EGYPT

Whether you're looking for ancient wonders or modern marine sports, you'll find that Egypt has everything you'd hoped for… and more! From the tombs of the pharaohs to the clear blue waters of the red sea, this matchless land will both enthral and entertain you.

For centuries the ancient sites of this amazing country have beckoned visitors from across the world. Now nature itself is attracting the contemporary traveller, with Red Sea resorts as rich in natural treasures as Tutankhamun's tomb was rich with gold. Here the essential holiday trio of sun, sea and sand comes enhanced with crystal waters teeming with tropical fish. Sunken shipwrecks and coral gardens make exquisite snorkel and scuba grounds. Several resorts have emerged to meet increasing demand, ranging from a cluster of intimate hotels to a spread of shopping malls, golf courses, luxury complexes and a lively night scene.

Fast Facts

Practicalities

Language: Arabic

Currency: Egyptian Pound (US Dollar widely accepted), plus all major credit cards accepted.

Eating Out: Local specialities include bean dishes, kebabs and humous.

Drinks: Although a Muslim country, alcohol is available in café bars and restaurants.

Water: Tap water is drinkable, although bottled water is generally recommended for protection wherever possible.

Health: Vaccinations are recommended for protection against hepatitis A, polio typhoid, tetanus and yellow fever - please check with your doctor. Insect repellent is also recommended.

Visa: A visa is required for entry to Egypt at a cost of £10 (subject to change) available on arrival.

Please note: The cost of a visa is set by the relevant local authority. Although correct at time of print, they are subject to change.

Flight Time: Approx 51/2 hours from UK

Your Resorts

Cairo

A bustling, hectic city whose attractions include the Egyptian Museum, the Pyramids of Gizza and the Sphinx. Cairo has an excellent selection of restaurants and shops and is ideal for those who want to explore the ancient and modern aspects of Egypt. Most bars and restaurants are hotel based.

45 minutes from Cairo airport (subject to traffic congestion).

Luxor

Standing on the East Bank of the Nile. Luxor is a relaxed place with easy access to the Valley of the Kings, the famous Luxor and Karnak Temples and, of course, the Luxor Museum. There is a daily bazaar and a number of hotel based restaurants and bars. Ideal for culture lovers in search of relaxation.

15 minutes from Luxor airport.

Sharm El Sheikh

Hemming the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm El Sheikh brings a special extra dimension to the sun, sea and sand holiday. With an underwater playground of coral gardens, sunken shipwrecks and crystal clear waters, divers, snorkellers and sun worshippers are in their element here. Widely spread Sharm El Sheikh encompasses a series of sub-resorts, each with its own style and tempo. The liveliest is Na'amo Bay, with a wide variety of bars, shops and restaurants, as well as several coral reefs that provide some of the best diving in the world. Habada is quieter and more traditional, offering good snorkelling grounds. Sharks Bay, a small bay just north of Na'ama, boasts a rugged coastline and several dive centres. Nabq, a purpose built resort just 10 minutes away from the lively Na'ama Bay.

15 - 20 minutes from Sharm El Sheikh airport.