Egypt:

Egypt is the cradle of civilization and religions, a country uniquely rich in history, culture and traditions. Contemporary Egypt lives happily side by side with its history and heritage.

Egypt has a wealth of experiences to offer from diving in the Red Sea to horse riding by the Pyramids to desert expeditions and cultural visits to some of the most memorable sights in the world: the temples of Abu Simbel and Philae near Aswan not to mention the Valley of the Kings and the majestic Nile. The hustle and bustle of the capital, rural charm of Upper Egypt and vast expanses of desert provide any visitor with a myriad of things to see and do. Alexandria and Ain Sokhna offer easily accessible by the Mediterranean and Red Seas, those who are into scuba diving can experience the exquisite underwater life of the Red Sea from Sharm el Sheikh or Dahab, whilst the oasis towns of Fayoum, Bahariyya and Siwa are a gateway to the majesty of the desert.

Most tourists describe their trip to Egypt as an overwhelming experience, a place where you will come back again to do something different. It is a truly a unique place for an unforgettable holiday. Whatever you are looking for in a holiday you will find it in Egypt. Explore Egypt with Next Holiday Travel.

Location:

Located in the northeast corner of the African continent, on the Mediterranean Sea at a crossroad between Africa and Asia. It is bordered on the east by the Red Sea, Palestine and Israel to the northeast, Libya to the west, and Sudan to the south.

Egypt is the 29th biggest country in the world, covering an area of about 1,010,000 square kilometers.

Culture:

A very wide range of different strands of cultures left its mark in Egypt, throughout its 7000-year history a variety of civilizations left its mark from Pharos to Greeks, Roman, Arabs, Turkish, French and British, they all have been there!

Interestingly, The Egyptian cuisine is a good reflection of all these civilizations; it is a mix of Arab, Turkish, Greek, Italian and French food!

The Architecture is another good representation of this interesting mix, modern western influence is infiltrating Egypt and it is noticeable in large cities specially Cairo and lives in harmony with old Egypt, you can travel through 5000 years in time within half an hour journey by car or coach.

Egyptians are usually laid back and love their food, music and of course football, they are generous and hospitable with very sharp sense of humor.

English speakers are growing fast due to rising standard of education, but Egyptians will find a way to communicate with you if they do not speak English!.

Population

Estimated population of Egypt is about 79 million (2007 census). Most of the Egyptian population is concentrated near the River Nile, in cities and towns such as Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Port Said. Smaller settlements include the Western Desert oases, and main towns of the Sinai Peninsula.

Language

Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken by university graduates, other European languages are spoken to a lesser extent within educated circles.

Religion

Islam is the official religion of Egypt (95% of population are Muslims). Most non-Muslims in Egypt are Christians, the majority of whom belong to the Coptic Orthodox Church, other churches are represented such as the Catholic and Anglican Churches.

climate

For most of the year the Egyptian climate is extremely pleasant, very dry with sunshine almost guaranteed each day. The height of summer (July and August) can get extremely hot with temperatures in the high thirties/early forties, although the nights are a bit cooler and this is when Cairo tends to come alive. 
Winter is far colder than tourist expect, with temperatures in the high-teens or early twenties and this can drop to near freezing overnight. Although warm during the day if you’re in the sun, jumpers and jackets will be needed.

The best time to visit Egypt is from October through April, especially if you wish to see Egypt's ancient sights.

Note: Visiting Luxor or Aswan from June to August is not recommended as temperature rises to early forties. If you have to do it during time avoid the midday heat and get an early start to view the sights.

Currency in Egypt: Egyptian pound (EGP)