in Khan el-Khalili bazaar’s maze of narrow streets and alleys filled with vendors selling everything from spices to jewelry to souvenirs. Some might enjoy haggling with the vendors but for us it was a bit of a turn off. Vendors would call out “No Hassle” as they physically pulled you into their store. It quickly became a family joke. Overall, we were still able to snatch up some decent deals and enjoyed the experience.
Memphis: Delve into the heart of ancient Egypt at Memphis, the first capital of unified Egypt. Explore the ruins of the city, including the colossal statue of Ramses II, and learn about its rich history.
Muhammad Ali Mosque: Towering over the city, the Muhammad Ali Mosque is an architectural masterpiece. Explore its ornate alabaster walls, marble courtyard, and stunning views of the city from the mosque’s minaret.
Coptic Cairo: Explore the Christian and Jewish quarters of Coptic Cairo, home to the Hanging Church, believed to be built on the remains of two Roman forts, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in the Middle East.

Nile River Cruise

After Cairo, we embarked on a 5-day journey from Aswan to Luxor along the beautiful Nile River. Our itinerary was jam-packed with ancient ruins and historic landmarks, with one stop in the morning and one stop in the afternoon. At first, each stop seemed unique and exciting, but by the end of the trip, I think we all would have been okay with a 3-day cruise.

The two stops that truly stood out and stole our hearts – Luxor and the Valley of the Kings both which were towards the end of our cruise as we started in Aswan.

Aswan, a city with a rich history and culture. We visited the Aswan High Dam, an engineering marvel that regulates the flow of the Nile Rver as well as the Philae Temple, an ancient Egyptian temple dedicated to the goddess Isis, relocated to a higher elevation due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam.
Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples: Sailing further south, we next stopped at Edfu, home to the Ptolemaic Temple of Horus, one of the most well-preserved temples in Egypt. Edfu is known for its massive pylons and hieroglyphic inscriptions. In the afternoon, you’ll most likely continue your journey to Kom Ombo, a small town where you’ll find the Temple of Kom Ombo, a unique double temple dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Horus.
Luxor is often called the world’s greatest open-air museum. The city is home to some of the most impressive temples and monuments in the world. One of the most famous sites in Luxor is the Karnak Temple Complex. This massive complex is made up of multiple temples, chapels, and pylons. The Hypostyle Hall, with its 134 massive columns, is one of the most impressive feats of ancient engineering. We also explored Luxor Temple, a smaller temple complex located on the eastern banks of the Nile River.
The Valley of the Kings was the burial site for many of the pharaohs of the New Kingdom. With over 60 tombs to explore, you’ll be transported back in time as you walk through the corridors and see the intricate hieroglyphics and artwork that adorn the walls. Near by we visited Hatshepsut Temple, a mortuary temple dedicated to the female Pharaoh Hatshepsut, known for its unique terraced design.

But let me not discredit the other stops along the way. Each one had its own charm and significance, from the magnificent temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu to the serene beauty of the botanical gardens in Aswan. And of course, the stunning views of the Nile River itself.

Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh, located on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, is truly a paradise on earth. The Red Sea is home to some of the most amazing coral reefs in the world, and Sharm El Sheikh is a great place to experience them. With its crystal clear waters, colorful fish, and stunning coral reefs, it’s no wonder that this destination is a favorite among snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. You can rent snorkeling equipment and explore the reefs on your own, or take a guided tour with a local expert who can point out all the amazing marine life. We chose to take a guided tour. The resorts in Sharm El Sheikh are truly amazing. They offer luxurious amenities and top-notch service, making your stay here an unforgettable experience.

Alexandria

While my mother had great memories of vacationing in Alexandria when she was little. This was one stop that disappointed us. It could have been that we had come from Sham El Sheikh and Alexandra is more of a city but even my mother said it just wasn’t the same as she remembered.

Alexandria, Egypt, is a city steeped in history and culture, renowned for its ancient heritage and Mediterranean charm. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE, it was once the intellectual and cultural hub of the ancient world. Today, it remains a vibrant metropolis with a unique blend of old and new attractions.

The Library of Alexandria, founded in the 3rd century BCE, is often considered the oldest and most significant library in the ancient world. Established during the reign of Ptolemy I Soter and expanded under his successors, it became a major center of scholarship and learning. The library was part of the larger Mouseion (“Temple of the Muses”) complex, an institute dedicated to the arts and sciences. Estimates suggest the library housed hundreds of thousands of scrolls, covering a wide range of subjects. It is said to have contained works from Egypt, Greece, Persia, India, and other cultures. The exact cause of the library’s destruction is unknown, with several theories suggesting it was damaged by fires during various conflicts, including Julius Caesar’s siege of Alexandria in 48 BCE, the attacks by Emperor Aurelian in the 3rd century CE, and decrees by religious leaders in subsequent centuries.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina: The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, inaugurated in 2002, serves as a modern tribute to the ancient library. Located near the original site, it aims to recapture the spirit of the ancient institution with a vast collection, cultural events, and advanced research facilities. It boasts millions of books, multiple museums, art galleries, a planetarium, and research centers. The striking architecture alone is worth the visit.
Pompey’s Pillar: A Roman triumphal column, it is one of the largest monolithic columns ever erected. Nearby, the ruins of the Serapeum and other Roman structures can be explored, offering a glimpse into Alexandria’s ancient past.
Alexandria Corniche: This scenic waterfront promenade stretches for several kilometers along the Mediterranean, offering beautiful sea views, vibrant street life, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk, especially at sunset.
Kom el-Shoqafa Catacombs: These ancient catacombs date back to the 2nd century AD and are considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. The complex includes a fascinating mix of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architectural styles.

Summary

Overall, our visit to Egypt was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we will never forget. It was a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. I highly recommend embarking on this adventure and discovering the wonders of Egypt.

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