Would you like to combine the pleasant with the useful? Then Egypt is perfect for everyone, as it offers both rich historical sites and, on the other hand, long sandy beaches and resorts where you can really relax.
If you are thinking about a vacation in Egypt, we give you some interesting information that will definitely come in handy.
Egypt is located in the north-east of the African continent, and its heart is the Nile Delta, along which the first civilizations developed. They are one of the main culprits why Egypt is still visited by tourists who want to see the magnificent remains of the civilization of the ancient Egyptians. Admire the Egyptian pyramids along the mighty Nile or take a cruise on this mysterious river. Venture into the desert or haggle at one of the city markets. We promise you really won't be bored in Egypt. The depths of the Red Sea await, with an array of exotic fish to view while snorkeling or diving, and an array of seaside resorts for pampering.
Photo: Unsplash/Fynn SchmidtWhen to Egypt?
The best time to visit Egypt is between October and April, when the temperatures are considerably more pleasant than in summer. Knowing that it is quite cold in Europe, you will prefer to surrender to the sun's rays on the coast of the Red Sea.
What should I see in Egypt?
Um, where do we start!? Most attractions can be found in the Nile Valley, including the magnificent pyramids in Gizi, the Abu Simbel temple south of Aswan and the Karnak temple complex not far from Luxor. The pyramids in Giza, which is 20 kilometers from Cairo, are one of the last existing seven wonders of the world and are therefore recognized worldwide. The tombs of the three pharaohs are guarded by a magnificent sphinx and belong to the very top of the attractions that you should not miss in Egypt. Luxor, the former capital of the New Kingdom of Egypt, on the other hand, is a city of contrasts. It places a modern urban center on one side and a cluster of ancient temples on the other. Due to the large number of attractions, the city has been called an open-air museum, and not far away is the famous Valley of the Kings. It is located near the Egyptian-Sudan border Abu Simbel, a rock-hewn temple during the time of Pharaoh Ramses II. When visiting Egypt, you definitely need a good tourist guide who will take you around all these sights, and finally book a few more days in one of the coastal resorts along the Red Sea.
Photo: Unsplash/Rawan YesserHow much is a plane ticket to Egypt?
You can fly to Egpit from Ljubljana and nearby airports (Gradec, Vienna and Munich) at relatively affordable prices. Tickets start at 449 euros for a return ticket from Ljubljana to Hugarda, and you can fly from Vienna to Sharm El-Sheikh from 423 euros. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Covid-19 restrictions in Egypt
To enter Egypt, you need a negative PCR test that must not be older than 72 hours. You can also take the test at the airport in Hugard or Sharm El-Sheikh, and after passing the test, leave the airport and go to the hotel of your choice. You receive the result at the hotel reception, in the case of a positive test, the hotel allows you to quarantine in separate rooms. For people with two doses of the vaccine, a PCR test is not required, but a vaccination certificate will also be required in English and with a QR code for verification. Vaccinated children also do not need a negative PCR test result, but unvaccinated children older than 6 years do. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Photo: Unsplash/Omar ElSharawyAccommodation in Egypt
We recommend that you take a few days to visit the Red Sea resorts, which are famous among divers for their beautiful coral reefs and their visitors. While diving into the depths, you can encounter sharks, dolphins, sea turtles and colorful shoals of fish. The Sinai Peninsula is the most popular among divers, and those with more experience like to dive near Marsa Alam. In the Red Sea you can also find a lot of sunken shipwrecks, the most famous of which is undoubtedly the Thistlegorm, which was sunk by the Germans in 1941. So from Hugard as well as from Sharm El Sheikh they prepare guided dives to shipwrecks.
Photo: Unsplash/Nariman MosharrafAre you tempted by Sharm El Sheikh?
Sharm El-Sheikh is a tourist town on the Sinai Peninsula, which is one of the most popular resorts by the Red Sea. It is aimed exclusively at tourism, which is why a bunch of hotel chains have found their place there, and you can also find a variety of restaurants, discotheques, golf courses and tour operators. The good side of Šejkovo Bay is the many opportunities for diving and exploring the depths of the Red Sea, but the bad side is the absence of flights from Ljubljana.
Sinai Old Spices B&B hostel
The cute hostel is located in a Bedouin village, and the red thread in the rooms' furnishings are herbs, as the name of the hostel itself suggests. The hostel is located five kilometers from the popular city beach. The rooms are simple, air-conditioned and face the city. The hostel also has a green garden, and breakfast is served in the restaurant by the pool.
Mövenpick Resort Sharm El Sheikh
A slightly more expensive option, but you really get the most for your money. The Mövenpick chain hotel boasts as many as five private beaches and an outdoor infinity pool. The hotel also has four restaurants offering oriental, Egyptian, Indian, international and seafood cuisine with a view of the Red Sea. The rooms are tastefully furnished, and guests can also use the fitness center, spa center, and tennis courts. They also organize horseback riding trips to the beach and through the desert.
Are you more excited about Hugarda?
Hugarda is the central tourist center of the country and is popular among tourists for its pleasant climate and beaches. It is popular among water sports enthusiasts, as well as divers who like to visit nearby islands, including shipwrecks. In the old town of Hugarde, you can find lively traditional markets, and the proximity to ancient Luxor is a big plus. Plus, of course, if we also consider flights from Ljubljana.
Serenity Home Hurghada
Serenity Home is located eight kilometers from the airport and offers elegantly furnished apartments with all the necessary equipment. In the summer months, you will be pleasantly cooled by the air conditioning, and you can also cool off in the outdoor pool in the garden. The aparthotel spoils you in the morning with a continental breakfast.
Sheraton Soma Bay Resort
In Soma Bay, a few dozen kilometers from Hugard, you can find the hotel of the famous Sheraton chain. This one is perfect for golf lovers as it boasts a golf course designed by Gary Player himself. Rooms boast sea or mountain views and are furnished in an elegant style. The hotel has a restaurant serving international dishes, and lunch is served in the hotel bar.
