Seven Wonders of a Holiday in Egypt
By Kieron Sellens
The Seven Wonders of the World, as recorded by the Greek
historian Herodotus, were the “see before you die” sights of the
Ancient World; the Colossus of Rhodes, the Hanging Gardens of
Babylon, the Lighthouse of Alexandria, and many other strange
and wonderful sights. Today, they are all destroyed except for
one – the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Since it lays claim to the only remaining Wonder and it remains
the number one destination for holidays in North Africa, it only
seems appropriate to list the seven present day wonders of a
holiday to Egypt, from beautiful beaches to sites of amazing
historical significance…
The Archaeological Museum at Cairo
In a country that is famed for its archaeological wonders, it
is no surprise that Egypt’s capital contains one of the finest
archaeological museums in the world. Home to over 120,000
ancient artefacts, including the death mask of Tutankhamen and a
number of mummies, it is one of the real highlights of a holiday
in Egypt.
The Beaches on the Red Sea
Not only is Egypt a place to see ancient sights, it has become
renowned as a beach destination. The stunning beaches at
Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are popular with families and
couples alike, and the resort hotels are amongst the finest in
the country.
Walking Up Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is steeped in history. Located in the Sinai
Peninsula of Egypt, it is believed by many to be the Biblical
mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments, it has
become a significant pilgrimage site for Christians and Jews.
The monastery of St Catherine’s at the foot of the mountain
contains numerous relics and artefacts, but it is the walk up to
the top of the mountain that is the real attraction here. The
view from the top offers stunning views out over the monastery
and the Sinai desert, and you can even pay a visit to Moses’
Cave, where the leader of the Israelites is alleged to have
waited for the Commandments to be delivered to him.
Valley of the Kings
This ancient burial ground for the Kings of Egypt, located near
Luxor, is one of the most unforgettable sights in North Africa.
Holidays here are justly popular, with visitors treated to over
sixty ancient tombs, including the famous burial site of
Tutankhamen.
Nile Cruise
The Nile is the main artery of Egypt, the fertile source of
life in the country which has allowed civilisation to thrive in
the midst of a truly inhospitable environment. Most of the main
destinations in the country are located along the coast of the
Nile, and one of the most enjoyable ways to spend your time on a
holiday to Egypt is on a luxury cruise on the Nile.
Diving in the Red Sea
Egypt truly is a scuba divers Mecca, with countless outstanding
dive sights around the Red Sea resorts of Sharm El Sheikh and
Hurghada. Colourful reefs, tropical fish and underground coral
caves are just some of the sights to see in this underwater
paradise. Recommended dive sites include Soma Bay and Shark Bay
(don’t worry, the latter dive site doesn’t live up to its name!)
The Pyramids at Giza
Of course, the only surviving Wonder has to top the present day
list! Perhaps the most famous archaeological sight in the world,
these tombs for Pharaohs remain the essential place to visit on
a holiday to Egypt. The dramatic Sol et Luminat show, held each
night at the Giza Pyramids, remains a firm favourite with many
visitors – a stunning sound and light show, narrated by Omar
Sharif, it is the perfect way to truly appreciate the last
remaining Wonder of the World.
About the Author: Kieron Sellens is the marketing manager of
the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AiTO). With Egypt
holidays
http://www.aito.co.uk/north-africa-holiday.asp from
AITO you can tailor-make the dream trip abroad.
