Anyone traveling to Egypt must first do away with the image of Egypt ingrained into our minds thanks to Indian Jones and the Last Crusade. Egypt is no longer a desert country with small ethnic flea markets. Most of the cities are well developed with good roads (the same cannot be said of the drivers, unfortunately). Once the traveler has internalized this prior to visiting Egypt, I guarantee a much better trip. I had 11 days there but was pre-occupied with work and so could only spare a few days for tourst-ing around. Nevertheless, it was the trip of a life-time. They say the Egyptian Revolution has adversely affected tourism as most people are afraid to go there but, in my opinion, the air of change and revolution only adds to the appeal of Egypt. On the one side of the Nile is Giza with the Pyramids and on the other is Cairo with the protests around Tahrir Square, all in all that makes for a memorable visit. The only thing tourists need to fear is the locals associated with the Tourism trade who are only all too happy to take large sums of money for doing next to nothing (one guy asked me for 200 LE just to take a pic next to his ugly Camel). Hence, it becomes very important to find the right people to be around when you visit as a tourist. A good tour guide, nice cab drivers, friendly concierge, etc. will go a long way in making this a fantastic experience.
My list of top things to do in Egypt:
1) The sound and light show at the Pyramids in Giza
2) Felucca ride on the Nile
3) Visit Alexandria
4) Try some Egyptian Ice Cream at Alexandria
I loved my stay in Egypt. Us Indians are not treated very well (as tourists) in most countries west of India but the warmth and love for Indians from Egyptians was surprising and comforting. These are very friendly and helpful people in general and though not many of them speak English, they will do their best to understand and help you.
Edited by: MrNightwood
