People often create a change in lifestyle in order to make life more interesting. The classic vacation or holiday – the idea of getting away from routine life or one’s home for fun, change or relaxation has been a cherished lifestyle ideal for ages. While the residents of hot regions like India or the Middle East tend to go to alpine locations such as the Himalayas or the Alps for enjoyment, those residing in colder areas like Europe usually want to go south for a warmer experience. Getting away from the norm for a holiday is what most groups of people have in common.
Winter in the United Kingdom, like much of northern Europe, is dull, dreary and cold. With the coming of the winter season, the people of northern and western Europe (including Britain) make it a point to escape to sunnier destinations to enjoy the charms of the southern climes. North Africa is easily accessible, and within it is Egypt, a country that offers short flight times, warm temperatures and exotic experiences to the discerning British traveller.
Egypt is one of the most convenient destinations for winter sunshine holidays. The ancient land of the Pharaohs is one of the most visited countries in the world, and for good reason. Home to ancient monuments and stunning beaches with warm winters, Egypt presents many different opportunities for different holiday preferences.
Egyptian civilization, apart from being one of the oldest in the world, is arguably the best preserved. Scores of relics including mummies, tombs, and sarcophagi have been found that attest to the complex and vibrant culture of ancient Egypt. Consequently, Egypt is the world’s most popular destination for archaeological and cultural tourism. Cultural tourism to Egypt includes visits to archaeological sites, museums, the Mediterranean coast and the Red Sea.
The Egyptian Museum (also known as the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities) in Cairo is the nerve centre of Egyptology and archaeological tourism. Home to over 120,000 artefacts, the museum first opened its doors to the public in 1902. For over a century it has served as an inspiration to tourists and Egyptologists alike and is a must visit for any traveller to Egypt.
Travelling out of Cairo, the first place to head to would be the plains of Giza housing one of the most awesome sights you will ever behold. The Pyramids of Giza are the only surviving architectural relic among the Ancient Wonders of the World. The largest of these is the Great Pyramid built by the Pharaoh Khufu (or Cheops). The Great Pyramid was the tallest building in the world for over 3000 years. The site sees over eight million visitors a year that come to marvel at one of the most magnificent structures ever built by man. The surrounding complex is also home to the Sphinx, a human-headed lion apparently guarding the entrance to the area.
Travelling beyond the Giza complex one comes to the beautiful banks of the legendary Nile. The Nile is the longest river in the world, and you can enjoy luxurious cruises along its length exploring the diverse beauty of Egypt. The fertile banks of the Nile support fields of cotton and wheat. The ancient city of Luxor is also found along the Nile, and you can take a tour of its ruins that are remarkably well preserved.
Head east to the Red Sea coast and enjoy the luxurious resort of Sharm El Shaikh that offers some of the most amazing diving experiences in the world. Sharm El Sheikh is the most popular destination in Egypt, famed for its warm temperatures, beautiful beaches and great dining. Egypt offers a kaleidoscope of amazing sights and sounds – ranging from the historic to the sensual – and is just waiting to be discovered.