Places You'll See

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  Cairo

  The word “Cairo” in Arabic means “the Vanquisher” or “the Conqueror”, understandable when one realizes that it has been a major center of civilization and a cultural crossroads for millennia. One of the largest and most densely populated cities in Africa and the middle east, Cairo is the capital of Egypt. Cairo is most often associated with ancient Egypt due to its close quarters with the ancient ruins of the cities Giza, Memphis, and Fustat. Here is where one can witness the magnificence of the Pyramids of Giza as well as the great Sphynx. Take in the history and local culture with some coffee while enjoying sheesha (flavored tobacco through a water pipe) and appreciating the desert heat.

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  Alexandria

  The city of Alexandria sits on the Meditterian Sea and is Egypt’s largest port. Serving as a large economic center, Alexandria is the second largest city in the country of Egypt. Originally founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria served as a major city in the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine era. The city is home to many historical sites such as the Citadel of Qaitbay, Roman Theater, and the cemetery of Mostafa Kamel.

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  Luxor

  The once ancient city of Thebes, Luxor is categorized as the world’s largest “open air museum” with many historical locations with a wide range of archeological sites. Learn of the ancient Egyptians while visiting the decaying temple complex, Karnek. Absorb the methods of mummification at the Mummification Museum before visiting the famous tomb of King Tutankhamun.

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  Aswan

  One of the hottest cities in Egypt, Aswan sits on the southern end of the Nile River. This ancient city has many places of interest for history buffs as well as fun cultural experiences. Visit the unfinished and largest known Obelisk. If finished the massive piece would weigh nearly 1200 tons! Enjoy camel rides and learn about the area’s culture while drinking tea with the locals.

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  Abu Simbel

  A village south of the large city of Aswan, Abu Simbel is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Abu Simbel is known for its two breathtaking temples. These temples are known as some of the most magnificent temples in the world. The temples date back to the 13th-century BC. The first temple was built by the Pharaoh Ramses II, and the second was built for his wife Queen Nefertari. Their original location in now underwater, but the temples were successfully transported to their new location in 1960s.

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  Sharm El Sheikh

  Jetting out into the red sea, at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is the city of Sharm El Sheikh. With its prime location, watersports, especially scuba diving, have become the pastime of this Egyptian city. Leaving the remote dessert behind, dive into the warm sea and explore areas such as the reefs of Tiran, then dry off with camel trekking or a desert safari.