| Types of Vacations |
|
| Travel Info |
|
|
 |
| Cairo, Egypt |
|
Old Meets New in Cairo
Cairo is a unique combination of contemporary and medieval, not only straddling both the modern world and the old but also both the regions of Africa and the Middle East. Nestled along the River Nile, Cairo is the largest city in Africa and one of the largest in the world.
As the city is so large, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the many districts that comprise Cairo. The centre of town is referred to as Midan Tahrir. Here, you will find the largest hotels in town as well as the nexus of transportation. The commercial district is located in the downtown section while the main transportation sites, including the railway station, are located in Midan Ramses. The historic centre of Cairo is in what is known as Islamic Cairo while many of the retail shops are located in Heliopolis. Both Heliopolis as well as Nasr City are near Cairo International Airport.
Hotels & Resorts
Visitors to Cairo will find that there is a wealth of options to choose from for accommodations. In the downtown area there are numerous low budget hotels while visitors will find five star resorts situated along the Nile River. Midan Ramses serves as the main accommodation district in Cairo. The Fontana and Victoria Hotels are mid-range hotels, which offer comfortable rooms, and rates that are not too difficult on the budget. Visitors looking to splurge during their trip to Cairo may wish to consider the upscale Ramses Hilton, which offers fabulous views and all of the amenities that are associated with the Hilton chain.
Restaurants
The large range of restaurants throughout Cairo caters to virtually every taste and need. From snack stalls to street restaurants, cheap food abounds, making it easy for visitors to stay well within their budgets. The boats that glide along the Nile offer a unique way to sample some of the more interesting and authentic dishes that have earned a reputation in Cairo, particularly high quality Egyptian food. The downtown district is home to a host of restaurants; however, if you are looking for upscale restaurants try the neighborhoods of Mohandesin or Zamalek.
Abou al-Sid in Zamalek, is considered to be one of the premier dining options in Cairo. Be sure to plan ahead by making reservations well in advance. Dress attire is preferred. La Bodega, also located in Zamalek, is another option if you are looking for a nice evening out and elegant food.
Attractions
There is certainly no lack of sites to see while in Cairo. The Pyramids of Giza, the only monuments that remain of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is by far the most famous attraction in the country. Of course, no visit to Cairo would be complete without seeing the Sphinx. Other attractions that should be included on your must-see list include the Egyptian Museum, home of to an outstanding collection of ancient Egyptian treasures, as well as the Memphis.
Most visitors agree that a ride in one of the many boats that cruise along the Nile River is the perfect way to spend some time while in Cairo.
Dining and Nightlife
From traditional to modern, there are many options in Cairo for both dining as well as nightlife. Coffee is a very popular beverage in Cairo and as a result visitors will find a coffee house on practically every street in this bustling city. In addition to the traditional coffee houses, there are also many modern coffee houses that offer European style coffee.
Visitors to Cairo will discover that this beautiful city really does come to life at night. From enjoying delicious Middle Eastern cuisine to visiting one of the cabarets on offer at the numerous plush hotels throughout Cairo, there is plenty to see and do after the sun sets in Cairo.
Historical Attractions
While Cairo certainly has plenty of modern amenities and attractions to boast about, no visit to this wonderfully preserved city would be complete without a visit to the numerous historical sites for which the city is famous for, including the Egyptian Museum located in the middle of town or the famous Giza Pyramids.
Getting Around
The only metro system in Africa is located in Cairo, so it is quite easy to get around this city, despite it's bustling size. A flat fare makes it quite affordable to take the metro wherever you want to go in Cairo. Visitors can even choose to take the metro out to see the pyramids, although you will need to take a microbus rather than the regular metro. Departures are frequent, meaning there is usually not a long wait.
Taxis are also prolific throughout Cairo and a good option while you are touring the city. Fares are usually quite inexpensive for most travelers. Bus travel is another good option, as they are quite plentiful throughout the city. You will also likely find that the buses are the least expensive way to get around in Cairo; however, they are usually somewhat crowded. Of course, if you are looking for a leisurely and relaxing way to travel in Cairo, consider taking one of the boat rides down the Nile, known as feluccas. |
|
|
|
