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Summer is almost here. If you’re still torn between beaches and culture and can’t decide whether to go to the tropical Caribbean or historic Europe, here’s his equally gorgeous third location that combines elements of both doing. .
Officially one of Africa’s top destinations, Egypt has had another record year, surprising industry insiders.
It is no exaggeration to say that the country is expected to have its most successful summer season ever, hosting 15 million tourists in the first quarter of 2024 alone.
Not only is it home to monumental pyramids and pristine coastline, but it’s also incredibly cheap at less than $400 per week for an all-inclusive stay.
Why is Egypt’s popularity soaring now?
So far this year, Egypt has recorded 27% year-on-year growth, regaining momentum lost during years of restrictions due to the health crisis. In other words, it’s never felt more vibrant, it’s never felt more welcome, it’s never felt more vibrant. It is a trend to visit like now.
A stunningly diverse country located at the crossroads of Africa and West Asia, it is famous for its vast metropolis of Cairo, its endless treasure trove of ancient wonders, its meandering Nile River, and its vast arid landscape that connects to the sea. .
A vibrant capital near ancient pyramids
Speaking of Cairo, it’s the number one city break, famous for its colorful bazaars, ornate and dramatic facades that could be found in Europe, and an incredible mix of poorly maintained buildings in need of renovation. , a chaotic urban sprawl. , flavorful dishes.
A 30-minute drive from downtown Cairo and an easy day trip for city-based tourists, Giza’s majestic pyramids and their accompanying Great Sphinx and adjacent temples are located in the vast Sahara. They dot the honey-colored sands of the desert.
In Cairo, you can find modest hotels with breakfast and pyramid views for as low as $52, such as the 3-star White House Pyramid Views, or luxury hotels like Concorde El Salam Hotel & Casino, priced at $142 per night. It’s within the acceptable range in dollars.
When it comes to everyday expenses, if you’re on a budget, there are plenty of inexpensive restaurants with lunchtime menus starting from just $5. No problem. It’s just that consumer prices in Egypt are much lower than in the US and Europe. Your money will grow further here.
A more elaborate three-course dinner at a mid-range restaurant costs between $25 and $30, and if you can avoid all the bazaar scammers, your trip to Egypt, excluding accommodation, won’t cost you more than $50 per day .
Cairo is also the main entry point for Americans, as it is currently the only city with direct Atlantic flights, but it is not Egypt’s only tourist attraction.
Affordable all-inclusive stay by the Red Sea
Located between the Sinai Desert and the Red Sea, the resort town of Sharm el-Sheikh is best known for its sandy beaches and lively waterfront lined with Western-style clubs and restaurants.
Although it’s not as popular a destination for Americans as it is for middle-income Europeans, Sharm El Sheikh is what we call “all-inclusive on a budget.” He can stay for a week at the Baron, complete with pool and spa. Palms advertises the content, but it’s reasonably priced at $996.
Competitor Stella di Mare Beach Hotel & Spa has an even cheaper offer, starting at a shocking $628 per adult for a seven-day stay in a standard or double room (subject to availability). Gazala Gardens is even cheaper, with all-inclusive stays starting at $316.
Elsewhere in Hurghada, you’ll find luxury resorts at a fraction of the cost in developed countries, long stretches of sand surrounded by the Caribbean-like turquoise waters of the Red Sea, and charming shopping-lined areas. The old town awaits guests.
Like Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada also has a number of affordable seaside resorts. By the way, Hurghada has cheap flights from Europe, with flights as low as $54 one-way from some destinations.
The top two in Hurghada are the all-inclusive, adults-only Sunrise Holidays Resort ($676 per week when booked this summer) and TBH Hotels’ Zen Resort Sar Hasheesh (seven nights in a deluxe double room with sea). Views cost just $445.
Mediterranean vacation and ancient temple ruins
On the Mediterranean waterfront, Alexandria is a major port and ancient Greek city that was once home to a landmark lighthouse and legendary library, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although much of it has been destroyed, the city continues to command respect.
The city is dominated by the medieval fortress of Qaitbay, which has stood proudly in the harbor since it was founded in the 15th century.
In addition, there are countless historical museums, famous cafes and sandy beaches stretching along the azure Mediterranean Sea.
A week’s stay as a guest at the stunning Hilton Alexandria Corniche Hotel this summer will set you back $811, but the more modest Grand Plaza Hotel Smouha is a much better option with great amenities and a nearby beach. and starting at $391 for the same period.
Aside from the coastal resorts and Cairo, no visit to Egypt is complete without a Nile cruise. On your Nile cruise, stop at Luxor and the Valley of the Kings, where traditional Egyptian villages, nature reserves, and his 3,600-year-old structures remain largely intact.
Even multi-day Nile cruises are pretty cheap, with a complete sightseeing package from Egypt Escapes averaging $276. Overall, Egypt is a fascinating country that caters to a wide variety of tourists with varying needs, from budget travelers to exclusive spenders.
Read more about Egypt and start planning your next cultural trip here.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone and not of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any organization included in the post.
